Turtle Bay Brixton

Unmatched Service and Lively Atmosphere Delight!

My recent jaunt to Turtle Bay was a breath of spicy Caribbean air that's often amiss in the usual ho-hum dining circuits. Walking into the place, it's not hard to feel like you're stepping into an island fiesta, with reggae beats tinkling away softly during the quieter weekday evenings, and practically rattling the teacups come the weekend. The cocktails—a kaleidoscope of rum extravaganzas—are pretty much on perpetual sale, which is immensely appealing. Oh, and the service—it’s about as warm and accommodating as a Caribbean hammock at sunset! Thanks to the likes of the vibrant Kiki and the ever-effervescent Danni, the front-of-house service fails in one respect only: being anything less than perfect. These hosts seemed more like friends guiding us through a tempestuous sea of cocktails and spicy delights.

The food, while having its moments of brilliance with dishes like the curry goat robust and brimming with spices that coat the lips in tropical intrigue, leans a bit too close to franchised comfort at times. But, that gleaming, efficient service polishes up any dull edges brilliantly. It's fantastic fuel for a bottomless brunch or just soaking up those boozy excesses on any given evening. However, tread cautiously when hunger after late-night adventures strike—the music can become so accusatory loud from 9:30pm onwards that you might just out-yell Led Zeppelin to converse. But truly, beyond these fleeting quibbles, Turtle Bay largely achieves what it sets out to do—offer you an indulgent slice of the sun-drenched Caribbean smack in the heart of overcast London. It's high spirits and spice tailored to perfection. Come for the tempting offers, stay for the delightful company of accomplished servers and thumping cocktail tinctures—they won’t disappoint. — Milo Tastemaker