As I explore Nicosia, the capital city of Cyprus, I’m struck by its vibrant blend of culture and history. Wandering through the charming old town with its narrow streets and historic buildings, I feel like I’m stepping back in time. The lively atmosphere of the cafes and restaurants adds to the city’s allure, offering a taste of delicious Mediterranean cuisine that has quickly made Nicosia a go-to destination for tasty food enthusiasts like me.
In this article, I’ll be sharing my discoveries of some of the best restaurants in Nicosia. Join me as I take a closer look, so you can plan your own culinary adventures in the heart of Cyprus’ capital city.
To Kanoni
Address: Kanoni, Κάστρο, Monemvasia 230 70, Grækenland
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Website: To Kanoni
Located in the heart of Nicosia’s old town, To Kanoni is a charming Greek restaurant with friendly staff serving up traditional Cypriot cuisine. The restaurant’s menu features classic delicious dishes like kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb) and moussaka, as well as more unique offerings like stuffed zucchini flowers and wild boar in red wine sauce. The friendly atmosphere at To Kanoni is warm and inviting, with cozy indoor seating and a lovely outdoor courtyard.
To Kanoni Restaurant is characterized by the Peloponnesian cuisine, which is based on three elements: top quality products, perfection in implementation, and creativity. This is the foundation for their tasty food. Years of experience have led them to search for the best that nature has to offer each and every season, from local producers around the area of Monemvasia.
Enjoy their local cuisine with freshly cooked delicious dishes like Fried local goat cheese, sausage made from the old time’s recipe with orange and smoked with sage, and their specialty Eggplant Kanoni with grilled eggplant, tomato, onions, peppers, cheese feta all baked in the oven. The traditional Saiti with homemade thin dough filled with spinach and grilled on the platter, their Kleftiko lamb with vegetables and local cheese Graviera baked in the oven, their famous shrimp spaghetti, and of course their fresh fish with the accompaniment of local world awarded local wines from the vineyards of the region.
Your satisfaction is their moral satisfaction. Restaurant To Kanoni first opened its doors in 1986 when the founder and owner, Giovanis Antony, and his wife Maria decided to buy this property and convert it into a nice Restaurant.
Seeing the opportunity and gap in the local market for a good Greek restaurant where people could enjoy a good meal besides the Taverns, they decided to turn it into a family-owned friendly high-class restaurant.
After many years of experience and hospitality of guests like Queen Elizabeth, Tom Hanks, and Steven Spielberg, President Kennedy, and famous clientele from Greece and around the world, after being awarded in foreign magazines like Times.
They have decided to give the management to their son, after studying at Alpine Center in Switzerland Hotel Management and focusing during his career in the Food and Beverage industry. He has come to take over and focus on giving the customers a more Peloponnesian approach to the Menu.
Piatsa Gourounaki
Address: Stasikratous 31, Nicosia 1065, Cyprus
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Website: Piatsa Gourounaki
For a more casual dining experience, head to Piatsa Gourounaki, a popular grill house in the heart of Nicosia with friendly staff. Here you’ll find juicy pork and chicken souvlaki, traditional Greek salads, and plenty of other tasty food such as grilled meats and vegetables. The portions at Piatsa Gourounaki are generous, making it a great spot for a hearty lunch or dinner.
“Piatsa Gourounaki” translates as the place where little piglets meet and greet. Their menu is tailored for those who love big, tender, sizzling pieces of meat. What they offer are fresh, simple, delicious dishes at great prices. All of this within a casual, friendly environment that will leave you with a mouth-watering memory. Their cuisine is purely Greek. Souvlaki is without a doubt their most recommended dish. All of the meat is cooked on a traditional grill. To accompany the meat they offer salads inspired from Crete and Greece. To wash all of this down they have wine straight from the barrel, a variety of beers, tsipouro, Retsina, Zivania and Ouzo. On top of this they serve Mahalembi made by the famous Mrs Popi.
