What's On Cyprus

As you all know, I love to tell you about my favourite finds, and in my hunt to discover the best beachside bars and eateries in Cyprus, this one is without a doubt one of my favourites, and I was more than pleasantly surprised when I found out that it's strongly linked to Paragka Beach Bar on Trinity Bay in Ayia Triada Bay, Pernera

It's getting busier down here these days, with such a choice of cuisines and ambience,  many non residents are taking advantage of such a wonderful setting with a delightful backdrop and you don't have to make your mind up which one of them you'll visit first!

I was thrilled to finally get a chance to catch up with Zannetos at Fig Tree Bay Zefkas George & Son Restaurant, and I was amazed to learn that the history of Fig Tree Bay actually started here ... This beach, of course, has always been popular with the locals way before tourism really existed. Situated on the far west of Famagusta Bay, where the locals went to get away from it all, in the days when there was absolutely nothing here but sand and a few footprints ... Click here for a reaal cool insight to this landmark on Fig Tree Bay, Protaras ... with a Map & More ...

There are loads of beach bars in Cyprus, and then there’s Nissi Bay Beach Bar … it's the kind of place that instantly reminds you why Ayia Napa became one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic summer destinations back in the early 90’s.  Sitting directly opposite the Nissi, aka the island, on the white sands of Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa, this legendary hotspot blends tropical beach-club energy with unmistakable Cypriot summer madness.  And honestly, the moment I first stepped onto the sand with a cocktail in my hand and the bassline from the DJ booth rolling across the bay, I understood exactly why this place is so unique.

Literally on the quay, so you can paddle your toes in the sea and feed the fish, make use of the free Wifi as you sip your coffee, an ice cold beer, afternoon G'n'T or fresh Strawberry Daiquiri and arguably the best Margaritas you'll ever taste ... then savour the freshest Fish Meze on the harbour ... it really is a cut above the rest with panoramic views that stretch to Cape Greco especially at sunset, it's an explosion of colours ...

It's a picturesque setting, with the restaurant literally on the riverbank, overlooking the fishing shelter, on the estuary of the Liopetri River aka 'Potamos', with stunning views stretching all the way to Cape Greko.  Inside, traditional, comfortable seating, fresh fish fridges, old photos on walls, and outside on the terrace with decking, where their two fishing boats are docked, seating for around 150 diners, lined with umbrellas for a little shade, and with the sea just a few metres away. you couldn't find a more perfect setting to eat fish!  btw, Haris and Margaritas' grandfather Nicolas opened this delightful beachside location in Potamos 50 years ago, so all the local fishermen could enjoy their days' catch, and btw, they still do.

I love what they've done to this place from the décor to the menu, to the relaxed ambience and attenuative service, with sea views to die for, by day or by night!  I've definitely be put them on one of my top places to eat, drink and relax, even if it's just for a coffee with apple tart or just a cocktail.

I've known the infamous consultant chef Louis Papageorgiou since he opened Di Capilla Seaside Stories in 2005.  It was my absolute pleasure to interview him, without a doubt one of Cyprus' finest chefs, this guy is seriously on another level.  These days, he's writing a new chapter, purely by accident, in 2010 he met and partnered up with Savvas, a master of hospitality, whom I've known since his Napa days in 1993 ... and together they started a new story ...

The setting is as good as on the beach, it's a traditional village house with alcoves and arches edging the shaded patio out front, overlooking the beautiful Mediterranean sea.  The ambience is relaxed outside and continues inside, with comfy lounge style sofas and 4 huge TV screens to watch all the live sports, there's a pool room with plenty of seating and two lovely open fires to keep your toes warm in the winter.

I've had the pleasure to work closely with this impeccable hotel since 1993.  To be honest if you ever stay here, there's a very good chance you'll go back!  I think its because it's still a family run hotel, with many of their staff staying long enough to be family and its without a doubt regarded as one of Cyprus's finest hotels.  In fact, they were recently awarded a Trip Advisor Travelers' Choice Award for 2021 to add to an ever increasing impressive list of awards over the years.