Food Travel in Northern Cyprus: Exploring the Island's Delicious Cuisine and Best Restaurants

If you're a foodie looking for your next culinary adventure, Northern Cyprus is a must-visit destination. This small island in the Mediterranean is home to a vibrant food culture that blends Turkish and Mediterranean influences, resulting in a diverse range of flavors and dishes that are sure to delight your taste buds. In this blog post, we'll explore some of Northern Cyprus's most famous foods and restaurants, along with their average prices.

Kleftiko

One of the most iconic dishes in Northern Cyprus is Kleftiko, a slow-cooked lamb dish that's typically served with potatoes and vegetables. The lamb is cooked in a clay oven for several hours until it's tender and falls off the bone, resulting in a rich, flavorful dish that's perfect for meat lovers. You can find Kleftiko in most traditional Cypriot restaurants, and the average price is around €15-€20.

Meze

Another must-try food in Northern Cyprus is Meze, a selection of small dishes that are served as a starter or a main course. Meze typically includes a variety of dishes such as hummus, tzatziki, stuffed vine leaves, grilled halloumi cheese, and more. Meze is a great way to try a little bit of everything and experience the full range of Cypriot flavors. Meze is usually priced per person and ranges from €10 to €25 depending on the restaurant.

Lahmacun

If you're looking for a quick and tasty snack, Lahmacun is the perfect choice. Lahmacun is a thin, crispy flatbread that's topped with a mixture of minced meat, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It's usually served with a side of fresh herbs and lemon juice, which you can use to add some extra flavor to the dish. You can find Lahmacun in most street food stalls and bakeries, and the average price is around €2-€3.

Fish

Given its location in the Mediterranean, it's no surprise that Northern Cyprus is home to some of the freshest and most delicious seafood dishes. You can find a wide variety of fish and seafood in most restaurants, including sea bass, sea bream, octopus, squid, and more. Some of the best seafood restaurants in Northern Cyprus are located in Kyrenia and Famagusta, and the average price for a seafood dish is around €20-€25.

Top Restaurants in Northern Cyprus

In addition to the traditional Cypriot restaurants that serve local dishes, Northern Cyprus is also home to a growing number of international restaurants that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are some of the top restaurants to check out in Northern Cyprus:

• Niazi's Restaurant (Kyrenia): This restaurant is famous for its authentic Cypriot dishes, including Kleftiko, Meze, and fresh seafood. The prices are reasonable, with main courses starting at €10.

• Al Shaheen (Famagusta): Al Shaheen is a Lebanese restaurant that offers a variety of Middle Eastern dishes such as falafel, hummus, and kebabs. The prices are affordable, with most dishes priced around €10-€15.

• Bella Moon Restaurant (Kyrenia): If you're looking for a fine dining experience, Bella Moon is the perfect choice. This restaurant offers a range of international dishes such as steak, pasta, and seafood, along with an extensive wine list. The prices are on the higher side, with main courses starting at €20.

• Nargilem Cafe & Restaurant (Kyrenia): This restaurant is known for its beautiful garden setting and traditional Turkish cuisine. They offer a variety of meat and vegetarian dishes, including kebabs, stews, and salads. The prices are reasonable, with most main courses priced around €10-€15.

• Lambusa Palace (Guzelyurt): Lambusa Palace is a popular hotel and restaurant that's located in a beautiful coastal setting. They offer a range of international dishes such as pizza, pasta, and burgers, along with Cypriot specialties such as Kleftiko and Meze. The prices are on the higher side, with main courses starting at €20.

In conclusion, Northern Cyprus offers a rich and diverse food culture that's sure to satisfy any foodie's cravings. From traditional Cypriot dishes such as Kleftiko and Meze to international cuisines like Lebanese and Italian, there's something for everyone. With its beautiful coastal settings, charming villages, and bustling cities, Northern Cyprus is the perfect destination for a food travel adventure. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and start exploring the delicious flavors of Northern Cyprus!