Chekhov's Cafe — Restaurant in The Municipal District of Navan

We came with my partner and our baby. The café was empty except for one table where a couple was sitting.

As soon as we walked in and before we could even choose a table, the barista (instead of serving the line of five people waiting) rushed over to us and pointed to a long table with benches, telling us to leave the stroller with the baby there.

I replied that I couldn’t leave my baby lying alone in the stroller away from us. He then pointed at the bench again, suggesting we sit there next to the baby. I told him I preferred to sit at a regular table with proper chairs with backrests.

He insisted that we would be in the way of the kitchen staff if we sat anywhere else. Instead of offering us a comfortable spot, he kept pushing us to sit at a large table for eight people with benches instead of chairs.

We would have spent just five minutes there, but instead of quietly having breakfast or a coffee, we wasted time arguing with the staff member who completely ruined our mood.

He drew everyone’s attention to us. The couple sitting at the table even offered to give us their spot.

We left deeply disappointed. This kind of attitude towards guests is unacceptable. We left deeply disappointed. This kind of attitude towards guests is unacceptable. I would not recommend this place to anyone and we definitely won’t be coming back to a place where customers are considered an inconvenience to...

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Roundhouse Kick of Energy and Charm!

Chekhov's Karate Dojo in Navan is not your average martial arts gym—it’s a place where discipline meets delightful surprises. I came for the karate but stayed for the atmosphere (and the Haribo).

From the moment you walk in, you can tell this place runs on more than just black belt spirit—it runs on solar panels, which power not only the lights but apparently the good vibes too. It's eco-conscious and high-kicking!

During breaks, students gather around to refuel with Haribo Starmix jellys—yes, really. It sounds strange, but popping a gummy bear mid-session somehow feels completely right here. And if you're lucky, there’s a cold Dr Pepper waiting in the mini-fridge to wash it all down. Karate and cola? Surprisingly harmonious.

Instructors are top-notch—firm but encouraging—and Chekhov himself (yes, that's his real name!) brings a calm intensity that makes you want to perfect your kata and recycle properly at the same time.

Whether you're an aspiring martial artist or just want to practice side kicks while sipping a fizzy drink, this place is worth checking out. Just don’t eat too many jelly rings...

Don't understand the negative comments....the food was fantastic, and portions HUGE. I had an inexpensive healthy salad, said I didn't want the chicken, and was asked if I wanted to substitute for something else so I chose smoked salmon, which was piled up on the plate, at no extra cost I should say - and as I said, no scrimping on portion sizes. Coffee (oat milk) excellent also, and amazing home-made lemon meringue.

I was over from London for a few days, and in spite of the wide choice we have here in this enormous city, I rarely leave a cafe / restaurant as satisfied as I was when I left Chekhov's.

The staff were also very friendly - especially the younger guy with a few tatts.

My only (slight) gripe is the name - what about all the great Irish writers? Don't they need a cafe named after them? Beckett's Cafe, McGahern's Cafe?...