Makris Restaurant

Set in the Troodos mountain village of Moniatis near Platres, Makris Restaurant is a long-established family tavern serving authentic Cypriot cuisine. Guests are welcomed with toasted village bread, olive oil and oregano before diving into generous mezedes, dips and fresh village salads. The kitchen is best known for its grills and traditional dishes: sheftalia, boneless marinated chicken, roasted chicken, lamb, kotsi and makaronia tou fournou, rounded off with baklava.

Portions are generous and service is friendly and quick, with staff happy to make recommendations. The setting shifts with the seasons: two verandas make the most of warm-weather dining, while a spacious interior warmed by fireplaces creates a cosy, welcoming mood in winter and around Christmas. Wherever you sit, the surrounding mountains and greenery provide a peaceful, scenic backdrop.

A favourite stop for locals heading up from Limassol and for hikers exploring the Troodos, it earns consistent praise for quality, value and atmosphere. Reservations are recommended, especially at weekends and during the festive season.