THE laid back vibe of the Caribbean is coming to Chelmsford city centre.

Turtle Bay Caribbean restaurant and bar is to open a 200 seat, £1 million venue in Exchange Way, High Chelmer Shopping Centre next month.

The restaurant chain has venues up and down the country, but this will be its first Essex location, creating 50 jobs.

More than 50 dishes offering a range of jerk, slow cooked one pots, and street food will be served alongside a selection of 15 cocktails and 40 types of rum.

The 3735 Sq ft opens on Friday August 5.

A spokesman for the chain said: “Food is at the heart of the Turtle Bay experience – just as it’s central to the heart and soul of Caribbean culture.

“An eclectic cuisine that is influenced by a rich tapestry of ethnicities, the food at Turtle Bay offers a vast choice of bold flavours and rustic dishes, all inspired by the laid back, social outlook of the Caribbean. The menu is meticulously researched and lovingly created.”

As well as a central island beach shack styled bar, there will be a large raised dining and veranda area, plus a vibrant, tiled, open street kitchen.

High-impact colour schemes and bespoke wall murals will be in abundance, as well as Turtle Bay’s trademark use of reclaimed and repurposed materials.

Shipping containers transformed into seating areas, oil drum lamp shades, reclaimed wood and checker plate, tyre sinks will sit before a wall of old speakers.

The restaurant continues to recruit staff, and those interested are asked to register at turtlebayjobs.clickandhire.net.