It’s hard to argue against the cult-like popularity of brunch these days – a testament to which is the increasing number of places sprouting up which not only serve mouth-watering meals that are sometimes too good-looking to eat, but serve them in charming settings that are a significant part of the overall customer experience. From a refined retro ambiance to a fashion-centred aesthetic, check out these popular dining spots with an eye for detail.
Word of Mouth
With its colourful menu and equally vibrant interiors, Word of Mouth in Sliema quickly cemented its place among some of the most popular brunch spots on the island. Designed by DAAA Haus studio, the cool, quirky and retro-inspired aesthetic sets the tone of this playful jaunt, in which music, food and good times are given equal importance.
Emma’s Kitchen
At Emma’s Kitchen – the brainchild of architect-turned-restaurateur Emma Demarco – the warm interiors evolve with the cafe’s offering throughout the day. A glass door and window flood the space with daylight, while pendant and fairy lights transition it into a lively evening locale. Expect retro wall art, traditional floor tiles, ample foliage and a convivial atmosphere with a great attention to detail.
Elephant Shoe
Positioned adjacent to Valletta’s Upper Baraka Garden, Elephant Shoe is hard to miss – its name alone instils a sense of curiosity, and its interiors, designed by creative studio DAAA Haus, portray a sense of playful sophistication, achieved through a fresh colour palette of greens and earthy hues, quirky wall art, and plenty of plants.
The Bagel Hole
The Bagel Hole, designed and run by architects Matt and Suzi, is replete with details despite its compact size. Housed within an underground storage room in Valletta, its character emerges from the limestone walls and earthy pink shade that dominates the space. From the custom white stools and unexpected metal stairs, the interiors are creatively inviting and cosy.
Danny’s
Located along a busy bypass on the outskirts of Mriehel, Danny’s embraces and reflects its industrial location within its own interiors. Grey, black and yellow dominate the colour palette, complemented by accents of copper and wood, while hanging greenery and touches of the same vibrant yellow as its branding add pops of colour to this bustling eatery.
Charles & Ron Café
With a prominent location in Naxxar, Charles & Ron Café brings all the sass you’d expect from the fashion brand into their own culinary space, with a little extra for good measure. With a predominantly black-and-white interior scheme, the details – in the form of mannequins dressed in fine garments and a wall of fame dedicated to the designer duo – serve as an homage to the their success, blurring the lines between a retail and dining experience.
Main image: Elephant Shoe / Diana Iskander
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