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Wednesday, February 3, 2016

Going to a restaurant a little early before its opening time would allow you to check out the place before anyone else. At CATCH in MAKATI, I was able to do just that. Specializing in Fresh Seafood, CATCH opened just this January 2016. Located in the concrete jungle, I said yes to the invite because I was already in the area.
The call time was at 6pm which would normally be around 7pm by Philippine standards something I should take note of next time. We were seated on a table with sea shells as a design. Pretty and cool. Everything was simple and straight forward. That was my initial impression.
I actually didn't know what to expect. More so, I didn't know that this used to be LULU. Managed by the same guys behind Smith, Poulet Manille, Hooch, and Ebeneezer's , I had high expectations.
To start things off, a mix of ceviche were placed in front of us. Ceviche is usually fresh fish cooked in a vinegar or citrus juices that infuses its flavor in the fish's meat. It could be Mahi-Mahi or Norwegian King Salmon or Queen Scallops. Basically having the sea's flavor come out of the food.
Here, my top pick though would have to be the Kinilaw. Kinilaw is basically your Filipino Version of a ceviche.Their version had a more familiar taste like the ones they make in the province. Having a beautiful presentation also makes it an impressive dish.
Since as I mentioned, they also handle HOOCH, it would be foolish for you not to order one or two drinks from the bar.
They will also be coming up with a few more signature drinks in the coming weeks. Honestly, most of the drinks were a bit too strong for my taste but the flavor of the chocnut infused cocktail is pretty much solid.
Now let me talk about service. This could either make or break a restaurant. Whether it is a fast food chain or a fine dining one. I have to say, I was disappointed on how the staff handled it. Not the management mind you, they were pushing and asking us for whatever we needed and want but I guess the staff needed more training and time to improve, since they just opened a few weeks ago. I didn't want to make a big fuss about it but it seemed they had a few boo-boo's. Not once, not twice but three times. But, I have to give it to the owners as they tried to fix and make everything right and kept on checking up on us. Given that we were just invited guests, I didn't want to make it known but I guess it is one aspect that they could improve on.
Say for example the DUO of OYSTERS. Flown in from Caticlan and cultured by a French seafood specialist, one is baked with cheese and other served fresh. My seatmate had asked a particular server if this plate would be served individually. The server said that it was for sharing. Thinking so, my seatmate had said that we should just share it even if everyone in the group had a plate each. I just advised him to get the entire plate.
My other seatmate saw the fuzz and had asked for another plate for me. It did come after the next entree was served, but I decided to send it over to other ones that arrived late and were not able to try it. Not really something but looking back, I guess counter checking the number of orders versus the number of diners would be a great plus. Also, a simple count check would suffice.

According to my companions the BAKED SCALLOPS was to die for. Baked Queen Scallops in Japanese sauce was the most raved about dish the entire night. I can't really say what my opinion of it was because this was the second boo-boo. I didn't get one. I know I should have requested and advised the server about it but I didn't want to sound like someone asking for alms. That and I didn't know if they were going to serve more. In all honesty, it was an awkward situation. Things like this I really try to avoid.
The FRENCH MOULLE FRITES was definitely the dish of the night for me. After skipping the last two dishes, this made an impression. Imported mussels cooked in a creamy wine based sauce. If we had bread, the soupy sauce would be the perfect dip for it.
If you are into tempura, you may want to try their LOBSTER TEMPURA. It's basically a mix of shrimps and lobsters.
Cooked in a light batter, the lobster pieces are kept moist. Something the kids would enjoy.
A dish that was highly recommended was the LOBSTER PO BOI.
Lobster claws were placed in a bun baked by the kitchen. It had a crunch outside but was fluffy inside. Pretty good stuff. Different herbs and spices made it a little spicy but was pretty good. Also, the hand cut fries was solid.
The next boo-boo was when a friend of mine asked for a glass of red wine before the next dish was served. Since the SURF AND TURF was up next, red wine would be the ideal partner for the steak. The RIB EYE worked pretty well with the scallops and the shrimps. It was cooked medium and was well rested. Tender and delicious. Unfortunately, we had already finished the dish and the drink was no where in sight.
I was pleasantly surprised with the TURBOT. Air flown French seafood in lemon, capers, parsley, and other herbs. Apparently, this is a popular fish among the French. The mixed herbs blended well with the meat. This particular dish is actually by special request since they always almost get low on stock as a lot of diners request for this. Remember to try this and call in advance to reserve. It is pretty good.
To end the night, CHEESECAKE was served. Smooth, creamy and not too heavy.

