Zoey Philippou

Designer and founder of “Cherry and Mint” fashion brand reveals her favourite spots for food, coffee and drinks in Cyprus.

-Where do you usually enjoy your morning coffee?

-I like to enjoy my morning coffee at home. If I am away, then you’ll most probably find me in a Starbucks, especially during the summer months,

-Which is your favorite city yard?

-My favourite yard is my mother’s yard, of course. Either for food or for a relaxing afternoon coffee. I have to admit that I envy the variety of flowers she has and how well she takes care of them.

-Where can you find the best souvlaki?

-I am a vegetarian. I haven’t eaten souvlakia since 9 years ago and I am truly proud about that, although it is not difficult at all if you really want it.

-Where do you find authentic meze dishes?

-I really like the alternative and unique menu of Peiragmena tavern in Limbia. I am lucky as they offer a vegetarian version.

-Favorite shop in your neighborhood?

-The Collective. The group there do a tremendous work picking authentic vintage pieces. I always look for shops like that in which you will find clothes from post decades, which maybe one of a kind.

-Could you reveal a well-hidden city gem?

-Although I do not believe that it is hidden anymore, I’ll say Kouyoumdjian fabric shop on Onasagorou. A small front and behind a hidden treasure which leads to a huge space with fabrics. For me, as my work has to do with fabric, it is a paradise.

-A restaurant that holds a special place in your heart? A recommended dish?

-Artisan’s Burgerbar. Besides their wonderful burgers, I love their tasty chips which they make with vegetables and I always order them as a side.

-Which is your favorite kind of cuisine and where you can enjoy it in Cyprus?

-I am a big fan of Japanese cuisine and the best restaurant, by far, for me is Koi. Until last year it was one of the restaurants I could not wait to go in Protaras. This year I am very happy that I can enjoy wonderful sushi year-round as it has opened in Nicosia.

-The best place to hang out with friends?

-I love the ambience at Granazi. I think that gradually it has became one of our favourite spots.

-Where could you find the best cocktails?

-At Lost & Found. The Pot of Gold specifically, is my new favourite cocktail.

-Where do you usually find delightful sweets? 

-At mAKaron. Andreas’ macaroons are incredible. One of my favourite flavours is chilli.

-Which place do you remember fondly?

-I love Protaras. We spent every summer there since I was a kid and until today. So, I’ve connected it with my most beautiful and carefree memories.