Amy Talbot

Q: Talbot & Bons includes both a 24/7 café-bistro and
a boutique B&B in a restored farmhouse. What inspired
this dual concept, and how do they complement each
other?

A: My husband and I love to travel and have always
been inspired by unique hospitality concepts. Initially,
we envisioned a ‘Casa Bottega’ – a home with a café
or restaurant below. However, when the opportunity at
SkyParks arose, our plans shifted.

Thirteen years ago, we launched Talbot & Bons at
SkyParks, blending an eatery with a retail concept offering
artisanal products. It quickly gained a loyal following,
with many customers becoming friends. Later, we sought
to expand into accommodation and found the perfect
location – a charming farmhouse in a nearby village.
Restoring the space had its challenges, especially due
to limited room for on-site catering, but the bistro’s
proximity proved invaluable. Today, the two ventures
seamlessly complement each other, enhancing both
guest experience and business operations.

Q: The boutique hotel blends historic charm with
sustainability. What were the biggest challenges in
achieving this balance?

A: The biggest challenges were cost and availability of
materials. As an island, sourcing sustainable materials
can be difficult and time-sensitive, and eco-friendly
options are often more expensive, making the project
riskier. However, despite these obstacles, the end result
– a space that preserves historic charm while embracing
sustainability – has been incredibly rewarding.

Q: Your bistro offers everything from fresh pastries to
gourmet burgers and craft beers. How do you curate the
menu to appeal to both locals and travellers?

A: We keep the menu simple, using high-quality,
Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. Locals find familiarity
in the flavours, while tourists get a taste of Malta’s
culinary heritage. Given industry-wide staffing challenges,
we prioritise consistency, opting for dishes that can be
expertly prepared through proper training rather than an
overly complex menu.

Q: Operating a 24/7 bistro is no small feat. How do you
maintain high-quality service at all hours?

A: A strong team and good leadership are essential. While
perfection doesn’t exist, we strive to deliver excellent
service daily. Incentives help motivate staff, and we
value constructive feedback to continuously improve.
Ultimately, our goal is to meet and exceed the high
expectations our customers have of us.