Over-all experience is a great deal breaker for me. More than the flavors and the price tag, sometimes it is how we were served and the company that makes the night. It maybe because I'm a bit spoiled when it comes to other places that I have been to or maybe I was just off that night. But that is what I experienced and saw. In hindsight maybe I should have informed them of what happened right there and then but then again, I don't want to be known as the nitpicker of the group.
If you were in my shoes what would you have done?
Even with the mix ups, I'm not pushing or taking CATCH out of the food equation because the kitchen did a masterful job of creating seafood dishes that aren't usually seen in the Metro. Maybe a bit more training and familiarity with the menu would help the staff give the diners the perfect experience. Give them a couple of months and I believe they could do a great job. For now, best to go during the weekdays. Avoid peak and rush hour. Parking and traffic could be a problem too.
and now time for the giveaway:




The First 5 steps are mandatory. 
If you want more chances, please feel free to finish everything and come back daily to get more raffle entries.
Please Follow the instructions properly. Not being able to follow them would result in disqualification. I would need to verify once I pick you that you have done them all. Contest ends on Feb 17,2016. Also, please be sure that you will be able to use the GC.





CATCH 
Ground Floor
V Corporate Center
125 L.P. Leviste Street,
Salcedo Village Makati City
Metro Manila

Disclaimer: Wrote this based on my experience. I was invited to this event.

I am giving away my GC to CATCH worth 2,000Php to one lucky winner. Food In The Bag reserves the right to pick and have a final say on the contest. All decisions are final. Participants may be disqualified with or without prior notice. Rule changes may occur with or without announcements. By joining, participants accepts the rules of this contest and the decision.
Different Themes
Written by Lovely

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42 comments:

  1. Name:sherry ann gole cruz
    Email Address:khryza1022@yahoocom
    IG name:@kharizebella
    Twitter name:@annkharize
    FB post link: https://www.facebook.com/sherryann1022/posts/10205295860987739
    Twitter post link:https://twitter.com/annkharize/status/694797782951923713
    i would bring my son who loves seafood so much!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks a bunch Gole for joining. Good Luck!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Wow! i'd love to win ..im sea foods lover! ♥

    ReplyDelete
  4. Sure ann ... just follow the mechanics .. and good luck :)

    ReplyDelete
  5. Ann Cagalingan
    cazzey_83@hotmail.com
    IG: @dimepiecebaybii
    Twitter:@Dimepiecebaybiihttps://twitter.com/DimepieceBaybii/status/694824006512300032
    FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/Cazzey83/posts/975009985893973?pnref=story
    I'd love to bring my kids with me :)

    ReplyDelete
  6. Riyalyn Gatdula
    raingatdula@gmail.com
    Twitter: @rainkie
    FB: Rain gatdula
    IG: @yurilovesteddy

    Will bring along my bestie! He really loves seafoods with a twist of taste!

    ReplyDelete
  7. Leny del Gallego Martinez
    euniceafaith@yahoo.com
    IG: @lenydgm
    Twitter: @jolen_rijosh
    FB Post: https://www.facebook.com/lenyd.g.m/posts/10208986339924183
    Twitter Post: https://twitter.com/jolen_rijosh/status/694907939203616770

    I will bring my husband coz he love seafoods

    ReplyDelete
  8. Name-Kate Franchesca Agcaoili
    Email-kate.agcaoili0026@gmail.com
    Twitter-@kattykat5sos
    Fb-Kate Agcaoili
    Ig-@eamfrnchsc
    Fb Link- https://www.facebook.com/kattykatee/posts/1556467084670969?pnref=story
    Twitter Link- https://twitter.com/kattykat5sos/status/694907923730817026
    I would love to bring my Aunt:)

    ReplyDelete
  9. Name Feng Manlapaz
    Email Address, grumpybearfe@gmail.com
    IG name, @bumblingbitterbugs
    Twitter name, @bumblinbiterbug
    FB post link, https://www.facebook.com/FengManlapaz/posts/1686333518318416?pnref=story
    Twitter post link. https://twitter.com/bumblinbiterbug/status/694927363948216320?lang=en

    I will bring my mama... It will be our birthday celebration date for both of us if I win...

