AKI Malta: Contemporary Japanese restaurant and lounge bar in Valletta
Contemporary Japanese restaurant and lounge bar · Valletta, Malta
Our Review of AKI, Valletta
Food at AKI: 16/20
For those craving an upmarket Japanese evening head to Aki in the heart of Valletta. The menu is reasonably sized with a range of different dishes. As often in Valetta, prices are at a somewhat elevated level for Malta, but still very competitive compared to London or New York. There are many good sushi and sashimi options including the 32 piece Maki and Nigiri platter for €48 and the 52 piece AKI signature platter at €95. Amongst outstanding other dishes are the Rock Shrimp Tempura at €13.90 with Kimchi Yuzu Garlic Sauce, and the Saikyo Miso Black Cod 'AKI Way' at €38.90 with Charred Apricot and Hijiki Yuzu Ni, Yuzu Curd. Meat eaters may prefer the Yuzu Shisho Sumiyaki Lamb Cutlets at €38.00 with Tomato Nashi Pear Miso or the Robata Grilled Wagyu Beef at €68.90.
Atmosphere at AKI: 7/10
In the cellar of the Embassy Hotel, this is one of Malta’s most glamorous and fashionable Asian restaurants and there is certainly a buzz here. In consequence of this, and the boppy music, the noise level is high. This is not the place for a quite chat. However, this is a lot more fun than your usual Japanese restaurant. The décor is Japanese themed in the modern manner with wooden tables. As with so many restaurants in Valetta, the crowd is dominated by tourists, with a few locals in the know. The former casually dressed, the latter a bit dressier.
Service at AKI: 7/10
The waiting staff are truly multinational with quite a few from South and East Asia. They are friendly and well trained, but you will need to keep on top of them to avoid longueurs. The new lady sommelier is a welcome addition. The wine list is dominated by Italian and Maltese wines, though there are some good French wines mostly in the €50 - €80 range. Good cocktails and sake.
Cuisine
Contemporary Japanese restaurant and lounge bar
Price Level
€€€
Ratings
AKI — Frequently Asked Questions
What type of food does AKI serve?
AKI is a Contemporary Japanese restaurant and lounge bar restaurant in Valletta, Malta.
How expensive is AKI?
AKI is rated €€€ for price (on a scale of € to €€€€€).
Where is AKI in Malta?
AKI is located in Valletta, Malta at 57 Merchant Street, Valletta, Malta.
Is AKI worth visiting?
AKI scored 30/40 in our independent Malta Guide review, covering food quality (16/20), atmosphere (7/10) and service (7/10).
Can I book a table at AKI online?
Yes, AKI accepts online reservations via their official website.