Embracing Community Through Chess and Culinary Delights at Antilles Cafe

Bridging Community Through Chess: OurChess at Antilles Cafe

In a digital age where connections often feel fleeting, Z, the visionary behind OurChess, champions the importance of community. “This is our game,” Z asserts. “This is the game of life, and we’re all in this together.” Nestled in the heart of Harlem, OurChess is more than just a chess club; it’s a vibrant gathering space that emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility. With events hosted throughout Harlem and Lower Manhattan, the club remains steadfast in its mission to celebrate learning through the mantra, “each one, teach one.”

For many, including myself, the allure of chess is a nostalgic one. After years away from the board, I found myself drawn back into the game, captivated by the welcoming atmosphere and the chance to explore uncharted waters of strategy and camaraderie.

At the center of this community is Antilles Cafe, a beloved local fixture that has become synonymous with OurChess. Opened in 2024 by chefs Erick Nicoleau and Dru Goicochea, the café embodies the spirit of the neighborhood, serving as a third space where people can gather, connect, and celebrate their diverse heritages. With roots in Haitian and Dominican cultures, the duo has crafted a menu that pays homage to the African diaspora, blending dynamic flavors with cultural references that resonate deeply with the community.

As I settled in for a Saturday of chess and conversation, the café buzzed with energy. The aroma of griot—marinated and fried pork—wafted through the air, mingling with the enticing scent of the chefs’ unique take on the classic Vietnamese banh mi, featuring salt fish, a staple in Caribbean cuisine. Each dish is accompanied by a generous serving of housemade pikliz, a tangy Haitian condiment, and crispy tostones, creating a feast that nourishes both body and soul.

Antilles Cafe’s inventive menu doesn’t stop at savory dishes. The Plantain Brulee latte stands out as a must-try, blending the caramelized sweetness of ripe plantains with floral vanilla and warm spices, all topped with a delicate torched sugar crust. For a refreshing twist, I opted for the house-brewed sorrel iced tea, sweetened with a zesty lime syrup crafted by Chef Erick himself.

As I watched Kamil Estrella plotting his next move on the chessboard, I felt a profound sense of belonging. Each game played, each dish shared, and each story exchanged at Antilles Cafe reinforces the idea that community is built on connection. OurChess is not just about chess; it’s about creating a space where everyone is seen, served, and heard.

In a world that often prioritizes the digital over the personal, OurChess and Antilles Cafe remind us of the power of gathering, learning, and celebrating our shared humanity. As Z aptly puts it, we are all in this together, and through the game of chess, we are forging bonds that transcend the board.