Cyprus is a country where food is at the heart of everyday life. With both Greek and Turkish influences, Cypriot cuisine is a flavorful mix of Mediterranean tradition and local ingredients. If you’re a foodie traveler, there are plenty of local dishes you need to try on the island. Let’s dive straight into the best foods and restaurants in Cyprus so you can eat like a local!
Traditional Cypriot Dishes You Must Try
1. Souvlaki
Souvlaki is one of the most popular street foods in Cyprus. It is simply small pieces of grilled meat (usually pork or chicken) on skewers. You can usually find souvlaki served either on its own or wrapped in pita with salad and tzatziki.
For some of the best souvlaki in Cyprus, head to Yianni’s Tavern in Nicosia. This family-run spot serves perfectly grilled pork souvlaki with fragrant lemon and herbs. Don’t skip local hot sauce—it adds a nice kick!
2. Halloumi
Cyprus is famous for halloumi, a semi-hard cheese made from a combination of goat’s and sheep’s milk. It’s usually grilled and served as an appetizer or added to salads and sandwiches. The texture is unique since it squeaks when you bite into it, and has a slightly salty flavor.
You can try freshly grilled halloumi at almost every restaurant, but for something special, visit Sklavenitis Halloumi in Limassol—a small shop known for producing some of the best halloumi on the island.
3. Kleftiko
Kleftiko is lamb that’s been slow-cooked with herbs until it is fall-off-the-bone tender. The dish gets its name from ancient “kleftes” (runaway bandits) who would slow-cook meat in the ground. Today, it’s usually served with roasted vegetables or potatoes.
Make sure to try Kleftiko at To Katoi Tavern in the village of Omodos. This cozy, family-owned restaurant will give you the real taste of this rustic dish.
4. Sheftalia
Sheftalia is a traditional Cypriot sausage made of minced pork or lamb, mixed with parsley and onion. Instead of a typical casing, the mixture is wrapped in caul fat, giving it a distinct texture and flavor. Usually, sheftalia is served with pita bread, tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh lemon.
If you want to try the best sheftalia, visit Karnagio Tavern in Larnaca. Their sheftalia is grilled to perfection and served alongside homemade dips.
5. Meze
You can’t leave Cyprus without trying a traditional Cypriot meze. This isn’t just one dish; meze is a feast of small plates that include dips like tahini and tzatziki, grilled meats like souvlaki and sheftalia, seafood, grilled halloumi, and vegetables. It’s a way to taste the variety that Cypriot cuisine has to offer.
For a memorable meze experience, head to Archontiko Papadopoulou in Kornos. Not only is the food excellent, but the setting—an old stone mansion—is beautiful and perfect for soaking in the ambiance of a traditional Cypriot feast.
Top Street Foods to Try in Cyprus
1. Loukoumades
Loukoumades are fluffy little doughnuts, usually drizzled with honey and sometimes sprinkled with sesame seeds or cinnamon. They’re a perfect sweet snack or dessert, best enjoyed right out of the fryer.
One of the best places to enjoy loukoumades is The Old Market St. in Limassol. Their loukoumades are always freshly made, with generous amounts of honey.
2. Lountza Sandwich
Lountza is smoked pork loin, typically paired with halloumi cheese and stuffed inside a crusty roll or pita bread. It’s a popular grab-and-go food, combining salty and savory textures.
You can find incredible lountza sandwiches at the small, local café Sensis in Paphos.
3. Bougatsa
Bougatsa is a flaky pastry dish filled with either sweet semolina custard or savory cheese. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast or dessert, it’s always paired with a strong Cypriot coffee to start your day right.
Order great bougatsa at Ani’s Pastry Shop in Nicosia. The locals say the shop makes the freshest bougatsa on the island!
Best Seafood Dishes in Cyprus
Being an island in the Mediterranean, Cyprus has access to some of the freshest seafood around. Whether it’s grilled fish or calamari, seafood lovers will have plenty to feast on here.
1. Calamari
Grilled or fried calamari is a must-try here. The squid is tender and served with fresh lemon, usually as part of a meze or seafood plate.
Head to Lambros Fish Tavern in Larnaca for simply grilled calamari. Their location by the sea makes the atmosphere almost as good as the food!
2. Red Mullet
Red Mullet, or “Barbouni,” is a popular fish on Cypriot menus. It’s commonly fried or grilled and served with a side of boiled potatoes or salad.
Visit Psarolimano in Ayia Napa to get some of the best red mullet on the island.
3. Octopus
Grilled octopus is another must-try seafood dish. The octopus is cooked until tender, then typically served with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh lemon, and a sprinkle of oregano.
You’ll find amazing grilled octopus at Kalamies Restaurant in Protaras. It’s one of their specialties!
Must-Visit Local Restaurants in Cyprus
1. Piatsa Gourounaki (Nicosia)
This restaurant in Nicosia might look unassuming, but the food is amazing. It offers a fantastic selection of grilled meats and Cypriot dishes at reasonable prices.
Expect big portions at a great value. Try the pita sandwiches—they’re huge and filled with juicy grilled meat and vegetables.
2. Stou Rousha (Larnaca)
Stou Rousha is located in the center of Larnaca and serves authentic Cypriot dishes. It’s a casual spot, but the food speaks volumes.
Order the mixed grill plate for a variety of meats, or go for a traditional Cypriot meze to try a bit of everything.
3. 7 St. Georges Tavern (Paphos)
This is one of the most famous taverns in Paphos, focusing on traditional, organic, and locally-sourced ingredients. There’s no menu here—dishes are brought to your table one at a time, based on what’s fresh and what’s available.
The meze here is something special, guaranteed to surprise you with unique flavors and plenty of food.
4. Pyxida (Limassol)
This seafood taverna is located right by the water in Limassol and specializes in fresh fish and seafood. It can get busy, so booking a table is recommended.
Make sure to try their sashimi-style prawns and the grilled dorado!
Tips for Finding Authentic Cuisine in Cyprus
When it comes to finding authentic food in Cyprus, there are a few things to keep in mind.
1. Follow the Locals
Local restaurants that are full of Cypriots are a good sign—especially in smaller villages. If a place is busy with locals, it’s probably serving delicious, traditional food.
2. Visit the Villages
Some of the best food in Cyprus can be found in the small villages. Places like Omodos and Lefkara offer excellent traditional meals far from the tourist traps. Take a short drive and discover hidden gems.
3. Explore the Local Markets
Local markets are another great way to discover Cypriot food. Pick up fresh cheese, olives, herbs, or bread direct from the producers. The markets are also a great place to have a snack or lunch while exploring.
Cyprus offers a culinary journey with a variety of flavors, local ingredients, and authentic experiences. Wherever you go on the island, you’ll find something delicious to try. Make sure to savor every bite—it’s a foodie paradise worth exploring.
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