Top: All Saints / Trousers: Massimo Dutti / Shoes: Kurt Geiger
So last night was a slightly different kind of munch, and an exceptional one at that! I was deciding between doing Valentines day at home and putting together a lovely menu for the evening or celebrating it out in style. I had voted to take control of it this year so onus was on me! To be honest I wouldn’t claim to be the most romantic of individuals, but I think last night may have earned me a few brownie points (And yes I am talking about my restaurant choice only!)
Catch is a restaurant that came to Dubai some months ago from New York and ever since it’s been open Jack’s been desperate to give it a go. Time really does fly and we just hadn’t got round to trying it out so I thought last night would be a perfect opportunity to visit. It’s a fusion of amazing Seafood with a New York hot spot-like atmosphere. Little quirky touches and distinctive decor that gives the restaurant something unique and offers a very different vibe to what Dubai restaurants usually give. It’s everything you would expect from a fine-dining restaurant but without the white linen table cloths!
We started with a special of the night of “oysters and pearls” and edamame beans that were served over charcoal to give them a really smokey flavour. Unreal. I’m advocating they both get put as regulars on the menu!
I learnt a valuable lesson last night – how one can easily consume 6 delectable oysters without a second glance!
You might think I’m the ‘Glam Slam’ cocktail on the left (made with gold dust and really did taste amazing) but you would be wrong.
That’s my confident-in-himself fiancé. How I love you.
Isn’t he pretty with those roses!
We ended up ordering a load of the starter dishes because they all looked too good to miss! It’s a sharing style concept so plates are made for two and the chefs have designed it so you are involved rather than just sitting back with a knife and fork!
This was our “Catch Roll” made with crab, salmon and miso-honey. It’s one of their signatures and well worth a try!
Now THIS is going down in history as the best fish tartare I’ve had. Not only does it look like a piece of art but the dish is all about getting stuck in which I love! The idea is to get a little bit of each part of the tray (all fish together) and then layer it on the cracker. Texture, taste and pure perfection! My highlight of the night.
“Tartare Trio” – Salmon, Hamachi, Tuna, Caviar, Wasabi Creme Fraiche, Avocado and Scallion.
I’m not usually a cocktail drinker because they’re full of sugars and syrups but it was one-off occasion and this one in particular seemed to be on the guilt-free end of cocktails! It also came on high-recommendation and thought we’d continue with the smoke theme!
Appropriately named “Smokey and the Bandit” made with rhubarb bitters and egg white. De-licious.
Still going through the starters, next up was “Wagyu on the Rock” which got me very excited for skiing in two weeks! I love a “fondue style” way of eating, it’s sociable and fun!
A slightly naughtier one of the seafood dishes but I’m a sucker for the odd tempura! These plates were “Crispy Shrimp’ and “Shrimp Scampi”, which I haven’t had in years! Scampi is a childhood favourite so a very welcome addition to the table!
I knew this was going to happen as we reeled off a tonne of starter dishes to order but by the time it got to main course, there was no room left! I had my eyes on the whole Sea Bass and Beef Short Rib so will give them a try on our next visit.
There was however room for a very naughty but special Valentines Dessert. It’s actually a staple on their menu but was turned into a heart for the evening. If you follow me on Snapchat @leanlivinggirl you’ll know the whole story but I must admit, I’ve never had something quite like it! A few mouthfuls was enough to max me out on sugar overload but if you’re in the mood for something naughty on a special night, this is one to try!
Jacket: Reiss
I’m glad I chose eating out on this occasion because it was a really wonderful evening! For all friends and family that have asked me about my top Dubai restaurant recommendations, you can rest assure that this is currently number 1!
You can have a look at the full Catch menu and website here and please do comment with any questions about the venue or food!
Hello and welcome! I'm Carly, originally from London but currently enjoying a little adventure in Dubai. A travel and wellness blogger exploring the world one step at a time. Think fabulous food at undiscovered gems, unique destinations, skin care obsessions and so much more. This is my life, I hope you enjoy the ride!
Julia
February 16, 2016Looks like you had a lovely Valentine! I definitely need to try out this place when I visit Dubai, the tartare trio looks to die for :)
Lean Living Girl
February 18, 2016It was!! Honestly the best dish of the night, highly recommended! xx