6372 West Jefferson Boulevard,
Fort Wayne, IN 46804
http://thecatablugrille.com/Home.aspx
Our first visit back in 2009 was rather disastrous primarily because of an immature server (click HERE to read all about it). We've hesitated to return, but decided it was time to give Catablu Grille a second chance - and boy are we glad we did. Our recent visit was infinitely more enjoyable!
MARTINIS:
Going with our server's recommendation, we opted to try a Pomegranate Martini (right) and a Raspberry Truffle Martini (left). These $10 tinis are way over priced. These beverages would be a much better bargain at $8, but at $10, we say skip the calories and the cost.
APPETIZERS:
With several tempting options teasing us, we selected the Four Cheese Spinach Artichoke and Crab Dip - Y.E.S.! It was spectacular. LOVE LOVE LOVE that the crab was so prominent. The creamy cheese blend formed a fabulous foundation for the spinach and artichoke to mingle. Ooey gooey goodness! Big fan - give it a try!
sorry for the bleached out photo |
I had the Chicken Chop Stuffed with Smoked Cheese and Roasted Mushrooms (description on the menu below). It was a bone-in skin-on chicken breast (personally, not a fan), but . . . it was prepared to perfection. It reminded me a lot of the poultry entree I had a Joseph Decuis (click HERE to read about it). Our server indicated it was definitely a top 10 most ordered so I jumped at the chance to try it. It was delicious. The chicken was tender and juicy and accompanied by spinach, artichokes, and small roasted potatoes. The sauce was satisfying and savory. I would recommend giving it a try.
Allen L went with the daily special, Pad Thai. Its plentiful portion packed a powerful "pop" of peanut sauce spice. She selected 2 proteins for an additional $4 which created a delicious and fulfilling combination. The beautiful presentation was matched with a wonderful combination of textures and flavors. If you find yourself at Catablu Grille on a Tuesday - take part in their Thai Thai Tuesday!
DESSERT:
As a sister restaurant to the now shuttered, Blu City Tavern (click HERE to read our review), we HAD.TO.TRY their Warm Apple Tart which we have drooled about. Yes - it's similar to the gold standard and we're so thankful to have an opportunity to be able to continue to indulge in this culinary masterpiece. It's sinful - it's sassy - it's spectacular. It's a MUST TRY!!!!!
What you don't see in the presentation below is the buried treasure of gold under the flaky puff pastry . . . a thick luxurious pooling of caramel sauce goodness! The caramel, flaky puff pastry, warm apples, and cinnamon ice cream are an indescribable ensemble of excellence! YUM!!!!!
ATMOSPHERE & SERVICE:
As we've mentioned numerous times on this blog, excellent service can make a sub-par meal shine while poor service can ruin even the most amazing culinary creations! On this outing, our server, Lauren, was delightfully charming and helpful. We appreciated her willingness to answer our questions, keep our water glasses filled, and exceptional timing.
Because the evening was stunningly beautiful, we opted to eat outdoors. It was lovely for the most part. The chairs were comfortable and the evening shade was welcomed. There were, however, some birds flying overhead. It's worth a disclaimer that I'm bird-phobic so I won't be sitting outside again and that was solidified when the young lady at the next table was pooped on. If you don't mind birds, and possibly their eggs falling from nests overhead splattering on your table or having your head pooped on, then you may want to opt for al fresco dining as well; otherwise, take the safe route and enjoy the charming interior accents.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
With improved service and culinary excellence, we have changed our vote to "like it".
Until the next bite -