A memorable, destination-worthy village taverna for traditional Cypriot cooking beneath an ancient tree, though special-event service and occasional pricing or portion complaints warrant planning ahead.
The Tremythas of Simou earns its standing through exceptional food quality and a captivating village setting that draws diners from across the region. Signature dishes like moussaka, kleftiko, and grilled meats consistently impress, while the authentic square-side location with church views and local atmosphere creates genuine destination appeal. Service warmth and hospitality are genuine strengths, though occasional slowdowns during peak times and minor consistency variations in execution keep it just short of the very top tier.
The Tremythas of Simou is the sort of place people drive into the mountains to find: a small family taverna in a historic village square, with tables shaded by an ancient tree and locals quietly playing tavli nearby. Guests describe feeling welcomed into a home rather than a dining room; one recurring impression is that the setting makes you wonder why anyone would rush. The cooking is proudly traditional and home-style, with moussaka, kleftiko, meze, pastitsio, stifado, halloumi, and grilled meats earning repeated praise. It is not a polished or experimental restaurant, and that is precisely its charm: expect familiar Cypriot food, local produce, generous warmth, and a meal that unfolds at village pace. Busy special dates can be a different story, with isolated but detailed reports of delays, limited set menus, and uneven value. Families are welcome, and reviews mention toddlers, children playing freely, familiar dishes such as grilled meats and fries, and homemade lemonade. The main caveat is timing: meze and fresh preparations may arrive slowly, so feed hungry children first and avoid arriving on a tightly scheduled itinerary.
Area vibe: Quiet, rural Cypriot village area known for stone villages and olive groves.
Safety: Generally safe and peaceful with low evening footfall; limited street lighting in parts.
What's nearby: Near the Troodos foothills, vineyards, archaeological sites, with Paphos town reachable by road.
The safest bets are the meze, moussaka, kleftiko, and pastitsio, with mains generally around €15-25
Plan for village-paced service and confirm the menu format, pricing, and inclusions before making the drive
The setting feels more like being welcomed into a village home than dining in a formal restaurant