Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1523564
11 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 5 JULY 2024 FOOD Five restaurants to visit in Gozo Qbajjar This is my go-to place to eat every time we visit the island. After visiting the icon- ic Xwejni Salt Pans with Leli tal-Melh in Żebbuġ, I head straight to Qbajjar to eat! This restaurant offers ample parking, stunning sea views, and an excellent menu filled with local seafood. The ser- vice is always friendly, and the food never disappoints. The atmosphere is casual, with options to sit outside by the water, partially outside to enjoy the breeze, or fully inside. Their fresh pasta dishes, es- pecially those with seafood, are a must- try. The fresh tuna salad is cooked to perfection. Qbajjar also has a children's menu that can accommodate even the pickiest eaters. Location: Triq ix-Xwejni, Qbajjar, Gozo Tmun This upscale restaurant offers extraor- dinary culinary cuisine and is perfect for date nights or adult group outings. Open from 12pm to 2pm on select days and 7pm to 10pm for dinner, Tmun spe- cialises in sharing plates and à la carte op- tions. Their menu changes based on the fresh catch of the day, but they also offer steaks and lamb. I recommend the shar- ing plate for two. It's best to call ahead and make a reservation. Location: Triq Martino Garces, Mġarr Harbour, Għajnsielem, Gozo Country Terrace For breathtaking views and a full para- dise experience, Country Terrace is the place to be. The menu is outstanding, with several à la carte options, mostly consisting of freshly caught seafood. This is an ideal spot for dates or outings with friends. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating and even has a dance floor. The high-quality menu items are fairly priced, and the staff can provide excellent wine pairings. This is fine dining at its best, and they are also pet-friendly! Location: Żewwieq Street, Mġarr, Għa- jnsielem It-Tokk Located in the heart of Gozo in Victo- ria, It-Tokk is a family-owned restaurant steeped in tradition. This casual spot is perfect for groups wanting to taste traditional Mediterrane- an cuisine. It-Tokk offers a cosy, warm, and friendly rustic atmosphere. The menu includes pastas, pizzas, fresh sea- food options, and decadent desserts. Location: 32, Pjazza l-Indipendenza, Ir-Rabat, Gozo Rose's Choosing a restaurant in Ramla Bay was challenging due to the many great op- tions. However, Rose's stands out for its con- venient location right on the beach, mak- ing it perfect for family beach days. Ramla Bay is known for its red sand and fantastic sea swims, and Rose's offers traditional Maltese foods, pastas with freshly caught seafood, great salads, pizzas, and easy ap- petisers. Location: Xagħra, Gozo Gozo is a beautiful island with a wealth of dining options, but it can be challenging to know where to go if you're just passing through. EMILY A. FRANCIS gives us her top five picks for restaurants that cater to both casual family outings and fine dining experiences. Gozitan Focaccia By Ta' Marija Restaurant, Mosta • 4 cups all-purpose flour • 2 teaspoons salt • 1 tablespoon sugar • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast • 1 1/2 cups warm water • 1/2 cup olive oil 1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and 1/4 cup of olive oil. Stir until a dough forms. 3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. 4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours until it doubles in size. 5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a greased baking sheet. 6. Press the dough evenly into the pan. Drizzle olive oil over the top and use your fingers to create dimples in the dough. 7. Add crumbled anchovies, pitted black olives, capers, cherry tomatoes, potato thinly sliced. 8. Let the focaccia rise for another 20-30 minutes. 9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20- 25 minutes or until golden brown. 10. Add crumbled or sliced peppered goats' cheese. 11. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving. Method Ingredients