I didn’t expect a restaurant in Walthamstow to make me feel like I was on holiday, but the hot weather outside and vibrancy inside Turtle Bay transported me.
I began my meal with a starters from their menu inspired by beach shacks and street vendors across the Caribbean islands. My partner and I shared the jerk pit chicken wings (£5.10). They come with one of three jerk glazes - classic, pineapple and coconut, I went for the latter.
They were perfect – the meat fell from the bone and the glaze fell from the meat. A delicious mess and a generous portion.
For my main I stayed carnivorous and chose the babyback pork ribs served with sweet potato fries and Caribbean slaw (£10.25). The portion was plentiful again and the meat sumptuously cooked. However, again you can chose the glaze and I made the mistake of choosing the same as I had for the starter, which after a while was a little overwhelming and I struggled to finish it all.
My partner made a much better choice, mixing it up with the curry chrimp with king prawns and mango (£10.80), cooked with sweet potato in Caribbean spices, fresh green seasoning and sweet onion chutney, served with steamed rice & roti flatbread.
At this stage, and from the long description, you can probably guess it was another hearty portion. With that and the modest prices you certainly get a lot for your money.
The only downside was the fact I couldn’t fit in a dessert, as tempting as they were. My other half battled through the fullness and had the banana and toffee cheesecake (£4.95). Of course I tried a bit and it was spectacularly lavish in both appearance and flavour.
The food was outstanding and the service was not only to a high standard, but there was a wonderfully affable and easy going vibe to match the décor and reggae tunes. A wonderful restaurant that superseded my expectations.
Turtle Bay Walthamstow, The Scene, Cleveland Place, 269 High Street, Walthamstow, E17 7FD. Details: 0208 520 7839
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