With new restaurants popping up in Leeds all the time, one of the latest and most exciting prospects is Turtle Bay, which has opened on the site of the old O'Neill's store in The Light.
Offering a menu based on the power of the scotch bonnet chilli – with starters, mains and desserts all containing this feisty ingredient – it's clear what the distinguishing features are that help to set Turtle Bay apart from other restaurants in Leeds.
In terms of bringing a specific cuisine to the masses, Turtle Bay builds on the same idea as Las Iguanas, which was set up originally by the same owner.
With this in mind, there is a nice relaxed area in which to enjoy 2-4-1 cocktails as well as a spacious dining area. The drinks offer runs all day (except between 7pm and 10pm), so there certainly are savings to be made for those looking for a post-work drink.
As is the trend these days, you can watch on as your food is grilled in front of you. Alternatively, you could work your way through the cocktail menu, boasting drinks made with over 40 different types of rum. With the likes of dark, light and even the feared over-proof rums on offer, the bar team know their stuff and can help you go beyond your standard rum and coke option.
Food-wise, the emphasis is on spicy dishes and jerk chicken. The jerk chicken brings with it a healthy dose of chilli, while the curried goat is all about aromatic flavours. This is a restaurant that does not attempt to stay true to the original recipes but instead seeks to create an easy route into the world of Caribbean food.
If you aren't a spice fan, the recommended dish is Mo'Bay Chicken. If you are looking to just grab a few small plates with a cocktail, then the pepper roti offers a chance to try a take on Caribbean street food.
Turtle Bay is certainly another string to the Leeds bow when it comes to boasting the widest and most diverse range of food outside London.
Turtle Bay Leeds, 14 The Light, The Headrow, Leeds, LS1 8TL