23 Best Traditional Cypriot Food Dishes

Cyprus, shaped by diverse cultures and rulers, boasts a rich history reflected in its cuisine. Its dishes blend Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and European influences, offering a variety of flavors from spiced meats to fresh vegetable-based meals. No single dish is purely Cypriot, as each carries traces of past civilizations.

With sweet, savory, and spicy options—from appetizers to hearty main courses—traditional Cypriot food is known for its unique cooking styles and presentation. Whether you prefer meat, seafood, or plant-based dishes, there’s something for every taste. Here are the most famous and delicious dishes of Cyprus.

1. Kıbrıs Pidesi

 Kıbrıs Pidesi

Among the most important cheeses in Cyprus is halloumi cheese. Known for being very salty and cooked in different versions such as grilled, Halloumi Cheese is the main ingredient of many pastries prepared in Cyprus. Kıbrıs Pidesi allows you to experience one of its most beautiful forms.

You can easily find Kıbrıs Pidesi in many patisseries in Cyprus, one of the most preferred hot appetizers and snacks for breakfast or lunch. Halloumi Borek is also preferred as a hot appetizer in rich dinner menus. The pastry, rolled out by hand and filled with a stuffing made of Halloumi Cheese, to which olives, mint, and spices are also added, is a delicious and filling alternative.

2. Cyprus Meatballs (Köftesi)

Cyprus Meatballs

It is possible to come across regional and different meatball recipes from the classic ones in different regions. Cyprus meatballs, specific to Cyprus, attract great interest from Cypriots. The most important feature distinguishing Cyprus meatballs, the most famous dish of Cyprus, from the classic meatballs and meatballs made in other regions is that it contains more potatoes than minced meat.

Cyprus Meatballs contain a small amount of minced meat and a large amount of potatoes. These have attracted great attention because they are both nutritious and delicious and are usually consumed at dinner.

3. Molehiya

Molokhiyya

Molehiya comes from Arabia and has become a favorite among Turkish Cypriots for its taste and easy preparation. Turks learned this dish from Arabs, and while some confuse it with stuffed vine leaves (yalancı dolma), it is actually quite different. What makes it stand out is that it is traditionally meat-free, making it a great choice for various diets.

Because it has no meat, yalancı dolma is light and refreshing, perfect as a summer evening meal. The filling is simple yet tasty, made with rice, onions, and tomatoes.

Molehiya is cooked using fresh or dried leaves from the molehiya plant, creating a rich, flavorful stew. While the vegetarian version is most common, meat-based variations are often enjoyed in winter months. Whether served plain or with meat, molehiya remains a dish full of tradition and taste.

4. Piruhi

Piruhi

Piruhi is a delightful dish reminiscent of the beloved manti but with a Cypriot twist, featuring tulum cheese and walnuts. The dough is crafted from a rich blend of flour, eggs, butter, and walnuts, creating a hearty base for this indulgent meal. A hallmark of this dish is its dense, dough-heavy nature, making it incredibly satisfying.

Rooted in Ottoman cuisine, Piruhi is a staple in Cyprus and one of the island’s most beloved dishes. To savor this treat, visit any local restaurant and order Cypriot manti. However, its richness makes it better suited for cooler evenings rather than hot weather.

5. Pilavuna

Pilavuna

Pilavuna is a cherished Cypriot pastry, perfect for breakfast. This crispy, bun-like delicacy is filled with Baf cheese and crafted into triangular or square shapes. Its flaky texture and savory filling make it a morning favorite among locals.

Freshly baked and widely available at pastry shops across Cyprus, pilavuna is best enjoyed warm from the oven. It’s a must-try treat for anyone seeking an authentic taste of the island’s breakfast culture.

6. Kolakas

 Kolakas

Kolakas is one of Cyprus’s most iconic dishes, a root vegetable reminiscent of potatoes with a unique and flavorful twist. Introduced to the island by the Venetians, its name derives from its elephant ear-shaped leaves.

