Barbados is home to our inspiration – Surfside, a simple beach bar that captured everything we wanted Turtle Bay to be. Relaxed, hospitable, and effortless. It’s the foundation of our restaurants. A place where you can drop in any time, chat, eat, drink and unwind. We call this Caribbean Soul.
Every year, to celebrate Barbados’ Independence Day on 30th November, the island comes together - it’s more than just a holiday, it’s a vibrant celebration of freedom, culture, and community. Since gaining independence from the UK in 1966, Bajans have marked the day with parades, sports competitions, fairs and parties that bring the island to life. Streets and landmarks in Bridgetown glow in blue and gold, showcasing the nation’s pride.
You’ll see a lot of Bajan influence on our menus. Take our Salt Fish Fritters, for example, a classic Bajan appetiser made with salted cod, fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and a touch of heat. Perfect with an ice-cold beer to wash it down.
Our team trips to Barbados always take us to Oistins, a working fishing town on the south coast. Most days, but mainly on weekends, it’s a bustling hub where food, music, and sunset views come together. Vendors cook fish fresh from the sea front of you as island tunes play in the background, and a rum punch is a must. This warm, welcoming buzz is the feeling we aim to capture at Turtle Bay. Our Whole Sea Bream – tender succulent, finished with garlic butter, Trini-churri, and a squeeze of fresh lemon, can give you a taste of the magic of Oistins.
And we can't forget to mention Bajan hot pepper sauce. A staple of the island’s cuisine, it complements dishes like meat, poultry, and fish (or any dish!), adding bold, fiery flavour. While recipes vary, the key ingredients typically include mustard, onions, vinegar, and of course, the iconic Scotch bonnet pepper.
Barbados is the birthplace of rum. From local gatherings to island-wide celebrations, rum is deeply embedded in Bajan culture. Rum shops, where locals gather to chat, play dominoes, and share stories, are iconic social spaces. At Turtle Bay, we capture this spirit with dominoes on every table, creating an atmosphere built for connection, conversation, and relaxation. And, of course, whether enjoyed on its own or in a cocktail, we serve rum that carries the spirit of Barbados with every sip.
From celebrating bold flavours to creating spaces that bring people together, Turtle Bay brings the energy, culture, and culinary spirit of Barbados to life - one dish, one drink, and one shared moment at a time.
Want to win a trip to Barbados – the island that inspires everything we do?
