To Kalamaki tis Polis

To Kalamaki tis Polis is a Greek and Cypriot taverna-bar on Chrysanthou in Ktima, the upper town of Paphos in Cyprus, where grilled food and meze are paired with live bouzouki and singing on weekends. The name refers to the souvlaki-style kalamaki skewer, and the venue works as both a casual eatery and an evening hangout. The crowd is mostly Cypriot and Greek-speaking residents, with a scattering of visitors who have moved beyond the harbour strip, and the age range runs from young adults to older regulars. Atmosphere is relaxed and sociable, with tables often shared by large family or friend groups, and singing along to familiar songs is common once the live set gets going. There is no dress code; everyday casual clothing is the norm. The music is the main draw on weekends, when a bouzouki player and singer perform a mix of laika, Cypriot folk and Greek favourites. Weeknights are quieter and may rely on recorded music, so the live programme should be confirmed in advance. The drinks programme is straightforward and taverna-style: local Keo and Leon beer, Cypriot house wine, zivania, ouzo and brandy sour, plus soft drinks and coffee. Cocktails are not the focus. Typical spend is around EUR 15-25 per person for meze and drinks, which makes it more affordable than most Kato Paphos venues. The venue is listed as open daily from 17:00 to midnight, with the busiest period from about 21:00 on Friday and Saturday. There is no cover charge, and no bottle service in the nightclub sense, although wine and spirits are commonly ordered by the bottle for a table. Reservations are not usually essential on weeknights but are sensible for groups at weekends, when seating near the musicians fills quickly. The location in Ktima places it within reach of the old town streets and local tavernas, offering a quieter, more local alternative to the clubs and bars of Kato Paphos.