Kickstart your weekend down at Ferdie’s in Mgarr.
Delivering the perfect combination for all the Friday feels in Gozo.
Whether you prefer a cocktail or drink at the bar, or a sit-down meal to indulge in super-fresh honest food, Ferdie’s Cocktail Bar and Restaurant deliver on all fronts. With indoor and outdoor seating offering stunning views of the picturesque Mgarr harbor, and live music every Friday, Ferdie’s has a unique offering on Gozo Island.
Apart from being one of the friendliest fellas on the rock, Ferdie is a stalwart of the Gozo Restaurant scene. With a prime position next to The Grand Hotel on the Mgarr Road, seconds from the ferry terminal, his attentive team ensure you are spoilt rotten. You will be immediately struck by the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
As we chose from the varied cocktail menu and tucked into warm bread with homemade tomato tapenade we were treated to the sweetest live music from Simon Johnson, a hugely popular live singer, and musician on the island. It was special. We opted for an early start at 7 pm, but as the evening went on, the room slowly filled with locals, tourists, and residents in equal measure. With many personally welcomed by Simon, it was clear that not only does Ferdies attract a varied crowd, but customers come back repeatedly which speaks volumes.
One of the restaurant’s most popular starters is the Calamari Fritti. People flock to experience this and although this is a dish you may see on many menus in Gozo, Ferdie’s is probably the freshest lightest, and crispiest of them all.
We also chose the Souflee. A delight for those that was something light and tasty. Also, try the Cace e Pepe Ravioli. A beautifully light and al dente pasta with the creamiest, cheesiest, peppery sauce. I will surely be ordering that again.
We finished our meal with a whole Seabass from the Specials menu. Cooked to perfection and deboned and served at our table by Ferdie himself, it was divine, served with fresh vegetables and a side of grilled calamari.
Ferdie’s is also loved for the Signature Plated Desserts menu. Anything with Warm, Toffee, Lava, and Cake in the title will grab me from a mile away and it was absolutely delicious, as was the Warm Apple Cake served with Brandy and Butterscotch Sauce.
We had to complete this bonanza in style so ordered two Expresso Martinis from the bar and continued to enjoy Simon’s music who boasts a portfolio of music that is second to none. We heard everything from Coldplay and Lionel Richie to Simon and Garfunkel and at times I honestly felt that James Taylor was in the room.
By the time Simon had finished, we had joined the neighbouring tables and swapped phone numbers. That is what the power of Ferdie’s does. Food, service, comfort, entertainment, and atmosphere rolled into one perfect Friday evening. A simply charming dining experience in Gozo.
Author: Andrea Britton
Andrea is the Creative Director and Editor at GITH. Tweet her at @andreabritton or send stories to hello@gozointhehouse.com.
