Explore the Flavors of Cyprus: Top 10 Traditional Dishes

Cyprus’ Culinary Delights: Top 10 Dishes to Try

1. Souvlaki

Souvlaki is a popular Greek dish made with grilled meat, usually pork or chicken, served in a pita with tomato, onion, and tzatziki. This dish can be found at souvlaki shops and tavernas all over Cyprus.

2. Meze

Meze is a traditional Cypriot dish that consists of a variety of small plates of food meant to be shared among friends and family. Meze plates can include tzatziki, hummus, dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and a variety of other appetizers.

3. Moussaka

Moussaka is a traditional Greek dish that is also popular in Cyprus. It is made with layers of eggplant, ground meat, and a creamy béchamel sauce, topped with grated cheese.

4. Kleftiko

Kleftiko is a traditional Cypriot dish made with slow-cooked lamb that is marinated in a mixture of lemon and herbs. The lamb is then wrapped in foil and cooked in a clay oven or over an open fire, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

5. Halloumi Cheese

Halloumi is a traditional Cypriot cheese that is made from a combination of sheep and goat milk. It is known for its high melting point and its ability to be grilled, fried or eaten raw. You can find it in many traditional tavernas and restaurants in Cyprus.

6. Seafood

Cyprus is an island, so it’s no surprise that seafood is a popular choice. Restaurants offer a variety of fish caught in the Mediterranean sea and cooked in traditional Mediterranean way with lot of herbs, lemon and olive oil. Grilled octopus, Calamari are some of the most popular dishes.

7. Loukoumades

Loukoumades are deep-fried dough balls that are coated in honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. These delicious treats are a popular dessert in Cyprus and can be found at many street vendors and bakeries.

8. Baklava

Baklava is a sweet pastry made from layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and honey. It is a staple in Cypriot cuisine and can be found in bakeries and sweets shops all over the island.

9. Dolmades

Dolmades, also known as stuffed vine leaves, are a popular appetizer in Cyprus. They are made from grape leaves that are filled with a mixture of rice, herbs, and sometimes meat. They are often served cold and can be found in many traditional tavernas.

10. Koupes

Koupes are a traditional Cypriot dish that is similar to falafel. They are made from ground chickpeas and spices that are deep-fried and served in a pita bread with tahini sauce.

Beyond Traditional Dishes 

All of these dishes are delicious and traditional and Cyprus has a lot more to offer in terms of its culinary scene, as it’s a melting pot of different cultures, so you can find a lot of international dishes such as Italian, Chinese and even Mexican, with a Cypriot twist.

When you visit Cyprus, you will also have a chance to try many local wines and zivania.