By Hazel Lekkas
Nestled in Glengala Village in West Sunshine, Cyprus Time delights the senses with food prepared by locals for locals. Eyes light up at the sight of meat dancing over hot coals. Nostrils welcome the smell of oregano, coriander and onion. Mouths wrap themselves around red wine-infused meaty delights. Ears are greeted by the welcoming staff members. As for how the food tastes, I will leave that up to your tastebuds to decide.
Cyprus Time had its modest start in a residential garage, at a time when Westies were in lockdown but pre-prepared Cypriot and Greek food was out and about in the streets, making its way to residences in a food van. Since then owner and food lover Mario, along with his wife Chrisanthi, father-in-law Zorba, and Chef Cleo, have continued to grow their small business on three sturdy pillars – manufacturing frozen meals, catering services and their retail souvlaki shop.
Mario, who once worked in the corporate world, turned his life around to bring grounded and wholesome food from humble beginnings in his family’s kitchen to the people of his neighbourhood. He has fond memories of his mother preparing meals for family functions and church gatherings. Mario brings the history of his family’s cooking into homes, workplaces and venues.
What may not be apparent when you walk or drive by the shopfront, fitted out with a few tables for dining inside and out the back, is the passion that the staff have for catering for the masses. Cooking in remote locations with their charcoal spits and preparing food, in some instances for an excess of 300 people – weddings, baptisms, birthdays – you name it, and they rise to the occasion. Mind you, Cyprus Time was innocently caught up in an arson attack aimed at its neighbouring trader in March of 2024. But it rose from the smouldering ashes and water damage, leaving charcoal to keep burning (contained and lawful), defying food-loving Westies to join.
People who own and operate a small business, turn a business into what is called for by its customers. Cyprus Time undoubtedly puts the needs of its customers first, and it is not just about relieving their hunger pangs. What really drives the small team of Cyprus Time to offer an unsurpassed food service is a response to a local need. It offers its community traditional handmade meals with fresh and authentic flavours whilst serving up warm south-eastern European hospitality with a smile and a ‘Yia sou’.
In times like these, we need good food from good people who ensure what matters most, is simply found on a plate shared in the company of our loved ones.
Cyprus Time operates from Wednesday to Sunday 9AM-8PM
74 Glengala Road, West Sunshine
