#Souvla

[cypr24]

Jedliście już souvlę?

Mamy nadzieję, że nie przejedliście się dziś mięsem...

Mamy nadzieję, że nie przejedliście się dziś mięsem… Tłusty czwartek to dla Polaków, a dla Cypryjczyków Tsiknopempti (palony lub wędzony czwartek). Dziś Cypr owiany jest zapachem grilla, souvli i charakterystycznym zapachem palonego na węglu drzewnym tłuszczu. To znak, że rozpoczął się karnawał i pozostało 11 dni do jego końca. „Śmierdzący czwartek” to początek corocznych uroczystości…

[walkswithmycamera]

Enjoying the moment at Polemedia (Limassol Forestry Park), Cyprus on 30 March 2013.

This is 9 years after we first arrived on Cyprus soil.

Cyprus, Memories of a life gone by.

It was a big move and it could so easily have failed.

But, we did it!

We took the bull by horns, sold our 2 bedroom terraced home in a Lancashire mill town in UK, taking our dog and 2 cats to "follow the dream" of a New Life in Cyprus.

Many dream, but don't do.

If life throws you the option - take that chance.

Don't leave it too late.....

++++++++++++

CORAL BAY - AN OVERNIGHT STAY.

February 2015 at Coral Bay Harbour in Paphos on the western side of the island and a popular tourist resort with British people as well as UK retirees.

The weather had played a real blinder and the day before we were ready to take the 70km drive from our home on the outskirts of Limassol towards Paphos - it snowed!

It was one of the coldest winters we'd experienced since the time we had arrived on the island, all the way back in 2004.

Not just in the mountains above Nicosia or on the Troodos ski resort - but, in the seaside resorts all along the coast...

It was still freezing cold when we arrived in the late morning, so we took ourselves into Coral Bay itself and a had a wander around exploring and taking in the scenery.

A little memorial sanctuary we found along the top of the coastal footpath above Coral Bay, close to our accommodation.

Here's that little memorial, I mentioned.

So here we were, taking a little break away from home reliant totally on a split air-conditioning unit to keep the 1 bedroom apartment we had chosen to stay in, warm and toasty.

Did we trust it? Not on your life!

We took our emergency electric fan heater along for the ride, and boy - did we need it...

++++++++++++

Everyone staying in the apartment complex that night, all ended up in the bar - body heat was the life and soul of the party that night.

LIMASSOL OLD TOWN.

A place we always liked to take our visitors who came to see us during the years we were based in Cyprus.

It's an interesting town although a new Marina was constructed a few years before we left it behind to return to UK in 2016.

You will always find a little bar or kafenion tucked away in the narrow streets.

This photo again, is in February - hence the outside liquid gas powered patio heaters.

And below, the wooden pier near Limassol Old Port - always a firm favourite place of mine.

++++++++++++

LIMASSOL WINE FESTIVAL.

We visited the wine festival, held in the public gardens down by the coast, just out of Limassol town centre, for the very first time in the summer of 2015.

The Wine Festival is an annual event and generally takes place in August, a time when most Cypriots take their summer holidays.

It's hot and humid, which gets very wearing - unless you're constantly in an office with air-conditioning.

A few photos from that night, here below:

The "Vraka Man"

Celebrating 54 Years of the Cyprus Wine Festival.

No festival is complete in Cyprus - unless there's SOUVLA.

Souvla - is large pieces, marinated and cooked slowly and lovingly over piles of white hot smouldering coals on huge BBQs. It's generally served with Cyprus potatoes cut into large wedges - also cooked slowly in oil as well as their skins

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ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SOUVLA.

This is the traditional way to serve Souvla (it can be pork or lamb) and it's served differently from the Souvlakia you are served in tourist restaurants where the meat is in smaller pieces, either on a skewer or in Pitta Bread.

It's the only way I will eat pork.

"I never liked it as a child living in the UK, but regular nights at a local bar - very close to where we lived in the village of Ypsonas some 12km out of the Tourist Area of Limassol, soon changed my mind on that."

