One of the greatest pleasures of spending time in Gozo is how effortless it feels to enjoy something truly beautiful. Sitting down to a meal with the sea just a few steps away is one of them.
Two places have become favourites of mine for exactly that: Il-Kantra Lido in Ta Cenc, Sannat and Qbajjar Restaurant in Marsalforn. Different vibes, different coastlines but both full of a mix of good food, relaxed hospitality and views that slow you down.
Il-Kantra Lido — Eating at the Edge of the World
Il-Kantra feels like the kind of place you almost want to keep to yourself. Approaching the mouth of Mġarr ix-Xini, right where the cliffs meet the water, it’s the sort of spot you reach only after following a winding road and thinking, “Surely there can’t be a restaurant here?”. Our taxi driver thought he was was setting us down in a wilderness! And then suddenly — there it is, perched above the sea like it grew from the rock.
Il-Kantra is a part of Hotel Ta’ Cenc & Spa, but sits a way away from the main hotel complex.
The setting alone is worth the trip. The terrace sits right above the waves, the sound of the sea humming underneath the tables. There’s a calmness here — the cliffs around Ta Cenc cradle the space in warm evening light. The food, wine and ambience is wonderful, too.
Go for sunset if you can
When the sky starts turning gold and the cliffs glow, the whole bay feels almost cinematic. The water softens to that deep blue that only seems to exist in Gozo and there’s a moment when everyone instinctively pauses to watch the light disappear. It’s quiet and beautiful.
Qbajjar Restaurant — Heartwarming Food by the Water
Over in Marsalforn, Qbajjar Restaurant offers something different but equally special. It’s lively, friendly and full of easy-going, generous spirit. The restaurant sits overlooking the water near the salt pans, and even on busy evenings, it somehow feels relaxed.
Comforting, local, made with pride
Qbajjar is all about hearty, flavourful dishes that feel very Gozitan — generous portions, big flavours and plenty of love.
Everything arrives fresh, well-seasoned, and somehow exactly what you didn’t know you were craving.
Warm, familiar hospitality
What really makes Qbajjar shine is the team. They’re welcoming in a way that feels genuinely local — friendly, quick with recommendations, and clearly proud of the food they serve. There’s an ease to eating here, whether you’re with friends, family or just wandering in after a day by the sea.
If You Go
- Il-Kantra Lido, Ta Cenc
Best for: a quiet dinner, sunset views, fresh seafood
Tip: Book ahead and ask for a table right by the edge. - Qbajjar Restaurant, Marsalforn
Best for: hearty meals, friendly atmosphere, reliable local dishes
Tip: The fish of the day is always worth asking about.
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