The Maltese hospitality industry is mourning the loss of Benny Muscat, the renowned restaurateur and hospitality pioneer affectionately known as “Nonno,” who passed away at the age of 86. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from family, friends, patrons, and members of the restaurant community across Malta.
Best known as the visionary behind beloved establishments including Ta’ Marija, Palazzo Pescatore, and La Buona Trattoria del Nonno, Benny Muscat leaves behind a lasting legacy that helped shape Malta’s culinary and hospitality culture for generations.
In heartfelt tributes shared online, Muscat was remembered not only as a successful businessman but also as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. Loved ones described him as the “heart and soul” behind the restaurants he built, saying his passion, charisma, and generosity touched countless lives throughout his career.
Family members referred to him affectionately as “Nonno,” highlighting the warmth and hospitality that became synonymous with his personality and his restaurants. According to tributes, Benny Muscat was more than a restaurateur — he was considered a true icon and pioneer within Malta’s hospitality industry.
Born with a passion for Maltese cuisine and entertainment, Benny Muscat initially worked as a teacher before entering the hospitality world alongside his wife. Together, they pursued a vision of creating authentic Maltese dining experiences that celebrated local culture, food, and entertainment.
His restaurant Ta’ Marija became known as Malta’s first traditional Maltese à la carte restaurant, offering guests authentic local dishes inspired by recipes passed down from his grandparents. The restaurant also became famous for combining dining with live entertainment, helping create memorable cultural experiences for both locals and tourists.
As Malta’s tourism industry expanded, Benny Muscat recognized growing interest among visitors eager to experience authentic Maltese cuisine beyond traditional snacks and casual eateries. Through his dedication and creativity, he played a significant role in elevating Maltese dining and showcasing the country’s culinary heritage to international audiences.
Tributes have continued pouring in from longtime patrons, colleagues, and friends who remember Muscat as a gentleman, mentor, and larger-than-life personality whose presence brightened every room. Many shared memories of his habit of personally greeting guests at their tables and making everyone feel welcomed and appreciated.
Benny Muscat is survived by his children, Ben and Lara, who continue the family’s hospitality legacy. Loved ones say his values, love for people, and dedication to hospitality will continue through future generations.
The family also expressed gratitude to the doctors, nurses, caregivers, and organizations that supported Muscat in recent years, including Hospice Malta, SAMOC, and SVDP Palliative Care.
Funeral services for Benny Muscat are scheduled to take place at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish Church in St Paul’s Bay on Thursday morning.
Though his passing leaves a tremendous void, Benny Muscat’s influence on Maltese hospitality, cuisine, and community life will continue to be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
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