Sometimes, deciding which restaurant to review can be challenging, whilst on other occasions, it can be an easy, straightforward decision. That is what happened this week on one of our super-hot days when I had to meet my other half for lunch in town. The only stipulation was that it had to be air-conditioned. We both suggested Kourides. The restaurant is not open in the evenings but is perfect for breakfast or lunch.
Kourides is positioned opposite all the current monumental redevelopment works, and it was with relief we found the gravel car park was still there. The restaurant from the outside has no large signs, and you would be hard-pressed to recognise it as an eating establishment.
However, if you go through the gate, a terrace totally screened from the road awaits you. Little tables with taverna chairs and check tablecloths are cleverly positioned beneath strong ceiling fans. Go inside, and the air con joyfully hits you in the face, offering a welcome respite from the heat. The check table cloths continue inside with a central counter displaying the food. All areas were spotlessly clean.
We walked to the counter and were welcomed by the charming owner, Mr Andreas who was patient as we asked multiple questions about the displayed dishes. The menu changes daily, and there was a fabulous choice of 19 dishes on the day we visited. They are listed with eat-in and takeaway prices and offer a selection of main courses reflecting Cyprus’ timeless culinary traditions. Even the fussiest eater would be hard-pressed not to find something they loved on this menu. The primary prerequisite, though, is a passion for Cypriot cuisine, which was a delight for us. From Moussaka to Lamb Tavas, Fresh Black-Eyed Beans to Sea Bass, the menu offered a great choice at some of the best prices I have seen in a long time. The options are predominantly meat and fish, but vegetarians are also catered for.
Having made our food selection, we decided to sit on the terrace underneath one of the powerful fans, and surprisingly, it was very pleasant. A waiter delivered a plate of fresh whole cucumbers and tomatoes, halved lemons, pickled vegetables, and a basket containing a small village loaf of bread topped with sesame seeds. Then, our Lamb Tavas and Stuffed Zucchini Flowers arrived.
The Lamb Tavas was served with rice on the side, a winning dish. You will relish this version if you enjoy Moorish flavours. Generous chunks of tender lamb mixed with onions, tomatoes, and potatoes made an exceptional gastronomic experience. The other dish consisted of ten stuffed zucchini flowers and two flavoursome roast potatoes. Each flower was filled with an aromatic mix of minced pork and rice. Both dishes were authentic and reflected the tastes and aromas of Cypriot cuisine at its best. We fancied something sweet after the meal, but they do not do desserts; however, we were delighted to enjoy two spoon sweets.
Testament to the quality of the food was the fact that Kourides was full of locals with no tourists in sight. We enjoyed watching people go in and reappear with their brown paper takeaway bags. It looked like they came daily, and it was at this point I remembered the friend who introduced us to this little gem. She had exclaimed that it was too hot to cook in the summer, and after she and her husband finished work they went to Kourides and bought their food for lunch and supper. What a wise lady.
For us, it was enough we had remembered this restaurant for a quick and easy city lunch which offered great value. The bill, including a large beer and soft drink, came to €28. It is obviously not smart or flashy at these prices, but if you enjoy real Cypriot food, it is definitely worth a visit. The only advice for going to Kourides would be to get there early to select your desired dish before it sells out.
VITAL STATISTICS
SPECIALTY Cypriot
WHERE corner of Charalampou Mouskou, 1, Paphos
WHEN Daily 10am to 4pm
CONTACT 26 949182
HOW MUCH main courses from €7
