Malta: Traditional Maltese Rabbit Cooking Class

If you’ve ever wondered what makes Maltese cuisine truly special, this Traditional Maltese Rabbit Cooking Class offers a fantastic opportunity to get up close and personal with the island’s culinary heart. Hosted by local Kris Zahra in a cozy setting, this 3.5-hour experience combines hands-on cooking, cultural insights, and a shared meal that feels more like visiting family than a tour. With just a small group of up to five participants, you’ll receive plenty of personal attention—and leave with new skills, a full belly, and a deeper appreciation of Maltese food.

What makes this experience stand out? For us, it’s the authenticity. Helping prepare a classic Maltese rabbit dish, which is a staple of local cuisine, means you’ll be learning recipes that are closely linked to the island’s traditions. Plus, the chance to enjoy the meal with your hosts, sharing stories over homemade wine and Maltese liquor, adds a warm, familial touch. A potential consideration? The experience is limited to those over 18 and not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or people with food allergies—so it’s best suited for adventurous eaters and culinary enthusiasts willing to get a little messy. If you love food, culture, and authentic experiences, this class deserves a spot on your Malta itinerary.

Key Points

• Authentic Maltese Cuisine: Focused on the island’s beloved rabbit dish, a true culinary staple.
• Hands-On Learning: Get involved in preparing the meal, from cutting to marinating and cooking.
• Personalized Experience: Small group size (up to 5) ensures individual attention and genuine hospitality.
• Local Connection: Hosted by Kris Zahra, who shares insights into Maltese food and culture.
• Tasty Endings: Enjoy a complete meal with side dishes, a homemade dessert, wine, and Maltese liquor.
• Ideal for Food Lovers: Best suited for those over 18, eager to learn authentic cooking techniques.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Experience Entails

This cooking class offers a delightful blend of learning, eating, and cultural exchange. Kris Zahra, the host, greets guests at his home in Naxxar, where the atmosphere feels more like dining with friends than participating in a tour. The small group size—limited to 5—means you’ll receive personal guidance throughout the process, making it especially valuable for those who want a deeper dive into Maltese culinary traditions.

The Itinerary and Highlights

Introduction and Setting: Upon arrival, you’ll likely be welcomed with a platter of Maltese starters, providing a flavorful preview of what’s to come. These homemade starters often include local favorites, giving you a taste of Malta’s culinary style early on.

Preparing the Rabbit: The star of the show, the rabbit, is prepared from scratch. Kris and his family demonstrate how to expertly cut and marinate the meat. Interestingly, many reviewers highlight how much they appreciated the personal touch—everything used in the meal is connected to the family, such as homemade olive oil and fresh herbs. As one reviewer noted, “All the produce used had a personal connection to the family,” which adds a layer of authenticity and appreciation.

Cooking and Side Dishes: You’ll help create two traditional Maltese side dishes. One reviewer mentioned the rabbit stew as “the best rabbit we’ve ever tasted,” emphasizing how flavorful and tender the meat becomes when cooked with care and local ingredients. The class also includes a homemade dessert, which might range from Maltese honey cakes to other regional sweets, completing the meal.

Sharing the Meal: Once the dishes are ready, everyone gathers around the table. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the stories, the conversation, and the sense of community. Drinks flow freely, with options like local wine, soft drinks, coffee, tea, and Maltese liquor, giving you a real taste of Maltese hospitality.

Why This Experience Is Worth It

The value here isn’t just in the meal, but in the culture. You’ll learn about the significance of rabbit in Maltese cuisine—a delicacy and a symbol of local tradition. The hands-on nature means you’re not just watching a demonstration; you’re actively participating, which enhances your understanding and appreciation of the dishes.

The reviews reinforce this immersive approach. Ka describes it as “an amazing local hosting cooking and eating experience,” while Mark calls it a “marvelous homely going experience with the family.” These comments highlight how genuine and warm the experience feels, often exceeding expectations for those looking for authentic interactions rather than touristy setups.

The Authenticity and Personal Touch

The key to the charm of this class lies in Kris and his family’s hospitality. As Sarah notes, it was a “delightful experience with a Maltese family,” and she mentions the delicious homemade olive oil and personal connection to the ingredients. That level of authenticity is rare and makes a lasting impression on visitors.

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The Practicalities and Price

At $96 per person, this experience offers excellent value for what you get: a personalized cooking lesson, a full meal with side dishes and dessert, and drinks. The small group size ensures personalized attention, allowing questions and interaction that you might miss on larger tours. Keep in mind that transportation isn’t included, so plan your arrival accordingly. Also, note that the experience doesn’t cater to vegetarians, vegans, or those with food allergies, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with meat-centric dishes.

Timing and Booking

The class lasts about 3.5 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability. You can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning your trip. Since the group is limited to five, booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons.

The Verdict: Who Will Love This?

This cooking class is perfect for foodies eager to learn genuine Maltese recipes from a local family. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a cultural experience beyond sightseeing, blending culinary skills with storytelling and hospitality. Those seeking a fun, interactive activity that ends with a hearty meal will find this experience particularly rewarding.

If you enjoy authentic, home-cooked meals and value personal interactions, this class will likely be one of the highlights of your Malta trip. It’s a warm, genuine experience that goes far beyond just learning a recipe—it’s about understanding and appreciating Maltese food culture through the eyes of locals.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the experience?
No, transportation to and from the cooking class is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to Kris Zahra’s home in Naxxar.

Can I join if I don’t eat meat?
This experience isn’t suitable for vegetarians or vegans because it focuses on preparing a traditional Maltese rabbit dish, which is a meat staple.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended since you’ll be actively involved in cooking.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s limited to adults over 18 due to alcohol consumption and the nature of the activity.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a personalized cooking experience, demonstration and hands-on preparation, two side dishes, a dessert, homemade starter platters, the meal with your hosts, and drinks such as local wine, soft drinks, coffee, tea, or Maltese liquor.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the class conducted in?
The experience is conducted in English.

How many people participate in each session?
The group size is small—limited to 5 participants—to ensure a more intimate and personalized experience.

The Sum Up

Choosing the Malta: Traditional Maltese Rabbit Cooking Class means enjoying a genuine part of Maltese culture. It’s more than just a cooking lesson; it’s a chance to connect with local life, learn from passionate hosts, and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that reflects the island’s culinary soul. The intimate, hands-on approach ensures you’ll leave with new skills and satisfying memories—perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, and those wanting a meaningful cultural experience.

While it may not suit vegetarians or those with specific dietary restrictions, for anyone open to authentic, home-style Maltese cooking, this class offers incredible value. Expect delicious food, warm hospitality, and a taste of Malta that will linger long after the last bite.

Ready to cook, taste, and connect? This experience promises to be one of those special trips that make your Malta visit truly memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby