The Xara Collection, Malta’s renowned luxury hospitality group, announces major milestones for 2025 including the continued recognition of its culinary excellence through prestigious Michelin stars and the expansion of its luxury accommodation portfolio with a historic addition.
In a remarkable achievement for Malta’s culinary scene, de Mondion, the centrepiece of The Xara Collection’s dining establishments, has retained its coveted Michelin star for the sixth consecutive year. This recognition coincides with de Mondion’s 26th anniversary, marking over a quarter-century of culinary excellence under the leadership of Executive Chef Clint Grech. The restaurant continues to push the boundaries of gastronomy while honouring local cuisine and sustainable practices, sourcing ingredients from local suppliers and the in-house Xara Gardens. Adding to this culinary success, Rosamí, led by Executive Chef Eoin Smith, has retained its Michelin star for the second consecutive year, marking a successful first year since its initial star recognition.
Beyond the dining table, The Xara Collection is also proud to announce the addition of Palazzino Belvedere to its prestigious portfolio, marking a significant expansion of its luxury accommodation offerings. This meticulously restored 17th-century palace stands as a testament to Maltese architectural heritage as one of Malta’s most romantic suite offerings. Palazzino Belvedere is the most recent addition to The Xara Palace’s bedroom offering, and is now the hotel’s most exclusive suite, showcasing exquisite historical features, including decorative double doors, traditional 14th-century Maltese tiles, and honey-coloured stone walls that create an enchanting atmosphere within the old capital of Malta.
Set across multiple levels, Palazzino Belvedere offers an unparalleled luxury experience with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a sophisticated living room featuring a Beosound Theatre System, and a formal dining room adorned with a statement Calypso Murano Glass chandelier. The property’s unique features include an internal courtyard, three terraces, and two balconies offering panoramic views of the Maltese Islands and silent streets of Mdina.
Enhancing the guest experience further is the addition of Il-Mahzen, an artisan snack bar and boutique designed to immerse visitors in authentic Maltese culture which opened in November 2024. This innovative space serves traditional local delicacies and beverages while featuring a carefully curated selection of artisanal crafts in its boutique. The venue’s ambience is enriched by thoughtfully displayed traditional tools and vintage signs, offering visitors an immersive journey through Malta’s cultural heritage. Il-Mahzen is an engaging destination within Mdina, where both residents and travellers can savour the island’s gastronomic traditions while discovering its rich artisanal legacy.
Justin Zammit Tabona, Managing Director of The Xara Collection comments, “These achievements represent a pivotal moment for The Xara Collection. The retention of Michelin stars across our restaurants, combined with the launch of Palazzino Belvedere and Il-Mahzen, demonstrates our unwavering commitment to excellence in both culinary arts and luxury hospitality. We continue to set new standards in Malta’s hospitality sector while honouring our rich cultural heritage.”
The Xara Collection not only reinforces its position as a leader in Maltese hospitality but also continues to craft experiences that seamlessly blend heritage, gastronomy, and luxury for discerning travellers.
