A Sunday lunch worth slowing down for

Most lunches happen on the go. A quick sandwich between meetings, something grabbed on the way home, or a meal eaten while answering emails. Sunday is your chance to do things differently.

Live music, homemade food, and a relaxed village atmosphere set the scene for a lunch that doesn’t need to be rushed at Strofi Stin Geusi tavern in Mandria. Brothers Zinonas and Michalis continue a family tradition that began with their grandparents, while their mother still prepares many of the recipes served today. 

Here are five dishes worth tasting this Sunday: 

1. Koupepia 

Every Cypriot family seems to have their own version of koupepia. These hand-rolled vine leaves are a village favorite, and one of those dishes that always feels right on a Sunday table. 

2. Lamb Souvla

If there’s one dish that captures the spirit of Sunday lunch, it’s souvla. Slow-roasted over charcoal and made for feasts and celebrations, it’s a meal that naturally brings people together. 

3. Moussaka

There’s a reason moussaka is a Sunday favorite. Layers of potato, aubergine, seasoned minced meat and creamy bechamel come together in the kind of comforting dish that tastes just like family at home.  

4. Ravioles

Freshly made ravioles, filled, folded and served the traditional way are a reminder that some recipes are worth preserving – and even better when someone else has done the hard work for you. 

5. Gemista

Stuffed vegetables are a staple of Cypriot home cooking, especially during the summer months. Simple, colorful, filling and packed with flavor, they are comfort food at its best. 

Add live music, good company, and a few hours away from the rush of the week, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a Sunday lunch well spent.