When I arrived in Cyprus, I thought I knew coffee. Espresso? Love it. Cappuccino? My morning routine. Iced coffee? Yes, please. But then I ordered a coffee at a local kafenio (traditional coffee shop), and what arrived completely changed my understanding of coffee culture.
Cypriot coffee isn’t just about caffeine — it’s about history, tradition, and a mandatory moment of relaxation. Here’s what you need to know before you take your first sip!
Traditional Cypriot Coffee
If you expect a fancy coffee with frothy milk and caramel drizzle, you’re in for a surprise. Cypriot coffee is strong, thick, and served in a tiny cup — but don’t let its size fool you. This little drink packs a punch.
It’s made by boiling finely ground coffee in a small pot called a “briki” with water and (sometimes) sugar. The coffee is then poured straight into a cup, grounds and all. That’s right — there’s no filtering! You drink it slowly, letting the grounds settle at the bottom.
Pro tip: DO NOT drink the last sip unless you want a mouthful of coffee sludge.
How to Order Without Embarrassing Yourself?
When I first ordered Cypriot coffee, I proudly asked for a “large one with milk.” The old man behind the counter just stared at me like I had offended his entire family.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Sketo (Σκέτο) – No sugar (for the strong-hearted)
- Metrio (Μέτριο) – Medium sugar (a balanced option)
- Glyko (Γλυκό) – Sweet (for those who like their coffee like dessert)
There’s no milk in traditional Cypriot coffee, so don’t even ask for it. If you want milk, order a latte or cappuccino instead.
Frappe & Freddo
If you visit Cyprus in the summer, you’ll quickly see everyone drinking cold coffee. The two most popular choices are:
- Frappe – Instant coffee, shaken with cold water and ice. It’s simple, strong, and refreshing.
- Freddo Espresso / Freddo Cappuccino – A fancier version, made with real espresso and blended with ice for a smoother taste.
Cypriots take their iced coffee VERY seriously — it’s the drink of choice on hot summer days. I once saw a group of locals sitting outside a café in 40°C heat, each with a giant frappe in hand, not a single drop of sweat on their faces. Meanwhile, I was melting like an ice cream.
Fortune Telling
One of the coolest traditions I discovered is reading coffee grounds. After you finish your Cypriot coffee (leaving the grounds at the bottom), you turn the cup upside down on the saucer and wait.
A local woman once read my coffee cup and told me, “You will travel a lot and drink more coffee.” Groundbreaking prediction? Not really. But it made me feel like a real local for a moment!
Should You Try Cypriot Coffee?
If you love strong coffee – ABSOLUTELY!
If you want to experience real Cypriot culture – A MUST!
If you drink it too fast and burn your tongue – Well… lesson learned.
Have you ever tried Cypriot coffee? What’s your favorite way to drink coffee when you travel? Let me know in the comments!
W Strone Slonca - Towards the sun 
Leave a comment