Turtle Bay Romford
Restaurant | Romford | England | United Kingdom
Caribbean cuisine in Romford
"Turtle Bay Romford" is a vibrant restaurant located in Romford, England, UK, specializing in Caribbean-inspired cuisine and bringing a relaxed island atmosphere to the bustling town. It is situated in the heart of Romford, an area in East London, and is part of the Turtle Bay chain, known throughout the UK for its connection to Caribbean flavors and culture. The restaurant opened its doors in November 2022 and has quickly established itself as a popular meeting point, attracting a colorful mix of locals, visitors, and party-goers. The opening created over 60 jobs, highlighting its significance for the local community.
Fresh cocktails in Romford
The interior of "Turtle Bay Romford" is a celebration of Caribbean joie de vivre: the walls are adorned with colorful murals and tropical motifs reminiscent of beach huts and street stalls, while reggae and soul music fill the air. The decor is intentionally casual, featuring wooden elements and warm colors that create an inviting atmosphere. There are both indoor and outdoor areas, with the latter being particularly popular on mild days to enjoy the sun with a drink. The music can be quite loud, elevating the mood, but sometimes making conversations difficult—a detail accepted as part of the authentic "Island Vibes."
Top restaurants in Romford
Culinary offerings at "Turtle Bay Romford" feature fresh, spicy dishes that capture the essence of the Caribbean. A highlight is the "Jerk Chicken," marinated for hours in a special spice blend and cooked on a traditional jerk grill, giving it an intense, smoky flavor—often served with rice and peas or crispy fries. The "Curry Goat," a slow-cooked dish with deep flavors, is also a favorite that warms the soul. For a lighter option, there are "Sweet Plantains," sweet cooking bananas that delight as a side or snack. Vegan guests are also well catered for, with options like the "Vegan Jerk ‘Chicken’" that offers the same spicy notes without meat. The kitchen places great emphasis on fresh ingredients and appealing presentation, making each dish a small work of art.
Lively restaurant in Romford
The drink menu is a central part of the experience. "Turtle Bay Romford" is known for its handcrafted cocktails, often served as part of a 2-for-1 offer during happy hour—a hallmark of the chain that is particularly popular. The "Reggae Rum Punch" stands out with its fruity rum blend, while the "Passion Rum Punch" impresses with its tropical notes. Rum plays a major role, fitting the Caribbean identity, and is offered in numerous variations. In addition to cocktails, there are local beers like "Turtle Bay Pale Ale" and non-alcoholic options such as fruity mocktails, rounding out the offerings.
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A special highlight is the "Bottomless Brunch," which is very popular among guests. Here, visitors can enjoy unlimited cocktails for a set period, paired with a selection of dishes—such as "Jerk Chicken" or lighter options like wraps with Caribbean fillings. The atmosphere during brunch is particularly lively, with fast service and a cheerful crowd celebrating the weekend. However, on busy days, the service can feel a bit hectic, which some see as part of the lively ambiance, while others regard it as a minor flaw.
The Turtle Bay chain was founded with the vision of bringing the warmth and spirit of the Caribbean to the UK, and the Romford location embodies this idea splendidly. The menu has been developed by Executive Chef Collin Brown, who infuses his Jamaican roots into every dish. The restaurant fits well into the growing diversity of Romford, an area that has evolved from a traditional market town into a modern hub. The opening was celebrated with live bands and DJs, highlighting the connection to Caribbean music and culture—an aspect that is also maintained in everyday life through occasional live music events.
