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Italian Finds with Few Calories: Your Guide to Guilt-Free Delights at La Tartaruga Tobago
As Trinidad and Tobago enters its vibrant carnival season, visitors and locals alike are gearing up to enjoy the festivities in style — and that often means being fully conscious of your diet before hitting the road. For those visiting the idyllic island of Tobago, indulging in authentic Italian cuisine doesn’t have to disrupt your health goals. At La Tartaruga Tobago, we’ve curated a selection of delectable Italian dishes and coffee drinks that are rich in flavor but light on calories – but who are we kidding? We’ll also include one item that’s totally worth the occasional indulgence!
Let’s explore our lunch menu and dinner menu to uncover these tantalizing drinks and dishes together.
Start Your Day with Low-Calorie Italian Coffees
Few things pair better with Tobago’s mornings than a freshly brewed Italian coffee. And did you know that a cup of black coffee contains only 2 calories? At La Tartaruga Tobago, we offer a variety of classic Italian coffee drinks that cater to every palate during lunch and dinner:
Espresso: A shot of pure energy, as seen above to the left, this bold and aromatic favourite delivers the perfect pick-me-up in coffee’s simplest form.
Macchiato: Adding just a dollop of frothed milk to espresso, as seen above to the right, this drink is creamy yet calorie-conscious.
Americano: For those who prefer a lighter brew, the Americano blends hot water with espresso for a smooth and satisfying cup.
Cappuccino: Indulge in a creamy, frothy delight made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk and milk foam.
Latte: This classic offers more steamed milk and a gentle touch of foam, creating a comforting and satisfying drink.
Affogato al Caffè: A delightful dessert-coffee hybrid where rich espresso is poured over a scoop of gelato – perfect for an occasional treat!
Low-Calorie Lunch Options to Keep You Energized
Whether you’re fueling up for a day of exploring Tobago or unwinding in our serene setting on the weekends, our lunch menu features healthy and flavorful dishes:
Caponata: A classic Sicilian dish featuring roasted eggplant, sweet peppers, capers, raisins, and olives, all simmered in aged balsamic vinegar to create a perfect agrodolce—a harmonious blend of sweet and sour. This vegetarian favorite is not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrients and naturally low in calories.
Pumpkin Soup: As seen above, a velvety blend of locally sourced pumpkin and fresh ginger, seasoned with Italian herbs and spices. Made with pure pumpkin and no cream, this light and nutrient-rich soup is a healthy and flavorful comfort food.
Decadent Yet Light Dinner Selections
Evenings at La Tartaruga Tobago are a time to savor the finer things, including these healthy Italian creations from our dinner menu:
Nine Spices Shrimp: Tender, perfectly sauteed shrimp seasoned with a blend of nine aromatic spices. This dish is high in protein and low in fat, offering a satisfying yet light dinner choice.
Carpaccio di pesce: Delicate, thinly sliced raw fish drizzled with olive oil and fresh lemon juice, topped with a small, crisp salad. This elegant appetizer is light, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect start to any meal.
Salad: Fresh, crisp greens tossed with Italian dressings, featuring a variety of toppings like tomatoes, cucumbers and Parmesan. Simple and delicious.
Pumpkin Soup: Also available for dinner, this wholesome soup remains a crowd-pleaser with its delicate balance of flavors.
Grilled Shrimp: Expertly grilled shrimp served with a side of vibrant vegetables, as seen above, offering a balanced and flavorful meal.
Grilled Fish: Fresh, locally sourced mahi mahi seasoned with Italian herbs and grilled to perfection. High in protein and omega-3s, it’s a healthy and satisfying choice.
Why Choose La Tartaruga Tobago?
Beyond offering authentic Italian cuisine, La Tartaruga Tobago is committed to providing meals that align with your health goals without compromising flavour. Our chefs are dedicated to their craft and are continuously learning and exploring the food and flavours of both Italy and Tobago to give you the best of both worlds.
From our low-calorie Italian coffee options to our thoughtfully prepared dishes using fresh local ingredients, you can indulge every single time without guilt.
Our regular opening hours are:
Lunch
Friday – Sunday: 12pm-3pm
Dinner
Wednesday – Saturday: 6pm – 10:30pm
Sunday: 6pm – 10pm
Visit Us During Carnival Season
Make La Tartaruga Tobago your culinary destination this Carnival season. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner, our menu has something for everyone. Don’t forget to try our signature Italian coffees — perfect for a guilt-free energy boost.
Explore the flavors of Italy while staying true to your health goals. Reserve your table today and discover the lighter side of indulgence.