Nearly 40 years ago, two young Gozitans, Ino Attard and Lino Cefai were pioneers in recognising the potential in restoring rustic farmhouse properties on Gozo. Amongst their many sympathetic renovations, the most notable was the centuries-old farmhouse which is Ta’ Frenċ. Literally stone by stone, step by step, archway by archway, they restored the building retaining its soul.

Early clients were served by Ino and Lino, with, in the kitchen, Mario Schembri a classically trained chef The restaurant quickly established a reputation as the place to dine on Gozo. Famous for its’ flambé dishes, steak Diane, pasta with prawns and crepes Suzette. Also for the classics in the fine dining tradition such as Chateaubriand for two carved at the table, and richly sauced dishes. Many of Ta’ Frenċ’s early clients have remained faithful to what has now become an internationally renowned restaurant.

The new directors, Thomas Curmi and Joseph Tabone, have a long association with Ta’ Frenċ and share the founders’ ideals. With the able assistance of Executive Chef Joseph Brincat they are determined to build on Ta’ Frenċ’s reputation. To continue to serve their clients only the very best in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The Bailliage of Malta held a lunch at the restaurant on October 29, 2023. Many members took the opportunity to attend the Opera at the Teatru Astra making it a long weekend. It was even more of a special occasion for the Bailliage as they had been given a special dispensation by the Siège Mondial in Paris to perform a mini-Induction Ceremony.

Chancelier Charles Gatt observed, “Today we are making our yearly visit or pilgrimage to one of our favourite restaurants, the Michelin-rated Ta’ Frenċ. I believe one can refer to Ta’ Frenċ as the premier Chaîne recognised establishment in the Maltese Islands as it boasts a Maître Restaurateur and two Maîtres Rôtisseurs, namely:
- Joseph TABONE, Maître Restaurateur
- Eric GAUCI, Maître Rôtisseur
- Joseph BRINCAT, Maître Rôtisseur

In his closing speech, Bailli Délégué Dr Joseph Xuereb, who is a Member of the Conseil Magistral, enthused, “Welcome to Ta’ Frenċ, to what I feel is our second home. As always, we were welcomed with the delightful house champagne and delicious canapés in the beautiful surroundings of the garden. The large turnout of members and guests is testament to how much we hold this restaurant in high esteem. We have enjoyed a beautifully crafted and well thought out menu with a distinct autumnal feel despite the persisting summer weather outside - the only thing Ta’ Frenċ couldn’t organise today was a howling wind! A big ‘Thank You’ to Restaurant Director Joseph Tabone, Food and Beverage Manager Eric Gauci with his brigade and Chef Joseph Brincat with the kitchen brigade.”

With thanks to Chargé de Presse Mark Bailey for permission to extract elements from his report on the event.

Ta’ Frenċ
Daħla ta’ Għajn Damma
Xagħra XRA 9010
Gozo
Phone: +356 2155 3888
Web: www.tafrenc.mt