Following my frequent visits to Cyprus, particularly to Paphos, I wanted to share more insights and impressions on the Cypriot food scene, as well as some of my favorite restaurants in Paphos and its surroundings that my family and I love visiting.

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Best Food in Paphos, Cyprus

Eating in Paphos

As one of the top coastal towns in Cyprus, Paphos is not only famous for its stunning Blue Lagoon and ancient history but also for its rich culinary heritage. The food in Paphos reflects traditional Mediterranean flavors, with strong influences from both Greece and Turkey. Food lovers will definitely find plenty to explore here, as Paphos offers restaurants for every taste.

In this post, I’ll share some of my favorite restaurants in and around Paphos, where dining with my family has become a cherished Cyprus ritual. This article is not sponsored, and I don’t have any collaborations with the restaurants on this list, so all the photos and opinions are my own. However, while expanding my current Paphos guide and 5-day Cyprus itinerary to include personal foodie experiences, I felt it was important to highlight the incredible restaurants I’ve visited. Each one provided a memorable experience, and I believe they deserve more recognition, making them well worth sharing!

What to eat in Cyprus – Best Traditional Foods to Try

Cyprus is known for its flavorful cuisine, full of fresh vegetables, seafood, and traditional recipes. If you’re visiting Cyprus and not sure what to eat, here’s a quick checklist of the most traditional local dishes you should try:

• Meze: A popular Cypriot dining experience, similar to Spanish tapas, where you’re served a variety of small dishes. These often include traditional dips like tzatziki, hummus, and tahini, along with grilled halloumi cheese, keftedes (meatballs), and more.
• Souvlaki: One of the most popular street foods in Cyprus, souvlaki consists of skewered and grilled pieces of meat, typically pork or chicken, served with pita bread, salad, and a side of tzatziki.
• Kleftiko: A delicious slow-cooked lamb dish, baked in a traditional clay oven and marinated with garlic, lemon, and local herbs for a tender, flavorful result.
• Halloumi: The iconic cheese of Cyprus, usually served grilled or fried, giving it a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior.
• Sheftalia: A traditional Cypriot sausage made from minced pork or lamb, mixed with onions and spices, and wrapped in caul fat before being grilled to perfection.
• Stifado: A typical Cypriot stew, made with beef, onions, tomatoes, and red wine, flavored with cinnamon and other aromatic spices for a rich and comforting meal.
• Loukoumades: For dessert, try loukoumades, small deep-fried dough balls soaked in honey syrup and often sprinkled with cinnamon and crushed nuts.

Best Restaurants in Paphos and Surroundings

Paphos is one of my favorite destinations for dining in Cyprus, as this coastal town offers a great variety of options – from traditional tavernas to modern eateries with views – so everyone can find something to suit their tastes and budget. Over the past few years of visiting Cyprus, my family has created a list of our all-time favorite restaurants and must-try dishes in Paphos. Here are some of the best places to eat in Paphos and its surroundings that you shouldn’t miss:

1. 7 St. Georges Tavern

Location: Anthipolochagou Georgiou Savva 37 Yeroskipou, Paphos 8201 Cyprus

7 St. George’s Tavern is renowned for its authentic Cypriot meze, made entirely from local, organic ingredients. This family-run tavern is loved for its cozy, rustic atmosphere, making every meal feel like a true Cypriot experience. It’s definitely one of my family’s favorite restaurants in Paphos.

2. Christos Grill

Location: Petraki Miltiadous 11, Paphos 8015 Cyprus

If you want an authentic Cypriot grill experience, Christos Grill is a must-visit. Their mixed grill platters are simple, delicious, and served in generous portions. Although a personal favorite in our family is their octopus – it’s absolutely amazing. Located in the center of town, this restaurant is a great stop on any Paphos itinerary.

3. Dias Zeus Restaurant

Location: 47 Tombs Of The Kings Avenue, Paphos 8045 Cyprus

Dias Zeus is an amazing restaurant in Paphos, offering a delightful mix of traditional Greek cuisine and modern Mediterranean dishes. Their meze is well-known in Paphos, and they also serve a variety of fresh seafood and grilled meats. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and is popular with both locals and tourists. Though located in Paphos, its authentic Greek food would make a perfect addition to any Greece bucket list.

4. Ocean Basket

Location: 114 Apostolou Pavlou Paphos Harbour, Paphos 8040 Cyprus

If you’re craving seafood, Ocean Basket is a popular chain restaurant specializing in fresh seafood platters. While it’s not a traditional Cypriot taverna, it offers a great selection of prawns, calamari, and fish, all at reasonable prices. With several locations across the island, it’s easy to include one of the Ocean Basket restaurants in any Cyprus itinerary. It was the first restaurant I visited in Cyprus before discovering local tavernas, and despite that, I always return at least once during every visit to Paphos.

5. Petradaki Taverna

Location: Kato Vrysi 45, Kathikas 8573 Cyprus

Just outside of Paphos, in the picturesque village of Kathikas, Petradaki Taverna offers a truly authentic Cypriot dining experience. While it’s one of the lesser-known spots on this list of Paphos restaurants, I love that it still retains the charm of a hidden gem. Known for its generous meze platters and stunning views over the surrounding hills, it’s well worth the short trip for a peaceful and traditional meal.

6. Agora Tavern

Location: Talat Paşa 1, Paphos 8015 Cyprus

Agora Tavern is another great place to try some of the best food in Paphos. On my last visit, I really enjoyed their vegetarian meze. The restaurant is located in the center of Paphos, near the traditional marketplace, and is popular for its traditional Cypriot dishes, with meze being among the best ones in Paphos.

7. Oniro By the Sea

Oniro By the Sea is a highly popular restaurant near the village of Peyia, located 16km from Paphos. It’s an ideal spot for special occasions and romantic dinners, thanks to its stunning views. Prior booking is required, as it often gets full. This location is known for offering some of the best sea views on the island, including the famous shipwreck. Personally, I’ve had a great experience here, but since it’s such a popular spot, I’ve also heard complaints about it being too busy from some friends.

8. Porto Antico

Another amazing restaurant with stunning views, just 14 km away from Paphos, is Porto Antico, located in the beautiful village of Peyia. It’s not exactly a hidden gem, nor is it the most budget-friendly option, but in my experience, both the food and service were excellent. Plus, the sunset views at Porto Antico are so epic.

Best restaurants in Paphos Harbour

If you plan to spend a day in Paphos, you can’t miss lunch or dinner at the Paphos Harbour area, known for its relaxing seaside promenade, trendy bars, and lively atmosphere. Top-rated coastal restaurants here include Ficardo Restaurant, Michael’s House, Basket Ocean, and Porto Bello.

Best Meze in Paphos

Almost all of the restaurants on this list offer meze, but my current favorite places to try it in Paphos and its surroundings are Petradaki Taverna, Agora Tavern, and 7 St. George’s Tavern.

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For more travel stories and useful tips for Cyprus check my Cyprus Pinterest board.

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