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What the hell is this about?

You can get a more in-depth answer on the about section but basically, What's Cooking, Malta? is a unique, independent and authentic lifestyle guide uncovering what I think is the best of what the island has to offer in terms of restaurants, hotels, bars. events and retail/brands. I spend my own free time discovering, researching and testing gems (old and new) that are deserving of people's hard-earned cash.

Why are you or/and your reviews credible (especially with food)?

I am an actual certified food critic and published food writer with 14 years of experience in London, Tokyo and Malta. I also have a food writing certificate from Le Cordon Bleu.

I have a very strong and genuine passion for food from all parts of the world, whether it's cooking, eating or uncovering places. Growing up in a very food-focused home, travelling to a lot of different countries, and being from London, where I was regularly immersed in the hospitality scene both personally and professionally, I'd like to think I know what I'm talking about when it comes to food... and I've gained a very good reputation for doing so.

Being well-versed in international cuisine because of the above, when I write down that something is authentic, unlike many, I do not use that word lightly. I can spot the real from the fake.

Are you an 'influencer'?

No. I mean I have no hate for the actual honest influencers and it takes a lot of time, creativity and energy to do videos on social media, but a lot of them are mostly ads and partnerships with no real knowledge of food. They're mostly marketing props and I'm not (sorry).

Do you write positive reviews in exchange for money or free food?

Listen, no one can buy my opinion. In fact, I've declined many invites and proposals (even from very popular places). If I have been invited to a place, I tell them from the beginning that If I didn't like it, I won't write about it so it's at their own risk.

I value my integrity, reputation and my readers. I'd be mortified if I listed a place that was not up to my standards and a reader spent their money but it was awful. I've been a victim of this, and I won't let it happen to others.

Do you write negative reviews?

What's Cooking, Malta? is a where to go guide, and as I mentioned before, if I don't like it I won't write about it. It takes a lot of time to write an article and I do it as a hobby, plus Malta is way too small, some chefs or owners here take things very personally. I've even received threats or have been blocked on Facebook because I gave less than positive feedback privately, it's just not worth it, especially for my mental health.

What can we as readers expect?

No BS or frills and me only writing about places to go, things to do or hotels that I would go to myself. I carefully select everything that features on this site whether tried and tested or not (in the case of newsbites).

Will you be making revenue? If so, how?

I will be doing some (and I mean SOME) paid collaborations and partnerships (not fake reviews) but ethically, honestly and with integrity (and with very carefully-selected brands/venues).

Not all money is good money and I won't accept any old paid collaboration or ad requests, if you see places like McDonald's, Starbucks, an overhyped place, or a bad viral fad on this site, you can publicly call me out.

Most of the revenue however, in the very near future, will come from unique foodie events and meet-ups, a membership scheme offering perks never seen before in Malta (don't worry all content will be free to read always), and a bespoke restaurant and concierge service for tourists and residents (keep your eyes peeled for updates on these).

I think it's fair to get reimbursed for my time writing, costs of running the website, time spent researching and make a lil 'something something' from my passion. Isn't that most people's dream?