This hearty dish is often paired with lamb or chicken, blending meat and vegetables in a satisfying and flavorful way. Popular for dinners, kolakas is a staple at Cypriot tables, beloved for its rich taste and filling nature.

7. Girit Usulü Çullama

Girit Usulü Çullama

Girit Usulü Çullama is a savory creation combining puff pastry and chicken, evoking the essence of classic Mediterranean and Aegean börek recipes. In Cyprus, this dish is elevated with unique fillings, including chicken breast or turkey liver, and ingredients like chicken broth or raisins for added flavor.

This versatile dish can be enjoyed at any time of day and is a shining example of the island’s culinary ties to the Mediterranean region.

8. Kleftiko

Kleftiko

Kleftiko, a slow-cooked lamb or goat dish, is a Cypriot classic also found in Greek cuisine. This hearty meal features lamb shanks cooked with potatoes, onions, garlic, and bay leaves, creating a savory symphony of flavors.

Cooked to perfection over three hours, Kleftiko is often called oven kebab. It’s best enjoyed as a dinner main course, offering a rich, filling experience showcasing Cypriot cuisine.

9. Dilifti (Ispanaklı Börek Tarifi)

 Dilifti (Ispanaklı Börek Tarifi)

Dilifti is a spinach-filled pastry that shines as a breakfast dish and a hot appetizer. The flaky dough envelops a mixture of spinach and onions, resulting in a savory bite bursting with flavor.

This dish resembles Turkish spinach pie but offers its unique Cypriot flair. Found in pastry shops and restaurants, dilifti is a versatile treat loved by locals and visitors alike.

10. Onion Basti (Soğan Bastı)

Soğan Bastı

Onion Basti, or stuffed onions, is a labor-intensive yet rewarding dish. Each onion is carefully hollowed out and filled with a mix of minced meat, rice, parsley, and spices before being fried to golden perfection.

This filling and flavorful dish is typically served as a main course for dinner. While rich and hearty, it’s a must-try for those seeking a truly authentic Cypriot culinary experience.

11. Mastic Cyprus Bun (Damla Sakızlı Kıbrıs Çöreği)

Damla Sakızlı Kıbrıs Çöreği

A fragrant and slightly sweet treat, the Mastic Cyprus Bun is a popular pastry infused with the distinctive aroma of mastic. Blending sweet and savory flavors, it’s an all-day snack that locals and visitors enjoy.

Freshly baked batches are available in pastry shops throughout Cyprus, making it an easily accessible delight during your island adventures.

12. Bidda

Bidda

Bidda, a Cypriot variation of gözleme, features a savory filling of halloumi cheese, olives, and roasted sesame seeds encased in thin, crispy dough. Usually cut into triangles, this pastry is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Readily available at local pastry shops, Bidda is enjoyed any time of day and is a testament to the island’s love for cheese-filled delicacies.

13. Peach Kebab (Şeftali Kebabı)

Şeftali Kebabı

Despite its name, Peach Kebab has nothing to do with fruit. Instead, this is a savory dish made by wrapping seasoned minced meat in the inner membrane of sheep or goat and grilling it to perfection.

This dish is a favorite evening meal served with Cypriot pita, roasted vegetables, or rice. Known for its bold flavors and unique preparation, Peach Kebab is a must-try when dining on the island.

14. Stuffed Chicken (Tavuk Dolma)

Tavuk Dolma

Tavuk Dolma is a decadent dish that elevates ordinary chicken into a gourmet experience. Filled with bechamel sauce, mushrooms, and kashar cheese, the chicken is coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden.

Rich and satisfying, this dish is best enjoyed during cooler seasons and is a testament to the creativity of Cypriot cuisine.

15. Stuffed Zucchini Flowers (Kabak Çiçeği Dolması)

Kabak Çiçeği Dolması

Stuffed Zucchini Flowers are a delicate and flavorful appetizer filled with cheeses like halloumi or goat cheese, often enhanced with garlic and parsley.

These carefully prepared and stuffed blossoms offer a light yet indulgent taste of Cyprus. Their unique preparation and local ingredients make them a standout dish in the island’s culinary repertoire.

