Review: Da Marina Restaurant, Marina Hotel, St Julians Malta

Recently I was lucky enough to be invited to a wine tasting event at The Marina Hotel in St Julians for their MayFest 2015 celebrations. Afterwards I sobered up with dinner at Da Marina restaurant and today I'm sharing my review with you! As the name would suggest, Da Marina restaurant is situated so it overlooks the water. It's not right on the waters edge as it's elevated but has a stunning view. It's really beautiful during the day, as the sun goes down and during the evening once the coastline is alive with lights.

The menu at Da Marina at the Marina Hotel, St Julians is extensive with plenty of fish and meat options. There was even an entire lobster menu with loads of dishes to choose from. For a starter we shared the "Crostini con Pomodoro Fresco, Aglio, Pesto, Mozzarella" which was basically bruschetta with fresh tomatoes, garlic, pesto and mozzarella. The picture doesn't look so appetising (food photography is not my forte!) but it was very tasty. Often dishes like this can be over toasted and lacking flavour but we both really enjoyed it.

For the main Joe (left) went for Filetto di Manzo alla Ricca Piemontese 250grm €22.95 (grilled beef fillet, marsala sauce, smoked scamorza cheese, porcini, truffle oil) and I (right) went for the Costata di Manzo 250grm €20.95 (Beef ripeye, grilled tomato). The steaks were good, perfectly cooked (medium for me, medium rare for Joe) and tasty but they weren't mind blowing or the best we've ever had. They were good and great value for money at both only just over €20 but next time I'd probably try one of their fish or lobster dishes. I have a feeling that the fish would be out of this world!

[gallery size="large" link="none" columns="2" ids="8030,8031"]The service at Da Marina restaurant absolutely perfect, everyone came with a smile, we were never left waiting and there was a good lapse between the starter and the main. I hate when the main comes too soon after the starter, and when they keep you waiting too long, so it can be a hard one to get right! Overall I thought the restaurant had a lovely, quiet, chilled out atmosphere, impeccable staff, good food and good value. I would definitely go back, but I'd lean more towards a pasta or fish dish next time!

* Meal was provided for free (thank you so much!) however all opinions are honest and totally my own.