Paphos dining divides sharply between Kato Paphos (harbor area, more touristy) and Ktima/Old Town (upper Paphos, where locals eat). The strongest recommendations cluster in Ktima, where a renaissance of independent restaurants has transformed the old market area.
The Lodge Steak & Seafood Co.
Paphos's premier steakhouse, run by a South African couple. Charcoal-grilled dry-aged steaks, Mozambique piri-piri prawns, Jim Beam-glazed ribs. Triple-fried chips are legendary. Upstairs cocktail lounge with live music nightly.
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Sala Thai
The go-to Thai restaurant in the Paphos region since 2016. Expert Thai chefs, customizable spice levels — green curry, pad Thai, crispy duck, tom yam. A welcome change from Cypriot cuisine.
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Laona Restaurant
Family-run since 1986 by chef-owner Andreas, who writes a daily blackboard menu of 8+ dishes. The best kleftiko in Paphos. Chicken in ouzo, pork chop in brandy, complimentary coconut cake dessert. Featured in Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph, Time Out Cyprus.
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Agora Tavern
No-menu set meze recently relocated to a cliff-edge position with panoramic sea views from a vine-covered wraparound terrace. Modern-vintage 70s decor in a striking pink building. Outstanding cocktails alongside the meze.
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Koutourou Ouzeri
A chic modern twist on Cypriot cuisine in a restored vintage building. The oven-baked halloumi with honey is legendary. Daily changing menu. Two sittings nightly (~6:45 PM and ~9 PM). Fills nightly even in winter.
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Konia Tavern
A beloved locals' haunt that most tourists never find. Famous 20-course meze, live traditional music, and napkin-throwing revelry on Saturday nights. This is where Cypriot families celebrate birthdays and name days.
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7 St. George's Tavern
A unique no-menu experience where hosts Ben and Damian bring ~20 small dishes to the table over two hours. Everything fresh, organic, locally sourced. Fodor's Choice. Open March–November only.
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Mandra Tavern
One of Paphos's oldest restaurants, in the historic stone house of a local priest. Rustic atmosphere with 19th-century photos, live music evenings, lush vegetation. 'The best moussaka in Paphos.'
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Christos Grill & Seafood
Operating since 1984, with bird's-eye views across Kato Paphos and the Mediterranean. Perfectly grilled octopus, whole sea bass, fresh seafood platters. One of the best-value seafood options in town.
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Passione Wine Bar & Food
150+ bottles, 40+ by the glass. Mortadella mousse cannoli, tuna Wellington with beurre blanc, tiramisu with coffee 'caviar.' One of the only Paphos venues on OpenTable. Designer interior by international studio S+S.
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Nola
A stylish day-to-night concept opened 2022. Frida Kahlo mural behind the bar. Standout Halloumi Wellington (puff pastry with spinach and mushrooms), creative cocktails. Great sunset views from the terrace. Pet-friendly outdoor seating.
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Hondros Taverna
Paphos's oldest taverna, still family-run. Charcoal spit-roasting visible from the entrance. Classic moussaka, souvla, sheftalia, calamari, fish meze. Near the harbor but genuine enough to attract locals.
View & Book →Booking tip: Online booking is nearly nonexistent in Paphos — only The Lodge (Resos) and Passione (OpenTable) offer platform-based reservations. For everywhere else, call ahead — especially for weekend evenings.