A meal of fresh fish and seafood by the sea is one of the quintessential dining experiences in Cyprus.
From long-established family-run taverns to contemporary seafood restaurants, the island offers plenty of options for enjoying freshly caught fish, seafood meze and creative dishes, often in beautiful coastal settings.
Here are some fish taverns and seafood restaurants to consider in different districts across Cyprus.
Famagusta district
Kalamies Restaurant, Protaras
One of Protaras’ longest-standing destinations for fish and seafood, Kalamies Restaurant in Pernera has been attracting diners for around 46 years.
Its idyllic seaside setting offers views of the Mediterranean and the distinctive blue-and-white chapel of Agios Nikolaos. The restaurant has remained at the same location for three generations of owners, establishing itself as a landmark in the area.
The menu, largely created by owner and chef Maria Zachariadou Moustaka, focuses on quality ingredients, fresh produce and creative, authentic flavours.
Fresh mussels, scallops sautéed in butter and lemon, tuna tartare and salmon carpaccio are among the seafood options. Another speciality is the halloumi doughnuts served with honey.
The menu also includes salads, pasta, Cypriot dishes and grilled options, catering to diners who prefer meat or follow vegetarian or vegan diets.
The restaurant also offers a selection of wines and cocktails, while the traditional Istanbul-style künefe makes for a sweet ending.
+357 23 831145
Where: Pernera, Protaras
Opening hours: Daily, 11:00–23:00 (kitchen)
Paphos district
Yiangos & Peter, Latchi
A long-standing name in Latchi, Yiangos & Peter offers fresh fish and seafood in a relaxed setting overlooking the harbour.
The restaurant features a distinctive island-inspired interior, while its terrace beside the pedestrian walkway offers views of the fishing boats and the Akamas forest. The setting is particularly appealing around sunset.
Among the dishes worth trying are the fresh mussels served with wine or ouzo, as well as the restaurant’s mussels saganaki.
+357 26 321411
Where: Akamantos Avenue, Latchi Harbour
Larnaca district
Pentaschoinos Fish Tavern, Agios Theodoros
At Pentaschoinos, diners can enjoy both traditional fish tavern favourites and more contemporary seafood dishes.
Chef Konstantinos Theodorou is behind the restaurant’s updated menu, which includes generous fish meze as well as more refined options. The fish is caught daily by the restaurant’s own fishing boats.
Among the more distinctive dishes are sea bass ceviche, red mullet tartare, seafood risotto and pasta, and sea bass carpaccio.
The family-run tavern has been operating since 1983, with quantity, variety and quality forming the foundation of its offering.
Two of its must-try dishes are the fish soup and prawn saganaki.
Located at Agios Theodoros beach, the tavern is around 10 minutes from the Zygi coastal road and is also within easy reach of Larnaca, Limassol and Nicosia.
+357 24 440044
Where: Agios Theodoros Beach, 7737 Agios Theodoros, Larnaca
Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, 12:00–22:30; Sunday, 12:00–17:30. Closed Wednesday.
Limassol district
Jimmy’s Killer Prawns, Potamos Germasogeias
For those looking for a seafood experience centred around bold flavours, Jimmy’s Killer Prawns specialises in its signature prawn dishes and sauces.
One of the highlights on the menu is the seafood boil, a generous combination of seafood served in a rich, flavourful sauce. The restaurant currently promotes its Cajun and buttery Cajun versions, making it an option for both individual diners and those looking to share.
The menu also features a broad selection of seafood, sushi and grilled dishes, including ribs, steaks and chicken.
The restaurant is part of the international Jimmy’s Killer Group, which was founded in South Africa and has more than 40 locations worldwide.
+357 25 212921
Where: Amerikanas 2 Street, Limassol 4040
From traditional taverns to contemporary seafood
Whether you prefer a classic fish meze, freshly caught fish straight from the grill or more contemporary dishes such as ceviche and tartare, Cyprus offers plenty of options for seafood lovers.
From the harbour of Latchi and the coastline of Protaras to the beaches of Agios Theodoros and Limassol’s Potamos Germasogeias, these fish taverns offer different settings and menus while putting fresh seafood at the centre of the experience.
Also read: Stuck in Nicosia this August? Here’s what to do
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