The way to enjoy Cyprus is through the stomach

Anyone who’s been to Cyprus will tell you the best way to enjoy it is definitely through your stomach! With an awesome fusion of Greek and Turkish influences, Cyprus has an incredible range of dishes and flavours to sample.

Cyprus really is a food lover’s paradise. The best part is, you can find some really cheap holidays to Cyprus, so really, there’s no excuse not to go. With 24-hour bakeries dotted all over the place and a long, long list of great restaurants, cafes and tavernas to sit down and eat in, you’ll be completely spoilt for choice in choosing what you’d like to taste. Lucky for you I’m here to give you some tips!

One Greek hangover to really appreciate in Cyprus is the meze. Translating literally as “small dishes” these platters give you the chance to try a little bit of everything. Generally you’ll start off with a dip selection, often including tahini (a creamy, sesame paste); talattouri (a cool yoghurt blended with cucumber, mint and garlic); taramosalata (fish roe with parsley) and a classic hummus. Generally these dips are served with pitta bread, and once you’ve started you’ll be served small samples of pickled vegetables, potatoes in lemon oil, olives and feta cheese, amongst others. Make sure you pack a big appetite though; meze can last for up to 30 courses!

Another must-try here is the calamari. While some people may be put off by the fact that it’s fried squid, I’d advise you to go for it anyway. Gently grilled until tender, it’s best served with lemon juice and mixed herbs. Great with a refreshing KEO lager to wash it down!

Drawing on the true Turkish delight, Cyprus is well-known for the delicious kebabs on offer. Usually made with chicken, lamb or pork, the meat is always grilled to perfection, with that great, oaky taste you can only get from an open flame. A fast food alternative if you’re on the go are souvlakia; smaller pieces of meat and occasionally vegetables, intended to be eaten from the hand.