Barrow at High Chelmer Shop Exchange Way, 22-24 The, Chelmsford CM1 1XB

About This Pub

Oh, you know, Turtle Bay in Chelmsford has really won me over with its fresh, colourful makeover and that effortless island feel – it's like stepping into a beach bar without leaving the UK, ideal for catching up with mates over a leisurely meal or a few cocktails. The staff are just lovely, always on hand with a smile and quick to make you feel at home, which makes all the difference on a night out. The food's generally spot on, with standout dishes like curry goat croquettes and those passion fruit rumtinis that keep you coming back, and it's great value with deals on drinks. On the flip side, I've heard a few grumbles about the menu not being as extensive as it used to be, missing some old favourites, and occasionally the dishes don't quite live up to the hype, which is a shame. Still, for anyone looking for a relaxed spot to enjoy good company and a taste of the Caribbean, it's well worth a visit – just keep your expectations in check and you'll likely have a brilliant time.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The atmosphere is absolutely spot on – it's got that laid-back Caribbean vibe that makes you feel like you're on holiday, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
  • The staff are top-notch; they're so friendly and attentive, like Nathan who went above and beyond to make guests feel welcome.
  • Food and drinks are a real highlight – think delicious Caribbean-inspired dishes and cocktails that are as refreshing as they are creative, with great deals like 2-4-1 on drinks.
  • It's conveniently located in the heart of Chelmsford, just a short walk from the station and shops, making it easy to pop in for breakfast, lunch, or evening drinks.
  • They've got some brilliant facilities, including outdoor space, free WiFi, and even a co-working area, so it's versatile for different occasions.
Cons
  • The menu seems to have been slimmed down a bit, which might disappoint if you're after certain favourites that have been dropped.
  • Food quality can vary; some folks have found it a bit underwhelming, so it might not hit the mark every time.
  • It can get busy, and while walk-ins are welcome, you might not always snag a table straight away if it's a popular time.

Contact Information

Barrow at High Chelmer Shop Exchange Way, 22-24 The, Chelmsford CM1 1XB
+441245263444
Bar
Open Now

Opening Hours

Monday (Today)09:00 - 23:00
Tuesday09:00 - 23:00
Wednesday09:00 - 23:00
Thursday09:00 - 23:00
Friday09:00 - 23:00
Saturday09:00 - 23:00
Sunday09:00 - 23:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Amazing new look and feel. Nathan was a brilliant host and looked after us. Big thanks as he was so hospitable and so friendly. Thanks for the dominos corner, we had fun 🍸 🍹
CM
Channa Mallawaratchi
Recently ate here on a Sunday afternoon. Wasn't too busy so easy to get a table. Food was very good, curry goat croquettes to start and the bay burger for main. Wife had fish tacos and monkfish skewers. Passion fruit rumtini to drink which was excellent, also 2-4-1 on cocktails which was nice. Service charge 12% is added to the bill. Staff very friendly. I was probably most surprised by the side of broccoli, assumed it would be fairly bland however it was delicious. Plenty of seasoning and butter. Would definitely go again.
BW
Benite Whiles
Just visited Turtle Bay in Chelmsford after hearing it had a refurb. The place looks great – fresh, colourful vibe, comfy seating, and nicely styled tables. Staff were friendly and helpful too. But the food was a big letdown. The menu’s been seriously cut down – no brown chicken, no hash, no mac and cheese, no salads or bowls. Even the little extras like the pickles with the goat curry are gone. The cocktail list is shorter now, and bottomless brunch has gone up in price with just a 2-hour time slot. We both had the goat curry – it still had good flavour, but wasn’t anywhere near as spicy as before. They now serve it in separate bowls (one for the curry, one for the rice, and a small side plate to put it all together), which just makes the portion feel smaller. It costs the same as it did before, but you’re definitely getting less. Plus, you have to pay extra for sides that used to be included. Only curries on the menu are the goat curry and a fish one – that’s it. No 2-for-1 cocktails either. We left hungry and disappointed. I would recommend checking the menu online before booking – it’s changed a lot and honestly just isn’t worth the money anymore.
SD
Sophia Donadio
Haven’t been to Turtle Bay before, but came here for the first time with my partner this evening and honestly can say we’ve had one of the nicest evenings! Our servers were absolutely fab, we didn’t catch their names but a young guy and young girl (absolutely amazing and so attentive!!) we then moved to the bar tables to finish our drinks and had a lovely experience chatting to the bar stuff, it was honestly a breath of fresh air speaking to Alfie and Ollie, absolute 5 star to the both of them, fantastic members of staff who actually leave an impact, what a team!!! Thanks guys
SC
Stacey Craig
One Love, One Restaurant—The new Turtle Bay Brings the Caribbean Vibes! From the moment you step inside the reimagined Turtle Bay, you feel the island energy—Caribbean flavours, refreshing smoothies. The breakfast? Wicked! They bringing the fire early with breakfast roti packed with all the good stuff. Jerk sausage and egg? A proper wake-up call! Smoked bacon and egg? Pure comfort. And let me tell you, the service? On point! The staff got that warm island hospitality—smiling, friendly, and making sure you good from start to finish. You feel like family the second you walk in. Turtle Bay ain’t just serving food, they serving culture. It’s the kinda place where you come for the meal and stay for the vibes!
MP
Mr P

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