Ayna Restaurant, Bellapais

[cornish]

Ayna (Mirror) Bar and Restaurant.

I visited the Ayna Restaurant with friends on Saturday 26th May. I had visited before and it hasn't changed but then I don't think it has changed since it first opened. Which is actually a delight. It's like stepping back in time to the 1950's. The bar has to be the biggest on the island and must have every spirit and liqueur ever manufactured. The decor is marvellously retro but then I think it was new and stylish when installed.

The food on offer is simple and typically Cypriot. There is little choice and no menu. However, the food that is served is cooked perfectly and there is plenty of it. To start there is a meze, which comprises a range of about 15 different dishes. The main courses on offer when we visited were, full meze, chicken or lamb kebab, lamb chops, or fish. Deserts were minimal and comprised cheesecake, Tira Misou or Fresh Fruit.

And all for 40TL per head

The food was simple and delightful and the view from the restaurant down across Catalkoy and to the sea was marvellous. We took three and a half hours over our meal and enjoyed every minute of it. Everyone must visit this hidden gem of a restaurant; which is mainly used by locals. The mayor of Girne Sumner Aygin and his friends were there on the night we visited and I hope to see you all there the next time I go.

The restaurant is in Bellapais. As you head up the hill toward the village, you will come to a traffic island. Don't head in toward Bellapais. Take the second exit and there is a sign for the restaurant. Follow the track/road around and you will find the restaurant tucked away down to the left at the end of the lane.

Telephone: 815 10 27/815 27 05 Gsm: 0533 865 5512

[icklepix]

Is it best to book or can you just turn up?

[cornish]

I think you'll be ok just turning up and I know you'll love it

[ozankoymod]

Are the directions given going to the village on the main road, from ozankoy/bellapais round-about? (past ESK)

[cornish]

To Ozankoymod: That's correct. You go by a restaurant on your left and then at next traffic island take 2nd exit... Make the effort - it's worth it....

[Saffi]

Always had a good meal and enjoyable evening here , haven't been for a few years though , maybe next year now

[PoshinDevon]

Went twice when we were across last Sept/Oct...great meal, nice service - yes it is the traditional meze, but seems to be a much higher standard than the norm.

Enjoyed it and will be back.