I wonder if the poor reviews are about the same restaurant that I visited? It has become a favourite with my wife and I over a couple of years. We have never had a bad meal, we have never received poor service, and we have never been dissatisfied with the bill.
The menu ranges from local Maltese to more adventurous international dishes. However, I can only comment on the local dishes, because we have always eaten these. As a starter, the most fantastic snail stew I have ever tasted is most recommended, especially when eaten with the crusty Maltese bread. The main course, has always been plentiful, well presented and very tasty. My wife generally goes for the seafood dishes, and has on several occasions taken what she couldn't eat away with her for later, because it is so tasty. For my part, I have tried the pasta, and various meat dishes, and never had a complaint, either about the quality, or the quantity.
I know that this restaurant has been there for many years, and is a favourite among the local residents of Valletta, which speaks for itself. It is not a michelin rated restaurant, and as far as I can make out, doesn't try to be. Just a good family restaurant, serving good food at reasonable prices.
The perfect place to go, after exploring the city for refreshment, and a tasty meal.