Catch 54

Let’s start with an important geographic fact: Catch 54 is located in Selbyville, not West Fenwick, as all restaurants in the area claim, a more cosmetically appealing location – sorry Selbyvillians – which does not exist.  Alas, location does matter, and Catch 54 has a great one.  Nestled on a corner dock lot overlooking in three directions the Assawoman Bay, sunsets are worth the trip to its upstairs bar, as are the views from nearly every seat.  And so is the food.  Catch 54 is a star in the SoDel Concepts food empire not just because of its location, but because it follows the years-tried and true SoDel script: offer fresh and honest coastal food at a fine dining price with experienced, attentive service, and guests will follow.  And come they do, as the wait times at the quasi-reservation Catch 54 are often lengthy during the summer evenings, so pass the time at one of its two bars where the action is almost as inviting as the views you will enjoy while drinks are being concocted, and oysters shucked in front of you.  Veteran Catch 54 customers ignore the seasonal menu and leap straight to the daily specials sheet – a separate menu on its own boasting chef’s special skills, balanced with the usual SoDel fresh fish, not to mention daily cocktail specials.  Even its land options (steak, burgers, and chicken) are better than any seafood restaurant should know how to prepare, but most people visit for the coastal fare; after all, Catch 54 is a fish house.  Beware, however, Catch 54’s check has a way of creeping-up on the inattentive diner – distracted by great food, fun, and drink, and oh, the view.  But no matter your tolerance for price and the sometimes-challenging parking, Catch 54 offers a memorable experience, inside and out, especially when the weather allows you to catch the brilliant sky melting into the bay during sunset, all while you are enjoying an oyster shooter or crush.  The combination of location, service, ambience, and food, but none of them independently, lead us to award four stars, one of the rare restaurants reaching such acclaim through the sum of its parts, but not via an individual part; still, Catch 54 is worth your time and effort to visit even if you don’t care about magnificent sunsets while you dine.   

 

38931 Madison Avenue

Selbyville, DE 19975

302-436-8600