Hondros Tavern is one of the oldest and most traditional taverns in Paphos, offering a proper taste of Cypriot hospitality, generous food, and family style dining. Located on Apostolou Pavlou Avenue, close to the Paphos Archaeological Park and the famous mosaics, it is a convenient and memorable stop for anyone exploring the historic heart of the city.
What makes it special
Experience authentic Cypriot cuisine at the oldest traditional tavern in Paphos.
grilled meats, salads, and dips., with enjoy fresh homemade dishes including meze.
Savoring a friendly dining experience while taste mouthwatering specialties like calamari.
This is not a place built around trends or polished tourist presentation. Hondros is loved for its history, its relaxed courtyard setting, its hearty portions, and its classic Cypriot dishes that bring people together around the table.
The Oldest Traditional Tavern in Paphos
Hondros has been part of the Paphos dining scene for decades, with a reputation built on consistency, tradition, and generous hospitality. The tavern captures the feeling of old Cyprus, where meals are social, unrushed, and full of flavour.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a good choice for families, couples, groups of friends, and visitors who want to experience traditional Cypriot food in a setting with real local character. The rustic decor, open courtyard, and friendly service all add to the feeling that you are eating somewhere with a story.
The Food at Hondros Tavern
The menu at Hondros is centred around traditional Cypriot cuisine, with a wide choice of meze, grilled meats, seafood, dips, salads, and slow cooked local dishes. Portion sizes are generous, so it is a good place to arrive hungry.
The meze is one of the main reasons people visit. It usually brings a long sequence of small dishes to the table, allowing guests to enjoy the variety and rhythm of Cypriot dining. Dips, salads, olives, pitta, grilled halloumi, mushrooms, sausages, vine leaves, courgette fritters, barbecued meats, and slow cooked dishes can all be part of the experience.
Signature favourites often associated with Hondros include kleftiko, stifado, souvlaki, sheftalia, grilled lamb, octopus, prawns, and freshly prepared seafood. Each dish reflects the simple but deeply satisfying style of Cypriot tavern cooking.
A Proper Cypriot Meze Experience
A meal at Hondros is best enjoyed slowly, especially if you order meze. In Cyprus, meze is not just a collection of dishes. It is a shared experience, designed for conversation, tasting, and taking your time.
The meal often begins with lighter plates such as hummus, yoghurt based dips, skordalia, aubergine dip, tomato salad, olives, cabbage, carrots, and warm pitta. More dishes then follow, from grilled halloumi and loukanika to mushrooms, vine leaves, barbecued meats, and rich slow cooked specialities.
By the end, the table feels like a celebration of local flavours. It is the kind of meal that works especially well for groups, but couples can enjoy it too, as long as they are ready for a generous feast.
Atmosphere and Setting
Hondros has a relaxed, traditional atmosphere with a charming courtyard and rustic Cypriot character. Outdoor seating is especially enjoyable during the warmer months, giving guests the chance to dine in a more open and casual setting.
The restaurant has a friendly, lively energy, particularly when families and groups gather for lunch or dinner. It feels comfortable rather than formal, which is exactly what makes it appealing. This is a tavern where the food, the service, and the setting all work together to create a genuine local experience.
Why Visit Hondros Tavern?
Hondros is a strong choice if you want traditional Cypriot food in Paphos with history, generous portions, and a proper tavern atmosphere. Its location near the archaeological sites makes it ideal after sightseeing, especially if you want a relaxed lunch before continuing your day in the city.
It is also a good option for anyone who wants to experience Cypriot meze in a classic setting. The food is hearty, the service is warm, and the atmosphere has the easy charm of a long established local favourite.
Location and Contact Details
Hondros Tavern is located on Apostolou Pavlou Avenue, Paphos 8040, Cyprus.
For reservations, you can contact the tavern on +357 26934256.
Opening Hours
Hondros Tavern is generally open daily from 12:00 to 23:00.
Opening hours can change during holidays or quieter periods, so it is always worth calling ahead before visiting, especially if you are planning a group meal.
Prices and Reservations
Meze prices are usually in the region of 28 to 35 euros per person, depending on whether you choose meat, fish, or vegetarian options. A selection of dips may also be available separately.
Reservations are highly recommended, particularly during busy times, weekends, and peak travel season. Booking ahead is especially useful for groups or anyone hoping to sit outside in the courtyard.
Takeaway and Delivery
Hondros offers dine in service, and takeaway may also be available for guests who prefer to enjoy their meal elsewhere. Delivery availability can depend on current partners and operating times, so it is best to check directly with the tavern before ordering.
Insider Tips
- Order the meze if you want the full traditional Cypriot experience.
- Arrive hungry, as the portions are generous.
- Book ahead during busy periods, especially for lunch or dinner with a group.
- Visit after exploring the Paphos Archaeological Park, as the tavern is close by.
- Leave room for dessert if you can, although the meze may make that a heroic challenge.
Hondros Tavern Reviews
Visitors often praise Hondros for its authentic Cypriot food, generous portions, welcoming service, and traditional atmosphere. The meze is frequently mentioned as a highlight, especially by guests who want a proper introduction to local flavours.
The tavern is also appreciated for its sense of history. In a city that has changed greatly over the years, Hondros continues to offer a dining experience that feels connected to older Paphos, where food is simple, social, and full of character.
Key Points
- One of the oldest traditional taverns in Paphos
- Located on Apostolou Pavlou Avenue
- Close to Paphos Archaeological Park
- Known for traditional Cypriot meze
- Serves grilled meats, seafood, dips, salads, kleftiko, and stifado
- Outdoor courtyard seating available
- Good for families, couples, and groups
- Reservations are recommended during busy periods
Final Thoughts
Hondros Tavern is a classic Paphos dining spot for anyone who wants traditional Cypriot food in a warm, historic setting. With its generous meze, friendly service, courtyard atmosphere, and long standing reputation, it offers much more than just a meal.
If you are exploring the harbour area or visiting the archaeological sites, Hondros is well worth adding to your Paphos food list.
