“This is exactly the restaurant Alexandria needed,” was the consensus the other night as we sat in our spacious booth at the soft opening of Catch on the Ave. Stuffed to the brim with bang-bang shrimp, scallops, and Mahi, while still slowly sipping on “Apples for Sail” and “Gin and the Giant Peach” signature cocktails, we all agreed this restaurant is going to be a hit.Between the seasonal menu and innovative cocktail program, “Catch” brings a completely unique experience to Alexandria residents. The way Chef Eric Reid, the head chef at Augie’s Mussel house, was able to marry seafood fare with East Asia and Southeast Asia flavors is something totally different and the result is fantastic food.You will find items on the menu where unexpected Asian influences delight. Whole rainbow trout in ginger and scallion sauce, shrimp po’ boy sandwiches with shaved napa cabbage, jackfruit lettuce wraps, Shrimp and Vegetable Dumplings and Sticky Pork Rib Wings were the ones that stood out to me. But, of course, you still have your seafood classics – bang-bang shrimp, pecan-crusted Mahi, hot catfish sandwiches, and beer-battered fish and chips.The shabby-chic vibe of the reclaimed wood walls and the bright red accents give you the feeling you’re in a trendy downtown bar that will likely become your go-to, post-work drink spot, but at the same time, you feel this is a place where you can bring the entire family and grab an awesome, stress-free meal (there’s a kids menu!).“Catch” is the newest restaurant by Common Plate Hospitality (Mason Social, Augie’s Mussel House, and Urbano 116 – opening soon) opened for business last week at 2419 Mount Vernon Avenue, where SnackBar was previously located. They will be offering lunch, dinner, and brunch menus, and their hours will be 11am-midnight Monday through Friday, and 9am-midnight Saturday and Sunday.

photos courtesy Catch on the Ave.