Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1540302
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 12 OCTOBER 2025 Spanish cuisine has found a home in Malta SINCE arriving on Maltese shores, Spanish cuisine has found a home on the island. Renowned globally for its variety, rich flavors, and quality ingredients, the demand for Span- ish food has grown rapidly the island, with an attractive offering of popular dishes like paella, tapas, and flavours from across the country's diverse re- gions. Today, 12th of October, what better way to celebrate Spain's Na- tional Day than to indulge in the vi- brant cuisine of the country. Fortunately, experiencing truly au- thentic Spanish cuisine in Malta has reached new heights. A new certifi- cation scheme now recognizes res- taurants abroad that deliver genu- ine Spanish cuisine, and leading the charge in Malta is TAPEA. Located in the vibrant area of St. Julian's, which was awarded the prestigious Restau- rants From Spain Certification. The Restaurants From Spain Cer- tification Program was launched in 2020 by ICEX, the government agency in charge of promoting Spanish com- panies and goods abroad. This scheme recognizes and supports restaurants worldwide that focus on authentic Spanish cuisine and produce. The program ensures that establishments meet strict quality standards, offer- ing consumers a trusted benchmark for genuine Spanish culinary experi- ences. TAPEA's recent recognition underscores its commitment to de- livering a true taste of Spain. At TAPEA, authenticity begins with the ingredients. The restaurant care- fully sources premium Spanish prod- ucts, from hand-sliced Iberian ham and Manchego cheese to extra vir- gin olive oil and fine wines, bring- ing the very best of Spain directly to Malta. Its philosophy is simple: honor traditional recipes while ele- vating them with creativity. This is reflected in the menu, which includes iconic dishes such as paella and cro- quettes, but also innovative creations like XXL oxtail cannelloni or tender- loin with foie and a sherry wine re- duction. The kitchen is led by Chef Paola Ál- varez, an architect turned culinary visionary, whose dual background shapes both the flavors and the de- sign of the dining experience. Each plate is conceived as a balance of aes- thetics, tradition, and taste, offering guests not just a meal, but a journey through Spanish culture. TAPEA's recognition by the Span- ish government is not only a mile- stone for the restaurant but also for Malta's dining scene. For anyone longing to savor the richness of Span- ish cuisine without leaving Malta, TAPEA stands as a benchmark of qual- ity, passion, and authenticity—bring- ing the heart of Spain to St. Julian's. Look for the Restaurants from Spain seal, your guarantee of true Spanish cuisine. THIS IS A PAID COLLABORATION