REVIEW: Prime Catch Offers More Than Seafood Specialties

Although winter isn't an ideal time to open a seafood restaurant, Prime Catch on South Park Avenue has been defying expectations since its grand opening in December. "This cuisine is definitely warm-weather friendly, but we've had a great response so far," said executive chef Axell Urrutia.

When you enter the seafood eatery, you'll find a relaxing, lounge-like setting. The décor is friendly, but chic with exposed brick walls, red table accents and large, comfortable cushions on its booth seats. The dining room is small — about 20 tables — but it makes for a cozy atmosphere.

The menu, which changes seasonally, includes classic seafood dishes seasoned with Chef Urrutia's signature flavors. Flounder Florentine ($24), lobster tails ($26), and grilled swordfish mignon ($25) are menu mainstays, Urrutia said. A raw bar, which is priced according to the fish market, offers oysters and clams on the half shell, crab claws and ceviche.

Your best bet is to start your meal with the shrimp cocktail ($12 ) — five pieces of large, fresh shrimp served with spicy Tabasco mayonnaise, packed with flavor that offers the perfect compliment of salt and spice.

One of the restaurant's popular entrees is the crab stuffed salmon ($24) — a juicy salmon filled with succulent crab meat topped with a sambuca-spirited dijonnaise fills your mouth with a tangy but sweet flavor.

Though each entrée is served with creamy potatoes, fresh vegetables and the rice of the day, you can order additional sides, such as creamed spinach, grilled asparagus or the chef's signature French fries, which are crispy and perfectly seasoned (all $5).

For those diners seeking non-seafood options, the dinner menu also offers a ten-ounce filet mignon ($30), skirt steak ($23) and rack of lamb ($28). For lighter fare, the menu includes grilled chicken and vegetable wraps ($9) and burgers served with an array of toppings ($10).

Prime Catch also has a bar, fully stocked with a variety of wines and top shelf liquors. The friendly bar staff is happy to offer recommendations for drink pairings and is quick to pay compliments to their executive chef. A late-night bar menu offers a selection of the restaurant's popular appetizers and snacks.

Prime Catch is open seven days a week and reservations are accepted.