Sometimes, a meal isn’t just a meal, it’s an excuse to hop in the car, leave the city behind, and chase something delicious. And in Cyprus, there are villages that have earned their fame purely because of the taverns tucked inside them. Here’s a dozen spots you absolutely need to check out if you love great food, good vibes, and a little adventure.
Agia Anna – Agia Anna
Step inside this cozy stone tavern and you’re instantly transported back in time. With authentic Cypriot meze, 35 dishes strong! - friendly service, and live music on weekends, it’s a perfect place to soak up local flavors and a warm atmosphere.
Ariadni – Vasa Koilaniou
Simple, tasty, and full of homemade charm. Mrs. Ariadni’s recipes are the kind that make you feel like you’re eating in a family kitchen. Don’t skip the stuffed zucchini blossoms; they're a must.
Kali Eftihia – Agios Theodoros
In the heart of Agios Theodoros, this tavern is all about classic Cypriot cooking. Gorgeous courtyard, friendly vibes, and meat meze that hits the spot every time. And yes, the honey pies at the end? Totally worth saving room for.
Koutsonikolias – Kalo Chorio
Here’s one for food lovers who like a little adventure on their plate. Charcoal-grilled dry-aged lamb, oven-roasted specialties, and creative takes on traditional dishes. Portions are generous but thought-out, so nothing goes to waste, and service is spot-on.
Mylari Bistro Taverna – Kritou Terra
With maybe the best view in the village, Mylari mixes classic Cypriot meze with Mediterranean twists. Think osso buco, truffle ravioli, shrimp pasta, pumpkin risotto, and even ribeye steak. Sunday visitors get a whole roasted kid, perfection.
Mageia Lazania – Lazania
A family-run tavern in a former schoolhouse. Grilled dishes, slow-cooked specialties, and a Sunday buffet that’s all about spit-roasted meats, oven-baked goodness, and hearty local dishes.
Maria – Vavatsinia
A retro throwback to the ’70s, this place is packed every weekend, and for good reason. Spit-roasted meats, tender chops and ribs, hearty casseroles, and finger-licking desserts. Family-friendly, wallet-friendly, and totally delicious.
Mousikos – Sotira
Set in a charming preserved building, Mousikos emphasizes local ingredients, handmade bread, fresh halloumi, and perfectly grilled meats. Seasonal dishes shine, and the courtyard in summer is a total bonus.
Potamos – Kampi
Sotiris keeps it fresh and local here, with veggies from the garden and recipes handed down by his mom. Comfort food at its best: trachanas, lamb head, snails in tomato sauce, kleftiko, and seasonal desserts. Great wine list too.
Stou Rousia – Platanos, Kato Drys
Under the shade of a massive plane tree, this fully renovated tavern lets you mix and match traditional meze with a few Greek classics, zucchini fritters, saganaki, and more.
Steki tis Paradosis – Aska
Panoramic river views, stone farmhouse vibes, a fireplace indoors, and killer Cypriot meze and grilled meats. Summer courtyard = bonus points for an afternoon stop after a walk in the countryside.
Tamblios – Athienou
No fuss, all flavor. This classic village tavern has reliably good meze, grilled souvlaki, sheftalia, and their famous clay-oven kleftiko. Outdoor seating under a vine makes it even more charming.
The takeaway? Cyprus isn’t just about the beaches, it’s about these hidden tavern gems where the food is worth the drive, the locals are welcoming, and the meze is pure happiness on a plate. Pack your appetite, grab a friend (or two), and make a day of it.
