PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAUnique in many ways yet still typical of the West End scene, this cafe’s name sounds as though it has some kind of spiritual meaning, and in some ways it does. Checocho is a way of life that Cafe Checocho-ans strongly believe in – it involves a diet of chess, coffee and chocolate (che-co-cho). Serving decadent chocolate treats and a mean cup of coffee, the cafe holds online chess tournaments every Tuesday and Sunday afternoon and if you’re not currently a believer, you soon will be.
A small cafe that’s big on atmosphere, seating is scattered inside and out at tables hand decorated by the owners with images and photographs, each depicting a different theme. The religious-themed table might conjure images of the seven deadly sins, but all thoughts about the dangers of gluttony will exit your mind when you’re presented with the menu of international dishes. Listing African and Thai alongside a great selection of pizzas, there’s also a section dedicated exclusively to tea. Try the spicy Redang beef curry, cooked in coconut milk and spices and served with rice and salad, but beware: it’s not for the faint hearted. The food is often accompanied by servings of live jazz, blues, flamenco and gypsy jazz music.
Meagan Hepworth