    ReplyDelete
  10. Primitivo Jose C Reyes III aka Peejay
    peejay.reyes@yahoo.com
    IG: @peejayreyes
    Twitter: @peejayreyes
    FB post: https://www.facebook.com/pjcreyesiii/posts/10153222206946751
    Tweet: https://twitter.com/peejayreyes/status/695054248141164544

    I will treat my wife as an avanced birthday date.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Name: Rachelle Therese F. Gonzales
    Email Address: dimplesgon@yahoo.com
    IG name: @dimplesgon
    Twitter name: @dimplesgon
    FB post link: https://www.facebook.com/dimplesgon/posts/10153764297661265
    Twitter post link: https://twitter.com/dimplesgon/status/695055464413827074

    I would bring my hubby Audi to CATCH for a food feast!

    ReplyDelete
  12. Name: Hazel Angeline Ng
    Email Address: hazelng_10@yahoo.com
    IG name: @_nghazel
    Twitter name: @hazelng_10
    FB post link: https://www.facebook.com/zel.ng
    Twitter post link: https://twitter.com/hazelng_10/status/695183453361287168

    I would bring my family to CATCH to celebrate my college graduation.

    P.S. And because we're a sucker for fresh seafood ;)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. WOHOOOO!! Congrats Hazel on graduating! Pakain ka naman! Cheers and good luck .. hopefully you guys enjoy catch

      Delete
    2. Pag nanalo ako, sama kita! Hehe thank you!!!!! :>

      Delete
  13. Name: Arra Odeza
    Email Address: odeza.arra@yahoo.com
    IG name: acodeza
    Twitter name: acodeza
    FB post link: https://www.facebook.com/arRa.odeza/posts/930556020314164
    Twitter post link: https://twitter.com/acodeza/status/695242328022224896

    I would bring my sister and my daughter to treat them on their birthday :)

    ReplyDelete
  14. Name: Kirk Ivan Alistair G. Baesa
    Email Address: kirkivanbaesa@yahoo.com
    IG name: @kirkivanbaesa
    Twitter name: @kirkivanbaesa
    FB post link: https://facebook.com/kiRkXD/posts/1131625000190317
    Twitter post link: https://twitter.com/kirkivanbaesa/status/695267875863400448

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I forgot to include this in my previous post:

      This may not be enough for all the things she has done for me and my brother, but if ever I get the chance, I would like to bring my beloved mom to CATCH because she deserves to take a break and enjoy the good things in life.

      Delete
    2. No worries Kirk.. good luck :)

      Delete
  15. Thanks for this giveaway! God Bless po:)
    Name- Florian Francisco
    Email- florianfrancisco88@yahoo.com
    Fb- Florian Francisco
    Ig- @iamflorianfrancisco
    Twitter- @florfrancisco8
    Fb Link- https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=1553952354914844&id=100009002823035
    Twitter link- https://twitter.com/florfrancisco8/status/695268472574455808

    ReplyDelete
  16. Anna Cyrile Oliveros
    annacyrileoliveros@yahoo.com
    IG: cyrileoliveros
    TWITTER: annacyrile
    Fb post:https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1650509828549286&id=100007708545844

    Twitter post: https://twitter.com/annacyrile/status/694765011592355840

    Id bring my partner for life, he loves seafood!

    ReplyDelete
  17. Hi thank you!I entered and here's my details incase i win =)
    Almaira Casanguan
    sweety14_almairalc@yahoo.com
    Twitter/IG: @maicasanguan
    twitter post:https://twitter.com/maicasanguan/status/695828263914967041
    Facebook post: https://web.facebook.com/AlmairaCacasanguan/posts/10205892032639369


    thank you

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. i want to bring my family with me to try their mouth watering foods.

      Delete
  18. Name: Liberty Floro
    Email Address: floro.luth@yahoo.com
    IG name: @floroluth
    Twitter name: @FloroLuth
    FB post link: https://www.facebook.com/luth.floro/posts/821371031322911
    Twitter post link: https://twitter.com/FloroLuth/status/695870239699922944
    I would bring to my loving husband to CATCH, We both love to eat! :)

    ReplyDelete
  19. Roberto floro
    roberto.floro@yahoo.com
    @obet57
    @obet57
    https://twitter.com/obet57/status/695908164475064320

    https://www.facebook.com/roberto.floro.9/posts/926806067415917

    My beautiful and loving wife Liberty is the one i would bring to CATCH.

