A subtle pun on the bus route (81) that used to link Valletta and Rabat, Root 81 is one of the more modern bistros enlivening the dining scene around traditionally conservative Mdina and Rabat. It's worth booking an outside table for an early dinner, and combining spectacular valley views with dishes such as goat-cheese fritters or a risotto of local red prawns.
Root 81
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Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
6.19 MILES
St John's Co-Cathedral, Malta's most impressive church, was designed by the architect Gerolamo Cassar. It was built between 1573 and 1578, taking over…
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National Museum of Archaeology
6.11 MILES
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0.23 MILES
The cathedral is said to be built on the site of the villa belonging to Publius, the Roman governor of Malta who welcomed St Paul in AD 60.
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13.6 MILES
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Nearby Malta attractions
2. Mdina Ditch Garden Entrance
0.09 MILES
One of three entrances to the Mdina Ditch Garden. Often only open when special events are on.
0.11 MILES
Gruesome waxworks devoted to horrible historical practices may give older kids and teenagers a grisly thrill.
4. National Museum of Natural History
0.12 MILES
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0.13 MILES
The former Court of Justice. The figures on the balcony represent Justice and Mercy.
0.17 MILES
The ancient seat of Malta's oldest aristocratic family, who've lived here since the 14th century.
0.19 MILES
The residence of the Marquis of San Vincenzo Ferreri, a member of the Maltese nobility. The title was created by King Philip V of Spain and donated to the…