By Avra Miltiadous | Culinary & Lifestyle Editor
Look, I’ve been dragged to enough trendy spots around town to know when a place is trying too hard. Balza Linked to Google Maps:)) isn’t one of them. Perched above the buzz of central Nicosia, this rooftop has that rare quality of feeling both polished and genuinely welcoming, no small feat in our sometimes stuffy dining scene.
The Space That Gets It Right
The moment you step up, there’s this sense that someone actually thought about how people want to spend their evenings. Lighting that doesn’t strain your eyes, music that lets you talk without shouting, and those sleek lines that photograph well but don’t feel cold. It’s Instagram ready without being designed solely for the gram.
Food That Sparks Conversations
Chef Aggelos Bakopoulos clearly knows his way around a kitchen. The crab bao buns are conversation starters, delicate little parcels that arrive looking almost too pretty to eat. Almost. The beef gyozas with truffle béchamel sound fancy but taste like comfort, the kind of dish that has everyone reaching across the table for “just one more bite.” Well, is that the case too often for us in Cyprus?
Here’s a recent review on Google: Yes, we always to Google to see reviews.
The best for the company, awesome environment with people who take care of you so that nothing is missing from the table, especially the waiter with the glasses, great job! We will definitely go again. Food: 5, Service: 5, Group size, Suitable for all group sizes.
Cutting it short, the guy had a great time! Some do, some don’t.
The Friend Factor
Here’s what sold me: our waiter I think his name was Andreas, I think… actually seemed to enjoy his job. When my friend couldn’t decide between cocktails, he brought samples. When we lingered longer than planned, nobody hovered with the bill. It’s these small gestures that transform a decent meal into an evening you remember.
The Reality Check
Yes, it’s pricey. Well, depends. No, the portions aren’t massive. But sometimes you’re not just paying for food you’re investing in an experience. Balza delivers that experience, whether you’re catching up with old friends or trying to impress new ones.
Bottom line: Nicosia finally has a rooftop that lives up to the hype. As long as you have the attitude to enjoy it!
Bálza FB: Evagorou 2, 7th floor, Nicosia, Cyprus – Tel: +357 22 253232, Email: team.balza@gmail.com, Photos courtesy of Bálza Cyprus | Cover courtesy of: ACA Architects | Project Architect Renos Constantinou
Note: This article is part of a complimentary editorial initiative by Cyprus Pulse, no compensation was received for its publication.
