In the nostalgic setting of a village house, completely restored to its original glory, lies an authentic Cypriot taverna frequented by locals and tourists alike. There they can enjoy the most genuine of Cypriot homemade dishes, cooked in a most traditional way and served in a most enchanting atmosphere reminiscent of days gone by.

--a local (English) resident

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A friend had told me about this wonderful, very "Cypriot" restaurant before it was actually even open, and so I was quite enthusiastic to finally try it out. From Nicosia, where we live, it is a pleasant and not overly long ( 1+) drive to the village of Sotira. The setting is really very lovely, and the house has been most authentically and tastefully restored and decorated. The owner took time to show us around, pointing out many interesting features of restoration, and relating the uses and history of various artefacts that now serve as decorations.

The menu reads like the index to a Cypriot cookbook; I think almost every common and uncommon dish is served here---although, a word of warning---if a vegetable or specialty is not in season, you will not find it available. And that is how it should be. Only the freshest, seasonal, and organically grown produce is used in the kitchen here, just as in the traditional Cypriot kitchens of yesteryear.

We opted for the "meze", which I think is the truest test of a restaurant’s range and expertise, and we were not disappointed! At least 20 dishes appeared in succession, not too rapid succession, I might add, which gave us time to savor and enjoy each course. There was a wide variety of meats, fish, vegetable dishes, dips, oh, too many things to recall. The grills are outstanding, as were all the vegetable dishes. It was a real treat to have so many vegetables offered as part of meze, since usually they are quite neglected in favor of meats.

I would unreservedly recommend this restaurant, for the ambiance as much as the food.

A 3-course meal (or meze) for two, with a bottle of wine will not exceed------pounds.

At this writing, the restaurant is only open in the evenings, although it will take lunch reservations for banquets, receptions, and large groups. Live music is offered on Thursday evenings, and there are various exhibitions and events throughout the year.

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