Popular UK restaurant announces surprise closure

A well-known chain restaurant and bar has confirmed it will shut its Swansea venue later this week. Caribbean-inspired eatery and bar Turtle Bay, which operates around 45 sites across the UK, revealed it is shutting down after nearly a decade in the city.

The chain restaurant launched on Swansea’s Castle Street in 2017. Turtle Bay, which also runs a branch on Cardiff’s St Mary Street, recently secured the Best of Swansea accolade at the Wales Restaurant Awards. The Swansea restaurant will shut on Thursday, April 16. The restaurant shared the news in a heartfelt statement, reports WalesOnline.

In a statement to its customers, Turtle Bay Swansea said: “After almost 10 incredible years, next week we will close our doors for the last time. We are devastated, but wanted to thank you all for your support over the years.

“Thank you for all the memories, the wild bottomless brunches, the warm Caribbean vibes, friendly conversations, bucket-loads of jerk chicken, curry goat and rice and peas. We will miss you!

“Your nearest Turtle Bay will be Cardiff. Our last day of trade will be Thursday, April 16. Diolch yn fawr Abertawe. One love.”

Patrons expressed shock and disappointment upon learning of the closure. One individual commented: “Gutted to hear this. Had many a fabulous bottomless brunch here with family and friends.”

Another said: “Aw I’m gutted! Amazing food and cocktails there!!!” A third person commented: “Devastated!! Absolutely love coming here.”