Artisan’s Burgerbar
Address: Stasandrou 20, Nicosia 1060, Cyprus
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Website: Artisan’s Burgerbar
If you’re craving a juicy burger, Artisan’s Burgerbar is the place to go. This trendy Greek restaurant in Nicosia’s city center offers a variety of creative burgers, from classic beef burgers to more unique options like the vegetarian “Impossible Burger” and the “Burgerlakia,” which features Greek-style meatballs on a burger bun. Be sure to try one of Artisan’s delicious sides, like the sweet potato fries or the truffle mac and cheese.
Fat Fish
Address: M3QF+V7G, Γεώργιου Γρίβα Διγενή, Agios Athanasios 4040, Cyprus
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Website: https://thefatfish.net/
For seafood lovers, Fat Fish is a must-visit restaurant in Nicosia. This stylish seafood restaurant has friendly staff and offers an extensive menu of fresh fish and seafood dishes, including grilled octopus, sea bream, and prawn risotto. The restaurant’s sleek, modern interior and friendly service make for a delightful dining experience.
Avra
Address: 2 Nissi Avenue Ayia Napa, 5330, Cyprus
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Avra is a family-owned restaurant in Nicosia that’s been serving up delicious Mediterranean cuisine for over 30 years. The restaurant serves tasty food and has friendly staff. The menu features classic Cypriot dishes like souvlaki and moussaka, as well as fresh seafood and vegetarian options. The restaurant’s outdoor seating area is particularly lovely, with a charming garden and plenty of shade.
Pivo Microbrewery
Address: 2C2F+R5, Dali 2563, Cyprus
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Beer lovers won’t want to miss Pivo Microbrewery, a trendy brewpub located in the heart of Nicosia. Here, you’ll find a variety of locally brewed beers, as well as a menu of delicious pub grub like loaded fries and juicy burgers. The industrial-chic interior and lively atmosphere make Pivo Microbrewery a great spot for a night out with friends.
Epsilon Resto Bar
Address: M29Q+VP2, Limassol Marina St, Limassol 3014, Cyprus
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Epsilon Resto Bar is a stylish restaurant located in Nicosia’s historic Ledras Street. The menu features modern European cuisine with Mediterranean influences, and the restaurant’s wine list is extensive. The rooftop terrace at Epsilon Resto Bar offers stunning views of the city, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
Zenon Taverna
Address: Makedonias 8, Larnaca 6030, Cyprus
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For a truly authentic Cypriot dining experience with a friendly atmosphere, head to Zenon Taverna. This family-owned restaurant is located in a historic building in the heart of Nicosia’s old town, and its menu is filled with classic Cypriot dishes like kleftiko, souvlaki, and halloumi cheese. The portions at Zenon Taverna are generous, so be sure to bring your appetite!
The Gym
Address: 89 Onasagorou Nicosia CY, 1011, Cyprus
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Don’t let the name fool you – The Gym is actually a trendy restaurant and bar located in the heart of Nicosia’s city center. The menu features a variety of international dishes, from sushi to pizza, as well as creative cocktails and an extensive wine list. The sleek, modern interior at The Gym makes for a memorable dining experience.
The Fat Bull
Address: Nikou Kranidioti 7-Tower 5, Egkomi 2411, Cyprus
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The Fat Bull is a popular steakhouse located in Nicosia’s Engomi neighborhood. Here you’ll find juicy steaks, delicious sides like truffle fries and creamed spinach, and an extensive wine list. The restaurant’s rustic interior and friendly service make for a cozy dining experience.
Barrique Wine & Deli
Address: Menandrou 4, Nicosia 1066, Cyprus
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Wine lovers won’t want to miss Barrique Wine & Deli, a chic wine bar and restaurant located in Nicosia’s city center. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of small plates and sharing platters, as well as an extensive wine list. The sleek, modern interior at Barrique Wine & Deli is perfect for a night out with friends.
Kalamies
Address: Arrenagogeiou 23, Nicosia 1021, Cyprus
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Kalamies is a charming seafood restaurant with friendly staff and tasty food located in Nicosia’s Latsia neighborhood. The menu features fresh fish and seafood dishes, as well as classic Cypriot dishes like kleftiko and souvlaki. The restaurant’s outdoor seating area is particularly lovely, with a view of the restaurant’s fishing pond.
