Mediterranean Fundraiser

Catalan Mediterranean Restaurant is not only known for its exquisite menu prepared by genius chef Drew Davis, but this family owned gem is incredibly generous to many local charities.This evening was all that! Fourteen of us arrived at varying times for our 7pm reservation. Silent auction items took over the small bar area with a spinning prize wheel ( $20 donation per spin) greeting you on entry. Our favorite item was donated by Debbie Lee’s Classic Creations! ( more on that later) Tonight’s theme was Raising Funds for Earthquake Victims of Ecuador. Chef Drew’s wife is from Ecuador and the devastation from the massive earthquake tore at her heart.

After enjoying our first libations ranging from dirty martinis to Catalan’s delicious homemade sangria, we moved on to our table. We were told that it would be a pre-fixe menu which conjures to the mind two or three boring choices, blah! But not here, with their pre-fixe you get to choose between delectable tapas or one of six entrees. You also were able to choose one of the sizable salads that comes with the entrée, and, yes, one of two desserts!

Teresa had the 24 hour Brined Jidori Chicken with roasted spring onions, carrots and a Spanish olive sugo. I had the Grilled Swordfish with olive oil poached heirloom tomatoes and peppers with garlic, capers, and oregano. Others had the dish they are well known for: Paella Mixta, while some had the pasta dish or grilled rack of lamb. All of the meals were thoroughly enjoyed and the plates were licked clean! Well, some of us licked our plates while others licked their drink glasses waiting for a refill.

It was a full restaurant with a loud crowd. Okay, that was more likely us with the loudness, but that’s what happens after a few drinks and trying to talk to those at the end of the table. Once my sister-in-law won the bid on the Flamingo pool toy from Debbie Lee’s Classic Creations, it was only natural for us to play with it right there at the table! Tristan wore it best.

Desserts were, at first, a disappointment. They were out of the one most of us wanted and only could bring us the rice pudding. Not a favorite at the table. However, that disappointment turned around to a child’s joy when the very warm churros with chocolate sauce were placed in front of us! What a fabulous way to end a meal. YUM. This restaurant knows how to make us happy!

The charity event was a success in all aspects. Catalan raised a welcoming amount for the Ecuador earthquake victims, the meals were delicious, the dessert was delightful, and the drinks added to a fun night.

Catalan Mediterranean Cuisine Restaurant is one you must experience when you come into town. Chef Drew and his wife Cynthia work extremely hard to give you a one of a kind evening. Buen Provecho!