Two weeks ago, while my brother was visiting from England and Georgie’s school was closed for half term, we took advantage of our time off and the great weather and drove to Kato Drys. The typical Cypriot village is worth visiting because of its traditional beauty but most importantly, if you’re a food junkie like me, because of Elli’s jams, marmalades and chutneys.
I was looking forward to getting my hands on Elli’s homemade goodies so much that I forgot to take my camera with me. Honestly her jams were all I could think about up until the moment my parents, brother, Georgie and I piled into the car and we were on the road. When I stopped dreaming about her Raspberry and Pure Vanilla jam and Beetroot chutney it was too late to head back so these few iPhone pics will have to do.
It’s been over six years since I visited the Jar Preserves tiny shop, met and interviewed Elli for the newspaper I was working for at the time and fell in love with her work. That day I bought a bunch of marmalades and had the pleasure of being one of the first people to taste her homemade prepared breakfast/brunch, which you can enjoy too. All you have to do is give Elli a call, make a reservation for a minimum of six people and head to Kato Drys to experience a very special and private spread. Elli and her mum make everything themselves, right there and then. Scones, various types of bread, cheese, eggs and bacon are served on the small veranda of an old house. The experience is a must as you will also get the chance to taste many of Elli’s marmalades and chutneys making it easier to choose what you want to take home with you. We ended up leaving with the jam and chutney I mentioned earlier plus the Blueberry and Lime jam which was Georgie’s choice.
Elli and her mum are often out and about collecting local produce so it’s a good idea to call Elli before going even if you’re not planning on brunching as there are no standard shop hours.
Jar Preserves/ Elli: call 96-476265 / shop can be found opposite Kato Drys coffee shop