Chinese Spice Restaurant
Website: https://chinaspice.com.cy/
Address: Pindarou 26, Nicosia 1060, Cyprus
Google Maps: Click here
At the Chinese Restaurant China Spice, I was delighted to find a warm and inviting atmosphere with flavors that cater to every palate. The extensive menu offered a wide variety of amazing dishes, ensuring there was something for everyone, regardless of their taste preferences. The charming and elegant setting provided the perfect spot for any mood, whether I wanted to enjoy the open space with its glass windows, ideal for those who like to see and be seen, or the intimate corners that offered a cozy ambiance and privacy for a more memorable experience. Whether it was lunch or dinner, I immersed myself in the exquisite tastes of the Orient, savoring every moment at China Spice.
Featured Nicosia Restaurants and places to eat and drink
Unique Bars and Cocktail Experiences
– Bar Souvenir: Renovated traditional house with a colorful and vibrant atmosphere
– High & Wet: Seasonal rooftop bar with creative cocktails and an extensive G&T list
– Granazi: Contemporary liquor bar with great interiors and a solid drinks menu
– Ukiyo: Japanese-inspired gastro bar with impeccable cocktails and a cool, laidback vibe
– Silver Star Bar: Classy and relaxed bar with refined cocktails and a loyal crowd
Modern Drinks in Historical Locations
– Granazi: Old house with character, attention to detail, and an extensive drinks menu
– Kuzuba: Small, beautiful space that honors Cypriot products and offers a fantastic drinks list
– Swimming Birds: Coffee shop with craft beer options and a pavement seating area
– Brewfellas: Craft beer bar with a dozen tap options and natural wines
– Beba: Modern restaurant serving Greek and Cypriot flavors, with tasty food and excellent service
Unique Cultural Experiences
– Hurricane Bakery: Old tea room serving freshly baked cheese pies
– Prozak Kafeneio: Creative bar with Cypriot spirits, live gigs, and small exhibitions
– Haratsi: Laidback place where people from all walks of life gather, serving brandy sours and local beers
– Kontosouvli: Classic souvlaki place with a specialty in kontosouvli (slow-cooked pork)
– Athinaiki Gonia: Takeaway and delivery-only spot for delicious gyro and doner options
Homey and Traditional Food
– Traditional magirio and psistaria: Taverns and grillhouses offering home-cooked, wholesome food
– Chy: Restaurant serving traditional Cypriot cuisine with a cozy atmosphere
– Beans and pulses: Craved home-cooked dishes that are a big part of everyday nutrition
– Mums food: Personal favorite, featuring beans, pulses, and other wholesome dishes
– Traditional Cypriot cuisine: A taste of home when not eating at home
Exploring Historical Nicosia
– Stroll in the old city: A great way to experience the local cultural scene
– Cheese pie from Hurricane Bakery: A must-try breakfast option
– Prozak Kafeneio: A creative bar hosting exhibitions, live gigs, and book readings
– Haratsi: A laidback place where people from all walks of life gather
– Local street food: Souvlaki and doner options available throughout the city
Hidden Gems
– Tutto Passa Pizza: A small pizzeria with a focus on quality rather than quantity
– Home Cafe at Home for Cooperation: A unique cafe located in the UN Buffer Zone
– Tahini pies and other souvenirs from Nicosia: Popular snacks and unique gifts
– Kali Eftixia: A cozy tavern known for its traditional and well-made food
– Nicosia’s farmers markets: Fresh produce markets offering unique seasonal products.
Conclusion
Nicosia is a city with a rich culinary heritage, and its restaurants offer a variety of delicious Mediterranean and international cuisine. From cozy tavernas serving up traditional Cypriot dishes to trendy restaurants and bars offering creative cocktails and small plates, there’s something for every palate in Nicosia. So why not plan your next culinary adventure in Cyprus’ capital city?
Meet Natalie, who has lived on Cyprus for the last 10 years. She loves exploring the beautiful nature of the island, like quiet forests and untouched beaches. Natalie has lots of cool experiences to share. Join her as she talks about her adventures in Cyprus.
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