Ion Harbour by Simon Rogan earns Malta’s first two Michelin stars

ION Harbour by Simon Rogan has been awarded its second Michelin star, marking it as Malta’s first ever restaurant to receive such an honour. The prestigious accolade was announced on 4 April 2024, celebrating the significant impact Simon Rogan and his team have made since taking over the restaurant, located within the Iniala Hotel in Valletta, just over a year ago. This new star elevates the Simon Rogan restaurant group’s global Michelin Star tally to eight, alongside two Michelin Green Stars, underscoring their commitment to excellence and sustainability in fine dining.

Upon receiving the news, an ecstatic Simon Rogan shared, “Receiving news that ION Harbour has two Michelin Stars today is, without a doubt, one of the highlights of my career so far.” Rogan credited the achievement to his dedicated team and their shared vision of bringing a special dining experience to Malta, focusing on a farm-to-table ethos, and a strong commitment to working with local suppliers and sustainable practices. “Knowing that we are the first ever two Michelin Star restaurant in Malta makes this all the more special – there will be celebrations in Valletta tonight that’s for sure,” Rogan added.

ION Harbour is perched on the rooftop of the luxurious five-star Iniala Harbour House Hotel, boasting unparalleled views of Valletta’s UNESCO-listed Grand Harbour. The restaurant, under the guidance of Rogan and Executive Chef Oli Marlow, has navigated Malta’s agricultural landscape to source the finest local and sustainable ingredients. The team collaborates closely with a range of small-scale producers, from spear fishermen to a third-generation salt farmer in Gozo, and even employs a specialist forager and a Head of Sustainability, Keith Abela, to ensure a commitment to environmental responsibility extends beyond the kitchen.

The restaurant’s journey to its current acclaim began with a first Michelin star in 2021, under the leadership of Andrew Borg, before Alex Dilling took over until early 2023. Simon Rogan’s arrival has not only continued the restaurant’s trajectory of excellence but has also cemented its place in history as Malta’s premiere dining destination.

Food Desk

For more information, visit ION Harbour website here.