Here’s what you need to know: Mariah Vella isn’t just running a café—she’s curating an experience. As store manager at COFFEE & strangers in Malta, she’s turned a small space into a sanctuary for connection, creativity, and curiosity. Her approach blends Italian influence with Maltese grit, crafting a place where coffee isn’t just a drink but a catalyst for meaningful interactions.
Mariah’s journey began in Milan, where she discovered the quiet power of a well-made espresso. The café there became her daily anchor, teaching her that coffee is about more than beans—it’s about the rituals, the people, and the stories shared over a cup. When she moved to Malta, she brought that same reverence to COFFEE & strangers, a spot that’s now a twice-ECT Award winner. Her team’s dedication to consistency and care has made the café a local staple, but Mariah’s role as a leader is equally vital. Her background in photography and design sharpens her eye for detail, from the layout of the space to the way baristas interact with customers. She prioritizes warmth over sales, ensuring every visit feels personal, whether it’s a first-time guest or a regular.
What sets Mariah apart is her belief that coffee should be approachable, not intimidating. She’s unapologetic about demystifying the craft, guiding patrons through the nuances of beans, brewing methods, and flavors. Yet she’s also candid about the industry’s misconceptions—like the myth of “normal coffee.” To her, that phrase is a gateway, not a limit. “There’s no one-size-fits-all,” she says. “Coffee is a conversation.” Her mentorship from Deandra and Luke, Malta’s only certified coffee educator, fuels her growth, but it’s her team’s evolution that keeps her inspired. Watching baristas refine their skills and connect with customers is her favorite part of the job.
Mariah’s passion extends beyond the café. She’s a surfer, a photographer, and a lover of Maltese landscapes. Her artistry in both fields mirrors her approach to coffee: intentional, thoughtful, and rooted in authenticity. As 2026 approaches, she’s eager to keep pushing boundaries, whether through new projects or collaborations.
Key points: Coffee is a conversation, not a transaction; mentorship and community drive excellence; authenticity bridges craft and connection.
Key points: Coffee is a conversation, not a transaction; mentorship and community drive excellence; authenticity bridges craft and connection.
What’s your go-to ritual for starting your day—or your week? How does your local café shape your routine?
Questions & Answers
What inspired Mariah Vella to start COFFEE & strangers?
Mariah was inspired by her love for storytelling and connection. She wanted to blend coffee culture with meaningful conversations through art and community engagement.
How does COFFEE & strangers support local artists?
COFFEE & strangers provides a platform for local artists to showcase work. They host events and exhibitions, fostering creativity and community through coffee and art.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
