Cyprus

With emphasis on fresh local ingredients, a pungent mix of herbs and spices and a light spattering of olive oil, Cypriot food is essentially Mediterranean, characterised by a similarity to Greek food and enriched by a hint of the Middle East and Asia Minor's culinary traditions. Both poets and travellers have praised the flavours of the island. The grains and pulses, sun-ripened fresh fruit and vegetables, high-protein fish, lean meat and poultry, olive oil and wine are local temptations that have been extolled by health specialists for their virtues. A cornucopia of restaurants, taverns and cafes, many with outdoor seating and a stunning background, forms a culinary extravaganza with a taste of traditional and international cuisines.