Simon Rogan, an esteemed British chef renowned globally for his culinary prowess, has been appointed as the helm of ION Harbour in Valletta. His arrival marks a new and exciting chapter in Malta's gastronomic landscape.
As of 15th March 2023, Valletta's ION Harbour will be graced with the presence of multi award-winning and internationally renowned chef Simon Rogan. As Chef Patron, he brings a rich history of culinary success to his new venture; boasting 8 acclaimed restaurants across UK & Hong Kong - particularly L’Enclume in Lake District, which has achieved three Michelin stars and five AA Rosettes as well as being top ranked on the Good Food Guide. His commitment to sustainability was also rewarded when both establishments were awarded The Michelin Green Star 2021.
Simon Rogan comments “When presented with the opportunity to take on ION Harbour, there was no question that this was the perfect spot for our next restaurant opening. My love for Malta, its history and climate, people and not least its ingredients and producers were all part of our decision to open ION Harbour by Simon Rogan, where we look forward to creating dishes that are inspired by our signature style whilst using the best of the Maltese larder.”
Drawing on his pioneering experience in the farm-to-table movement, esteemed British chef and his team are excited to explore what Malta has to offer. From locally harvested ingredients found amongst its countryside and Mediterranean waters, they will craft menus featuring only prime produce that truly shows off the abundant flavours of this charming island.
ION Harbour by Simon Rogan will be open for lunch and dinner, offering sophisticated tasting menus priced at 135Euro. A shorter menu is available from Thursday 23rd March providing a delightful backdrop to business meetings or relaxation in the breathtaking Valletta. Signature dishes include “Turbot from the South waters stuffed with mussels, Qara Hamra squash and smoked bone sauce”, as well as Maltese takes on some of Simon’s most recognisable dishes to include “Truffle Pudding caramelised in Carob honey”, and “Ta‘Qali strawberries and bee pollen cake, Marigold and milk cream.”
Turbot from the South waters stuffed with mussels, Qara Hamra squash and smoked bone sauce.
Scallop from Orkney, chamomile, buttermilk and smoked pike perch roe.
To enhance the dining experience at ION Harbour, a bespoke collection of beverages both alcoholic and non-alcoholic have been carefully crafted by their sommelier team. Taking sustainability one step further in a bid to minimise waste, each beverage has taken advantage of surplus kitchen supplies like peels, stalks or stems that may ordinarily be discarded.
Perched on the rooftop of 5 star Hotel Iniala Harbour House, ION Harbour offers guests front row seats to stunning UNESCO Grand Harbour views. Restaurant Manager James Christie and Assistant Food & Beverage Director Melissa Sambugaro will helm the Front of House while Executive Chef Oli Marlow - who boasts over 6 years working alongside renowned chef Simon - is accompanied by Head Chef Eoin Smith in creating an unforgettable gastronomic journey that no guest can deny.
Executive Chef Oli Marlow
ION Harbour owner Mark Weingard quoted: “I am really looking forward to working with Simon Rogan and his team and undertaking this exciting journey together. I know that Simon, Oli and our chefs have created an amazing seasonal menu which celebrates our wealth of local farmers, fishermen, growers and producers.”
Experience unparalleled views of the magnificent Mediterranean Sea and Grand Harbour from Iniala Harbour House & Residences, a luxury hotel in Valletta's most exclusive neighbourhood. Its 22 uniquely designed rooms and suites are complemented by outstanding facilities as well state-of-the art service delivered with thoughtfulness to ensure a seamless stay. Together with this commitment to quality lies its philanthropic arm: Iniala Giving; an initiative that gives back to the community it serves.
Reservations for Ion Harbour by Simon Rogan are available now.
To book your table, visit their website.
Further information on Simon Rogan and his other restaurants can be found here.
Photos by Sean Mallia