Cyprus is a Mediterranean island with a rich culinary identity shaped by Greek, Turkish, Middle Eastern, and Levantine influences. Cypriot food is all about fresh ingredients, slow cooking, shared meals, and bold yet balanced flavors. From famous cheeses to hearty meat dishes and vibrant vegetarian options, Cypriot cuisine reflects the island’s history, climate, and strong sense of hospitality. Below is a deep dive into the most loved traditional dishes you’ll find across Cyprus.
1. Mezze – The Heart of Cypriot Dining Culture
Mezze is not just a meal in Cyprus; it’s an experience. Instead of ordering one main dish, mezze consists of a long series of small plates served gradually. A traditional mezze can include dips like hummus and tahini, olives, fresh bread, grilled vegetables, sausages, seafood, and various meats.
What makes mezze special is its social nature. Meals are slow, generous, and meant to be shared with family and friends. In many taverns, mezze can include 20 to 30 different dishes, showcasing the best of Cypriot cooking in one sitting.
2. Halloumi – Cyprus’s Most Famous Cheese
Halloumi is the most iconic food product of Cyprus and is enjoyed both locally and internationally. Made from a mixture of goat’s and sheep’s milk (sometimes cow’s milk), halloumi has a firm texture and a high melting point, which makes it perfect for grilling or frying.
You’ll often find halloumi served with watermelon during summer, grilled as part of mezze, or sliced into sandwiches. Its salty, slightly minty flavor makes it incredibly versatile and deeply rooted in Cypriot tradition.
3. Souvla and Souvlaki – Classic Cypriot Meat Dishes
While souvlaki is well known across the Mediterranean, Cypriot souvlaki has its own identity. It usually features large chunks of pork or chicken grilled over charcoal and served with pita bread, salad, and sauces.
Souvla, on the other hand, is even more traditional. Large pieces of meat are slowly cooked on long skewers over an open fire, often during Sundays or family gatherings. The slow cooking results in incredibly tender and flavorful meat, making souvla a centerpiece of Cypriot celebrations.
4. Kleftiko – Slow-Cooked Lamb with Deep Flavor
Kleftiko is one of the most beloved traditional dishes in Cyprus. It consists of lamb slowly baked with potatoes, herbs, garlic, and lemon. Traditionally, it was cooked in sealed clay ovens, allowing the meat to cook gently in its own juices.
The result is lamb that is incredibly soft, aromatic, and rich in flavor. Kleftiko perfectly represents Cypriot cooking philosophy: patience, simplicity, and respect for ingredients.
5. Koupepia – Stuffed Vine Leaves with a Local Twist
Koupepia are vine leaves stuffed with minced meat, rice, herbs, and spices. While similar dishes exist in neighboring regions, the Cypriot version has its own unique seasoning and preparation style.
Koupepia are usually served warm with lemon and are especially popular during family meals and festive occasions. Vegetarian versions are also common, making this dish a favorite for all diets.
6. Sheftalia – A Unique Cypriot Sausage
Sheftalia is a traditional Cypriot sausage made from minced pork or lamb mixed with onions, parsley, and spices, then wrapped in caul fat. Unlike regular sausages, sheftalia has no casing, giving it a distinct texture and flavor.
It is typically grilled and served in pita bread with salad, making it a popular street food as well as a staple in taverns. Sheftalia perfectly showcases the island’s love for grilled, herb-filled dishes.
7. Traditional Sweets – Ending on a Sweet Note
Cypriot desserts are often simple but deeply satisfying. Popular sweets include loukoumades (fried dough balls soaked in honey), baklava, and spoon sweets made from fruits preserved in syrup. These desserts are often served with Cypriot coffee, rounding off meals in a warm and comforting way.
Many sweets are homemade and passed down through generations, reinforcing the importance of tradition and family in Cypriot food culture.
Final Thoughts
Cypriot cuisine is a beautiful reflection of the island itself: warm, generous, and full of character. Whether you’re enjoying a full mezze, tasting freshly grilled halloumi, or savoring slow-cooked kleftiko, every dish tells a story of heritage and hospitality. Exploring the dishes of Cyprus is not just about food—it’s about culture, community, and a deep connection to tradition.
