Set behind the New Look store in Queensgate, this 180 seat restaurant is something to be excited about. With over 40 rums behind the bar, my inner pirate was released as I tried a variety of cocktails on the menu. Who knew I liked rum so much!? Every cocktail told a different story and the flavours all worked harmoniously together. My favorites had to be the Marley Mojito and as recommended by our fab waitress- Bahama Mama which I wouldnt have normally gone for but it tasted delicious.
Another thing to note is you can book a table purely for drinks! Making it the perfect destination for a cocktail night- squee!! And it gets better- they have Happy Hour 2 for 1 on cocktails!! It's available from 11:30am to 7pm then 9.30pm until closing time Sunday to Thursday and 11:30am to 7pm then 10pm until close Fridays and Saturdays.
Whilst sipping a cocktail or two, three, four, we nibbled on Jamaican jerk nuts and Jam Rock spiced popcorn with tangy lime flavours.
Food is at the heart of the Turtle Bay experience just like it is within the Caribbean culture. Looking at the amazing menu we wondered how we'd be able to pick just one thing but little did we realise we were in for a treat of sampling each of their best dishes.
The eclectic cuisine has something to offer for everyone. Not a big fan of spice? Not to worry- there are some aromatic choices on the menu that won't blow your socks off. There's of course some fiery foods and a great selection for veggies too! I found I was really rather taken with the sweetcorn fritters which were spicy and beautifully crispy too. Overall, there is a vast variety of bold flavours and rustic dishes, all inspired by the laid back, social outlook of the Caribbean. Some of the signature dishes we sampled were their famous jerk chicken and curried goat, but there is plenty for all palettes to choose from including a new burger menu which I am definitely trying on my next visit.
If you're not feeling the sit down service, Turtle Bay offers take out too which is perfect for a Friday night in with the girls or a date night!
The atmosphere at Turtle Bay is all about relaxing with loved ones and enjoying the lively soulful feel of the place over dinner or drinks. Both Chris and I felt right at home as soon as we entered with staff being incredibly attentive and eager to suggest what would make our dining experience perfect. We even had the head chef come and speak to us to get our opinion on the dishes he had prepared.
When the dessert course came out, I have to say I was dubious... Could Caribbean dessert really be pulled off? I immediately thought of an Indian restaurant with fantastic main courses but forever the disappointing dessert. Was this final course going to let the Caribbean dream down? In short- No. If I could have some more of that Rum and Raisin bread pudding right now I absolutely would. It was so warm and soft and uber comforting! Infused with dark rum and mixed in with cinnamon, brown sugar and raisins, it was absolute perfection and went perfectly with a cocktail and cool vanilla icecream. The dark chocolate brownies were melt in the mouth and totally divine and the Spiced rum and chocolate pot certainly packed a punch!!
After all this cracking food we were feeling suitably stuffed but chuffed to have tried the fantastic menu. The only thing left to do was try a few more cocktails. I mean, it'd be rude not to right?
Chris is something of a rum lover so was asking the staff about the varieties of rum available. They were incredibly knowledgeable having had to try everything on the menu as part of their training and giving a real insight into the flavours and origins of each liquor.
I however was well on my merry way so left Chris to try neat rum whilst I stuck to pretty cocktails and sitting at the bar!
The bar and restaurant itself will easily make you forget you're in the centre of Peterborough and whisk you away to a Caribbean beach front with twinkling fairy lights and rustic decking.
Overall I cannot rate Turtle Bay highly enough. It's definitely going to be my main source for dinner, drinks and get togethers with friends and family in Peterborough and I cannot wait to return! It opens tomorrow- Sunday 25th June so be sure to get yourself booked in pronto for the Caribbean dream!
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