As a Mediterranean island, for many Cyprus has become synonymous with the sun, sea, and, of course, seafood. In fact, with its rich culinary traditions, freshly-caught fish and diverse restaurant choices, Cyprus is a true «pescatarian paradise». From simple family-run taverns to high-end restaurants, the island has something for everyone. So, let's embark on a little gastronomical quest in search of the best Cypriot seafood restaurants. You will also discover some interesting facts about Cypriot cuisine and the best local seafood dishes to try. So, stay tuned!
Top 3 seafood spots in Cyprus at a glance
Limanaki fish restaurant (Limassol)
As a part of a prestigious Amathus Group, Limanaki fish restaurant combines breathtaking sea views with dining in style.
With its terrace right on the beach, you can listen to the waves whilst enjoying your gourmet meal. This is one of the best restaurants to try contemporary Mediterranean cuisine with a twist. Highly rated in international and local food guides, Limanaki has won our hearts
for refined dining, beautiful sea views and excellent service. A typical 3-course meal here starts at 50 euro per person.
The Pelican (Paphos)
The Pelican is more than just a harbour tavern, it is a piece of the island's history. Being in business for more than 70 years, The Pelican is one of the best restaurants in Paphos for quality seafood without the expensive price tag. The protagonist of the restaurant’s name — lovely pelican Coco is always there to greet the guests.
Ideal for a family lunch or dinner, or a meet-up with friends, this harbour restaurant is always packed with locals and tourists. It is our top pick for its family-friendly atmosphere, extensive menu, generous portions, excellent food quality and central harbour location. For a typical seafood meal you can expect to pay around 30—40 euro per person.
Kalamies Beach Restaurant (Ayia Napa)
If you want to enjoy your meal right on the beach without compromising on comfort and style, Kalamies is the best restaurant choice in Ayia Napa. Here you can try traditional Cypriot seafood dishes as well contemporary variations — all whilst watching the boats and the sea.
It's also a perfect spot for sunset-watching, accompanied by cocktails and live music.
We have picked this venue for its scenic beachfront location, excellent food quality and attentive service. The average prices range around 35—55 euros per person.
How we select the best: our methodology
Our selection criteria
Freshness of ingredients
It's not a secret that the freshness of ingredients either makes it or breaks it in a restaurant business. And, the stakes are even higher with seafood — nothing can compare to fresh Cypriot fish, tender calamari, or prawns. All of our top picks offer only the freshest locally sourced ingredients. In fact, all of these venues use their own trusted supplier who brings them «catch of the day» to ensure maximum freshness and flavour profile.
Traveller ratings and reviews
It's not a secret that in most cases the best restaurant critics are the actual guests, who provide honest, unadulterated opinions about their experiences. We have assessed reviews from TripAdvisor, Google and OpenTable and picked the best restaurants which consistently had higher ratings — from 4,6/5 to 5/5, as well as positive reviews on culinary standards, ambience and customer experiences.
Expert opinion and insights from local food bloggers and culinary experts
In addition to the guest reviews, we have also taken into account the opinions of food bloggers and local experts to make the rating more rounded and complete. We’ve picked restaurants that were featured in local and international dining guides and press. Some of them have been highly rated by local and international bloggers for food quality, atmosphere and customer service.
Authenticity and atmosphere
Each restaurant in our selection brings something unique to the table — stunning panoramic views, beachfront setting, or a cosy central city vibe. We have brought together classic family-run taverna with traditional seafood dishes, chic beachside restaurants with stunning seaviews and a venue with creative cuisine. We have focused only on three up-and-coming Cyprus's foodie hubs: Limassol, Paphos and Ayia Napa. Here is why:
Despite being a vibrant gastronomical destination, Nicosia restaurants aren't focused primarily on seafood. Troodos restaurants, however, are great for fresh fish, including trout. In turn, Larnaca restaurants offer great seafood, but they are less diverse in terms of atmosphere and cuisine.
