Top 10 Traditional Cypriot Dishes and Where to Eat Them

Cyprus is a paradise for food lovers. The island’s cuisine blends Greek, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean influences, creating bold flavours and comforting dishes rooted in tradition. From slow-cooked meats to grilled halloumi and endless meze spreads, Cypriot food is a celebration of authenticity and warmth.

If you’re wondering what to order next time you dine out, here are ten traditional Cypriot dishes every visitor (and local) must try, plus where to find them across the island.

Why Cypriot Cuisine Deserves the Spotlight

Rich Heritage – Every recipe carries generations of family tradition.
Fresh Ingredients – Olive oil, herbs, citrus, and locally sourced cheese define the flavours.
Diverse Influences – A fusion of Greek, Turkish, and Levantine cooking styles.
Warm Hospitality – Meals are shared, not rushed, the Cypriot way.

Top 10 Traditional Cypriot Dishes

1. Halloumi

The island’s most famous export. Grilled or fried, halloumi is crispy on the outside, soft inside, and perfectly salty. Often paired with watermelon or tomatoes for a summer classic.
Where to try: To Anamma (Nicosia) | Columbia Beach (Limassol)

2. Souvlaki

Tender pork or chicken skewers grilled over charcoal, served in pita with salad and tzatziki. The ultimate Cypriot street food.
Where to try: Souvlaki Bar (Larnaca) | To Kafeneio tou Theodorou (Paphos)

3. Sheftalia

Juicy minced meat sausages wrapped in caul fat and grilled to perfection. A must-try alongside souvlaki for a complete meze experience.
Where to try: Forsos Tavern (Limassol) | Kyrenia Tavern (Nicosia)

4. Kleftiko

Slow-baked lamb cooked in a sealed clay oven until tender and aromatic. Traditionally made in the countryside on Sundays.
Where to try: To Kazani Traditional Tavern (Lefkara) | Platanos Tavern (Omodos)

5. Meze

A feast of small dishes, dips, meats, seafood, and vegetables served over several rounds. The best way to experience the island’s variety in one sitting.
Where to try: Stou Roussou (Limassol) | To Katoi (Kathikas)

6. Tava

A rustic dish of lamb or chicken baked with potatoes, onions, and tomatoes. Simple, hearty, and packed with flavour.
Where to try: To Patrikon (Episkopi) | Archontiko Papadopoulou (Kornos)

7. Kolokasi

A root vegetable similar to taro, simmered in tomato sauce with pork or chicken. Especially loved in the Famagusta region.
Where to try: Karas Fish Tavern (Ayia Napa) | Vrasidas Tavern (Deryneia)

8. Loukanika

Smoked pork sausages marinated in red wine and coriander seeds. Best enjoyed with local bread and a glass of Commandaria.
Where to try: Oinoessa Restaurant (Limassol) | To Palio Cinema (Lofou)

9. Afelia

Pork cubes marinated in red wine and coriander, slow-cooked until rich and tender. A dish that defines Cypriot comfort food.
Where to try: Aphrodite Tavern (Pissouri) | To Perasma (Nicosia)

10. Loukoumades

Crispy golden dough balls drizzled with honey and cinnamon. A sweet ending to every Cypriot meal.
Where to try: Zanettos Tavern (Nicosia) | Melopoleio (Limassol)

Tips for Enjoying Traditional Cypriot Food

Order Meze for Two (or More) – It’s the best way to try everything.
Ask for Local Wine – Try Xynisteri white or Maratheftiko red.
Eat Slowly – Meals in Cyprus are social, not rushed.
Visit Village Tavernas – The most authentic food is found off the beaten path.

Why Restaurants Cyprus is the #1 Platform for Food Lovers and Owners

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If you’re a restaurant owner, joining Restaurants Cyprus helps you:
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Appear in city and cuisine-specific pages like this guide.
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List your restaurant today and let diners discover your business on the island’s fastest-growing restaurant platform.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cypriot food spicy?
No — it’s aromatic and herb-driven, not hot.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes. Try grilled halloumi, koupepia, or fasolada (bean stew).

Do most restaurants use local produce?
Absolutely. Traditional tavernas pride themselves on local ingredients and seasonal menus.

Discover Authentic Restaurants with Restaurants Cyprus

To truly experience Cyprus, eat like a local. From beachside fish tavernas to family-run village kitchens, the island’s restaurants tell stories of heritage, community, and flavour.

Find authentic restaurants near you now at Restaurants Cyprus