Portraits | Malta

A moment with George Borg

On our quest for some of the most delectable foodie delights in Malta we were fortunate enough to come across George Borg, Chef and Director of Connection Careers Ltd., who took us through his culinary favourites and what it is that makes Malta so special.  George plays a pretty spectacular role in Malta’s foodie scene from running a top-notch catering service that specialises in banquets, outside catering and personalised chef services in farmhouses around the island, to lecturing at the Institute of Tourism Studies in Gozo.  A bit of a local celebrity, he is a host chef on the popular TV programme ‘Malta u lil hinn Minnha’ and author of ‘Gozo Table’, a traditional recipe book with a twist.

 

 

How long have you lived in Malta and what is it about the island that you love the most?

I was born and still live in Gozo. I love our little island’s authenticity.

How does the island inspire your work and creativity?

Living on a small island, where everybody knows each other you build personal friendships with farmers, cheese producers and local artisans which is definitely a plus for my career.  Having fresh local produce at hand all year round makes it simple to be creative.

Are there any new openings on the island that can’t be missed?

Muzew tal-Hagar in St George’s square (for culture), Vini e capricci (for a great selection of wines).

If you only had one day to show us the best of Malta and Gozo, where would you take us?

Crossing from the sister island Malta, I would meet you in Mgarr Harbour.  From there we’d head on to Victoria for a coffee and pastizzi at a local, traditional coffee shop, enjoy a stroll in the city’s narrow streets and a visit to the Citadel is a must.  Our next stop would be a visit to the salt pans in salini and then on to a wine estate.  In the midst of the vineyards, together we would prepare lunch and enjoy a glass of wine.  After lunch, a stop not to be missed is the neolithic temples of Ggantija in Xaghra.  Then, we’d visit the Azure window in Dwejra and enjoy the sunset with a glass of prosecco.  After such a tiring day, we could stop for a massage at a Spa and head on to dinner at a local village square for a tranquil time or alternatively we can catch the ferry to Malta, head on to Paceville and dance the night away.

Have you got a favourite Maltese event or festival?

Yes, the village feasts between May and September, and there is 1 every week.  Each village has a patron saint and they have band marches, fireworks, dinners and everything is done on a voluntary basis.

How would you spend your perfect summers evening in Malta?

Relaxed on the beach with a bottle of wine and good company…as my summer evenings are always very busy and hectic!

Where is your favourite local’s hangout? Why is it so special?

The village squares, you usually find all you need and you also get first hand news of what is going on around the island.

What’s your favourite time of year in Malta and why?

Spring, I can enjoy lovely walks on the Ta’ Cenc Cliffs and the temperature isn’t too hot.

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