"Frixo Fridays" on the old road leading out of Limassol in the direction of Paphos, would take you there.

We would meet with the local residents, the bar owner (Frixos) and his wife (Patroulla / Pat) and around half a dozen British people who lived on the other side of the village to us.

The juke box was constantly refilled with coins, the Zivania, KEO Beer and Carlsberg flowed along with much singing and dancing.

Souvla and salad was served free each Friday night - and we got the smell drifting gently into the bar from the back patio, where Frixos tended to it for several hours before and during the course of the evening.

GREAT MEMORIES!

Needless to say, we shipped a couple of Cyprus BBQs back to UK when we returned in 2016.

Go on, I know you're curious - click that link and have a peep at them. They're available to purchase in the UK.

I hope you enjoyed the photos and reading this small part of my past life in Cyprus.

Regards

Shell

[formeryelpers]

Marin County Mart, 2257 Larkspur Landing Cir, Larkspur, CA 94939

This shopping complex, which used to be known as Larkspur Landing, has gone completely upscale. Honestly, it looks a lot like an outdoor shopping mall in Malibu and Brentwood, Los Angeles, and I suspect that the same developers were responsible for the three. It doesn’t feel really like a Northern California mall to me, but it is very attractive and pleasant. Also, some of the businesses are only found in the Bay Area and some are national.

It's not a huge mall but it has nice shops including Diptyque, Fred Segal, Design Within Reach, Topdrawer, Veronica Beard, etc. There are clothing stores, stationery stores, a toy store, home décor stores, fragrance stores, a bookstore, spas, fitness studios, a bank, post office, and lots of restaurants. Restaurants are more casual than formal and include a wide range of cuisines. Some of them are Souvla, Shake Shack, Rustic Bakery, Pressed Juicery, Johnny Doughnuts, Miette, Hog Island Oyster, and El Huarache Loco. I saw lotions from Italy, candles from France, and lots of lovely things to covet.

There are grassy areas, lots of restaurants with outdoor patios, and it’s walking distance to the ferry. The farmer’s market is every Saturday morning. Parking was easy to find.

5 out of 5 stars

By Lolia S.

[oldtreeinanalley]

come with me. lets go to russian karaoke bars by the beach and sing bad 80s pop music

[brucequeensteen]

i need to put rust cohle in a pasta maker or some such device. paper shredder perhaps.

exactly. i need to make rust cohle confetti. i need to roll him out with a rolling pin and make shapes out of him with a cookie cutter. i want to spin him on a souvla. it's dire. i should rewatch true detective i miss my wife

[magnoliagrandiflora]

Thelw kotopoulo souvla me patates kai ryzi

[bucketkicked]

random food hc’s for Kyrie because I’m hungry:

Kyrie’s favorite fruits are pomegranates, nectarines, strawberries, peaches, plums, apples, and blackberries.

Other than Greek food, she loves Indian and Italian food.

Her favorite American food is usually barbecued stuff, such as ribs and sausages. She also loves apple pie, s’mores, mac n cheese, and fried chicken.

She does NOT like mayonnaise. At all. Hamburgers aren’t something she enjoys, but she’ll eat them around company just to be polite. She probably douses it in sauce, though.

Her favorite breakfast foods include avgofetes (the Greek equivalent of French toast) with feta and honey, and crepes with fresh fruit.

Her favorite Greek/Cypriot foods include (but are not limited to) souvla (barbecued meat), gyros, sheftalia (a type of sausage), makarónia tou foúrnou (the Cypriot equivalent of mac n cheese), and loukoumia (the Cypriot equivalent of a Turkish delight).

Her favorite meats are seafood and pork. She especially enjoys octopus and salt cod. She enjoys all sorts of cheeses. She tends to also have a bit of a sweet tooth.

