National Classics

• Halloumi Cheese: Cyprus’s most iconic food, made from a mix of sheep’s and goat’s milk. It holds its shape when grilled or fried, with a crispy outside and tender inside. It’s delicious hot or cold, served as a main dish or in recipes, and is both a staple on local tables and a popular export.
• Meze: A shared selection of small dishes—ranging from olives and yogurt dips to dips, grilled meats, and seafood—that are served in sequence. It’s the best way to experience local cuisine, typically priced per person.
• Grilled Skewers (Souvlaki and Sheftalia): Pork or chicken skewers served with pita bread, tomatoes, and onions. Sheftalia is a local specialty—a flavorful spiced meat sausage wrap.
• Kleftiko: Slow-cooked lamb, tender and full of flavor, traditionally prepared in sealed pans. Commonly found in traditional restaurants.
• Seafood: Grilled octopus, fried small fish, and steamed seafood are especially fresh in coastal areas. Served simply with lemon and olive oil.

Specialty Ingredients and Desserts

• Olive Oil and Olives: Olive trees are widespread across the island. Olive oil is a foundation of local cooking and a common souvenir.
• Commandaria: A sweet dessert wine with roots in the medieval Knights Templar. It’s a well-known local wine, ideal for sipping after a meal.
• Citrus Fruits and Carob: Citrus produce and carob-based items are local specialties. Carob syrup is often used in desserts.
• Desserts and Coffee: Nut-stuffed pastries and strong Cypriot coffee are standard after-meal treats. The café culture is vibrant.

Where to Eat and Price Range

In Paphos Old Port, Limassol Promenade, and Larnaca Seafront Promenade, you’ll find a range of options from seafood restaurants to traditional eateries. Nicosia’s Old Town markets and side streets are great for sampling everyday local dishes. Average meals at casual restaurants cost around $11–$21 per person. Meze platters are usually priced per person, typically $21–$35. Seafood is sold by weight, so always check prices in advance.

Practical Tips

• Service charges are usually included in the bill. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but leaving a few euro coins is appreciated.
• Meze portions are quite large, so order in moderation according to the number of diners to avoid waste.
• When trying seafood, choose restaurants with good hygiene standards. Be mindful of food freshness and storage in summer.
• Don’t drink and drive—local law enforcement is strict. Use designated drivers or taxis instead.