Though the name may suggest otherwise, the atmosphere at Kookoo Café is the opposite of crazy. It’s the perfect place to go at any time of day to sip a warm or cold drink, eat a delicious meal or simply snack and relax.
The restaurant is conveniently located, but not easy to find. It’s across from the Brookline Village train station. You’ve probably walked by it dozens of times and haven’t noticed it. It’s also right around the corner from its nemesis, Starbucks, which, for some reason, is always more crowded.
This actually proves to be a good thing. It means that most of the time you will be able to find a seat in the independently owned, more delicious and less commercialized Kookoo Café.
After all, at Starbucks you definitely won’t get to look at a plastic pear in a bird cage while sipping your coffee (yes, this is one of the many interesting decorations that line the walls and ceiling at the Kookoo Café).
But watch where you sit. Though some of the tables and chairs are made of sturdy wood, others are of the folding variety. Believe me when I tell you that spilling an entire pot of boiling tea on your pants is painful, humiliating and very wet.
The best part of the Kookoo Café is not the location, though; it’s the food and drink. If you are a tea drinker, you will be in heaven. There are several varieties of gourmet black, green and herbal teas. I recommend the jasmine pearl green tea and the seven herbal blend. Tea comes in a pot or a cup, and the tea bags are fancily tied to make the experience visually and tastefully pleasing.
Kookoo also has varied and creative vegetarian sandwiches (though some do have tuna fish). My personal favorite is the avocado and Swiss cheese, which comes on either multigrain or focaccia bread (always fresh) with honey mustard sauce. The tomato mozzarella is also a crowd pleaser and proves once and for all that good sandwiches don’t need meat.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, the Middle Eastern wraps are worth a try. Don’t expect falafel as good as what you’ll get at Rami’s in Coolidge Corner, but you’re in for a delicious sandwich. They aren’t too expensive either, ranging from $6 to $9.
The Kookoo Café is also perfect for a midmorning or afternoon snack. They have homemade muffins and scones (flavors vary daily), as well as cookies and brownies.
If you’re feeling sluggish, the coffee drinks are almost as good as the tea. You may end up paying a few more cents than you would at Starbucks, but it’s completely worth it for Kookoo’s relaxing, quirky atmosphere and delicious homemade treats.
Sarah Plovnick can be contacted at [email protected]