Ryan's Pub: More than just booze

By Fran Farrugia

Ryan’s Pub – a place loved and seeked by many. What many Ryan’s goers don’t know is that there is more to it than the insanely fun, hazy nights spent there. I had heard many rave reviews about Ryan’s food, namely about their succulent burgers, and I was thrilled to discover that I had the opportunity to try out their new and exciting menu. 

Upon arriving, I was greeted by manager Sarah Spiteri, who showed me to my exquisitely set table, immediately offering me Anthilia Donna Fugata wine. By offering such a smooth and refreshing wine, they clearly demonstrated that they meant business, perfectly quenching my thirst on such a summery day. A selection of nibbles then followed. The honey-roasted almonds, which were still warm and glistening, melted in my mouth, whilst the hand-cut, buttermilk and Guinness fried onion rings dipped in Ryan’s special BBQ sauce presented an immense depth of flavour. The hard exterior of the triple fried-fries provided the absolute contrast to the soft mushy potato on the inside. As chef Dario explained how they were made, I could easily understand that Ryan’s is striving to create the best genuine product that it can. 

Whilst sipping on my crisp wine, awaiting the highly anticipated burgers, I couldn’t help but notice that the ambiance was very hip, casual and relaxing with the help of chilled ambient tunes, a huge contrast from the heaving pub this becomes after dark. This makes Ryan’s the ideal spot to grab lunch or enjoy dinner under the stars in the patio overlooking Spinola Bay. 

Being a rather difficult person to please when it comes to burgers, I was rather excited to try the Ryan’s burgers. Having said that, I can wholeheartedly state that I was immensely impressed. The four day marinated triple blend of Angus meat presented a perfectly juicy and succulent patty topped with the robust cranberry jam and oozing with melted brie. 

 The wine was flowing, cleansing my palette, and three pasta dishes were in store for me. The rigatoni Amatricana were perfectly seasoned with the pecorino romano hitting all the right spots. Rigatoni alla crema followed, which were light, tasteful and satisfying. But the winner of this trio was the tagliatelle with beef ragu. What in the world could be better than homemade pasta? This pasta proves just that. Upon taking my first bite I was instantaneously transported to the cobbled streets of Rome. The taste was so authentic, exuding perfection. The medley of the beef ragu, cream and butter was absolutely sensational. Every bite was so delectable that I couldn’t help going back for more! 

I ended my meal with a slice of decadent chocolate fudge cake, smothered in exquisite chocolate ganache, and an espresso so rich and smooth, just like I would expect to have sitting by the Duomo in Milan. 

The stellar service, food and ambience were absolutely satisfying, exceeding any of my expectations. A return is definitely in the books! 

Ryan’s Pub

Triq Wied Ghomor,

St Julian’s

Tel: 79419891

Web: www.ryanspub.com