The best restaurants in Northern Cyprus

• North Cyprus Cuisine
• Restaurants in Kyrenia
• Restaurants in Iskele
• Restaurants in Bogaz
• Restaurants in Famagusta
• Restaurants in Lefkosa
• Restaurants in Karpas
• Summary and Tips

North Cyprus Cuisine

North Cyprus is known for its diverse cuisine, combining Greek traditions, British influence, and the culture of Turkish Cypriots. You should try:

• fresh fish and seafood (often served as meze);
• meat dishes with lavash and ayran;
• cold coffee by the sea, fresh fruits, and salads;
• Halloumi cheese — the island’s main gastronomic symbol.

Restaurants in Kyrenia

Kyrenia hosts a wide variety of establishments, from European cafes to seaside fish taverns.

• The House — stylish interior, European cuisine.
• Basilic — Italian pasta and pizza.
• Cafe George — British pub in the city center.
• Azra Claire’s — Chinese and Thai cuisine, sushi, and tom yum.
• Trattoria Vineyard restaurant — Italian cuisine restaurant.

• BarDuck — gastrobar focusing on Russian cuisine, homemade appetizers, and cozy atmosphere. Great for gatherings and a relaxed evening.
• De Niro’s — restaurant with European and Turkish dishes, cozy interior, and calm ambiance, suitable for family dinners.
• Niazi’s — iconic Kyrenia spot, famous for its signature kebabs and generous portions. A true North Cyprus classic.
• Archway Restaurant — traditional Cypriot cuisine in an atmospheric interior, popular with those seeking authentic dishes.
• Bellapais Gardens Restaurant — boutique hotel restaurant, exquisite presentation of dishes, stunning sea and mountain views.
• Driftwood — beachside restaurant with European and Turkish cuisine, ideal for lunch by the sea and sunset dinners.
• Real Kitchen — modern restaurant emphasizing fresh ingredients, light and healthy dishes, suitable for everyday dinner.
• Hector’s Pizza — cozy spot with delicious pizza, grilled meats, and hearty dishes. Fast delivery available.
• Calamari — seafood restaurant on the shore in Lapta, known for its calamari, meze, and panoramic sea views.

• Kasaba da Kahvaltı — a café specializing in breakfast. Wide selection of fresh dishes; many consider it the best breakfast spot in Girne.
• Dolce İtalian Restaurant & Bar — Italian restaurant with pasta, pizza, cozy interior, and a rich drinks menu.
• Kybele — restaurant near Bellapais Abbey, famous for its steaks, also visited for stunning views and romantic atmosphere.
• Kıbet Steak House — a meat lover’s restaurant: excellent steaks, including chicken, with signature mushroom and cheese sauces.
• Gillham Tapas-Wine Bar — wine bar and restaurant in one: snacks, creative cuisine, and an excellent wine list.
• Black Horse Bar — bar with home-style cooking, mainly Russian dishes. Simple and cozy atmosphere.
• Ekler Pastry Cafe — European-style café, serving tasty meals and especially popular desserts.
• Turan Restaurant — spacious restaurant with Central Asian cuisine, generous portions, and billiard tables.
• Sea Point — seaside fish restaurant with a pier; guests praise the fresh fish and amazing views.
• Suna’s Beach — beachside restaurant serving a variety of dishes; after dining, you can go straight down to the sea.
• Mano — probably the best Asian cuisine.
• Chinese House — Chinese cuisine and sushi bar.
• Peri's Fish Restaurant — fish restaurant.
• Movie cafe — cinema café with European and homemade cuisine.

İskele Restaurants

• Courtyard Delicious — Turkish and international cuisine, generous portions.
• Luca — family café with pizza and meat dishes.
• Café Paris & Bakery — popular spot for breakfast and snacks.

• Epic Burger — burgers and snacks, fast service.

Bogaz Restaurants

• Azul — fish and meat, fresh portions.
• Hilltop — steaks and cozy atmosphere.
• Mia Bella — Italian cuisine, pasta and pizza.
• Seasons Restaurant — European cuisine restaurant with elegant presentation; pleasant atmosphere but slightly above-average prices.

Restaurants in Famagusta

• Aspava — restaurant with traditional Turkish cuisine and a pleasant interior. They serve hearty meat and vegetable dishes in the best Turkish traditions.
• Petek Pastanesi — legendary pastry shop of Famagusta. Famous for its desserts, pastries, and sweets loved by both tourists and locals.
• La Terrazza — hotel restaurant with stunning views of the sea and the city. Onion soup and beautifully presented dishes are especially recommended.

• The Palm House — stylish venue with a sea view. Popular for its interior and atmosphere, but not always reliably open, so it's advisable to check in advance.
• Fa Kebab — restaurant focused on meat dishes. Large portions, rich and hearty flavors — classic Turkish cuisine.
• The Shamrock — bar with hookahs, burgers, and friendly atmosphere. Great place for an evening with friends.
• Zagato — restaurant with diverse cuisine, tasty dishes, and modern design. Cocktails and stylish atmosphere are especially noted.
• Old Plane — restaurant in the City Mall shopping center. Varied menu, suitable for quick snacks or a relaxed dinner.

Restaurants in Lefkoşa

• Lush — cuisine and cocktail bar in a modern interior.
• The Kitchen by Mardo — European cuisine and ice cream.
• Califorian — pasta, steaks, pizza, desserts.
• Bigos — popular burger place, Mozaic dessert is recommended.
• Burger Toons — burgers with vibrant presentation.

Restaurants in Karpas

• Yannagis Restaurant — famous for kleftiko.
• Hemingway's Restobar — international and traditional Cypriot cuisine.

Summary and Tips

In North Cyprus, it’s easy to find traditional meze, Turkish meat dishes, and European restaurants. From bakeries to beach bars with cocktails — the choice is vast. It’s important to check the current status of venues: some older restaurants have closed or changed format.

The full list of cafes and restaurants can be found here. (information is updated regularly)