Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/1547435
16 than opposite each other, so both can enjoy the Grand Harbour without one having their back to it. "ION has one of Malta's most beautiful views, and I wanted everyone to enjoy it," explains Mark Weingard, founder of Iniala. "The half-moon tables let couples sit side by side, taking in Simon's food and the Grand Harbour together. For me, that makes them incredibly romantic and unique to ION." It is a simple idea, but one that makes a difference. Dining out is as much about the setting and the company as it is about what arrives on the plate, and here the three come together particularly well. As the light shifts over the harbour, the view becomes part of the evening rather than just a pretty backdrop. It also makes ION Harbour a lovely choice for a special occasion, whether you are celebrating an anniversary, marking a milestone or simply treating someone to a memorable dinner. And while the food is undoubtedly the main event, having a front- row seat to one of Malta's most beautiful panoramas certainly doesn't hurt. The tasting menu arrived in an envelope sealed like an invitation to a rather exclusive secret. At €205 per person, the twelve- course dinner is certainly a special-occasion affair. Fortunately, the evening got off to a promising start. First up was a beetroot and fennel tartlet, followed by tuna cured in smoked salts and fennel kombucha. Both were delicate little introductions to the kitchen's approach, with carefully balanced flavours and plenty of attention to detail. One of the evening's standouts was the Black Beauty courgette with lovage, roasted pork, hen's yolk and toasted yeast. The combination of ingredients made for a particularly memorable dish, with the courgette taking centre stage alongside rich, savoury flavours. Another highlight was the Gozo salt- baked celeriac, served with marinated sea succulents and ION Harbour's special reserve succulent. It was a lovely celebration Chef Simon Rogan