Just a 25-minute drive from Limassol, Kellaki Taverna sits nestled in the rolling Cypriot countryside, a beautiful spot that recently undergone a thoughtful renovation. With a brand-new menu to match the refreshed ambience, we simply had to swing by and see what the fuss was about. From the moment we turned off the main road and wound through the olive groves toward Kellaki, the setting already promised something special. The exterior blends rustic stone with warm, modern touches, and a softly lit terrace invites you to linger as the valley lights glow in the distance. Inside, the dining room feels welcoming and contemporary—the kind of space that respects its rural roots while giving you a touch of urban comfort: exposed wooden beams, clean lines, and seats that make you want to settle in for a long, satisfying meal. A quick glance at the open kitchen gave us a sense of the care that goes into each plate, and a friendly host guided us to a sunlit table with a view that stretched across vineyards and fields. We started with something simple and perfect for the moment—a basket of crusty bread accompanied by olive oil, a tangy tomato dip, and a few olives. It was the kind of starter that invites you to slow down and savor the journey, not just the destination. The bread was warm and chewy on the inside, with a crackling crust that made every bite feel like a small celebration. The olive oil had a grassy, peppery bite that lingered pleasantly on the palate. As the new Kellaki menu was still a revelation to us, we opted for a small tasting from their Meze-inspired lineup to share. The dishes arrived in a thoughtful progression—each plate warming the table and sparking conversation. Grilled halloumi, with its smoky edges and a squeeze of lemon, offered a delightful contrast of textures: crisp on the outside, yielding inside, with that signature salty bite that Cypriot cheese lovers adore. A fresh tomato-and-cucumber salad provided a bright, zippy counterpoint, dressed with a light hand and plenty of local herbs. There was also a seasonal warm starter, a small plate of vegetables roasted to perfection, their sweetness amplified by a touch of olive oil and oregano. For the main courses, we let the kitchen’s spirit of tradition meet a modern touch. A couple of standout dishes spoke to Kellaki’s renewed identity: a centerpiece of grilled meat with char and herbaceous brightness, and a lighter, herb-forward chicken option that felt both comforting and contemporary. The meats were tender, with a good smoky aroma from the grill, and each bite carried a depth of seasoning that felt natural and not overpowering. The vegetarian option (a dish built around vegetables that felt almost caramelized, with a silky sauce and aromatic herbs) reminded us that the new menu doesn’t lean on clichés but instead elevates fresh produce and simple techniques. To accompany the plates, we enjoyed a glass of local wine—Cyprus is known for wines that pair beautifully with heartier tavern flavors, and Kellaki’s list offered both familiar favorites and new discoveries. A crisp Xynisteri white provided a refreshing lift to the seafood and salads, while a deeper red matched the grilled dishes with ease. If you’re into spirits, you’ll also find regional specialties on the drinks board, but we stuck to wine and water, letting the food lead the evening. Dessert was a gentle reminder that good meals deserve a sweet finish. We shared a classic baklava, its layers flaky and honeyed, with a few crushed pistachios adding a final crunch. A small espresso followed, the aroma rich and comforting, sealing the experience in a way that felt almost ceremonial. As the sun began to dip, Kellaki’s terrace offered a view worth lingering for—a panorama of vineyards, cultivated hills, and the soft glow of the countryside. The renovation has clearly been done with care: the space feels brighter, more intimate, and more versatile, perfect for a relaxed dinner for two or a convivial family meal. The service was consistently attentive without being intrusive, with servers who were happy to share insights about the menu and the ingredients, giving us a sense of the region’s producers and cooking traditions. If you’re navigating from Limassol and need a countryside escape that still nods to modern dining, Kellaki Taverna is a worthy stop. The new menu balances traditional Cypriot flavors with refined execution, and the setting makes it just as enjoyable to linger over conversation as it is to rush home with a full stomach and a happy heart. It’s a place that feels built for memorable evenings—whether you’re crossing a casual weekday or planning a weekend outing with friends or loved ones. Pro tips: - Address and Instagram: Kellaki Taverna, @kellaki.taverna. A quick check-in on social can reveal the day’s specials and any seasonal tweaks to the menu. - Parking and getting there: It’s easy to park and the drive from Limassol is a pleasant hour’s escape, especially around golden hour. - Reservations: Consider booking ahead, especially on weekends, to secure a table with the best view. - Perfect for: Couples seeking a tranquil countryside retreat, and groups or families who appreciate quality cooking with a rustic-chic atmosphere. In short, Kellaki Taverna’s renovation plus its brand-new menu make it a compelling destination for anyone in the Limassol area looking for a scenic drive and a memorable, unpretentious dining experience.