Costas and his family have long cultivated a reputation for exceptional Cypriot cuisine and heartfelt hospitality at their well-known regional taverna. The interior of the taverna offers a charmingly simple, rustic appeal, featuring homely tablecloths, a cosy fireplace, and a display cabinet filled with plates that tell stories of the locale. The delightful bar adds to the allure, making it a welcoming, pleasant space. Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner six days a week, with a day off on Mondays, the restaurant offers a traditional menu that includes the beloved Cypriot mezze. This array of small dishes served together creates a communal dining experience, a veritable feast for the senses. Mezze can consist of everything from dips and salads to meats and seafood and even desserts, offering a culinary journey that showcases the richness and diversity of Cypriot food.
A communal dining experience that begins with a selection of appetisers, among which the delicious Halloumi cheese stands out. This Cypriot speciality, known for its firm texture and unique ability to retain its shape when grilled or fried, offers a compelling start to the meal. As the mezze progresses, mouthwatering meat dishes are introduced. Among these, the flavorful blood sausages and succulent pork dishes are particularly noteworthy. The skewered meats, or souvlaki, are also a highlight, marinated to perfection and grilled over an open fire. Complementing these dishes is the taverna's homemade bread, fresh from the oven, perfect for sopping up the rich flavours of the mezze. To round off the meal, the taverna offers homemade wine, a testament to Cyprus's ancient winemaking tradition. The wine's distinct character and quality make it the ideal accompaniment to the mezze, enhancing the flavours and making the meal a truly immersive experience in Cypriot culture.
Your day begins with a serene visit to the historic Kykkos Monastery, where the ornate decorations and tranquil atmosphere offer a peek into Cyprus's rich ecclesiastical tradition. From there, you journey to the mountain tomb of Makarios III, a place marked by solemnity and historical significance, boasting panoramic views of the island. The next leg of your trip involves traversing the medieval Venetian bridges over the Diorios River, where the impressive architecture harkens back to an era of grandeur and rich cultural exchange. As the sun sets, you find yourself in the charming village of Lofou, walking down its cobblestone streets, surrounded by traditional stone houses that seem to whisper tales from the past. Here in Lofou, you end the day with a sense of fulfilment, as if you've truly experienced the very heart and soul of Cyprus.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
