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Catch 10 has been open for a while, but it celebrated its “grand opening” last night, so we checked in early for a complimentary lunch prior at the invitation of someone helping with press relations. (It was pretty obvious our server had no idea who we were, so I suspect our dining experience was near to typical.)
The meal started with the Coral House salad ($7), a light mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a mild feta, tossed in Italian dressing. My lunch date ordered the fish and chips as his entrée ($14-$18), which, though it didn’t look exactly as one would expect, was really delightful and flavorful. I’ve never seen anyone throw fish “fingers” down instead of an entire filet or two, but the textures and temperature of those crispy, breaded cod cuts didn’t make either of us long for the traditional presentation. The crusts were golden and not at all greasy, while the fish was tender, sweet, and steaming hot. Absent, however, was a bottle of malt vinegar. As anyone who has visited an authentic pub knows, fish ‘n chips without the proper condiment is like getting fries without ketchup at an American burger joint. Though, speaking of fries, the “chips” were nicely seasoned skin-on potato wedges.
My selection was a little less impressive, though perhaps it was because I asked for an alteration. The plantains with blackened tuna appetizer ($12) was as visually stimulating as the restaurant’s décor, thanks to the pink fish, green guacamole, red peppers, and yellow-colored fried plantains, but the tuna was tough to cut in parts and the entire bite could’ve used just a bit of salt. (You’ll note on the photo that the tuna also looks seared and sesame-crusted instead of blackened. Guess that’s what you get when you ask for “mild” seasoning.)
The iced tea? Blah. We suspect it’s from a fountain or some concentrate. But the bar is stocked so don’t hold back on getting something deserving paper-umbrella treatment.
If you attempt any of the more interesting selections, like the pan-seared red snapper with fried plantains, the spaghetti a la puttanesca, or the pineapple scallops, let us know what you think.
In our humble opinion, Catch 10 probably won’t be winning any earth-shattering culinary awards, but it seems to serve up reliable eats and is a welcome addition to Washington Avenue. It’s a cool little spot with an island-surf theme inside. We’re just glad someone found a purpose for that adorable coral casa that was abandoned for much, much too long.
Catch 10 Seafood Bistro1030 Washington Ave., Miami Beach
786-235-5488
