“How spicy is this going to be?”
It’s the million-dollar question - 10 chefs might give you 10 different answers! But that doesn’t make it easy if you’re just not that into spice!
Well, luckily for you, Caribbean food isn’t all about the heat. At Turtle Bay our focus is all on flavour – so whilst most of our dishes will have plenty of spices - like cumin or ginger - they’re not all going to knock your socks off with scores of Scotch Bonnet.
Just Ask
If you're a bit worried about spice levels - don't worry! Just speak to your server and they will be more than happy to recommend some less spicy dishes. All our food is made fresh in our kitchens, so there are plenty of dishes where the amount of spice can be less or more depending on your preference.
Wash down with a cocktail
Drinks in the Caribbean are quite often sweet as this balances out a spicy meal - the oil-based capsaicin (which is what makes things feel spicy) gets absorbed by sugar so calms the feeling. That's what makes our handcrafted cocktails the perfect accompaniment to your meal - not only are they ice cold, the sweet fruit syrups do a great job of complementing your main course.
It's all about balance
If you're a bit worried about going overboard on spice, pair your main with a sweet side for a bit of balance. A side of refreshing slaw pairs deliciously with meat or fish and also helps reset the palette if the spice gets a bit much. Plantain, sweet potato fries or dumplings are other great sides to balance out your main.
The not-spicy guide
We know it can be tricky navigating new menus if you’re not into the heat so here’s a selection of our least spicy dishes for anyone who’s not a fan of chilli…..
BRUNCH
Sweetcorn Roti – Packed with crispy sweetcorn fritters, smashed avo, sharp pink onions, crunchy lettuce and mild jerk mayo. All the flavours you want, without the heat.
Vegan Yardbird or Honey Bunny Yardbird – this does come with a little hot sauce drizzled on the top, but if you ask for it without, it's the perfect non-spicy brunch dish! Lots of maple syrup and freshly diced watermelon make the perfect brunch option for anyone who's not a fan of spice.
STARTERS
Crispy Chilli Squid – one of our most popular starters, just ask for no chilli for a spice-free option.
Fish Tacos - Crispy, golden-fried hake fillets served in bara roti with cooling avocado, topped with a zesty slaw, and a drizzle of tangy pepper salsa.
Sweetcorn Fritters – the fritters themselves are great non-spicy starter options but make sure you ask for the sauce on the side as this has a kick.
Trini Doubles – a delicious vegan treat, our hand-stretched roti bread is topped with curried chickpeas. They aren’t a zero on heat but it’s really just a gentle warmth from a blend of spices like cumin and ginger. Tread carefully on the cucumber chutney topping though – it’s got a tiny kick so you might want to ask for this on the side.
Mains
Mo’ Bay Chicken – an all time Turtle Bay favourite, this dish has a creamy jerk sauce with just a background level of warmth to it. The sweet plantain and coconut rice and peas keep things balanced. You can also try our Vegan Mo'Bay Chicken.
Fried Chicken – the ultimate indulgence, whatever your spice tolerance. This dish is served with a dash of hot sauce, just ask for it without, for a totally mild option. Served with spiced fries or mac and cheese.
Chickpea Callaloo Curry – if you're fancying a rich, warming curry without the spice, this one's your go-to. Chickpeas and Callaloo in a creamy and mild coconut, mango, & garlic sauce.
Burgers – all our burgers are full on flavour and light on spice so take your pick! You can always ask for the jerk mayo or hot sauce on the side and add to your liking.
Buddah Bowls - our Buddah Bowls are all totally mild and delicious. Choose to top with jerk chicken, halloumi or vegan chicken.
Seafood Soul Bowl - The ultimate bowl of indulgence, and totally mild. Whole king prawn, squid, & salmon in a mild and creamy coconut sauce. With rice & peas and roasted greens.
Sides – pretty much ALL our side plates are low on spice so you’re safe with most. Just be careful with – Cheesy Jerk Fries and Jerk Halloumi. And don't be scared away from the 'spiced' fries - their deliciously addictive spice mix is a blend of spices, not chilli!
PUDDINGS
All safe from spice! Our Cheesecake or Salted Caramel Chocolate Brownie with coconut ice cream are the perfect spice-soothers if you want a little something sweet to balance out the spice.
