This Easter, Novikov Limassol turns its attention to one of Cyprus’ most meaningful culinary traditions – the simple yet symbolic ritual of sharing bread.

On 12 April, the restaurant will host a festive Easter brunch while also introducing a special collaboration with chef Elleni Katalanos, who has created a traditional Cypriot koulouri inspired by the ancient baking method known as avodhes.

In Cyprus, Easter marks the arrival of spring and a time for families and friends to gather around the table. Meals are shared slowly and generously, often stretching from late morning into long afternoon conversations – a rhythm deeply rooted in the island’s culture.

The koulouri created for Novikov Limassol reflects this spirit. Prepared using Cypriot olive oil and tahini, glazed with date molasses and finished with sesame seeds, the bread is baked with a red egg – a traditional symbol of rebirth and new beginnings.

The recipe was developed by Elleni Katalanos, a Greek Cypriot chef trained in Michelin-starred kitchens whose cooking is known for its thoughtful approach to seasonality, sustainability and Mediterranean culinary heritage.

For Katalanos, the project was also deeply personal.

“My love of food began in my family kitchen, learning to cook from the women in my life,” she says. “Summers in Cyprus shaped my soul – long lunches under olive trees, cooking with my Yiayia as the sun danced across plates of food.”

After years of travelling and working in professional kitchens around the world, Katalanos says she returned to a simple realisation: food has a universal ability to bring people together.

“No matter your background or where you come from, food connects us,” she explains. “In Greek we have a word, meraki – doing something with such passion and creativity that you leave part of your soul in it. That is how I cook.”

Created exclusively for Novikov Limassol this Easter, the koulouri reflects this philosophy – a traditional recipe inherited from the past, interpreted in the present and meant to be shared around the table.

The Easter koulouri will be available throughout the holiday celebration at Novikov Limassol.