Pieros Village Tavern

Protara Ave 513, 23831616, 99621977, Protaras, AMMOCHOSTOS (FAMAGUSTA)
Mon-Sun 12:00-15:00, 19:00-23:00
Food: [rating:3] 3/5
Service: [rating:3] 3/5
Ambiance: [rating:2] 2/5
Driving into Protaras you can’t miss this very traditional taverna on your right. It might look extremely local and some might say, not so inviting but don’t be fooled. Not only does it serve very good meat (including “kleftiko”), but good fish as well, depending on what the owner fishes out.
We wanted fish and when we were told it was as fresh as it gets we ordered whatever they had. After the salad and the dips that were promising the octopus arrived. I am one of those people who prefers it slightly harder and retaining more of its taste, rather than extremely soft, as most people like it. Fortunately for me it came as I prefered and it was very good. The grilled calamari was equally good, very fresh and full of flavour. What stole the show, however was neither the calamari, nor the octopus but the extremely fresh “kourkounes” (marbled spinefoot) and fried “skaros” (parrotfish) that Mr Pieros had fished the same morning. Even though I am not a fan of marbled spinefoot everyone seemed very satisfied and kept saying how the hadn’t had such good ones in a very long time.
As if that wasn’t enough, we also shared a large grouper, served with peas, carrots and tomatoes was equally fresh and delicious, while the rice with artichokes that came with it was a good addition away from the standard potatoes.
It might not be the prettiest restaurant, or the one with the best location and the fact that it is always busy and loud does not really add to the whole ambiance. Value for money is also average as we paid 35€ each (6 people) with two bottles of Cypriot wine, which is all they had. The main reason we keep returning is the food itself which is trully very good and makes it one of the best tavernas in Protaras area.