The Ten Sentences You Need

Most restaurants work in English. But in a Troodos village taverna with Greek-only menu: these sentences save the evening. Even in tourist restaurants: ordering in Greek gets a smile, a larger portion and sometimes a kerásma.

Key Phrases

"Éna trapézi gia dýo" (table for 2). "Ti protínete?" (what do you recommend?). "Tha páro..." (I'll have...). "Ton logariasmo" (the bill). "Ítan poli oréo!" (it was delicious!). "Yamas!" (cheers!).

This was exactly our experience: Key Phrases "Éna trapézi gia dýo" (table for 2). "Ti protínete?" (what do you recommend?). "Tha páro..." (I'll have...). "Ton logariasmo" (the bill). "Ítan poli oréo!" (it was delicious!). "Yamas!"...

– Couple from Leipzig, in Troodos since 2022

Deciphering the Menu

Mezédes (small dishes). Kréas (meat). Psári (fish). Arnί (lamb). Souvláki (skewers). Moussaká (aubergine casserole). Kléftiko (slow-roasted lamb). Patátes (potatoes). Glykó (dessert).

Ordering Meze

"Meze, parakaló" – and lean back. 8-15 dishes arrive: hummus, halloumi, souvlaki, kleftiko, salad. €18-30/person. Best introduction to Cypriot cuisine.

Ordering at a Restaurant in Greek

Locations: Troodos
Topics: The Ten Sentences You Need, Key Phrases, Deciphering the Menu

CMC Practical Tip

But in a Troodos village taverna with Greek-only menu: these sentences save the evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Must I order in Greek?

No – 90% have English menus. But Greek impresses and improves service.

What is Meze?

8-15 small dishes served sequentially. €18-30/person. Best way to experience Cypriot cuisine.

How much tip?

10% upscale. Simple taverna: round up or €1-2. Not obligatory but appreciated.

What is Kerásma?

Gift from the house – fruit, loukoumi or zivania after the meal. Sign of hospitality. Accept gratefully.

How CMC Supports You

At CMC Certus Management Consultants, we are here for you – not only for tax and legal questions, but also for all practical topics of everyday life in Cyprus. Our team in Larnaca and Pafos knows the local conditions first-hand.

As your local contact, we handle: company formation and management, tax advisory and Non-Dom applications, ongoing bookkeeping and tax returns, support with authorities, and referrals to estate agents, lawyers, doctors and tradespeople.

Further Reading