A guide to food and drink in Paphos
As an established tourist hub on Cyprus‘ southwestern coast, Paphos has an abundance of restaurants serving up all manner of international cuisine and exciting Cypriot gastronomy. That’s going to give you plenty of opportunities to either eat your way around the world or tuck into home-cooked treats steeped in tradition. Whatever your favourite flavour might be, Paphos knows how to make it happen.
Exploring Paphos' delicacies
Similar to Greek food, Cyprus still retains its own unique cuisine with several trademark dishes, such as Afelia – pork marinated in red wine. Or try Koupepia, the world-renowned Cypriot stuffed vine leaves. For a selection of dishes you could sample a mezze platter – ideal for sharing with friends. It can be washed down with Zivania brandy or KEO – Cyprus’ national beer.
If you’re fond of sweet treats, this is a fantastic place to be. Loukomades, which are balls of dough deep-fried in a scrumptiously sticky sauce, are a delectable delight that tourists have come to treasure. Similarly, soumada is a rich, creamy syrup made from almonds, with a history that dates all the way to antiquity.
Some of the finest seafood in the area at Ocean Basket
For top quality fish and fruits of the sea at very affordable prices, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Ocean Basket. The presentation is impressive, the service cheerful and the menu very satisfying, provided you like seafood. A word of warning to meat-eaters and vegetarians – there isn’t a whole lot on offer for you here. But if you like calamari, shrimp, mussels, octopus or any number of different kinds of fish, you’ll be in for a treat.
An authentic Cypriot banquet in beautiful surroundings at Akis Tavern
Set slightly back from the main road and out of the hubbub of the town centre, Akis Tavern has proved elusive to a few hungry holidaymaker over the years. Make sure that isn’t you, since the quality of the food, the standard of service and the ambience inside makes the effort finding the place well worth it. Every single item on the menu is home-cooked to perfection and served up with traditional Cypriot hospitality.
Traditional dishes with a modern twist at Palia Ilektriki
From the moment you clap eyes on Palia Ilektriki, you know you’re going to be in for an innovative experience. The place prides itself on aesthetic quality, from the huge waterfall in its al fresco courtyard to the modern art and refined decor adorning every inch of the restaurant. The substance of the food matches its style, too, with each dish perfectly prepared and delivered with exemplary service.
Eclectic menu for vegetarians and meat-eaters at Agora Tavern
Besides its excellent and extensive menu that is more than likely to please every type of diner, perhaps Agora’s biggest draw is its location. The adjoining veranda affords stunning views of the Old Town, allowing patrons to take in the sights and watch the world go by as they dine. Meanwhile, the tastefully-decorated interior evokes a rustic yet refined mood, adding an extra layer of attraction to the experience.
A never-ending supply of mezze at 7 St Georges Tavern
The idea behind 7 St Georges is simple – there’s no menu in sight and you don’t have to bother yourself worrying how much everything costs. Simply pay an up-front, fixed-rate fee and enjoy a never-ending stream of mezze dishes brought to your table. Once you’ve eaten your fill, let your waiter know and roll home. It’s hard to find a better way to get to know the local cuisine on your Cyprus holiday.