16 Traditional Cypriot Beverages

Cypriot coffee, or “Kypriakos kafes,” is a beloved drink in Cyprus. Made by brewing finely ground beans in a “briki,” this coffee has a rich, creamy texture with nutty undertones.

It comes in three sweetness levels: “sketo” (unsweetened), “metrio” (medium sweet), and “glyko” (very sweet). Served in small cups with a glass of cold water, it’s perfect for any time of day.

This coffee is a staple at breakfast and afternoon gatherings, especially during celebrations like Easter and Christmas. It’s a tradition shared with Greece and Turkey.

The Brandy Sour is Cyprus’s national cocktail, mixing Cypriot brandy with lemon juice, Angostura bitters, and soda water. This drink offers a refreshing blend of sweet, sour, and a hint of bitterness. It’s especially popular in summer but enjoyed all year.

Local variations might include citrus fruits for extra zest or orange juice for sweetness. Often served in the afternoon or evening, it’s a favorite at weddings and New Year’s Eve parties. Its refreshing taste makes it loved not just in Cyprus but across Europe.

Zivania, or “zivana,” is a national Cypriot spirit dating back to the 14th century. Made from grape pomace and dry wines, this strong, colorless drink has a light raisin aroma. It offers a robust taste with around 45% alcohol.

It’s often enjoyed ice-cold with Cypriot snacks like almonds and loukoumi, especially in winter. In some villages, Zivania is flavored with cinnamon, giving it a red hue and spiced aroma. While it’s mainly popular in Cyprus, its unique taste has gained fans in the Mediterranean region.

Commandaria, also known as “nama,” is an ancient Cypriot dessert wine. Made from sun-dried Xynisteri and Mavro grapes, it ages at least two years, developing sweet, rich flavors of dried fruit, honey, and caramel.

This amber-colored wine is typically served chilled with fruits and nuts, especially during festivals like Easter and weddings.

Keo Beer, Cyprus’s traditional beverage, is a straw-colored lager with a thick head and a taste similar to pilsner. First brewed in 1951 in Limassol, it quickly became a favorite. Keo Beer won a gold medal at the Brewing Industry International Awards 1987.

It’s made with high-quality hops, malt, and maize for a lighter color. With crisp, slightly bitter, and well-carbonated, Keo beer is perfect with Cypriot dishes like souvlaki and gyros.

It’s popular year-round, especially in summer, and is enjoyed chilled. While loved in Cyprus, it’s also exported worldwide.

Ouzo, especially “Ouzo Keo” from the Keo company, is a traditional Greek and Cypriot anise-flavored spirit. It has a clear, strong, sweet, licorice-like taste from star anise, fennel, and spices. Its smooth texture enhances its rich flavor.

Typically enjoyed as an aperitif, ouzo pairs well with meze like olives, feta, and seafood. It’s popular in summer but enjoyed year-round.

Usually served diluted with water, turning it milky white, or over ice, ouzo is favored in Mediterranean communities worldwide and is central to many festive occasions.

Xynisteri is the flagship white wine grape of Cyprus, known for producing crisp and refreshing wines with citrus and floral notes. Its light, smooth texture makes it an excellent pairing with seafood, salads, and light pasta dishes.

Popular year-round, especially in summer, Xynisteri wines are cherished in Cyprus and gaining appreciation in other Mediterranean regions.

Maratheftiko is a bold red wine from an indigenous Cypriot grape. Renowned for its intense color and rich fruit flavors with a spicy finish, it is often blended with international varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz for added depth.

This robust wine pairs well with hearty meat dishes and mature cheeses. Enjoyed year-round, Maratheftiko is gaining popularity both in Cyprus and abroad for its complex profile.

“Greek Frappe” is a popular iced coffee drink in Cyprus and Greece. This frothy beverage is perfect for hot summer days, made by shaking or blending instant coffee, water, sugar, and ice.

It can be enjoyed in various levels of sweetness: “sketo” (unsweetened), “metrio” (medium sweet), and “glyko” (sweet). Adding milk creates a richer, creamier texture.

Carlsberg beer has been brewed in Cyprus since 1969 by Photos Photiades Breweries. This Danish-style pilsner offers a smooth, refreshing taste with a balanced malt sweetness and hop bitterness.

Available in bottles, cans, and on draught, Carlsberg is a year-round favorite, especially at social and sporting events. Its consistent quality and light, crisp profile have made it a global favorite.

Filfar, or “Philar,” is a traditional Cypriot liqueur from the 14th century. Made from oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and herbs, it has a sweet, aromatic flavor with vibrant citrus notes and a smooth, syrupy texture.

Filfar can be sipped neat as a digestif or used in cocktails for a citrus twist. Each batch may vary slightly in flavor due to different blends of fruits and spices. Popular in Cyprus and the Mediterranean, Filfar is enjoyed year-round, especially at festive occasions like weddings and traditional festivals.

Cypriot lemonade, or “lemonatha,” is a favorite summer drink in Cyprus, known for its tangy and sweet taste. Made from fresh lemons, sugar, and water, it offers a bright, citrusy flavor with a slightly pulpy texture.

To prepare, juice lemons, mix with sugar until dissolved, dilute with cold water, and serve over ice. Sometimes, lemon peel or other citrus fruits are added for a unique twist. Loved by locals and tourists, it’s perfect any time of day and a staple at gatherings and events.

Ouzini is a popular Cypriot cocktail made with Ouzo, fresh orange juice, and a touch of bitterness. This refreshing summer drink balances sweet and bitter notes with a smooth texture.

Variations may include different citrus fruits or soda for a fizzy twist. While especially loved in Cyprus, Ouzini is enjoyed in other Mediterranean regions too. Served chilled, it’s a favorite at beachside cafes and summer gatherings.

Ayran is a refreshing drink in Cypriot and Middle Eastern cuisines. It’s made by mixing yogurt, water, and a pinch of salt, resulting in a creamy, tangy, and slightly salty beverage.

Popular in Cyprus, Turkey, and Greece, Ayran pairs well with grilled meats and spicy foods. Enjoyed year-round, especially in summer, it’s a staple at family gatherings and social events. Some people add mint for extra refreshment.

Soumada, or “almond syrup,” is a sweet, traditional Cypriot drink made from ground almonds, sugar, and water. It has a milky appearance and a smooth, slightly grainy texture. Often flavored with orange blossom or rose water, Soumada is a favorite at weddings and festivals.

Popular in Cyprus and Greece, soumada is enjoyed year-round. It’s served cold in summer and warm in cooler months. While there are variations with vanilla or cinnamon, the classic almond taste is the most loved.

Kefir is a fermented dairy drink known for its probiotic benefits. Made from kefir grains and milk, it’s tangy, slightly fizzy, and creamy.

Enjoyed year-round in Cyprus, kefir is often consumed at breakfast or as a snack. Its health benefits have made it popular worldwide, from Eastern Europe to North America.