Catch: The best seafood in Abu Dhabi.

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It should come as no surprise that this venue has come highly recommended to me for ages.

Almost every person who’s visited Abu Dhabi has asked me, “But have you been to Catch?”  Well, now, I am delighted to say I have finally joined the ranks.  Far different than the restaurant of the same moniker in Dubai, the interior of this Catch is all sophistication and nautical themes Perhaps the giant screen of fish in the lounge is a bit much, but I’ll allow it, for the sake of ‘atmosphere.’  Much like nearby neighbor Asia de Cuba, the layout of Catch lends itself to a leisurely drink at the bar, a more formal dining experience within the restaurant, or al fresco seating (when it’s not 1 million degrees out).  With an open plan, as well as a sushi counter, there is virtually always something interesting to look at within the restaurant.

After receiving an electronic tablet complete with drink choices (cocktails to start before we moved onto wine and cava), we are presented with the food menu.  We decide to opt for the Catch Signature Sushi Platter (AED169), because, sushi.  Although there is a rather extensive list of sushi, sashimi, and nigiri, I think this was probably the best choice.  With beautiful presentation and just enough for two diners, I would quickly order this plate again (and kudos to the team for the offer of fresh wasabi).  I also am a fine dining connoisseur who unabashedly loves crispy, spicy rock shrimp (yup, it was worth the judging) and was very happy with the serving that was presented.  My dining partner (a guest appearance by my sister visiting from the States – yay!) had done a small amount of research on social media and decided we would have to try the Instagram-worthy Crab Burger (AED89).  While I think many diners might be put off by the squid ink buns, to me they add such a mild flavor, the impact is minimal.  If anything, I’d like a toastier bun and maybe a slightly reduced price (or a third burger).  We were also given a delicious and stunning ceviche.  For our round of starters, points all around for pacing, service, and general atmosphere.  We never felt rushed, and speaking with the servers was like talking to a group of friends.

For a main, after looking through the options, I settled on the Seared Scallops (AED179).  You will definitely be seeing this dish on my July favorites list.  Everything that is good about sweet and tender scallops was enhanced by wild rice risotto and some additional delicate textures.  Furthermore, given the amount of food we’d already consumed, this was a perfect dish to split.  Certainly, it can be for one diner, but overall, of the many things I loved about the venue, was how easily the plates were shared.

Although we were nearly full, it would be rude to leave without sampling dessert, yes?  The Melting Chocolate Sphere (AED69) ended the meal on a dramatic, sweet note — but that’s not all.  Chef Roudy (who was generous enough to speak with us at length during the evening) also gave a sneak preview of an upcoming dessert that will be available later in the year.  Suffice to say, I think you’ll definitely be interested in a lighter finish to any meal (the Yuzu sorbet is out of this world).

Would I go back to Catch?  You bet!  This venue is a guaranteed winner for a date night, anniversary, birthday, or any special occasion.  I’d also love to come back and try the Friday brunch!

Have you visited Catch?  What’s your favorite dish on the menu?

Highly recommended.

A to Za’atar was a guest of Catch.  Opinions are my own, just ask my husband.