Introduction
North Cyprus is a culinary haven where East meets West, blending Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors into unforgettable dishes. From hearty meat stews to refreshing salads and sweet desserts, traditional North Cypriot cuisine offers a rich, flavorful journey for every food lover. This guide introduces you to must-try dishes and the best places to enjoy them on your visit.
1. Kleftiko (Slow-Cooked Lamb)
This iconic dish is a favorite across Cyprus. Lamb is marinated with garlic, lemon, and herbs, then slow-cooked in a sealed clay oven until tender and aromatic. The result? Meat that falls off the bone, bursting with flavor.
Where to Try It:
- Eziç Premier in Kyrenia serves a superb version of this dish.
- Stone Arch Restaurant in Karpaz offers a traditional preparation using local ingredients.
Pair It With: A side of buttery potatoes or a fresh shepherd’s salad.
2. Molehiya (Traditional Herb Stew)
Molehiya is a slow-cooked stew made with dried molehiya leaves, tender meat (usually lamb or chicken), garlic, and a tangy lemon-based sauce. This dish is not just delicious but also a local favorite for its nutritional benefits.
Where to Try It:
- Mevlana Pide House in Nicosia serves an authentic Molehiya that tastes like home.
Pro Tip: Pair it with pilav (rice) for a complete meal.
3. Halloumi (Grilled or Fresh)
Halloumi cheese, a Cypriot staple, can be enjoyed in various ways: grilled, fried, or fresh. Its salty, slightly tangy flavor is irresistible, whether served in sandwiches, salads, or as a standalone appetizer.
Where to Try It:
- Bandabulya Café in Nicosia offers a delicious grilled halloumi platter.
- Many local taverns serve it as part of their traditional meze.
Don’t Miss: A breakfast spread featuring halloumi paired with fresh bread and olives.
4. Şeftali Kebab
Don’t let the name fool you—this dish doesn’t involve peaches! Şeftali Kebab is made from minced lamb or goat meat seasoned with herbs and spices, wrapped in caul fat, and grilled to perfection.
Where to Try It:
- Kibcom Taverna in Kyrenia serves one of the best Şeftali Kebabs on the island.
Side Note: It’s often served with grilled vegetables and pita bread.
5. Meze (Traditional Appetizers)
No meal in North Cyprus is complete without a selection of meze. These small dishes include hummus, tzatziki, stuffed vine leaves, grilled aubergines, and more. It’s a communal experience, perfect for sharing and sampling a variety of flavors.
Where to Try It:
- Lokmaci Tavern in Famagusta is renowned for its extensive and flavorful meze options.
Pro Tip: Pair your meze with local Raki or a refreshing Cypriot lemonade.
6. Lahmacun (Cypriot Flatbread)
Often referred to as Turkish pizza, Lahmacun is a thin, crispy flatbread topped with minced meat, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It’s rolled up with parsley and lemon juice for a burst of flavor.
Where to Try It:
- Niazi’s Restaurant in Kyrenia serves an excellent Lahmacun.
Quick Tip: It’s a fantastic street food option for a quick, tasty bite.
7. Desserts to Savor
Cyprus has a sweet tooth, and its desserts are proof. From sticky Baklava layers soaked in syrup to the refreshing Kadayif Dolmasi (shredded pastry stuffed with nuts and drizzled in syrup), there’s something for every sweet lover. Don’t forget to try Sutlu Nuriye, a lighter version of baklava made with milk.
Where to Try It:
- Petek Patisserie in Famagusta is a must-visit for traditional Cypriot desserts.
8. Beverage Pairings
- Turkish Coffee: Brewed in small pots (cezve) and served in tiny cups, Turkish coffee is an experience in itself.
- Raki: This anise-flavored spirit is perfect for pairing with meze or seafood.
- Ayran: A salty yogurt drink that complements spicy dishes.
Where to Try It:
- Local cafés like Sabor Coffee House serve traditional Turkish coffee brewed over hot sand.
Conclusion
Traditional North Cypriot cuisine is more than just food—it’s a celebration of culture, history, and hospitality. Whether you’re indulging in a hearty stew, savoring fresh seafood, or exploring a variety of meze, every bite tells a story.
Discover the heart and soul of North Cyprus through its cuisine on AskNorthCyprus.com. Bon Appétit!