True to our stereotypical capital-city dwelling arrogance, it has to take something, or somewhere, really special to get Nicosia’s winers and diners to venture any more then ten minutes outside the safe and comforting bubble of the central downtown area.
Luckily for the Cave Bar at Skali in Aglantzia reaching the really special status has already been ticked of the to-do-list, making the extra car-bound time well worth the wait.
Boasting what can justifiably be described as one of Nicosia’s most unique locations and true to its giveaway namesake, The Cave Bar is quite literally carved out of a hollow cave at the top of the hillside in Skali. The walls inside have been left rough and natural, with small holes and cracks filled in with tea lights and candles, making the whole place look like an enchanted woodland hideaway, or perhaps a glorified hobbit hole.
Apart from the unmatched fact that the bar is actually in a cave, its location at the top of the hill above Aglantzia also contributes to the overall charm of the place. Gone are the incessant car-horns, bright lights and police sirens; in their place is the odd dog barking and the autumn breeze rustling in the nearby trees. With the lights of the city twinkling far below, the only reminder that you are actually still in the capital, the bar also possesses one of the finest views in Nicosia.
Having recently re-opened following a change of management, the bar has benefitted from a refurbishment including a bathroom revamp and new furniture which is now more modern and up-to-date. The new management comprise of friendly and welcoming duo Simos and Chris who can be found on any given night sitting and chatting away with the clients.
The bar has the potential to attract an assorted mix of customers from students at the nearby university to experienced and worldly adults. Drinkers can choose between enjoying the view from the outdoor seating area or soaking up the candle-lit atmosphere in the cavernous yet cosy interior.
As for the drinks themselves, the bar serves an array of cocktails, wines and spirits but really prides itself on its large and eclectic beer selection, featuring anything from Chimey and Kwak to Corona or Keo.
With the distinctive location lending itself to a more chilled out vibe, the bar plays a mix of ambience, lounge and cafι del mar style chill out music as well as Greek hits and some 70s, 80s, blues and rock. As of today, the bar will be introducing live music into the repertoire.
Cave Bar
When: 9pm–2:30am (closed Mondays)
Where: Skali, Aglantzia, Nicosia
Contact: 22 337322
