There isn’t really much available in this part of the island, so when Melita was transformed from a small local bar and unobtrusive hotel of sorts, several years ago, into the multifunctional venue that it is today, it instantly filled in a rather necessary niche in mid-island wining and dining.
It therefore gained instant fame and popularity with many, who use its various facilities for lunches, any-time-of-day snacks, dinners, drinks, wine bar, as well as group functions upstairs.
Over the years I have had many an occasion to visit, and if my memory serves me right, I have had the occasion to avail myself of all of the above alternatives, so I know the place well. A couple of days ago we were again inclined to pop in for a light snack, being just up the road and hungry.
We were in fact at Casa Antonia in Balzan. And before any wiseass says it, NO we were not about to be admitted into what I must say is a truly lovely residential home, at least not YET, capitals very much intended.
In fact, without any further dissimulation or pretense, I will admit that this is more of a tribute to the worthy and illustrious Peter Howitt, of international blockbuster movie set decorator fame, than a true preview of the said establishment. Peter Howitt is a dear friend who now resides at Casa Antonia, after having acquired huge international acclaim for his most valid lifetime contribution to the world of cinematography. Peter also has his own Wikipedia page! Need I even continue… as if there were any other better mark of lifetime achievement than that!
As may be expected with most such rare geniuses, Peter also masters a few thousand additional talents, because limiting yourself to one or two is never enough for such brilliant individuals. He is therefore also an excellent and renowned artist and on this particular evening had held the opening of his new art exhibition in Casa Antonio. An event which I must say was splendidly organised by Gino Camilleri and Marie Claire Galea.
So right after the event, a few of the naughtier ones there who never have enough, decided to stumble down the road to Melita. This includedAlexander Spiteri, Joseph Gauci, Robert Scicluna, Emma Loftus, Edwige Sapienza and Frank Sapienza and of course us. We did have to rush a bit, as we were informed that last orders must be taken by latest 22:30.
In virtually identical manner to nearly all other such informal eateries in Malta, the menu offers your run-of-the-mill starters, salads, burgers, pastas, pizzas, steak and chicken, sort of routine. But admittedly, I suppose that what such menus sorely lack in originality, they amply make up for by offering most people’s favourites, in a simply cannot-go-wrong fashion.
So we had our expected mix of roughly one of each of the above, seemingly just to be difficult and to end off the kitchen with the typical nightmarish order, got hold of a few Gavi di Gavis and sat back in the pleasant garden, enjoying the company and the evening breeze.
The discussion varied between the usual social delightful nonsense, to the lovely Howitt paintings which had earlier feasted our eyes and in the cases of some at least, also emptied their pockets.
The dishes arrived in timely fashion. All was satisfactory and pleasant and of a more than acceptable standard. Presentation was fine, portions were large and prices were reasonable, The service too was fine and executed in good order. What else could one expect I suppose. This establishment carries no pretence, so provided that you are happy with the mundane then you will be fine.
So yes, Melita Gardens are not only relatively unavoidable when in that immediate area and feeling hungry or thirsty, but also a decent choice for a very casual meal.