Common Meals in Cyprus

Here are some of the most popular and traditional meals you’ll find in Cypriot homes and tavernas:

1. Souvla

Large chunks of marinated pork, lamb or chicken slow-roasted on a long skewer over charcoal. A classic Sunday and celebration dish.

2. Sheftalia

Traditional Cypriot sausages made from minced pork and lamb mixed with onion, parsley and spices, wrapped in caul fat and grilled.

3. Halloumi

The famous Cypriot cheese – usually grilled or fried until golden and served with watermelon, bread, or as part of a meze.

4. Kleftiko

Slow-cooked lamb (or goat) baked for hours in a sealed clay oven or foil with potatoes, onions and herbs until extremely tender.

5. Cypriot Meze

A large selection of small dishes (dips, salads, grilled meats, halloumi, olives, etc.) shared among the table – the heart of Cypriot social dining.

6. Makaronia tou Fournou

Cypriot-style baked pasta (similar to pastitsio) layered with minced meat, béchamel sauce and cheese, baked until golden.