CATCH BAR AND GRILL
Address: 233 Inman St. in Cleveland, Tenn.Hours: Monday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 5-10 p.m. and Sunday for brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.Phone: 423-790-1235
The beauty of specializing in fresh seafood, said Catch Bar & Grill owner and executive chef Michael Poore, is that "you never know what you're going to 'Catch!'" A minute later, Michael wondered aloud, "Too cheesy?"
Rest assured, from its crushed blue velvet curtains to its white linens to its extensive wine collection, there is nothing "cheesy" about Catch. Unless, of course, we are talking about its seasonal mushroom and brie bisque, which Michael said is a crowd-favorite.
Indeed, Catch has a flair not only for fresh fish, but also for creating healthy, hearty recipes. Another example is its coastal seafood platter, which features fish, shrimp, oysters and scallops - each with their own unique breading to best compliment the flavor of the seafood. But, said Michael, "Because most all of our menu items, especially the fish, are prepared to order, all of the seafood on that platter can be grilled."
After all, Michael said, "There's not much healthier or lighter than a grilled piece of fresh fish with some lemon."
The platter, like Catch's selection of small plates, is ideal for sharing.
And Catch, with its dimly lit dining area and upscale menu, may be the ideal place to spend your Valentine's Day. The special menu will feature something "out of the ordinary," Michael said. For example, it may be giant scallops, abalone or bluefin tuna.
But of course, the menu ultimately depends on Catch's fisherman. That is the beauty of a fresh catch.