THE owner of a dessert kiosk that has proved a hit at a popular Essex shopping centre has thanked the local community for their unprecedented support of the venture.
Chocofay, the first outlet from family-owned business the Fountain Folk, opened at Lakeside Shopping Centre earlier this year featuring what is thought to be one of the largest chocolate fountains in the UK, as well as serving viral sweet treats like chocolate strawberries with the tagline: “A premium chocolate experience for indulgent moments.”
Chocofay – which means ‘chocolate from the land of fairies’ – offers imaginative, indulgent Instagrammable desserts served up from an eye-catching venue in a prime spot in the shopping centre. Its dishes feature authentic Basque cheesecake – including a scoopable version served in a dessert cup with strawberries and chocolate from the fountain – as well as drinks including coffee and different flavours of premium and ceremonial grade Matcha.
Since opening in March with the aim of becoming one of the best-loved chocolate spots in Essex, Chocofay has received rave reviews from local clientele, as well as people who have travelled from far and wide to try its viral treats, with owner Hina Sharif saying they have been blown away by the local support they have received.
Hina, who lives nearby and has previously worked her way up through various hospitality jobs, came up with the idea for a dessert kiosk aimed at families after noticing a gap in the market, and said despite having been hopeful that it would take off, she had had no idea that its first few months would prove so positive.
She said: “It’s been quite a whirlwind – we can’t actually believe how well received Chocofay has been, and we’re so grateful for the support from the local community, including our customers from Grays, Essex, Kent and London, as well as Lakeside itself and their team who have been hugely supportive. Having our first outlet somewhere like Lakeside really is a dream come true – it’s the perfect fit for us with its huge selection of shops, eateries and family attractions and we’re so happy to call this the first home of Chocofay.
“Obviously it’s a difficult time for everybody in our sector, and we’re conscious that people are being careful with what they spend, but we’re delighted that we are able to provide an affordable indulgence for people of all ages in this area. Yes, there’s a novelty factor, but we also focus on quality, serving up really delicious treats with top quality ingredients that deliver on taste, and do it in a way that is affordable for people.”
As well as its long-term signature serves, Hina and the team are constantly working on seasonal specials and are currently serving up a Mango Kunafa Cup, with more exciting inventions in the pipeline.
As a thank you for such a warm welcome to the area and to ensure it is part of the community it serves, they are already looking at ways the business can give back through collaborations with local charities and organisations.
“As a company, our values are hugely important to us and this means giving back, so we’re always looking for ways we can do that and truly be a part of the community we serve. We’re pleased that we’re already providing a place for people from the local community, from individuals who have become our regulars to community groups, and we can’t wait to build on that.”
