Bar review: Elefsis, Nicosia

By Constantinos Psillides

Are you getting ready for a night out but tired of the same old places? Are you perhaps looking for something different, something that will not be just a distraction but also tingle you intellectually? I know that I’m starting to sound like a washing machine commercial but bear with me, I’m going somewhere with this. More precisely, I’m going to the Elefsis bar in the old city.

Elefsis is not your run-of-the-mill bar. Sure, there are drinks there and sometimes an annoying guy will sit on the next table and talk too loud, but Elefsis is much, much more than that. Located in what used to be an old house within the walled city, Elefsis is also a place for poetry readings, art exhibitions, public discussion on current events and even lectures. The bar oozes culture, inviting patrons to go beyond the mainstream and challenge themselves. Take a seat either on the bottom floor, which is decorated to look like the past never left, or take your drink upstairs, pick a book from their library – or bring your own – and lounge on one of their comfy chairs and sofas and let your imagination carry you away!

Of course, cultural events is not the only thing on the menu. Live acoustic guitar nights are every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, along with a bunch of special events ranging from jazz and blues nights to good ol’ classic rock.

And if you have an idea for an event, the bar’s owners have a custom of going around tables and looking for new ideas!

While Elefsis offers a variety of choices, it keeps its price range to the sensible side. You won’t get an overpriced margarita just because the lemon is cut in a twist, I assure you.

If you are tired of the posh stores cropping up all over the place and if you cannot subject yourself to visit one more pretentious bar, Elefsis is the place for you.

Elefsis bar
Where: Aischylou 7, Laiki Geitonia, Nicosia
Contact: 22 765220

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