When you think of Cyprus, what comes to mind first? Azure seas, soft sand, ancient ruins… But only those who have visited this sunny island know that Cyprus is also a true gastronomic paradise. Get ready, we're embarking on a journey through the plates and glasses of Southern Cyprus (and we'll peek a little into the north).
Meze: start small, and end up bursting with happiness
Meze is not just a selection of snacks, it's a true culinary adventure. You'll be served everything from hummus and taro to tender halloumi (fried cheese that smells like happiness) and smoked loukaniko (Cypriot sausage). Don't forget the dolma, stuffed grape leaves, and of course, a whole mountain of fresh bread.
Halloumi: the star of Cypriot cuisine
Halloumi is not just cheese, it's a gastronomic legend. It's made from a mixture of goat's and sheep's milk, and sometimes cow's milk is added as well. This cheese is perfect for frying or grilling: at high temperatures, it keeps its shape, developing a golden crust and revealing a rich, creamy flavor.
Halloumi is served as a hot appetizer, in salads, or even with a slice of watermelon, to enjoy the contrast between salty and sweet. Its taste is hard to forget, and it's definitely a must-try!
Souvlaki
Mmm, souvlaki! One of the most beloved dishes by both locals and tourists. These are skewers of chicken, pork, or lamb, cooked over an open flame. They're served with pita, fresh vegetables, and tahini sauce. A similar dish called "souvla" differs in the size of the meat chunks and is also grilled without marinade, but with maximum freshness. A simple yet incredibly flavorful hot dish, perfect for any time of the day.
Kleftiko
If you want to try something special, pay attention to kleftiko. This is meat, most often lamb, slow-cooked in special ovens with potatoes and fragrant herbs. The dish is carefully simmered in its own juices, resulting in incredibly tender meat that literally melts in your mouth.
Avgolemono: a warming Cypriot soup
In winter, when even on Cyprus the wind brings a chill, locals prepare avgolemono – a rich and aromatic soup that literally translates to "egg and lemon." This dish is made with chicken broth and rice, to which a mixture of beaten eggs and lemon juice is added.
The secret of avgolemono lies in its creamy texture, achieved without the use of cream. Light, nutritious, and warming, this soup is perfect for cool evenings.
Cypriot Wines: an ancient tradition in every drop
It would be a sin to embark on a gastronomic tour without sampling the local wines. Cyprus produces some of the oldest wines in the world! Take, for example, Commandaria – a dessert wine with a rich flavor made from sun-dried grapes. It is so ancient that it was named by the Knights Templar.
For white wine lovers, I recommend trying Xynisteri – light and aromatic, like a spring breeze. If you prefer red wine, Maratheftiko will captivate you with its berry notes and spicy richness.
The Cypriot wine list is impressive: in addition to traditional varieties, you can find exquisite wines from small wineries that capture the island's essence in a bottle. Read our separate blog about wine. Traditional Cypriot wineries are typically located in picturesque areas and are equipped to a high standard.
Hummus and Taramosalata
Before the main dishes, be sure to try hummus – a paste made from chickpeas, olive oil, and lemon juice, which pairs perfectly with warm bread, or taramosalata – a dip made from fish roe, butter, and lemon juice. These simple yet incredibly tasty appetizers will be a great start to your Cypriot meal.
Sweet Note: Cypriot Desserts
One cannot forget about desserts. In Cyprus, even sweets are a whole philosophy. Try loukoumades (small fried doughnuts with honey), served hot and generously sprinkled with nuts or cinnamon.
And if you prefer something less sweet, try kourabiedes — almond cookies that melt in your mouth. Paired with a cup of Cypriot coffee, this dessert becomes a true celebration of taste.
Fish and Seafood: A Love for the Sea on a Plate
Cyprus is an island surrounded by the sea, and fish dishes here are a must-try. Try grilled sea bass, served with lemon and fresh vegetables. Or order octopus in wine — tender, like memories of a summer holiday.
Not Only Cypriot: A Multicultural Celebration of Flavors
Cyprus has long been a crossroads of cultures, and this is reflected in its cuisine. Want Turkish food? Welcome to try pide (thin dough with meat and vegetables) or aromatic kebabs.
French patisseries offer the freshest croissants and éclairs.
And the Georgian khinkali house is sure to melt the heart of anyone craving juicy khinkali or khachapuri. Lebanese cuisine restaurants hold a special place as well. You’ll be surprised at how well they prepare falafel and aromatic tabbouleh (a salad made from bulgur and parsley). Don’t forget about Chinese restaurants! Even on this Mediterranean island, you can find excellent pad Thai or Peking duck.
A special mention goes to the Turkish cuisine of Cyprus: dolma and gözleme
If you find yourself in the occupied territories in the northern part of the island, try gözleme — thin dough filled with cheese, potatoes, or spinach, grilled to perfection, and dolma, made with grape leaves. It's worth noting that if you're on the European side, Turkish dishes are also quite common. In some restaurants in Southern Cyprus, you can find delicious kebabs, pide, baklava, and other traditional treats with an Eastern touch.
Useful tips for a gastro-tourist:
- Be ready to share. Portions in Cyprus are generous, and locals love it when you try dishes as a group.
- Don’t rush. Cypriots enjoy eating slowly, discussing life, politics, and their favorite football.
- Look for local restaurants. The tastiest dishes are often hidden in small family-owned tavernas.
A gastronomic tour of Cyprus is not just an opportunity to try incredible dishes, but also to immerse yourself in the island's culture through its cuisine. Each taste will tell you a story about local traditions, fresh ingredients, and a love for food. So pack your bags, prepare your taste buds, and head to this amazing island!
Bon appétit!
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