Traditional Cypriot cuisine: Discover the flavors of Cyprus and where to taste them.

Exploring Cyprus’ Local Cuisine: Traditional Dishes and Drinks to Try and Where to Find Them

Cyprus is a small island nation located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and delicious cuisine. The local cuisine of Cyprus is a blend of Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern influences, resulting in a unique and flavorful culinary experience. In this article, we will explore some of the traditional dishes and drinks of Cyprus and where to find them.

One of the most popular dishes in Cyprus is souvlaki. Souvlaki is a skewered meat dish that is typically made with pork, chicken, or lamb. The meat is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano before being grilled to perfection. Souvlaki is often served with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a side of Greek salad. You can find souvlaki at almost any restaurant or street vendor in Cyprus, but some of the best places to try it are in the coastal towns of Limassol and Larnaca.

Another traditional dish of Cyprus is kleftiko. Kleftiko is a slow-cooked lamb dish that is typically prepared in a clay oven. The lamb is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs before being wrapped in parchment paper and cooked for several hours. The result is a tender and flavorful lamb that falls off the bone. Kleftiko is often served with potatoes and vegetables and is a popular dish at traditional tavernas throughout Cyprus.

If you’re looking for something a little lighter, try the traditional Cypriot salad. The salad is made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and feta cheese, and is dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. It is a refreshing and healthy option that is perfect for a hot summer day. You can find Cypriot salad at almost any restaurant in Cyprus, but some of the best places to try it are in the mountain villages of Troodos and Platres.

No meal in Cyprus is complete without a glass of local wine. Cyprus has a long history of winemaking, dating back to ancient times. The island’s warm climate and fertile soil make it an ideal location for growing grapes. Some of the most popular grape varieties in Cyprus include Xynisteri, Maratheftiko, and Mavro. You can find local wines at almost any restaurant or taverna in Cyprus, but some of the best places to try them are at the wineries themselves. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, allowing you to sample a variety of wines and learn about the winemaking process.

If you’re looking for something a little stronger, try the local spirit, zivania. Zivania is a clear, grape-based spirit that is similar to grappa or rakı. It is typically served as an aperitif or digestif and is often accompanied by meze, a selection of small dishes that are meant to be shared. Zivania is a popular drink at traditional tavernas throughout Cyprus, but some of the best places to try it are in the mountain villages of Paphos and Polis.

For dessert, try the traditional Cypriot sweet, loukoumades. Loukoumades are small, fried dough balls that are drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. They are a popular street food in Cyprus and are often served at festivals and fairs. You can find loukoumades at almost any bakery or street vendor in Cyprus, but some of the best places to try them are in the coastal towns of Ayia Napa and Protaras.

In addition to these traditional dishes and drinks, Cyprus is also known for its seafood. The island’s location in the Mediterranean Sea makes it an ideal location for fishing, and many restaurants offer a variety of fresh seafood dishes. Some of the most popular seafood dishes in Cyprus include grilled octopus, fried calamari, and seafood risotto. You can find seafood at almost any restaurant in Cyprus, but some of the best places to try it are in the fishing villages of Latchi and Pomos.

In conclusion, Cyprus is a food lover’s paradise. The local cuisine is a blend of Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern influences, resulting in a unique and flavorful culinary experience. From souvlaki to kleftiko to zivania, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, the next time you visit Cyprus, be sure to explore the local cuisine and try some of these traditional dishes and drinks. You won’t be disappointed!