Spinola Bay has the most pleasant waterfront terraces in St Julian's — several restaurants with tables hanging over the water and a direct view of the moored luzzu boats. The food ranges from straightforward pasta and grilled fish to better-than-average Mediterranean cooking. For the best Maltese cooking in the area, look for bragioli (beef olives), fenkata (rabbit stew), and stuffat tal-qarnit (octopus stew) on menus that change by season.
The Portomaso complex has a few more upmarket options, including venues attached to the Hilton hotel. Paceville has everything from fast food to creditable restaurants, but the quality variance is wide and the tourist-facing places need scrutiny before ordering.