2026 Malta Michelin Guide Awards: will they get it right?

February 2026 will shape a path for some of Malta’s culinary artists. 

Some will deserve the accolades they retain, some won’t. Some will be elated by their recognition, some will feel forgotten. The 2026 Malta Michelin Guide Awards will take place on the 17th of February and the kitchens are already buzzing. 

After the festive season, the last push of services where over-exertion is a silent promise we make to society, we need to level down and understand our next steps. January is the time for reflection, of both past and future. What did 2025 bring? What will 2026 bring?

But somehow this Award Ceremony keeps Chefs on the cusp of change, like a school kid in exam-result-season. Our first thoughts at bajtra are always focused on the culinary elevation of our islands; and of course Michelin orchestrates the path quite influentially. 

Our opinions on the Michelin selection are varied. We see the worth in the red plaque and would covet it had bajtra been a restaurant… but I do think the list of local restaurants needs some fine tuning. We also wish it didn’t weigh on Chef’s self-worth so much; but also understand the drive and hunger it instigates. For those Chefs who are doing it right, Michelin and 50 Best, for example, are symbols of recognition. And recognition is so important. 

The first set of 1-Michelin stars was given out in 1926, and 100 years later, after so many adaptations, Chefs around the world still strive for that coveted Star; and if they’ve got 1-Michelin Star, they want the second and so on. While watching Knife Edge Chasing Michelin Stars, you will almost feel the anticipation (and pressure). It’s very much the same for our Chefs locally. Any day could bring in an Inspector. Every guest is important. Every ingredient. Every detail. This is real. 

This is the 7th Edition in Malta, so the stakes are high.

There are a few whispers here and there on who will get a Star, who should and who shouldn’t or whose should be taken away from them. Documenting the industry requires these angled conversations, some will be shared, some will remain private - because at bajtra we believe there should always be kindness in truth: our honesty resonates to empower and sometimes it stings to motivate. We know what we wish for on the 17th of February based on what is deserving in the 2026 market. The only question is will Michelin get it right?

To the Chefs of Malta and Gozo, we share the suspense. We’re your biggest cheerleaders.

Good things come to those who wait. Just don’t stop cooking.  

Love, 

bajtra