[sorrellegiance]

oh souvla's avgolemono soup :'((

[cyprusqualitytime]

Souvla in Cyprus means Barbeque and that’s exactly what you do on a Sunday in Sunny Cyprus. Imagine the anticipation as you relax by the Med, cold drink in hand, and the air is fragrant with the sizzle of Souvla on BBQ🍖. It’s a sensory invitation—an edible adventure waiting to happen. 🔥 With September & October temperatures still 25-30C, join us here and plan your next BBQ meal.🌞🏖️✈️ Lear more about Cypriot food, restaurant reviews, things to do and places to visit on our Coral Bay blog https://prestigebookings.com/souvla-bbq-sunday/ #prestigebookings #visitcyprus #visitpaphos #visitpeyia #coralbaycyprus #coralbayblog #cyprus #cyprustourism #cyprusescape #cyprusholiday #cyprustips #lovecyprus #paphos

[cypr24]

Czas na souvlę!

Ten kto nie próbował nigdy souvli nie poczuł smaku prawdziwego Cypru. #souvla #Cypr

Cypryjska souvla to tradycyjne danie mięsne popularne na Cyprze. Jest to rodzaj szaszłyka, przygotowywanego na podwójnym rożnie nad ogniem. Souvla jest często spożywana podczas świąt, takich jak Wielkanoc, czy takie jak jutrzejsze. Głównym składnikiem souvli jest wysokiej jakości mięso, zazwyczaj mięso jagnięce. Jest to tradycyjny wybór, który nadaje danu autentyczny smak. Można również użyć…

[formeryelpers]

Souvla, 1805 Larkspur Landing Cir Suite 14, Larkspur, CA 94939

Fro-yo girl here. Souvla opened in Larkspur on the Marin County Mart on November 6, 2023. The menu seems to be the same as the SF locations: The regular menu includes spit fired all-natural meats (Vande Rose Farms pork shoulder, Freebird free range rotisserie chicken, Thomas Farms lamb) served as a pita sandwich or salad, with a sweet potato option for vegetarians. They also have sides, Greek beverages (including their own wine) and Straus Family Creamery organic Greek frozen yogurt with Greek toppings or plain ($5). Toppings include sour cherry syrup, olive oil & sea salt, baklava crumbles & honey syrup, and Cretan wildflower honey.

* Frozen Greek yogurt with Greek sour cherry syrup ($6). There’s one size and one flavor, plain. So good! Creamy but not heavy, tangy even sour, natural tasting, lightly sweetened. The texture feels airier and fluffier, even more so than the yogurt at other Souvla locations. The sour cherry syrup isn’t that sour but it does enhance the tang of the froyo. The portion is generous to satisfy without being meal-sized.

The shopping center had plenty of parking. The Souvla location also had plenty of seating, though most of it was outdoors. There’s a cute pick up window on the side where they gave me my froyo. Lots of people go there just for the froyo. It’s the only froyo option at the Marin County Mart.

You know you love me. X0 X0, fro-yo girl.

4.5 out of 5 stars

By Lolia S.

[lambroschristoforou]

A Comprehensive Guide to Kypros

Kypros, commonly known as Cyprus, is a Mediterranean paradise that offers a blend of rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you are drawn to its ancient ruins, picturesque landscapes, or vibrant local life, Cyprus has something for everyone. This comprehensive guide will explore the best of what Kypros has to offer, including must-visit attractions, local cuisine, and unique experiences. We'll also delve into specific topics like the importance of "tzakia kypros" (fireplaces in Cyprus) and the popularity of "NAPOLEON grills Cyprus."

Discovering the Rich History of Cyprus

Cyprus is a land steeped in history, with a heritage that dates back thousands of years. The island has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Each of these cultures has left its mark, creating a tapestry of historical sites that are a testament to the island’s diverse past.

Ancient Ruins and Archaeological Sites

One of the most notable historical sites is the ancient city of Kourion. Located on the southern coast of Cyprus, Kourion is home to impressive Greco-Roman ruins, including a well-preserved theater and stunning mosaics. Another must-visit is the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These underground tombs date back to the 4th century BC and offer a fascinating glimpse into the burial practices of ancient Cypriots.

