De Mondion
Mdina, Malta
⭐1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
The luxurious Xara Palace Hotel is set in a 16C building in the heart of the beautiful walled city of Mdina where, on the top floor, you’ll find this intimate, elegantly dressed restaurant featuring impressive artwork from around the island. If you’re here in the summer, a table on the terrace is a must, thanks to the stunning views extending across the east of the island to the coast. The cooking is technically adept and the combinations are well-judged, with menus showcasing the best of the island’s produce in sophisticated, classically based Mediterranean dishes – Scottona beef fillet is a speciality. Herbs and vegetables are sourced from the restaurant’s own garden which is cultivated sustainably in accordance with the principles of regenerative agriculture. The impressive wine list offers a broad choice with some great quality vintages – it’s worth asking the sommelier for recommendations from their selection of local wines. Despite the hotel’s sumptuous style, service remains friendly and not overly formal.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Rooftop Dining in a 17th Century Baroque Palazzo with Panoramic Island Views
De Mondion is uniquely situated on the rooftop terrace of The Xara Palace, a 17th century baroque palazzo integrated into the bastion fortifications of Mdina’s walled city. This setting offers breathtaking panoramic views of more than half the island, creating a dining atmosphere that blends historic architecture with spectacular natural scenery.Cuisine Sourced from Onsite Xara Gardens with a Focus on Sustainability and Innovation
The restaurant’s menu is creatively prepared entirely onsite using the freshest seasonal ingredients, many of which are sourced directly from their own Xara Gardens. This farm-to-table approach emphasizes sustainability and quality, with a menu that is revamped every six months to stay ahead of local fine dining trends.Exclusive Private Dining in Luxurious Suites with Panoramic Views
De Mondion offers a private dining experience in uniquely designed suites within The Xara Palace, including a Presidential Suite overlooking a picturesque Mdina piazza and suites with 180-degree island views. This allows guests to enjoy Michelin-starred cuisine in an intimate, regal setting with personalized service and elite wine pairings.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant De Mondion in Mdina are:
Bebuxellu Snails: A local Maltese delicacy, featured in a signature snail stew inspired by the chef's mother's recipe, served with a poached egg and dried pork skin. This dish highlights the use of unexpected local resources instead of more common luxury ingredients like foie gras.
Local Fish and Seafood: Including rock fish, sardines, sea bream, and notably red prawns. The red prawns are served raw with guanciale (Italian bacon), showcasing a Mediterranean influence enriched with local Maltese flavors.
Rabbit Loin: Considered a star ingredient and a national dish of Malta, historically hunted to protect crops. It is a classic Maltese ingredient elevated in the restaurant's cuisine.
Suckling Pig: Served with dried figs and mustard jus, representing a refined take on traditional flavors.
Artisanal Maltese Cheeses: Such as ricotta, pecorino (aged 9-12 months), and small spicy goat cheeses, served with rustic bread, honey, or local olive oil, emphasizing local terroir and craftsmanship.
These ingredients are significant as they reflect De Mondion’s philosophy of locavore cuisine, respecting seasonality and Maltese culinary heritage while applying haute cuisine techniques to elevate traditional dishes.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menus
- De Mondion Experience: 7 courses with wine pairing: €220
- Taste of Malta: 5 courses with wine pairing: €180
Signature Dishes
- Blue Lobster: €95
- Pan-Seared Scallops: €45