Tu’s Place
Tu’s Place is located on the main road, Queen’s Road, in the Martintar area of Nadi. It is about half way between the airport and the main Nadi Town centre. The Martintar “strip” as it is locally known, boasts a number of restaurants, making it one of the main dining areas of Nadi.
Tu’s Place has been operating since 2005. Ratu (Tu) is a local with family roots in Tamusua Village on Yasawa Island and Narewa Village in Nadi. Consequently the varied menu contains some great local tastes influenced by Tu’s upbringing, as well as a range of other dishes, all of them showcasing local produce and ingredients.
A key principle of Tu’s is to use local produce wherever possible. For example, you will see some Thai dishes on the menu – but they are cooked with curry pastes made by the staff from local ingredients. Every morning sees Tu at the local produce market selecting fruit, vegetables and herbs for the day.
For those wishing to try some local Fijian dishes, Tu’s is the place to visit. Tu’s kokoda (raw fish in lemon, coconut cream, herbs and a salsa) has a reputation as one of the best in Nadi. Other favourites, popular with both local and visitors alike, include lolo fish (fish in coconut cream), rourou balls (made from taro leaves and herbs) with grilled fish, kaikoso (a local saltwater clam) fritters and bula prawns (prawns cooked in a sauce full of the tastes of Fiji). However, the menu has something for all with the fish & chips always popular and a range of snack options and Asian influenced dishes. A salad bar holds a selection of fresh salads made daily. Tu is very proud of his staff. When he opened the restaurant, he wanted to provide a platform for young trainees to learn the basics of cooking and get a start in a career. All meals are cooked by staff who have been trained at the restaurant. As one moves on to other opportunities, a new recruit joins and begins the learning process. This practice started in 2005 and continues today.
Tu’s Place is licensed and has a range of wines, Fiji beers and Fiji spirits. There is a children’s menu and a dessert menu but also check for dessert specials, which often appear at the weekend.
The restaurant seats up to 35 and is available for group bookings and private functions. Some outdoor seating is available. Tu’s Place has just been awarded the 2014 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence. Opening hours are everyday from 7am until 10.30pm.