Nestled in the historic streets of Ayios Dometios in Nicosia, Taverneio To Istorikon is a welcoming doorway into authentic Cypriot dining. The moment I stepped inside, the warm glow of the tavern and the inviting scent of grilling meat set the tone for a memorable meal. The place carries a cozy, traditional vibe—wooden tables, soft lighting, and walls dotted with vintage touches that whisper stories of the island’s past. It’s the kind of spot where locals drop in for a bite and a chat, and where visitors quickly feel at home. I arrived hungry and curious, drawn by the promise of classic Cypriot dishes. The staff welcomed me with genuine warmth, guiding me through a compact, well-curated menu that highlights the island’s culinary staples. The instagram handle @taverneio_to_istorikon was my first clue that this is a place with character and a connection to the local scene, and the atmosphere only reinforced that impression. After a short wait (not long at all), I was seated and ready to dive into the flavors of Cyprus. For the main, I couldn’t resist the signature souvlaki. The skewers were grilled to perfection—each piece showing a hint of smoky char and a juicy tenderness that spoke to careful marination and quality meat. It came with warm pita, a generous dollop of tzatziki, and a crisp, simple salad on the side. The combination was rustic, hearty, and incredibly satisfying: the meat sang with herbaceous notes, the tzatziki offered a cool contrast, and the pita pulled everything together into a satisfying, transportive bite. It’s exactly the kind of dish you crave on a Cyprus night—unpretentious, well-balanced, and deeply comforting. To accompany the main, I sampled a few small plates that gave a broader sense of Cypriot home cooking. A plate of olives and a small cheese pairing offered briny, creamy counterpoints to the meaty centerpiece, while a portion of lightly grilled halloumi brought a satisfying salt-squeezed bite that stretched into melty richness. Even with a simple mix of starters, the kitchen demonstrated a confident touch with textures and flavors—nothing flashy, just well-executed and delicious. Service was relaxed but attentive, striking a perfect balance between casual dining and attentive hospitality. The staff were ready with recommendations, offered helpful details about ingredients, and checked in at just the right moments so I never felt rushed. The pace of the meal felt comfortable, allowing me to savor each course and soak in the ambiance without feeling like I was on a timer. The overall vibe is friendly and unpretentious—exactly what you’d hope for in a neighborhood tavern that’s become a local staple. In terms of value, the experience felt fair for the quality and portion sizes. The dishes are designed to showcase Cypriot flavours without extravagance, and the result is a satisfying, affordable meal that makes you want to linger a little longer and plan your next visit. If you’re exploring Nicosia and want a genuine taste of the island’s cooking, Taverneio To Istorikon is a top pick that won’t disappoint. Tips for visiting: go with an appetite for sharing and a curiosity for simple, well-made Cypriot food. Consider trying a mix of the souvlaki with a few meze-style bites to get a broader sense of the flavors. The Ayios Dometios neighborhood is a charming historical area worth strolling through before or after your meal, adding a little local texture to your dining experience. And if you want to keep up with future visits or new dish ideas, you can check out the restaurant’s updates on their social handles, including @taverneio_to_istorikon. Overall, this spot proves why traditional Cypriot cooking remains a vibrant, comforting part of Nicosia’s culinary scene. A must-visit for anyone seeking authentic flavours, warm hospitality, and a true sense of place.