Beefbar in the City — Modern brasserie restaurant in Floriana (by Valletta City Gate), Malta
Modern brasserie / steakhouse, international · Floriana (by Valletta City Gate), Malta
Our Review of Beefbar in the City, Floriana (by Valletta City Gate)
Food at Beefbar in the City: 15/20
This is where cowboys come to eat, as long as their spurs are made of gold. If you like your steak with a little beef on the side, then this is the place for you. This upmarket brasserie cum steakhouse in the swanky Phoenicia Hotel is something special. But be warned. It's not just the horses that are crazy here – check out the prices. Through your fingers. The 'ham' is 45 day smoked ribeye 'prosciutto' and comes in at €29, and there is also a Kobe 'prosciutto' at €58, (toast is €15 extra). Even the fried chicken is fried in beef tallow (€24). For mains the wagyu and veal bolognaise is good, though I really can't taste the wagyu, and €42 seems a little steep for a pasta dish. The 'signature' dishes are of course the prime cuts and the dishes with international flair. There is Szechaun pepper beef wok at €42, Wagyu fajitas at €50 and a Tonkatsu (Asian breadcrumbed) Milanese at €42. Amongst the cuts the tagliata at €42 comes recommended, and for the very hungry, and very rich, there is a chateaubriand for two at €100. A 300g centre cut ribeye is €90. There is the odd non-beef dish, often with a Mexican twist. I would strongly recommend the crab taquitos as a (small) starter, but at €38 they are not for the feint hearted. Also a good option is the ceviche rosado (marinated fish with sweet potato and avocado) at €26, and the deep fried popcorn is certainly original and costs €24.
Atmosphere at Beefbar in the City: 7/10
It may be a beefbar, but this ain't no western saloon. More a chic little art deco jewel box in a luxury five star hotel. The crowd is largely flown expats - there is a table for the most golden of the golden geese in the middle - and of course lots of American tourists. When presented with the bill, you come out thinking – "I know Americans are rich these days, but are they really that rich?" In case they feel guilty, the description of some dishes as "street food" may perhaps lull them into quiescence. It is a la mode, but it is also clearly written by someone who doesn't understand the concept or the pricing level.
Service at Beefbar in the City: 8/10
Service is unobtrusive, the Americans must think them dumb mutes, but I would call it "highly professional." At this level the cowboys don't so much drink beer, but rather fine wine and pricey cocktails. An essential margarita is €19, and comes with a handy hint as to which 'street food' to pair with it. The fine wine list overprices the best know ones – so a Chateau Musar is, unbelievably, €120, and the 2016 Chateauneuf-du-Pape a steep €250. Most of the Bordeaux are really too young to be drunk. There are some good 'bargains' as well. Thank God for those old dependables found on Maltese wine lists such as the Louis Moeau Chablis at €60, and the Chateau La (not le) Bonelle 2016 at €70. Address & Contact Address: The Mall, The Phoenicia Malta, Floriana Phone: 2291 1084
Ratings
Cuisine
Modern brasserie / steakhouse, international
Price Level
€€€€
Beefbar in the City — Frequently Asked Questions
What type of food does Beefbar in the City serve?
Beefbar in the City is a Modern brasserie / steakhouse, international restaurant in Floriana (by Valletta City Gate), Malta.
How expensive is Beefbar in the City?
Beefbar in the City is rated €€€€ for price (on a scale of € to €€€€€).
Where is Beefbar in the City in Malta?
Beefbar in the City is located in Floriana (by Valletta City Gate), Malta at The Mall, The Phoenicia Malta, Floriana.
Is Beefbar in the City worth visiting?
Beefbar in the City scored 30/40 in our independent Malta Guide review, covering food quality (15/20), atmosphere (7/10) and service (8/10).
Can I book a table at Beefbar in the City online?
Yes, Beefbar in the City accepts online reservations via their official website.