The tide was just beginning to rise. The ocean’s roar felt like an invitation, calling us toward adventure. Early in the morning, we set out for a destination promising immersion in mountains, rivers, and the vibrancy of nature.
From Mermaid Beach Resort, we began our journey on a sampan boat, enchanted by the sound of waves and the rows of coconut and pine trees lining the shores.
Now and then, we saw fishermen skillfully casting their nets from traditional wooden boats, with other sampans moving gracefully across the waters, adding to the scene’s allure.
About ten minutes into our trip, we crossed the Rejukhal Bridge and were greeted by an extraordinary view.
On one side, we saw anchored sampans; on the other, the mangrove forest stretched before us.
A little further ahead, the towering mountains beckoned, their bases lined with areca nut trees while white egrets danced playfully along the riverbanks.
Locals busily fished, cultivated betel vines, and tended to their riverside homesteads. The beauty was so captivating that words alone seemed unable to do it justice.
After about half an hour, we reached our destination—a restaurant surrounded by mountains, dense forest, and lush greenery.
Here stood the “Tribe Restaurant,” nestled along the riverside. Ali Hossain, one of the restaurant’s caretakers, greeted us warmly.
After a short walk through a rural path, we arrived at Tribe Restaurant, where the natural beauty seemed almost surreal.
Perched by the river at the foot of the hill, Tribe Restaurant is a haven of tranquility.
Birds chirped around us, and the serene nature of the river beckoned. In the distance, the mountains marking the Myanmar border stood proudly.
Since this is about the restaurant, let’s talk about the food. Tribe Restaurant’s set menu features the traditional Chattogram dish “Mocha Bhaat,” complemented by forest-fresh fish paturi and fried fish.
They also offer “Crab Meat Mountain Samosas,” accompanied by a refreshing mint lemon raindrop juice.
The staff served the meal with a beautiful presentation on eco-friendly coconut plates. The attention to detail, from the unique tableware to their gracious hospitality, made the experience exceptional.
Traditionally wrapped in banana leaves, the mocha bhaat combines binni rice, beef, chili chicken, and spicy relishes, releasing a delightful aroma upon opening. The food was incredibly flavorful, and we left fully satisfied.
My companions, colleagues Mohammad Morshed and Rajin Saleh, shared their thoughts about the trip. They said they had never encountered such a restaurant in Cox’s Bazar, combining a thrilling sampan boat ride with delicious, traditional Chattogram cuisine.
“Absolutely fantastic,” they both agreed.
Restaurant staff members Mohammad Idris and Ali Hossain shared their perspectives, explaining that the beauty of Tribe Restaurant and the surrounding nature make each day extraordinary.
“We dedicate our days to maintaining this entire space and tending to the well-maintained plants.” Serving our guests is our top priority, and we love it when visitors express their delight and take photos with us.”
Tribe Restaurant sits in a truly enchanting spot, with the river flowing gently below, towering mountains nearby, and endless rice fields stretching out in front. It’s a place that will leave you in awe, too.
Tribe Restaurant Tour Reservation Hotline: 01841416468
By Abdur Rashid Manik:
