Cyprus is a haven for seafood enthusiasts, offering a rich culinary heritage with fish taverns that serve the freshest catches from the Mediterranean. Whether you’re exploring the bustling coastal cities or quaint seaside villages, fish taverns in Cyprus provide an authentic taste of the island’s seafood traditions.
In this guide, we will explore the top 10 fish taverns in Cyprus, each known for its exceptional dishes, fresh ingredients, and unique charm.
Located in the heart of Paphos, Koursaros Fish Tavern is famous for its relaxed atmosphere and exceptional seafood. Specialising in traditional Cypriot fish meze, this tavern serves a wide variety of fresh seafood, including grilled octopus, red mullet, calamari, and prawns. The meze offers a full experience, with small plates of different fish dishes brought to the table, allowing you to taste a little bit of everything.
Why it stands out: Koursaros is known for its generous portions, friendly service, and the quality of its fresh fish, straight from the Mediterranean.
Demetrion Fish Tavern, located along the Finikoudes promenade in Larnaca, offers a stunning view of the beach along with its top-notch seafood. The tavern is known for its seabass, sea bream, and fresh lobster dishes. Their fish meze is a popular choice, providing a generous selection of grilled and fried fish, salads, and dips. The freshness of the seafood is a key highlight here, with catches brought in daily.
Why it’s a favourite: Its beachfront location and consistently high-quality seafood make Demetrion a must-visit for fish lovers in Larnaca.
A family-owned tavern tucked away in Limassol, To Steki Tis Lias is beloved for its cozy, authentic atmosphere and traditional Cypriot seafood dishes. The highlight here is the charcoal-grilled fish, particularly the grilled sea bream and calamari, served with fresh salads and local vegetables. The simplicity and authenticity of the dishes reflect the heart of Cypriot cooking.
Why you’ll love it: To Steki Tis Lias offers a rustic, homely dining experience with some of the freshest grilled seafood in Limassol.
Although part of a popular chain, Ocean Basket in Ayia Napa offers one of the best fish dining experiences in the area, with a wide variety of seafood platters. This tavern specialises in Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with favourites like grilled prawns, calamari, and seafood pasta. Their seafood platters are a great option for sharing and allow you to try multiple dishes in one sitting.
Why it’s popular: Ocean Basket stands out for its consistency, variety, and value for money, making it a great spot for families and groups.
Located in the bustling Ayia Napa Harbour, Vassos Fish Harbour Tavern offers an authentic experience with its wide range of fresh seafood, caught daily by local fishermen. The tavern is known for its whole grilled fish, king prawns, and seafood meze. With a picturesque view of the harbour, diners can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the boats come in.
Why it’s special: The harbour setting, combined with fresh, locally sourced seafood, makes Vassos a top choice for seafood enthusiasts visiting Ayia Napa.
Pyxida Fish Tavern brings fresh seafood to the capital city of Nicosia, offering high-quality dishes in a sophisticated setting. Specialising in both grilled and fried seafood, Pyxida’s menu includes fresh octopus, prawns, calamari, and a variety of fish. The fish is sourced from Cyprus's coastal waters, ensuring the highest quality. Their fish meze is a popular choice for those wanting to sample different flavours.
Why it’s worth visiting: Pyxida’s attention to detail, fresh ingredients, and upscale atmosphere make it one of the best fish taverns in Nicosia.
Located within the luxurious Amathus Beach Hotel, Limanaki Fish Tavern is known for offering a fine dining fish experience. The menu focuses on fresh, locally sourced fish and seafood, with options like grilled red mullet, swordfish, and seabass. Diners can enjoy their meal in an elegant setting overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Why it’s luxurious: Limanaki offers a refined seafood dining experience with exceptional service, making it a great spot for a special occasion.
Kalamies Fish Tavern, located right on the beach in Protaras, is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The tavern is known for its grilled fish and seafood pasta dishes, as well as its traditional fish meze. The beachfront setting adds to the charm, with stunning views of the sea providing the perfect backdrop for a seafood feast.
Why it’s a standout: The combination of excellent seafood and a beachfront location makes Kalamies the perfect spot for a relaxing, authentic Cypriot meal.
Tucked away in the quieter area of Kato Paphos, Kyrenia Fish Tavern offers a traditional Cypriot dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood. The tavern is known for its whole grilled fish, octopus, and seafood platters, served with local salads and side dishes. Kyrenia prides itself on using only the freshest ingredients, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere makes for a memorable dining experience.
Why it’s charming: Kyrenia’s emphasis on traditional recipes and its cozy, intimate setting make it a gem in the Paphos area.
Located in the Molos area of Limassol, this tavern offers a casual yet high-quality seafood dining experience. Known for its grilled prawns, calamari, and sea bream, Molos Fish Tavern is the go-to spot for fresh seafood right in the heart of the city. Its central location and lively atmosphere make it a favourite among both locals and tourists.
Why it’s a favourite: Molos Fish Tavern combines great seafood with a vibrant atmosphere, offering the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
Conclusion
Whether you’re craving grilled sea bream, succulent prawns, or a full seafood meze, Cyprus has no shortage of excellent fish taverns. From the bustling harbours of Ayia Napa and Limassol to the quiet coastal retreats of Paphos and Protaras, these ten fish taverns offer the best of Cypriot seafood cuisine, served fresh from the Mediterranean.
Your Turn: What’s Your Favourite Fish Tavern in Cyprus?
Have you visited any of these fish taverns, or do you have a favourite that did not make the list? We’d love to hear your recommendations. Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
This article provides an in-depth look at the best fish taverns across Cyprus, incorporating key locations and culinary highlights to appeal to seafood lovers. Let me know if you need further adjustments!
