Paphos isn’t just about crystal-clear beaches and ancient ruins – it’s also a paradise for food lovers. This sun-soaked coastal town in Cyprus is full of flavor, with local dishes that tell stories of tradition, family, and the Mediterranean lifestyle. Whether you’re wandering through its harbor or dining in a mountain village nearby, there’s always something tasty waiting to be discovered. Here are 10 dishes you absolutely need to try when in Paphos.
1. Kleftiko
Slow-cooked to perfection, Kleftiko is a dish that’s all about patience—and it’s so worth it. Lamb is marinated in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then wrapped in parchment and roasted for hours until it falls apart with a fork. The result? Juicy, flavorful meat that tastes like it’s been made with love (because it has).
2. Halloumi
Yes, you’ve probably tried it elsewhere, but nothing beats fresh, locally made halloumi in its homeland. This squeaky cheese is usually grilled or fried until golden on the outside and warm and gooey inside. Eat it as is, or with watermelon in summer—Cypriots swear by the combo.
3. Sheftalia
These little grilled sausages are a Cypriot barbecue favorite. Made from minced pork or lamb with parsley, onion, and spices, they’re wrapped in caul fat instead of casings, giving them an incredibly tender bite. Wrapped in pita with salad and a dash of lemon, they make the perfect street food.
4. Loukoumades
For a sweet treat, look for loukoumades—golden dough balls soaked in syrup or honey. Think of them as Mediterranean doughnuts, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re often dusted with cinnamon or sesame seeds, and once you start, you won’t stop at just one.
5. Stifado
This hearty stew is often made with beef or rabbit, slowly simmered with onions, tomatoes, wine, and cinnamon. Stifado is the kind of dish that brings families together—rich, aromatic, and full of deep, comforting flavors.
6. Moussaka
Layers of eggplant, minced meat, and creamy béchamel sauce come together in this classic dish. Moussaka in Paphos is all about generous portions, slow baking, and rich flavor. A slice of this feels like a warm hug after a long day exploring.
7. Grilled Octopus
Don’t leave Paphos without trying grilled octopus by the sea. Tender, smoky, and drizzled with olive oil and lemon, it’s a dish that perfectly captures the taste of the Mediterranean. Freshness is key here, and coastal taverns serve it best.
8. Koupepia
These are the Cypriot version of stuffed vine leaves, filled with minced meat, rice, and herbs. Unlike other versions around the region, koupepia often have a lemony note that brightens every bite. They’re a staple at traditional meze spreads and go perfectly with a chilled local wine.
9. Afelia
Pork marinated in red wine and coriander seeds, then slow-cooked to tender perfection—Afelia is simple, rustic, and absolutely packed with flavor. It’s a great example of how Cypriot cooking relies on a few good ingredients, treated with care.
10. Bourekia
A popular dessert or breakfast snack, bourekia are pastries usually filled with anari cheese (a mild, fresh cheese) and dusted with powdered sugar or cinnamon. They’re light, slightly sweet, and perfect with a cup of Cypriot coffee.
Eating in Paphos isn’t just about food—it’s about slowing down, sharing dishes with others, and experiencing the island’s generous spirit through every bite. Whether you’re savoring a simple meze at a family-run taverna or grabbing street food by the beach, each dish tells a story. So take your time, try everything, and let Paphos win your heart one meal at a time.
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