Michelin-Noticed Al Sale for Good Reason
Why the Locals Come Back
Everything about Al Sale makes it stand out. Tucked along on one side of the square in Xaghra, one of Gozo’s most vibrant villages, it doesn’t shout for attention, it glows from inside and this is why the locals return time and time again. Those looking to explore Al Sale in Gozo will find a truly unique experience.
Gozo isn’t short of places to eat, but Al Sale doesn’t just serve seafood, it reveres it. With a kitchen that feels rooted in respect and flows like a reliable grandfather clock, this restaurant is by far one of the best. If you were to visit Gozo, experiencing Al Sale would surely redefine your expectations.
Whether it’s warm with the roof open, or a windy, chilly wintery lunch, you are welcomed by the excellent staff and relaxed atmosphere. They get the friendliness and background music just right. The staff are more than informed on the food and clearly have a real passion for what they serve. This ambience adds to why Al Sale Gozo remains unforgettable.
The crude plate for sharing is a quiet miracle. It arrives on a bed of ice: local pink prawns, tuna tartare, slivers of swordfish, octopus carpaccio and more, glistening with olive oil that tasted freshly pressed and a citrus that brightened every bite without overwhelming. This is starter perfection. Al Sale isn’t just about the seafood; rather, it’s the Gozo venue that captures culinary hearts.
There’s a reason the Michelin Guide noticed this place. That gentle tension between fine dining and the Gozitan ease that refuses to hurry you. You could sit here for hours, course after course, and never feel rushed. Or judged. Or upsold. Al Sale Gozo embodies the perfect balance of exquisite dining and leisurely enjoyment.
Later, we tucked into a dish of handmade risotto with gorgonzola and nuts. Another highlight was the salt-baked sea bass – ‘Al Sale’ – one of their many signature dishes, which truly represents the essence of Al Sale Gozo.
Al Sale isn’t a place you stumble into; you have to choose it, because, once in a while, it’s worth remembering what happens when food is given the time, the place, and the respect it deserves. Among the myriad options in Gozo, Al Sale stands as a beacon to all those seeking culinary perfection.
