From Tarragon to the Sky: Marvin Gauci’s Odyssey of Culinary Innovation


In Malta, a jewel in the Mediterranean’s crown, the restaurant scene is experiencing a golden age, led by the Maltese culinary ambassador of Malta, Marvin Gauci. His portfolio, which spans from the luxurious Caviar & Bull to the authentic Italian haven of Don Royale, has been a beacon of innovation and excellence.

This year, the Malta Restaurant Awards have once again spotlighted the Marvin Gauci Group’s contributions, celebrating his establishments’ achievements, including the unique “Dinner in the Sky,” which takes gastronomy to new heights—quite literally.

The Marvin Gauci Group was first brought to the national restaurant awards back in 2008 with the signature Tarragon Restaurant. At this point, Marvin Gauci was somewhat new to the restaurant industry, and his talents were recognized across the board. Tarragon was a restaurant that many locals held close to their hearts.

Another notable restaurant that forms part of the MG Group is Caviar & Bull, which stands as the flagship of the MG fleet, a testament to its mastery over modern European dishes.

Here, diners are treated to a culinary voyage, where traditional ingredients are transformed through contemporary techniques into something extraordinary. The restaurant’s ambiance mirrors its cuisine: luxurious, sophisticated, and utterly captivating.

Caviar & Bull first participated in the Good Guides awards in 2015 where it won the ‘Best Newcomer’. Over the years, Caviar & Bull’s ‘Best Wine List’ as well as ‘Best Business’ 8 years in a row!

Sole Seabar by Tarragon pays homage to the Mediterranean’s bountiful waters, offering a seafood experience that is both refined and innovative. The commitment to freshness and sustainability shines through in a menu that features the best of local catch, prepared with respect and creativity.

The restaurant’s serene, ocean-inspired atmosphere complements its culinary offerings, making it a sanctuary for seafood lovers. While Sole Seabar by Tarragon is new to the scene it has already won ‘Top 40 Restaurants 2024’ in its first year.

In Don Royale, Marvin Gauci’s passion for Italian cuisine takes center stage. This restaurant is a celebration of Italy’s rich culinary traditions, offering dishes that are authentic, flavorful, and crafted with care. From hand-rolled pasta to wood-fired pizzas, Don Royale is a slice of Italy in the heart of Malta, complete with a wine list that invites diners to explore the depth and diversity of Italian wines. Don Royale also incorporates the local palate into its menu by creating lovely local dishes such as rabbit stew and traditional local desserts.

“Dinner in the Sky” adds an entirely new dimension to the MG Group and the local market entirely. This thrilling dining concept invites guests to enjoy the exquisite cuisine while suspended high above the ground, offering breathtaking views of Malta’s landscape.

It’s an experience that combines fine dining with the thrill of adventure, making each meal unforgettable. Marvin Gauci’s innovative spirit is on full display here, as he challenges the conventional boundaries of a restaurant setting and offers diners not just a meal, but a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Marvin Gauci’s influence on Malta’s dining scene is immeasurable. His restaurants are not just dining establishments; they are landmarks of culinary innovation and excellence. Marvin’s dedication to his craft, his relentless pursuit of perfection, and his ability to seamlessly blend tradition with innovation have solidified his status as a culinary visionary.

Through its diverse establishments, MG Group has catered to a wide array of tastes and preferences, ensuring that whether you’re seeking the sophistication of Caviar & Bull, the freshness of Sole Seabar by Tarragon, the warmth of Don Royale, or the exhilaration of Dinner in the Sky, you’re in for an unparalleled dining experience.

His commitment to providing exceptional food, impeccable service, and unforgettable experiences has not only elevated Malta’s culinary status but has also set a new standard for dining worldwide.

As the Malta Restaurant Awards have rightly acknowledged, Marvin Gauci’s contribution to the culinary world is second to none.

His ability to innovate within the realm of gastronomy continues to inspire and delight. With every dish served, MG Group invites diners on a journey of discovery, proving time and again that in his empire, the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.