If there is anyone who hasn’t over-eaten during the holidays please raise their hand. Anyone…? No…? No-one. I think the term “over-ate” doesn’t even begin to describe what I did over Christmas. After two weeks of binge eating and drinking that followed two consecutive pregnancies it is now time to…diet! My kind of diet most definitely does not mean “starving” but rather eating a lot of delicious food with low calories and satisfying my sweet tooth with only ONE piece of cake. If you, like me, are in need of something lighter and healthier for a few weeks have a look at the selection of restaurants in Nicosia and Limassol shown below, where you can find healthier, lighter yet creative and delicious food.
Inga’s Veggie Heaven – NICOSIA
Whoever said they can’t live without meat they haven’t been to Inga’s. These two women make some of the most delicious, home-made vegetarian dishes, with a menu that changes every day. Try their carrot burgers, vegetable lasagne and salads. Their desserts (often sugar free) are worth trying.
Silver Pot – NICOSIA
When you are the first of your kind you definitely have an advantage. Silver Pot has arrived in the heart of the capital merely a few years ago to bring something different, something new, something healthier, creative and tasty. My favourite part is the breakfast with delicious, home-made granola, the muffins and the freshly prepared egg dishes. Do try the green pancakes, the French toast and the chilli eggs if you are going for breakfast or brunch. On weekdays you can also try their delicious Moroccan lunch dishes, salads and soups.
Zest – NICOSIA
Only a few meters after Silver Pot, a relatively new arrival is one of the most popular options for a quick coffee or lunch. With Ottolenghi influences, Zest has adopted the concept of having 4-5 pre-cooked dishes every lunch time, often displayed on the counter. These include fantastic salads, open sandwiches and meat dishes mostly made with organic ingredients. Do try their home-made cakes that will make you drool!
Get Fresh – NICOSIA
Of there is a King of Sandwiches it must be Get Fresh. It reminds me of London’s Pret-a-Manger with a bigger variety of hot sandwiches and wraps and a prettier atmosphere. Latest additions also include healthy snack pots. I think apart from the King of Sandwiches it is also the King of Delivery since half of the capital’s working people most probably order breakfast or lunch from Get Fresh. My favourite is the ciabatta sandwiches and the salmon triangle sandwich.
Dino’s Art Café – LIMASSOL
This is my go-to place for a tasty and filling salad with a good glass of wine. What makes it special is that, whether or not you would like a good burger, fresh pasta or a light salad and sandwich Dino’s has it all. Quality is guaranteed.
Cookhouse – LIMASSOL
The first “alternative” cafe/restaurant in Limassol has to be Cookhouse. I never thought such a small place on such a busy street would do that well. On the otherhand, when the food is good everything else is history. When in Limassol do try Cookhouse, and do try their fantastic lentil pot, the Eggs Benedict and the green pizza.
Pralina – LIMASSOL
The latest arrival on Makarios avenue is the well-known confectionery and restaurant, Pralina. The menu might be tiny with only a handful of salads and sandwiches but everything that they make is truly very good. Do try their salmon sandwich or any of the salads offered.