Medieval Castles and Byzantine Churches

Cyprus is also known for its medieval castles and Byzantine churches. The Kolossi Castle, a former Crusader stronghold, offers insight into the island's medieval history. Meanwhile, the Church of Saint Lazarus in Larnaca, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture, is a site of pilgrimage and historical significance.

Exploring the Natural Beauty of Cyprus

Beyond its historical treasures, Cyprus boasts a diverse natural landscape that ranges from sandy beaches to rugged mountains. The island’s climate is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it an ideal destination year-round.

Pristine Beaches and Coastal Areas

The beaches of Cyprus are among the most beautiful in the Mediterranean. Ayia Napa and Protaras are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and golden sands, attracting sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts. For a more secluded experience, head to the Akamas Peninsula, where you can explore hidden coves and pristine beaches.

The Troodos Mountains

For those who prefer cooler temperatures and scenic landscapes, the Troodos Mountains offer a refreshing escape. The mountains are dotted with charming villages, ancient monasteries, and scenic hiking trails. In winter, the higher elevations even offer opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.

Experiencing Cypriot Culture

Cypriot culture is a blend of Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern influences, resulting in a unique and vibrant local life. The island’s culture is reflected in its festivals, traditions, and, most importantly, its cuisine.

Traditional Festivals and Events

Cyprus hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from religious holidays to local traditions. The Limassol Carnival, one of the island's most famous events, features parades, music, and dance. The Kataklysmos Festival, or Festival of the Flood, is another major event celebrated with water-based activities and cultural performances.

Culinary Delights

Cypriot cuisine is a delicious fusion of flavors, heavily influenced by Greek and Middle Eastern culinary traditions. Must-try dishes include souvla (large chunks of meat cooked on a spit), halloumi cheese, and moussaka. Additionally, the island is known for its meze, a selection of small dishes that offer a variety of tastes and textures.

Tzakia Kypros: Embracing the Warmth of Cypriot Fireplaces

In Cyprus, "tzakia" (fireplaces) are more than just a source of warmth; they are an integral part of the island's cultural heritage. Traditionally, Cypriot homes featured large, open fireplaces that served as the heart of the household. These fireplaces were used not only for heating but also for cooking and socializing.

The Evolution of Tzakia Kypros

Today, while modern heating systems have largely replaced traditional fireplaces, the charm and functionality of tzakia remain popular. Many homes and restaurants in Cyprus still feature these fireplaces, providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a festive gathering, the fireplace continues to play a central role in Cypriot life.

Types of Fireplaces in Cyprus

There are various types of fireplaces found in Cyprus, ranging from traditional wood-burning ones to modern gas and electric options. Each type offers its own unique benefits, catering to different preferences and needs. Traditional wood-burning fireplaces are cherished for their authentic charm and the comforting crackle of burning wood, while gas and electric fireplaces provide convenience and efficiency.

NAPOLEON Grills Cyprus: A Culinary Revolution

Outdoor grilling is a beloved pastime in Cyprus, and NAPOLEON grills have become a popular choice for those who take their barbecuing seriously. Known for their high-quality construction and innovative features, NAPOLEON grills offer a superior grilling experience that has won over many Cypriot households.

Why Choose NAPOLEON Grills?

NAPOLEON grills are renowned for their durability, performance, and versatility. Made from premium materials, these grills are designed to withstand the elements and provide consistent results. Features like infrared burners, rotisserie kits, and precise temperature controls allow for a wide range of cooking techniques, making them ideal for both novice and experienced grillers.

Enhancing Outdoor Gatherings

In Cyprus, outdoor gatherings are a way of life, and NAPOLEON grills have elevated these social occasions. Whether it’s a family barbecue, a festive celebration, or a casual get-together with friends, these grills ensure that the food is always a highlight. From perfectly seared steaks to juicy kebabs, NAPOLEON grills cyprus deliver exceptional flavor and texture.

