Meet the Legligin team
What started as solo flight 18 years ago has since evolved into a beloved family-operated venture, spanning two generations united in delivering an unmatched Maltese dining experience. In the beginning, Legligin was run solely by Chris Mifsud Bonnici, who juggled cooking, preparation, and service. Today, Chris is joined by his son Thomas and a devoted team, together forging a legacy rooted in familial culinary tradition and innovation.
Established in 2007, Legligin remains one of Valletta's oldest family-run eateries.
THE SON
Thomas
Thomas Mifsud Bonnici’s life in hospitality began at Legligin as a boy, where he was immersed in the industry from a young age, shaping his love for catering. Initially trained as a mixologist, he later pursued hospitality management at ITS, and then spent seven formative years working at The Goring in London, an experience which greatly expanded his horizons. Returning to Malta and leaving behind London in lockdown, rediscovered his love for the island and its culinary scene. His career trajectory saw Thomas managing the Grain brand and helped secure the Michelin Star for two years at Under Grain and the Bib Gourmand at Grain Street. Longing to return to his roots, he found his way back to Legligin, where his heart truly lies.
THE FATHER
Chris
Chris Mifsud Bonnici, the force behind Legligin, embarked on a culinary journey when he opened his first restaurant in 1993, inspired by his mother’s traditional recipes. In 2007, all his accumulated ideas and experiences came together to form Legligin, which he infused with the essence of home-cooked Mediterranean cuisine, emphasising quality ingredients and slow cooking techniques. As the driver behind Legligin’s inception, Chris’ dedication to serving exceptional wines and delectable dishes set the restaurant apart in Malta’s burgeoning wine scene. A true enthusiast for anything Maltese, Chris’ passion for his home island is palpable in every aspect of Legligin’s ambiance and offerings; there’s a story hiding in every nook and cranny, and Chris will be happy to tell you all about it, lending more charm to Legligin’s warm and welcoming atmosphere.
THE WIFE & MUM
Lyubov
Lyubov, the boss’ boss, manages the floor at Legligin alongside Chris and Thomas, bringing her unique flair to our team. She has immersed herself in the traditions of Maltese cooking and has become an adoptive daughter of her new homeland island. As the creative force behind Legligin’s desserts, Lyubov draws inspiration from traditional Maltese recipes and her dedication to mastering the nuances of Maltese cuisine is evident in every dessert she crafts.
THE CHEF
Santa
Santa, the talented young chef at Legligin, embodies dedication and excellence in every dish she crafts. With unwavering reliability, patience, and professionalism, she consistently exceeds expectations, bringing Chris’s culinary vision to life with finesse. Her steadfast commitment to her craft and the team is evident in every aspect of her work. Santa’s unwavering culinary dedication contributes greatly to the restaurant’s continued success and reputation for excellence, and under her stewardship, Legligin’s dining experience has been propelled to new heights.
THE SOMMELIER
Gaston
Gaston is a permanent fixture at Legligin, with an unwavering expression, and if only he could talk, oh the gossip and secrets he would relate.