16. Walnut Jam (Ceviz Reçeli)

Ceviz Reçeli

Its jam is made from green and unripe walnuts, but its outer shells are still soft, laborious, and delicious. Walnut jam, usually served on small plates, is a part of the cultural heritage of Northern Cyprus. Celebrated for its health benefits and cultural significance, Walnut Jam is a delightful way to end a meal or accompany a cup of tea.

During your Northern Cyprus travel, you can buy local walnut paste from local shops and bring gifts of delicious Cyprus flavors to your loved ones.

17. Kıbrıs Tatlısı

Kıbrıs Tatlısı

Kıbrıs Tatlısı is a layered confection of walnut cake, coconut, and creamy toppings. This rich dessert is reminiscent of Turkish syrupy sweets but boasts its own unique identity.

Served chilled, it’s a perfect companion to coffee or tea, offering a sweet conclusion to any Cypriot meal.

18. Lemon Paluze

Lemon Paluze

Lemon Paluze is a refreshing dessert from lemon juice and sugar, creating a light, tangy jelly-like treat.

This dessert is a palate-cleansing finale to any meal, offering a simple yet delightful taste of Cypriot tradition.

19. Cakiztes

Cakiztes

Large green olives collected from the century-old olive trees of Northern Cyprus are prepared by breaking them with stones, a traditional method. The olives are soaked in water to remove their bitter juices, salted, and left to sit until they reach their desired taste. When the green olives are ready to eat, they are served with lemon, coriander, and olive oil, which is the traditional presentation. Çakıztes, one of the most special flavors of Northern Cyprus, is consumed as an appetizer and at breakfast tables.

20. Carob Molasses

Carob Molasses

Molasses from the carob tree’s fruit is widely consumed, especially in the Mediterranean Region. After the carob fruit is dried, it is ground and boiled to obtain molasses.  In Northern Cyprus, carob molasses is usually used for breakfast or dessert. Carob molasses, a delicious and nutritious taste, adds a different flavor to desserts with its thick consistency and slightly caramel flavor, while also very valuable for health.

21. Magarina Bulli

Magarina Bulli

Magarina bulli is a traditional Cyprus pasta dish. This delicious dish has contributed to the gastronomic diversity of Cyprus since the time the Venetians stayed on the island. Magarina bulli, pasta, and chicken are traditional delicacies often cooked at weddings and special invitations.

Magarina is homemade fresh pasta. Bulli means chicken broth. When chicken broth is unavailable, the name and the logic of using ready-made bouillon added to water comes from here. This pasta is cooked with chicken broth and butter. In Cyprus, pasta is usually boiled in meat broth, and grated halloumi cheese is sprinkled on top. The dish’s flavor depends on the quality of the boiling water used. Magarina bulli is served with yogurt and salad. This dish is simple but filling and delicious.

22. Loukoumades

Loukoumades

Loukoumades is a sweet snack from the Cypriot cuisine. This dessert is made by frying small round dough balls. The dough is raised with yeast and fried in hot oil as small balls. The fried loukoumades turn golden yellow and crispy. After frying, this dessert is covered with honey or sugar syrup, and cinnamon is sprinkled on top. It is almost the same as the dessert known as lokma in Turkish cuisine. Loukoumades are usually decorated with crushed walnuts or almonds, unlike the lokma in classic Turkish cuisine. This dessert is made in Cyprus, especially for special occasions and festivals. Loukoumades is served hot and is a perfect match with coffee or tea—one of the indispensable desserts of Cypriot cuisine.

23. Kyrenia Cake (Girne Keki)

Girne Keki

Kyrenia cake is one of the most popular special flavors of Cyprus cuisine. The cake, which blends the local flavors of Kyrenia, contains grated carrots, walnuts, and cinnamon. These ingredients add a rich and aromatic flavor to the cake. Kyrenia cake is baked in the oven until golden brown, and powdered sugar is sprinkled on top. This cake is preferred at tea time or breakfast in Cyprus.