Value for money
We believe a meal doesn't have to cost a fortune, even at one of the best restaurants. So, we have selected venues with various price ranges: from an affordable seafood lunch or dinner to a special occasion. The prices at most restaurants from our selection start from 40—50 euro per person. Whilst dining at high-end venues from our list can cost up to 50—100 euro per person.
Best seafood restaurants by city: a deep dive
Limassol — cosmopolitan flavours and seafront views
Limassol is the true «gastronomical capital» of Cyprus. It has a very vibrant and cosmopolitan restaurant scene with local and international cuisine. Here you can find anything — from French, Georgian, Russian and Italian restaurants to Asian, Middle Eastern, Indian and Mexican restaurants. Some of them offer traditional classic recipes, whilst others experiment with contemporary and fusion influences. But, it’s not only about the variety, it is also about the quality — many Limassol restaurants are internationally-acclaimed and have been consistently rated amongst the best restaurants in Cyprus. But Limassol is not just a food lovers’ paradise, it's also an excellent spot for Cyprus shopping, with a plethora of luxury brands and designer boutiques.
Pyxida Seafront — best for fine dining waterfront experience
Pyxida Seafront restaurant combines contemporary interiors with one of the most stylish locations in the city.
This is one of the best restaurants to enjoy modern Mediteranean seafood surrounded by the sea and the boats — all in the heart of Limassol Marina.
Address: Limassol Marina
Price: 35—50 euro for a meal (p/person)
Must-try dish: Freshly shucked oysters and the fish soup
Features: Understated elegance, romantic atmosphere, scenic views, especially during sunset
Limanaki Seafood Restaurant — classic elegance with a modern twist
Luxurious and iconic, Limanaki fish restaurant blends high-end dining with a relaxed seaside vibe. With its picturesque beachfront location, gourmet cuisine and only the freshest seafood, it's by far the best restaurant in Limassol for seafood lovers.
Address: Amathus Beach Hotel, Amathus Ave, Limassol
Price: from 50 euro for a meal (p/person)
Must-try dish: Red prawn risotto
Features: Refined ambience mixed with Mediterranean charm, beautiful romantic setting with sunset views and beach access
Paphos: Historic harbourside taverns
This scenic coastal city is well known for its fresh seafood and some of the best fish tavernas on the island. Most of them can be found whilst walking along the promenade at the Paphos harbour — near the Medieval castle, the boats and the sea.
There you can find some of the best restaurants in Paphos: from historic traditional eateries, like The Pelican, to contemporary dining venues. Paphos masterfully blends rustic traditions with culinary innovation.
The Pelican — a historic harbourside classic
Established in 1957, the Pelican is situated right in the heart of the Paphos harbour.
The culprit for the restaurant’s name and its ambassador — the pelican, named Coco greets the visitors and even participates in photoshoots.
Renowned for its delicious Mediterranean seafood, this harbour restaurant like magnet attracts locals and tourists alike.
Address: 102 Apostolos Pavlou Ave, The Harbour
Price: 30—40 euro for a meal (p/person)
Must-try dish: Grilled octopus and kalamari
Features: Relaxed casual vibe, great seafood, family-friendly setting, excellent harbour views, central location
Pelagos Restaurant — best for a luxury fish taverna vibe
Being a part of the luxurious Anassa resort, Pelagos Mediterranean Restaurant oozes out sophisticated taverna charm. It surprises guests with a creative seafood menu and sweeping coastal views over Chrysochou Bay.
Address: 114 Apostolou Pavlou St, Latchi
Price: 80—100 euro per meal (p/person)
Must-try dish: Black ink pasta
Features: Coastal views, refined yet casual dining atmosphere, scenic location
Ayia Napa and Protaras: fresh catch by the beach
With some of the most famous Cyprus bars and nightclubs, Ayia Napa has an unmistakably vibrant party vibe. But recently Ayia Napa has been slowly turning into an up-and-coming food lover’s paradise with a surprisingly large numbers of good dining venues popping up everywhere. Ayia Napa restaurants offer variety — from traditional Cypriot cuisine to creative chef’s menus, whilst local restaurant bars mix up innovative cocktails. Ayia Napa and Protaras are simply perfect for enjoying beachfront dining with music and fresh seafood.
