Cyprus has a rich food culture that blends Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern influences, creating a culinary experience that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re wandering through local markets or sitting down at a high-end restaurant, you’re in for a flavorful trip. If you love Mediterranean food, you’ll feel right at home.
Traditional Cypriot Dishes
First up is Meze, the ultimate Cypriot dining experience. Meze is more than just a meal. It’s a gathering of small dishes that make up a feast. You’ll get a variety of flavors all in one sitting: dips, grilled meats, cheeses, salads, and seafood. It’s best enjoyed with a group, so gather your friends and try it out. Just make sure you go in hungry because there’s a lot to eat!
Next is Souvlakia, which you’ve likely heard of if you’ve ever had Greek food. This is Cyprus’ version of grilled meat on skewers, typically served in pita bread with salad and a side of yogurt or tahini. It’s simple but delicious. Keep an eye out for souvlakia stands dotted across towns—they’re worth a visit for a quick bite.
Kleftiko is another traditional dish you can’t miss. This slow-cooked lamb is seasoned with garlic, lemon, and herbs, then baked in a clay oven. The meat falls off the bone and is so tender that it melts in your mouth. You’ll often find Kleftiko at traditional tavernas.
Seafood Lovers, Rejoice
Being an island, Cyprus is a paradise for seafood. Fresh fish is widely available, and you’ll find it grilled, baked, or even fried in many dishes.
Grilled Octopus is a must-try. It’s usually marinated in olive oil and lemon juice, then grilled to perfection. The char adds a smoky flavor that balances the mild taste of the octopus. If you’ve never tried octopus before, Cyprus is the place to start.

For something lighter, try Calamari. Often served fried or grilled, calamari here is incredibly fresh and has a clean taste that pairs well with a squeeze of lemon. You can enjoy it at seaside tavernas with an ocean view—it doesn’t get any better.
Street Food Scene
Like anywhere in the Mediterranean, street food is a big part of the culture in Cyprus. It’s affordable, convenient, and gives you an authentic taste of local life.
Lountza and Halloumi Sandwiches are a fan favorite. Halloumi is probably Cyprus’ most famous cheese, and for a good reason: this semi-hard cheese doesn’t melt but grills beautifully. Lountza is smoked pork loin, and together with halloumi, it makes a light but satisfying sandwich you can find at sandwich shops or street stalls.
Another popular street food is Souvla. Similar to souvlaki but cooked on larger skewers, souvla is made with big chunks of pork or lamb roasted over charcoal. The result is intensely flavored and super tender meat. Grab it at roadside grills for an authentic Cypriot experience.
Regional Specialties
Depending on where you are in Cyprus, you’ll find signature dishes unique to each region. One example is Tava, a traditional dish popular in the Larnaca area. It’s made with lamb, potatoes, and onions baked slowly with cumin and cinnamon, giving it a unique Cypriot flair.
In Paphos, you must try Moutzendra, a mix of lentils and pasta served with caramelized onions. It’s a vegetarian-friendly dish that’s hearty and flavorful.
In the Famagusta region, you’ll often come across Kolokasi. This dish is made with taro root, a starchy vegetable that’s cooked slowly with pork or chicken in a tomato-based sauce. The result is tender, full of flavor, and quite different from anything you’ll find elsewhere on the island.

Must-Try Sweets and Desserts
Cypriots love their sweets, and you will too. One treat you’ll hear about is Loukoumades, which are small doughnuts soaked in syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon or sesame seeds. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—and they’re absolutely addictive.

Don’t leave without trying Baklava. Layers of flaky pastry filled with nuts and drenched in honey make this a dessert that’s hard to resist. It’s originally from the Middle East, but Cyprus puts its own twist on it.
For something less sweet but equally delicious, try Pastelaki, a sort of brittle made with sesame seeds and honey. It’s healthy(ish) and packed with crunchy texture. You can find it at bakeries or even at markets.
Where to Eat
Local Markets
If you want to get a sense of local life, visit the Nicosia Municipal Market. Here you can find fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and ready-to-eat foods like halloumi and souvlakia. It’s a great spot for trying local snacks or picking up ingredients to cook your own meal if you have access to a kitchen.

Another popular market is the Paphos Old Market. You can grab traditional sweets, olives, and local wines. The market gives you a taste of everything Cyprus has to offer in one place. Plus, it’s easy to grab a quick bite to eat while you wander through.
Fine Dining
For a more upscale dining experience, visit Pyxida Fish Tavern in Nicosia. This place is famous for its seafood, from calamari to fresh fish, all prepared expertly with Mediterranean flair. The setting is modern, but the food stays true to Cypriot recipes.
If you’re in Limassol, check out Karatello Tavern. This spot blends traditional Cypriot dishes with a contemporary twist. It’s a good place to try meze or enjoy grilled meats like souvla in a refined setting.

Casual Taverns
For a more relaxed setting, head to To Katoi in the mountain village of Omodos. This cozy taverna is known for local wine and hearty Cypriot fare like kleftiko and lamb chops.
Or try Vasano Tavern in Larnaca. It’s a family-run place that serves traditional meze, grilled meats, and fresh seafood. It’s affordable, laid-back, and the portions are generous. Perfect for anyone who wants to eat well without spending too much.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
If you’re vegetarian or vegan, don’t worry—Cyprus has options. Plenty of dishes here are naturally plant-based or can be modified easily.
Try Tahini, a sesame seed paste that is a staple in Cypriot cuisine. It’s often served with pita or used as a salad dressing. Then there’s Fasolia, a simple bean stew that’s filling and flavorful. You can get it almost everywhere.
Many Cypriot salads are vegetarian-friendly too. Look for Greek Salad, made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and olives, and typically topped with feta cheese. Or try a Horiatiki Salad, which is similar but slightly more rustic and without lettuce.
Even if you’re vegan, you’ll be able to enjoy most dips and veggie-based dishes alongside fresh bread or pita. And since olive oil is a major player in the cuisine here, you won’t miss out on flavor.
Wrapping It Up
Cyprus is a dream for food lovers. Whether you’re sampling street food, dining at a casual taverna, or splurging on fine dining, there’s something for everyone. The mix of Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern flavors come together in a way that’s fresh, flavorful, and unforgettable. Just be sure to arrive with an appetite—you’ll need it!
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