Cheikho's Restaurant

Tucked away on Leicester Road in Oadby, Cheikho’s Restaurant is the kind of Italian spot that makes you want to linger longer than you planned. From the moment you step in, you get that old-school Italian trattoria vibe-soft lighting, warm chatter, and the subtle aroma of garlic, tomato, and wine swirling through the air. Whether you’re dining solo or heading out for a special evening, this place knows how to create a setting that feels intimate without being stuffy.

Let’s talk menu. The star power here lies in its authentic Italian offerings, each dish crafted with attention to tradition and flavor. If you’re someone who appreciates a proper start to a meal, the Cocktail Di Gamberi is a classic throwback done right-plump prawns dressed in a creamy Marie Rose sauce with just the right tang, served chilled and elegantly plated. It’s followed closely in popularity by the Terrine, a rustic and rich starter that pairs beautifully with a glass of house white.

Pasta lovers are in for a treat. Lamb Penne Arrabiata packs a punch with its fiery tomato sauce mellowed slightly by tender bites of lamb. Then there’s the Fettuccine, silky ribbons coated in a velvety sauce that clings perfectly to each bite-simple, hearty, and comforting. The Pappardelle and Rigatoni also make regular appearances on tables, each offering a unique texture that complements the robust sauces they’re served with.

For those who lean toward something baked and cheesy, the Calzone is the definition of indulgence. It arrives golden and puffed, hiding inside a gooey combination of melted mozzarella, tomato, and your choice of filling. And if you’re craving something from the sea, the Salmon dish is an elegant option-perfectly seared and paired with seasonal vegetables that highlight its freshness.

What sets Cheikho’s apart is not just the food, but the experience. It doesn’t pretend to be flashy-it doesn’t need to be. Service is attentive without hovering, and you get the sense that the staff knows their menu inside and out. They’re quick with wine recommendations too, and the list includes a range of reds, whites, and sparkling wines that pair well with the bold, hearty flavors coming out of the kitchen.

Dessert is not to be skipped. The Tiramisu is rich and creamy with that perfect balance of coffee and cocoa-ideal with a post-dinner Espresso. For something lighter, the Panna Cotta melts the moment it hits your tongue, with just the right wobble and a fruit drizzle that brings it all together. There's also Cannelloni, which depending on the day, might be featured in a sweet or savory twist, showcasing the kitchen's versatility.

Drinks go beyond wine here. There’s beer, coffee, and even spirits, which makes it easy to settle in with whatever suits your mood. And yes, the coffee here is worth mentioning again-robust, aromatic, and the kind of thing you’d expect in a café in Rome rather than a suburban Leicester street.

The restaurant doesn’t offer delivery, which honestly adds to its charm. It encourages you to show up in person, soak in the atmosphere, and truly enjoy the experience as it’s meant to be-fresh, hot, and served straight from the kitchen to your table. Dinner is the main event here, and for good reason. The menu is designed to be savored slowly, course by course, with flavors that unfold over conversation and clinking glasses.

Cheikho’s also caters well to those looking for healthy options. While indulgent Italian fare might be what draws most people in, there are lighter plates available that don’t sacrifice on flavor. It’s a small but welcome touch for anyone wanting balance in their meal.

In a city filled with chain restaurants and rushed meals, Cheikho’s Restaurant offers something refreshingly different-a timeless space where tradition, hospitality, and flavor take center stage.