    ReplyDelete
  20. NAME: AMABELLE WEE
    EMAIL: elleqwee@gmail.com
    IG: @elle_bama
    Twitter: @elleQwee
    FB: Elle Bama

    FB post link:
    https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1549635575364315&id=100009536612755

    Twitter post link:
    https://twitter.com/elleQwee/status/695919421592764416

    "I would love to bring my boyfriend with me at Catch"

    ReplyDelete
  21. Name: Aldrin Montierro
    Email Address: aldrin_montierro@hotmail.com
    IG name: @abmontierro
    Twitter name: @abmontierro
    FB post link: https://web.facebook.com/abmontierrophotography/posts/621928334612093
    Twitter post link: https://twitter.com/abmontierro/status/696072208272068609

    I would like to bring my wife and my daughter. :-)

    ReplyDelete
  22. Name: Roxane Montierro
    Email Address: roxane.cabile@yahoo.com
    IG name: @rcmontierro
    Twitter name: @roxanemontierro
    FB post link: https://web.facebook.com/roxane.cabile/posts/1133476416665104
    Twitter post link: https://twitter.com/roxanemontierro/status/696076258866692096

    I would like to bring my hubby and my daughter. My hubby and I loves seafoods, and I want to introduce different foods to my daughter.

    ReplyDelete
  23. Faith Hazel Almario
    faith.almario@gmail.com
    IG: @ravishingfaith
    TW: @ravishingnafnaf
    FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/faith.almario2/posts/455192941352619
    TW Link: https://twitter.com/ravishingnafnaf/status/696485707506962432

    I would love to bring my daughter who loves to eat as much as I do. It will be a good bonding for us for sure.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Aileen D. Acot
    aileen_d_acot@yahoo.com
    IG: @aileen_acot
    Twitter: @aileen_acot
    FB Post: https://www.facebook.com/aileen.acot/posts/1046333205430763
    Twitter Post: https://twitter.com/aileen_acot/status/696634799981727744

    I will bring my husband bcoz we love to eat seafoods.

    ReplyDelete
  25. Mona Liza Verdida
    monatumbaga@yahoo.com
    IG: @monaverdida
    Twitter: @mverdida
    FB link: https://www.facebook.com/monatumbaga/posts/10153891165053838
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/mverdida/status/697686818846683137
    I would definitely bring my family to Catch so they can enjoy the good food and good ambiance of the place in the heart of Makati.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Lorna Mariano

    keizylyn@yahoo.com

    Instagram : @keizylyn = https://www.instagram.com/keizylyn

    Twitter : @Keizylyn = https://twitter.com/Keizylyn

    Facebook Share Link = https://www.facebook.com/keizylyn.mariano/posts/10153908268879004

    Twitter Share Link = https://twitter.com/Keizylyn/status/698028210341220352

    Wow !!! we love Seafood , once a week we have a family seafood boodle fight. just a family bonding..

    I Will bring my son and my husband , we sure we will love it ..

    ReplyDelete
  27. Pepe Mariano Jr.
    paarkum@yahoo.com
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/paarkum
    Twitter - https://twitter.com/Paarkum
    Facebook Share - https://www.facebook.com/paarkum.mariano/posts/10153921058264410
    Twitter Share - https://twitter.com/Paarkum/status/698075241998741505

    i want to bring my family there including my wife and my son..

    ReplyDelete
  28. Name: cherry tan
    Email Address: felizima16@gmail.com
    IG name: @dulcis11
    Twitter name: @godetia16
    FB post link: https://www.facebook.com/cherry.tan.54966834/posts/1692301577707948
    Twitter post link. https://twitter.com/godetia16/status/699017657421422592
    i will be bringing my girl friends over to try this place

    ReplyDelete
  29. Name: regulus crisostomo
    Email Address : Regulus.Crisostomo@yahoo.com
    IG name: @ryyy1331
    Twitter name: @2epic_2fail
    FB post link : https://www.facebook.com/IcekhunPOW/posts/986306044811000
    Twitter post link : https://twitter.com/2Epic_2Fail/status/699099265675563008

    if i won i want to bring my partner in life to experience this elegant restaurant

    ReplyDelete