Kalamies Beach Restaurant — ideal for a lively beachside dinner
Kalamies is a popular beach restaurant, located in the heart of Protaras. It offers traditional Cypriot seafood classics, as well as contemporary interpretations. Kalamies is one of the best restaurants for those looking for gourmet dining experience with a relaxed vibe. Just a stone's throw away from stunning Cape Greco and Blue Lagoon it's a great place to stop over for a lunch or dinner after.
Address: 40 Ellinon St, Pernera, Protaras
Price: 35—55 euro for a meal (p/person)
Must-try dish: Lobster spaghetti
Features: Live music, great for groups, beach access
Sage Restaurant — perfect for foodies and romantic dining with a twist
Sage Restaurant is the epitome of contemporary elegance in the heart of Ayia Napa. Its contemporary design reflects the innovative approach of the restaurant's master chef.
With its eclectic menu and a beautiful terrace for outdoor dining in style, Sage is perfect for a romantic date or a special occasion.
Address: 8 Kriou Nerou St, Ayia Napa
Price: 40—50 euro for a meal (p/person)
Must-try dish: Chef's seasonal seafood platter
Features: Contemporary cuisine, sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for romantic dates and special occasions
A traveller’s guide to Cypriot seafood: what to order
Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, Cyprus is famous for its delicious and fresh fish and seafood. Combining Greek and Middle Eastern influences, Cypriot cuisine stands out with its simplicity and fresh, quality ingredients: freshly-caught fish, virgin olive oil, zesty lemon, aromatic mountain herbs and garlic, and, of course, local wine. Nothing beats the deep-fried to crispy perfection calamari or fragrant red wine octopus stew. And, of course, grilled lavraki or tsipoura, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with oregano are not to be missed. For Cypriots, the quality of ingredients is more important than complex flavours. Cypriot cuisine is all about appreciating the natural beauty of local ingredients and letting the natural flavours shine. As the Australian celebrity chef with Cypriot roots, George Calombaris described it:
«My mother would cringe at seeing us fillet fish... She's grown up in a culture where you cook the fish whole. You eat the head and the tail. It's all delicious».
The art of the fish meze: a culinary journey
Cypriot meze is a true culinary artform and can be best described as a feast for all the senses. It is more than just a meal, rather it's a social ritual and a ceremony of flavours. Essentially, Cypriot fish meze is a feast, comprising small portions of seafood dishes, each brought out one by one. A good meze usually consists of 15—20 dishes. It begins with cold starters, followed by main courses and finishes with coffee and dessert.
Here is the sample fish meze menu:
- Traditional Cypriot starters — tahini, houmous, taramosalata, olives, bread.
- Large village salad
- Fried and grilled seafood dishes, including fried calamari, prawns and grilled octopus (around 6—8 sample plates).
- Grilled fish — usually 2 to 4 local varieties.
- Dessert — fruit, coffee and a traditional Cypriot sweet.
But, don't be overwhelmed by the amount of dishes and serving sizes — a Cypriot meze is meant to be enjoyed and shared by many people. Most of the time it is reserved for family or communal gatherings, celebrations and catching up with friends. The best way to enjoy it is not to rush and try a little bit of everything. So, just relax and take in the atmosphere: the local music, laughter and long conversations whilst savouring the most delicious and authentic seafood flavours. Meze is also a great way to familiarise yourself with Cypriot cuisine as you get a chance to try all the local dishes at once and pick your favourites for next time. And, of course, meze is a window to Cypriot culture and way of life — unrushed, rustic and philoxenic.
