A FIRST look has revealed how a brand new bar and restaurant will look once it opens - as 50 jobs are set to be created.

The Caribbean restaurant, Turtle Bay is set to open its new venue in the Riverwalk development in Durham City later this year.

Computer-generated images have been released showing how it will become a "vibrant" destination as work has officially started.

It comes as Durham has seen a wave of new venues open with Rib N Reef and The Curious Mr Fox recently making an arrival in recent weeks. 

Read more: Inside Rib N Reef restaurant as it opens inside former Psyche in Durham

Ryan Sullivan, general manager at Turtle Bay Durham, said the restaurant was hoping to create a venue with "spirit, personality and passion" as recruitment has started.

The Northern Echo: A CGI of Turtle Bay in Durham City Picture: CONTRIBUTORA CGI of Turtle Bay in Durham City Picture: CONTRIBUTOR

The Northern Echo:  A CGI of Turtle Bay in Durham City Picture: CONTRIBUTOR A CGI of Turtle Bay in Durham City Picture: CONTRIBUTOR

Split over two storeys, the restaurant is set to serve up signature cocktails, bottomless brunch and Caribbean dishes in what bosses have said will be a "laid-back" atmosphere.

The chain, which runs more than 40 such venues across the country, also operates other Turtle Bay sites in the North East, with restaurants in Middlesbrough and Newcastle.

Designed by Fusion Design and Architecture, the interior is set to feature a central island bar, open kitchen, flaming jerk-pit and grill as well as indoor veranda seating.

The Northern Echo: A CGI of Turtle Bay in Durham Picture: CONTRIBUTORA CGI of Turtle Bay in Durham Picture: CONTRIBUTOR

The Northern Echo: A CGI of Turtle Bay in Durham Picture: CONTRIBUTORA CGI of Turtle Bay in Durham Picture: CONTRIBUTOR

The restaurant will also feature individually themed areas including a "Reggae" and "D'Rum" room for its customers.

Although an exact date has not yet been set, bosses have confirmed the restaurant will open for trade in October this year. 

Making bold claims Phil Dukelow, operations manager for Turtle Bay North East, promised the venue would offer some of the most "jaw-dropping" interiors in Durham.

He said: "Durham’s dining and social scene is about to heat up.

"Turtle Bay is bringing the tastes, spirit and energy of the Caribbean to this beautiful historic city.

"Diners will experience laid-back holiday vibes with signature cocktails, bottomless brunches and island-inspired dishes like jerk chicken and fiery goat curry.

“(It) is going to offer some of the most instagrammable and jaw-dropping interiors in the city and we think people will love the feeling of escapism that Turtle Bay brings."

Around 50 front and back of house roles have been created with auditions taking place at Raddisson Blu in Durham. 

Mr Sullivan, general manager, said: “Creating Caribbean good times requires great people, which is why we’re looking for applicants who share our spirit, personality and passion for food, fun and Turtle Bay.”

Alan Day, centre manager at The Riverwalk, added:  “We are delighted to welcome another great brand to join The Riverwalk and complement our already extensive food and beverage offering.

"The new Turtle Bay restaurant will create more jobs for local residents and strengthen The Riverwalk as Durham’s premier leisure destination.”

Those interested in applying should email recruitment@turtlebay.co.uk

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