Fanous Lebanese Restaurant – Nicosia, Cyprus
Overview
Fanous Lebanese Restaurant is a modern Lebanese dining spot located in the Laiki Yitonia (Old Town) area of Nicosia on Solonos Street. It delivers classic Lebanese cuisine with flair, combining mezze, grilled meats, and a relaxed, warm ambiance. It’s popular with locals and visitors alike for its atmosphere, generous portions, and the option to enjoy traditional nargile (hookah) in the evening.
Why Go
- Strong reputation for authentic Lebanese flavors in Nicosia. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
- Offers both daytime lunch and late dinner service, so you can enjoy it during multiple windows. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Atmosphere with flair: soft lighting, indoor and outdoor seating in a cozy old-town setting. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Evening entertainment includes nargile and an extended wine & drink menu. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Menu & Format
- Mezze & Starters: Hummus, baba ghanoush, moutabal, stuffed vine leaves, mixed platters.
- Grills & Main Dishes: Mixed grill, lamb chops, chicken shawarma, kofta, falafel, and other Lebanese staples.
- Vegetarian & Vegan Options: Many mezze choices are vegetarian/vegan friendly. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Desserts & Coffee: Lebanese sweets, Arabic coffee, fresh juices, and complementary tea/coffee in some cases. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Service Style: Table service in a relaxed dining room; outdoor seating available. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
What to Order
Begin with a mixed mezze platter to share. For mains, try the mixed grill or lamb chops. Don’t miss the muhammara dip, which many guests praise. End with sweets like baklava and enjoy a small Arabic coffee or mint tea. If it’s evening, consider the nargile experience as part of the ritual.
Atmosphere & Vibe
The setting is cozy but lively. In the evening, the glow from outdoor lanterns and the scent of grills or hookah enhance the mood. The décor is contemporary with touches of traditional Lebanese influence. Outdoor tables feel intimate yet part of the vibrant old-town streetscape.
Price Range
Moderate to premium for Nicosia’s dining scene. Mezze starters are affordably priced, grills and mixed platters are mid-range, and shared experiences can push the total. Value is often cited as good, especially for quality and portion size. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
Good to Know
- Address: Solonos 7C, Laiki Yitonia, Nicosia 1011, Cyprus :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- Phone: +357 22 666663 :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- Hours: Open daily for lunch and dinner; typical hours ~11:00 AM to midnight. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
- Nargile / Hookah: Offered in evenings as part of the experience. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Reservations: Recommended for evening service, especially on weekends. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- Ambience Tips: Ask for outdoor seating if weather permits. Evenings tend to be more vibrant. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
Best For
- Fans of Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine wanting refined yet comfortable dining
- Groups who like to share and sample from a diverse mezze spread
- Evening dining with optional nargile and relaxed conversation under lovely old-town character
Writer’s Tip
Try arriving just before dinner time to enjoy daylight across Laiki Yitonia and catch the transition into evening ambiance. Ask staff for their house favorites—especially the muhammara or mixed grill options. If you plan to enjoy nargile, reserve it in advance to secure a spot. Finish your meal with Arabic coffee and dessert to complete the experience.