Must-try local fish and seafood
Tsipoura (gilthead sea bream)
Tsipoura is one of the local favourites, often served at the tavernas or at home. This medium sized fish is both delicious and satisfying as one tsipoura is enough for a substantial meal.
For optimal flavours, it is usually grilled and then served with a drizzle of virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice and sprinkled with oregano.
Lavraki (sea bass)
Lavraki is slightly smaller than tsipoura and more delicate in texture and flavour.
It is also more slender in shape and has less bones compared to tsipoura. Cypriots consider it as a local delicacy. In order to preserve its soft texture and flavour, lavraki is baked in salt crust or foil. Just like with tsipoura its flavour shines with minimal dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and a hint of oregano, thyme and fennel.
Barbouni (red mullet)
This small fish is big on flavour and is much loved by the locals for its affordability and easy preparation. Deep fried barbouni is a frequent accompaniment to family gatherings or meet-ups with friends. Due to its small size, barbouni is usually cooked whole and not filleted. Being a quintessentially Cypriot treat, barbouni is a great snack or accompaniment to local dishes. It's truly versatile — you can find it at an affordable local taverna and at one of Cyprus’s best restaurants.
Octopus (oktopodi)
Octopus is another local favourite. Usually it's a seasonal summer treat as locals prefer the freshest seafood, caught on the same day. In Cyprus there are two distinct variations of octopus dishes. The first one is both simple and flavoursome — grilled octopus, seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice and herbs. The second version is an aromatic octopus stew, slowly cooked with red wine, cloves, star anise, onions and tomatoes.
Perfect pairings
Cypriot fish and seafood dishes are best enjoyed together with a glass of white or rosé wine, beer or some of the local liquors:
- Xynisteri is a local white grape variety, which gives wines a light crispy flavour with fruity notes. It’s quite refreshing without being overpowering and compliments most local fish, fried calamari and grilled octopus dishes. For an ultimate experience, try Xynisteri from boutique wineries: Vouni Panagia, Kolios and Makarounas.
- Cypriot rosé wines are crisp with vibrant berry notes that help offset more complex flavours, such as an octopus stew, seafood risotto or pasta dishes. Cyprus produces beautiful rosé wines with subtle berry and raspberry notes, but enough acidity to offset the seafood flavours. Try local boutique varieties: Ayes Ambellis Rosé Nymfes, Tsangarides Rosé and Pampela Rosé.
- If you prefer beer, it's a good idea to try popular local brands — KEO and Leon beers. Their light crisp lager goes perfectly with almost any type of fish or seafood.
- For something stronger, and, if you are adventurous enough, it's worth trying a local spirit — Zivania, made out of grapes. Be careful though, it's extremely potent and feels like a pure spirit. The locals sip it slowly over the course of a meal. Zivania can go well with a fish meze or octopus and shellfish dishes.
- Although Ouzo has Greek origins, this aromatic aniseed liquor is very popular in Cyprus too. In summer, locals usually dilute it with icy cold water, for a refreshing aperitivo or an after meal drink. Its pronounced anise flavour is perfect for crispy fried barbouni, grilled octopus or meze dishes.
How to choose your ideal seafood restaurant
Match the vibe: from casual taverns to upscale dining
Whether you enjoy a rustic family-run taverna vibe or sophisticated dining with sea views, Cyprus has got you covered. Local taverns are the best restaurants to experience the local culture as it is. Unpretentiously simple, yet friendly and welcoming, the tavernas greet you with open arms and the staff treat you as a part of the family. With rustic decor and plaid white and blue table cloths, the local taverns are a window into the Cypriot soul.
Pro tip: To find the best restaurant with a taverna vibe just look for a place packed with the locals — they certainly know a thing or two about local venues and their quality.
For an indulgent experience or to impress that special someone, Cyprus offers plenty of fine dining options. In fact, many local venues have been featured in international food guides. Some of the best restaurants offer creative a-la carte menus, polished service and prime locations with excellent sea views.
