Charming Inn
It was my absolute pleasure to finally catch up with Phil for a chat. Coming outta my old manor, Walthamstow in East London, Phil has been visiting Cyprus for over 20 years, and like many, fell in love with this rock, and finally decided to move here 3 years ago, buying this charming little Inn …
Once a hostel
It was once used by The Art College, and boasts a perfect fusion of traditional British hospitality and your more modern comforts, in fact, Harry’s Inn offers a memorable experience to anyone who steps through its doors.
The Hub
It’s totally unique, nestled right in the bustling center of Larnaca, aka The Hub of Cyprus, this little hidden gem called Harry’s Inn, is very fitting in this ‘port of old’, with its warm and inviting ambiance. When you first see it, it looks really cozy, the roof covered in Crimson flowers, a couple of tables out front, and blackboards presenting the menu and specials of the day, then as you step inside, it’s sort of comfy cafe’ bar style, and lots of pictures of old and memorabilia everywhere. I love the huge book rack, where you can just grab or swap a book to read while you chill out with a glass of wine, coffee, or G&T.
Courtyard
Then step out back, the pièce de résistance, an absolutely enchanting courtyard, mature trees, plants, and foliage everywhere, a red trellis adorning a multitude of colours … It’s become a lively meeting spot for locals to unwind after a busy day. The warm glow of twinkling fairy lights adds an enchanting touch to the already picturesque setting.
The Inn
Over a delicious Nespresso coffee, Phil told me how it all happened; “it was shortly after I lost my wife, and I wanted to find a place, but one that I could do up a bit. Then a friend came on holiday to Cyprus and saw this place and sent me a message and photos and I came and took a look and fell in love with it. I wanted an old traditional Cypriot house and we’ve tried to keep it looking as original as possible. We’ve kept it Boutique style with just 5 Cosy Double Air-conditioned Rooms at the Inn” … he laughed as he said; “and to think, I almost went to Blackpool!!!”
Different @ The Inn
Phil showed me around and I must say I was more than pleasantly surprised, the bedrooms tidy and quaint, with modern shower rooms, TVs, and all the expected amenities. The designated areas for the Inn’s guests included a more private terrace with a cool coffee-making area, that was just that little bit more personal and a credit to Phill’s vision to offer something more than a little bit different at the Inn!
Passion
I have to just say; ‘Phil is no ordinary proprietor; he is the heart and soul of this cherished establishment’. Known for his unwavering passion for people, and his genuine love for his craft, Phil’s presence instantly puts you at ease. Guests will often find Phil mingling with visitors, sharing stories of the Inn’s rich history and the town’s cultural heritage.
Vision
Phil’s journey as a hospitality entrepreneur actually began a decade ago when he found this quaint inn. Then the pandemic allowed him to do a little more refurbishment, with a vision to create a haven where patrons could escape the city’s chaos and find solace, Phil poured his heart into transforming the Inn into the cozy retreat it is today. His commitment to preserving the inn’s traditional charm while integrating modern conveniences has earned him a stellar reputation among the locals.
Enchanting
As the sun sets over Larnaca, the inn’s courtyard becomes a lively meeting spot for locals to unwind after a busy day. The warm glow of twinkling fairy lights adds an enchanting touch to the already picturesque setting.
Behind the Bar
Naturally stocking all your favourite tipples, with imported brand-named spirits and local beers and Magner’s cider on draught, but then let’s keep it different, the Real Ales, Bishops Fingers, and Spitfire from a little brewery in Kent … plus John Smiths, and Guinness in cans.
Munchies
Beyond its welcoming atmosphere, Harry’s Inn is also very well known for its British-influenced cuisine, with an Asian twist. Phil’s love for local ingredients and traditional recipes is evident in every dish served. The menu is a delightful culinary journey through Cyprus’s flavours, with a British influence twisting all the way to Asia, all homemade to order with a passion, by head chef Angie from the Philippines.
Homemade
It’s mostly finger food style, things like Spring Rolls with homemade sweet and sour sauce, her dumplings are delightful, her Chicken Curry is a must try and her Beef in Blackbean sauce is a tastebud explosion … I love one of their top sellers, her Sticky Chicken Satay with homemade peanut sauce or her traditional homemade Sausage Rolls with proper pork sausage!
Sunday
It’s still traditionally British so expect to find a delicious Sunday Lunch; a choice of 2 meats, or a mix of both, fresh seasonal vegetables, delicious dumplings, roast potatoes, and sage & onion stuffing, with gravy of course … oh and, the occasional Sunday Sessions!
Sports
It’s a great place to catch the football match, with 3 Big Screen TVs, you’ll often find two different games or sports on at the same time, the atmosphere is usually electric … I asked if there was a favourite team?, and Phil said; “Well, not really but after Keith closed the Personality Pub all the Chelsea lot came here so, its sort of bias to blue” … And we’re in talks to make it the Official Cyprus Chelsea Supporters Club, I’m a Chelsea boy myself so I know where I’m going to watch the game! … You can also grab a game of Chess or Backgammon or a pack of cards to while away the hours.
Entertainment
There’s regular events with occasional live music, like The Gypsy Boys, Lady & The Tramps, and one of my faves Jay Mercury … They also throw BBQ Nights and celebrate all the special days and that includes Christmas and New Year, British style! … just brilliant!
Memories
Harry’s Inn is not just a place to dine and relax; it is a sanctuary where memories are created and cherished. Phil’s warm personality and attention to detail ensure that every guest leaves with a smile and a longing to return soon.
Finally
So, if you find yourself either staying in Larnaca or doing a bit of shopping or you’re just strolling the streets of this beautiful city, take a moment to experience the magic of Harry’s Inn. Whether it’s savoring delicious cuisine, basking in the cozy ambiance, or sharing a heartwarming conversation with Phil, this little corner of Larnaca promises an experience that will linger in your heart long after you’ve departed … Check out their Facebook Reviews and their TripAdvisor Reviews
Open All Year
Hotel: 24/7
Bars & Restaurants
Summer: Daily 2 pm ’til late
Winter: Daily 4 pm ’til late
August
Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays
Directions
You’ll find Harry’s Inn at Thermopilon 2, Larnaca 6023 … it’s in the centre of Larnaca, just around the corner from the general post office and close to 1900 Art Cafe … Click on the Google map icon below …
GPS: 34.916499, 33.635663
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