Are you seeking a truly unique and delicious experience in Paphos, Cyprus? Do you want to savor the best local cuisine while enjoying all the beauty this magical city offers?
Look no further than the delicious delicacies of traditional Cypriot foods.
Whether enjoying Meze at a cozy Greek and Cypriot taverna or trying delectable flavors like Souvlaki and Halloumi Cheese, many unique dishes await you in Paphos!
Let me guide you through some of the best Cypriot dishes that will have your taste buds singing with delight.
So join me as we take an unforgettable culinary tour around beautiful Paphos, uncovering its tasty treats!
Halloumi Cheese
Have you tried halloumi or haloumi? It’s a fresh and semi-hard Cypriot cheese traditionally made from sheep’s milk, and it’s delicious!
Nowadays, most Halloumi is made from cow’s milk, but the original version can still be found in some places.
No visit to Cyprus is complete without tasting Halloumi, the island’s famous semi-hard cheese made from goat’s and sheep’s milk.
Known for its high melting point, Halloumi can be grilled or fried, making it a versatile addition to salads and sandwiches or enjoyed independently.
Meze
Wow, you’re in for a treat with Meze, a charming collection of small Cypriot dishes. Usually served with alcoholic beverages, the menu is to die for with items like a salad with feta cheese, olives, tahini, hummus, fried halloumi cheese, and much more!
You can’t visit Paphos and Cyprus without trying fantastic Meze dishes in almost every restaurant.
It’s a great way to sample delicious food without getting too full.
Kleftiko
Kleftiko is a traditional Cypriot lamb dish, slow-cooked to perfection.
The lamb is marinated in garlic, lemon juice, and a blend of aromatic herbs and then baked in a sealed clay oven.
The result is tender, flavorful meat that falls off the bone.
Souvlaki
This famous street food consists of skewered and grilled meat, usually pork, chicken, or lamb.
Souvlaki is a delicious and satisfying meal on the go.
It is served in a pita wrap with tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, and a dollop of creamy tzatziki sauce.
Moussaka
A staple in Cypriot households, Moussaka is a baked casserole layered with eggplant, potatoes, ground meat (usually lamb or beef), and rich béchamel sauce.
It’s hearty, comforting, and perfect for a family dinner.
Sheftalia
Sheftalia are Cypriot sausages made from minced pork or lamb mixed with onions, parsley, and seasoning and wrapped in caul fat.
They are grilled until crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. They are often served with pita bread and a fresh salad.
Tzatziki
This refreshing dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and olive oil is a staple in Cypriot cuisine.
It’s perfect as a side dish or a dip for bread and vegetables, offering an excellent and tangy complement to many meat dishes.
Kolokouthkia me ta afka
Translating to “zucchini with eggs,” this simple yet delicious dish features sautéed zucchini mixed with scrambled eggs. It’s often enjoyed as a light lunch or side dish.
Stifado
Stifado is a traditional Cypriot stew made with beef or rabbit, simmered with onions, tomatoes, red wine, and a mix of cinnamon and cloves.
The slow cooking makes the meat incredibly tender and the sauce rich and flavorful.
Souvla
Souvla is a traditional Cypriot dish consisting of large chunks of pork, lamb, or chicken, slow-cooked on long skewers over a charcoal barbecue.
Marinated with olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper, the meat becomes tender and flavorful. It’s typically served with pita bread, fresh salads, tzatziki sauce, lemon wedges, and roasted potatoes.
Unlike Souvlaki, which uses smaller pieces of meat and cooks quickly, Souvla is all about slow, even cooking, resulting in a smoky, charred exterior and juicy interior.
Souvla is more than a meal; it’s a social event enjoyed during gatherings and celebrations, embodying the spirit of Cypriot hospitality.
Gyros
You’ve got to try the delicious Cypriot delight – Gyros!
A succulent blend of pork or chicken, with vegetables and fries, all perfectly wrapped in a pita, rolled to fit in your hand.
Soutzoukos
Have you ever heard of Soutzoukos? It’s the Cypriot variation of Georgian Churchkhela and delicious!
If you’re ever on the island, do not miss a chance to try this unique, sweet dish made with almonds and walnuts coated with dried grape juice.
And the best part? They are shaped like candles!
Taramosalata
This creamy spread made from fish roe, olive oil, lemon juice, and bread or potatoes is a popular appetizer.
Served with pita bread or fresh vegetables, Taramosalata is a savory treat that perfectly captures the flavors of the Mediterranean.
Loukoumades
For a sweet treat, try Loukoumades, the Cypriot version of doughnuts.
These small, deep-fried dough balls are drizzled with honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon and crushed nuts. They are the perfect way to end a meal.
Final Thoughts
Cypriot cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavors and traditions that offers something for everyone.
Whether you savor the cheesy goodness of Halloumi or indulge in a hearty portion of Kleftiko, each dish tells a story of the island’s rich cultural tapestry.
So, the next time you are in Cyprus, embark on a culinary adventure and taste these incredible dishes!
No matter what you try, your taste buds are sure to be delighted by the culinary delights of Paphos.
For more information about the local drinks, please read my guide about the drinks in Paphos.
Happy eating!
