Mellieha’s bustling culinary scene has a young diamond in its midst, or perhaps a sapphire, that draws patrons for its inventive take on Spanish cuisine, a 200-strong wine list, as well as a bold design that gives Espiral its memorable setting.
Located right outside Misraħ iż-Żjara tal-Papa Ġwanni Pawlu II, which was recently renovated, the restaurant’s design draws on an eclectic mix of inspirations, most notably the islands’ checkered history combined with Spanish influence.
Set on two floors, Espiral features a bar, distinct dining spaces on separate floors, an outdoor dining space, wine-tasting area and restrooms with a peculiar design of their own.
The restaurant owners, db Group, brought in the Madrid-based Black Lemon Studio for this project, who were inspired by Malta’s “fascinating historical tapestry woven by Phoenicians, Romans, Muslims, Normans and the imposing Knights of St John.”
“The team decided to artfully divide the restaurant into several spaces – the al fresco ‘Garden of Delights’ and ‘The Cave of Pleasures’ among them, harnessing fantastical elements such as abstract golden tree sculptures, a blue carpet reminiscent of a dream-like garden and stained glass inspired by 18th-century artworks.”
On the ground floor, tables are subtly segregated by arches in an earthy terracotta tone, with hints of the original limestone arches still visible on the ceiling. The layout and details conjure subtle religious connotations – from the gold door bursting with light beams to the golden apple inspired by the garden of Eden.
Throughout the restaurant, a saturated shade of blue ushers in visual richness – visible on the walls, the plush seating, the bar stools and even the faucet in the restrooms.
Marble accents used for various surfaces complement this, while bold lighting choices, not least the golden apple spilling out cubes of colourful lights – demonstrate the daring approach adopted by the studio.
On the first floor, a vaulted structure cuts an imposing figure, lining the limestone ceiling and walls with a geometric blue and white pattern that gives the space a flare of Spanish influence. On both floors, sculptural chairs add a sophisticated air to Espiral, which is replete with details small and large for visitors to observe.
This restaurant, a relative newcomer to db Group’s growing portfolio of fine-dining restaurants across Malta, marks a return to the place where the story of the hospitality magnate began when it opened its first guesthouse in Mellieha, which went on to become the db Seabank Resort & Spa.
Photography: Jean Karl Izzo
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