By Karim Hammam
Jet2holidays Cyprus regional manager Nicky Marston has shared her top restaurant picks for visitors seeking authentic Cypriot cuisine, highlighting seafood taverns and traditional meze spots across the island.
Seafood in Ayia Napa and Protaras
For fresh seafood, Marston recommends the family-run Vassos Fish Tavern in Ayia Napa, which began as a fisherman's shack in the 1960s and now serves locally caught fish overlooking the harbour. She also points to Spartiatis in Protaras, known for its fish meze and seaside setting, advising diners to book well in advance.
Traditional Meze in Tochni
Inland, the village of Tochni hosts Tochni Tavern, which Marston describes as a hidden gem offering one of the most memorable traditional Cypriot dining experiences, accompanied by a wine list featuring local wineries.
Souvla at Viklari
For Cyprus's unofficial national dish, souvla — large chunks of meat slow-cooked over charcoal — Marston directs travelers to Viklari, a no-menu restaurant that serves only chicken, pork, or a combination with homemade potatoes, salad, dips, and village bread.