Consider the occasion: romantic dinner, family lunch or group celebration
When picking the best restaurant it's also important to match it to the occasion.
If you just want to have a family lunch or a casual meet-up with friends, a hearty taverna atmosphere would be the best choice. On the contrary, for a romantic date or an important meeting you might require a more high-end venue with sophisticated cuisine and an atmospheric entourage.
Pro tip: Some Cypriot restaurants are for adults only, ensuring a more quiet atmosphere and privacy compared to busy family venues.
For a fun celebration with a group of friends, the best restaurant choice would be a beachside venue with music, cocktails and beautiful sunsets, or, perhaps, a traditional fish meze at a local taverna with plenty of local dishes to try and share for all.
Check the price: understanding the cost of fresh seafood in Cyprus
The best restaurants in Cyprus pride themselves on offering only the freshest, locally sourced seafood caught on the same day. Whilst some fish is cultivated, other seafood varieties are wild and therefore more scarce, which affects the prices.
It's important to note that cheaper seafood comes at the cost of its freshness as some fish restaurants and taverns might be using frozen ingredients. So, as a general rule of thumb, suspiciously «too good to be true» seafood prices might indicate frozen produce. The best seafood restaurants will never compromise their reputation by offering frozen fish or seafood on their menu, which results in higher prices. Typically, it's quite reasonable to expect to pay around 20-35 euro for the main course, whilst more gourmet seafood dishes, like lobster pasta, can cost more than 40 euro.
Location, location: harbour, beach or hidden gem
Dining out is not just about food, the location also makes a difference. For example, if you want to be in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the tourist hotspot, the best restaurant would be a harbourside venue. Most restaurants situated along the tourist strip or promenade offer a lively atmosphere and opportunity for people-watching.
Beachfront venues are perfect for those who are looking for proximity to nature without leaving the city area. These are the best restaurants for chilling out with friends or for a romantic dinner date with a sunset view. An inner city «hidden gem» offers a different vibe, which is slightly more private and eclectic. Plus, navigating the narrow city streets in order to find it can be a real adventure.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Which city in Cyprus is best for seafood?
You can find amazing seafood restaurants all over Cyprus. We can confidently recommend Limassol as the best spot for cosmopolitan vibe and diversity. Paphos is famous for beautiful scenery and the freshest «catch of the day». Whilst Ayia Napa has some surprisingly good and innovative food venues.
What is the average price for a seafood dinner for two in Cyprus?
For a 3-course meal for two one can expect to pay around 40—80 euro at a medium-tier venue. However, it all depends on the venue and location. For example, some upscale restaurants can charge as high as 80—100+ euro for the seafood meal for two.
Do I need to make reservations, especially in the high season?
Yes, most popular venues get really busy, especially on weekends and during high season. So, booking your table in advance is highly recommended. Normally, booking 1—2 weeks in advance should be enough to reserve your spot.
What time of the year the seafood is at its freshest in Cyprus?
Summertime is the perfect season to find the best and freshest seafood in Cyprus. Typically from June till September is the most favourable time for fishermen with abundant catches and a greater variety.
Are there options for vegetarians in most seafood restaurants?
Yes, most seafood restaurants in Cyprus offer vegetarian dishes, including salads, traditional Mediterranean starters and at least one or two main vegetarian courses. But, even if you don't manage to find them on the menu, you ask the waiter and most restaurants would tweak the recipe to accommodate your needs.
Your culinary adventure awaits
As an island nation, Cypriots have mastered the art of cooking fish and seafood to perfection.
Local cuisine is famous for fresh, natural flavours, quality ingredients and just the right amount of aromatic herbs. But Cypriot culinary tradition is not just about food, it is about generosity, fun, sharing and philoxenia. From a classic fish meze at a local taverna to high-end dining at an exclusive location — Cypriot culinary hotspots will not disappoint you. We hope you will enjoy some of our suggestions, and, if you have any personal favourites, feel free to share them in the comments.
