Rous, Nicosia
Rous -our culinary heritage
What a fantastic way to kick off a special double celebration – birthday and anniversary dinner!
The name encapsulates the concept of the restaurant as it translates to modern Greek as “flow” or “current”. The sharing menu for 2 along with the Dare and Explore wine pairing is the perfect combo. We were able to enjoy Chapter XIV Mezze sharing dishes that evening which were designed to indulge in the traditional Cypriot ingredients but with a twist and what an awesome delight that was.
As we delved into the carefully crafted menu at Rous, I found myself immersed in a symphony of flavours, each dish meticulously prepared to perfection. Among the array of delectable offerings, several stood out as absolute highlights, leaving me craving for more with each savory bite.
To start, the spreads and bread with hummus infused with fig oil captivated my palate with its creamy texture and subtle sweetness, setting the tone for the culinary journey that lay ahead. This simple yet elegant dish showcased the restaurant’s commitment to using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients to create unforgettable flavours.
Moving on to the baby leaves salad with anari cheese, I was treated to a delightful combination of freshness and richness. The crispness of the greens paired perfectly with the creamy, slightly tangy cheese, creating a harmonious balance of flavours that left me wanting another bite. Indulging in the delicious spanakorizo at was a true delight, with its perfectly cooked rice and flavourful spinach melding together in a symphony of Greek culinary excellence.
As a palate cleanser, the lionfish ceviche with cilantro sorbet offered a refreshing interlude between courses. The delicate flavours of the lionfish were elevated by the zesty sorbet, cleansing the palate and preparing it for the delights yet to come.
Our head chef was kind enough to treat us to a new dish which was seafood dolma with seafood avgolemono and caviar which beautifully elevated traditional Greek flavours to new heights. Each bite was a revelation, with the tender seafood wrapped delicately and bathed in a rich avgolemono sauce that was perfectly complemented by the indulgent touch of caviar.
The poached halloumi showcased the versatility of this beloved Cypriot cheese, its creamy texture and subtle saltiness melting in the mouth with every bite. Accompanied by fresh herbs, it was a true celebration of local flavours.
The octopus, cooked to perfection was a testament to the chef’s skill and expertise in handling seafood. Tender yet robust, it was a true highlight of the meal.
Next, the mushroom risotto transported me to culinary paradise with its rich, earthy flavours and creamy consistency. Each spoonful was a revelation, with the umami essence of the mushrooms dancing on my taste buds.
The beef cheeks, slow-cooked to perfection, were a true indulgence. Melt-in-your-mouth tender and bursting with flavour, they were a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to sourcing the finest ingredients and executing them with precision and care.
As the meal drew to a close, the pistachio macaroon and rizogalo/ rice pudding provided a sweet conclusion to the gastronomic journey. Each bite was a symphony of flavours, leaving me satiated and satisfied, yet longing for another visit to Rous to experience its culinary delights once more.
In conclusion, dining at Rous in Nicosia is more than just a meal—it’s an experience to be savoured and cherished. From the impeccable service to the exquisite flavours that dance on the palate, every aspect of the dining experience at Rous is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to excellence. If you find yourself in Nicosia, do yourself a f(l)avour and embark on a culinary journey at Rous—you won’t be disappointed.
Special thanks to the amazing chef, Triantafyllos and his team.