On the trail of Gozo’s old bakeries

You cannot visit Gozo without tasting the traditional Gozitan ftira, a kind of traditional pizza made from unleavened dough and which in a way resembles a pie. Whether you like a salty one with anchovies, or one with fresh cheeslets, or any of the other varieties, there are few things that can compare to a freshly-baked ftira just out of the traditional fire furnace.

Here we’re looking at Gozo’s oldest bakeries (strictly listed in alphabetical order) that serve this delight and a choice of other savouries and sweet confections.

1. Maxokk in Nadur

 Right in the core of Nadur village, Maxokk Bakery is one that nowadays is completely dedicated to the ftira and the pizza. In fact, their name, Maxokk, is now like a household name on the island.  Their menu offers a variety of no less than 11 ftiras including tuna, local sausage and local cheeselets.

Check them out here: St. James Street, Nadur.

 

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2. Mekren in Nadur

It would be such a pity to miss Mekren on your way to Ramla. The family bakery is located on the main street that leads to Gozo’s favourite beach and once inside you can choose from traditional ftiras, pizzas, qassatat and bread! If you’re lucky you might stumble in when they’ve just taken out the traditional bread pudding out of the oven. Now that’s a treat!

Check them out here: Triq Tal Hanaq, Nadur.

 

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3. Ta’ Kampnari Bakery

In the heart of the old city centre, Ta’ Kampnari Bakery is another family bakery tucked away behind St. George’s Basilica that has recently opened up again in the authentic surroundings of Victoria’s old alleyways.  Simply follow the whiff of freshly baked bread until you end up by their door.  From lampuki pies to the traditional ftira and pizzas, at Ta’ Kampnari Bakery you can sit down and enjoy tucking into your treat!

Check them out here: Off St. George’s Square, Victoria.

4. Ta’ Saminu Bakery

Located in Xewkija, Ta’ Saminu Bakery is another old-time village bakery.  The smell of bread is divine and you’ll always find a delectable choice of  ftira. The afternoon rewards visitors with the traditional sweet bread rings with sesame, and the air is filled with an irresistible smell of authentic baking goodness that is only found in Gozo!

Check them out here: Soil Street, Xewkija.

 

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5. Tal-Mulejja Bakery Qala

If you’re in Qala, take note of this particular bakery, belonging to the Buttigieg family.   Time seems to have stopped still here and it’s literally like taking a peek into the past, except for the fact that the smell of bread will jolt you back to your senses!

Check them out here: Triq il-Forn, Qala.