Top Attractions and Activities in Cyprus

There is no shortage of things to see and do in Cyprus. From historical landmarks and natural wonders to vibrant cities and charming villages, the island offers a diverse array of attractions and activities.

Exploring the Capital: Nicosia

Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, is a city of contrasts where ancient history meets modern urban life. The city is divided into two parts: the Greek Cypriot south and the Turkish Cypriot north. A visit to Nicosia offers the unique experience of crossing the Green Line, the UN buffer zone that separates the two sides.

The Enchanting Town of Paphos

Paphos, located on the southwestern coast, is a treasure trove of archaeological sites and natural beauty. The Paphos Archaeological Park is home to impressive ruins, including the House of Dionysus with its stunning mosaics. Nearby, the scenic Aphrodite’s Rock is said to be the birthplace of the goddess of love.

The Village of Lefkara

Lefkara, a picturesque village in the foothills of the Troodos Mountains, is famous for its intricate lacework and silverware. Wandering through its narrow streets, you can watch local artisans at work and purchase handmade souvenirs. The village is also known for its traditional architecture and charming atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Visiting Cyprus

To make the most of your trip to Cyprus, here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

Best Time to Visit

Cyprus enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

Getting Around

Cyprus has a well-developed transportation network, including buses, taxis, and rental cars. While public transportation is available, renting a car is recommended for exploring the island at your own pace. Keep in mind that driving is on the left side of the road.

Language and Currency

The official languages of Cyprus are Greek and Turkish, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. The currency used in the Republic of Cyprus is the Euro, while the Turkish Lira is used in the northern part of the island.

Conclusion

Cyprus is a destination that offers something for everyone. Its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty make it an ideal place to explore and enjoy. Whether you are captivated by ancient ruins, enchanted by picturesque landscapes, or delighted by local cuisine, Cyprus promises an unforgettable experience. Embrace the warmth of "tzakia kypros" and elevate your culinary adventures with "NAPOLEON grills Cyprus" as you discover all that this Mediterranean gem has to offer.

[onejamtart]

OJT EATS | Agora

There's been a spate of new restaurants in Borough Market recently, of which 2 are sister restaurants covering upstairs and downstairs of the same place. Upstairs is a slightly more formal place called Oma but the one we ended up at was the more casual greek taverna style Agora downstairs.

First up was a hummus that was incredibly smooth with clearly a lot of tahini in it and a layer of crushed up crisps on top. The crisps were a lovely little addition of crunch to the smooth hummus. For us, this is up there with the best hummus in London!

Now to go with the hummus, you need a bit of bread and so we got this flatbread. Look how puffy it is!! This was pillowy soft and so good!

Then it was onto the rest of the food. First up was a light one: a mushroom and spring onion skewer. For what is a very simple dish, it was really tasty. You got a nice little bit of char to the mushrooms which also managed to stay really juicy.

So other than the plain flatbread, there's another whole section of the menu for flatbreads with toppings and so after having the plain one, we couldn't resist trying one with a little extra. We went for the one with the wild garlic butter and cheese because you can't really go wrong with cheesy garlic bread (and also we saw the table next to us finish off 2 of these in next to no time). This was amazing! All I can say is make sure you order this when you go!

This was the slow grilled chicken thigh. A tiny bit on the salty side but really flavourful with a nice crispy skin. With a spritz of lemon, this ended up being super tasty.

We kept the best until last though. From the wood fired rotisserie, this was the middle white pork souvla. The crackling on this was some of the best I've ever had; light, crispy and just delicious. The pork itself was also pretty spectacular. This was our favourite dish of the meal (narrowly pipping that garlic butter flatbread).

This turned out to be one of the better meals we've had lately. The bread is outstanding and that pork is worth the trip alone. The restaurant offering in Borough has really upped its game lately, something we are very happy about!

Agora, 4 Bedale St, London SE1 9AL

Cheers, JL

[kalofagas-ca]

Cypriot Style Lamb Souvla | Kalofagas.ca

[jmattefs]

Souvla chicken salad