Little Fish
600 Catharine St.
(215) 413-3464
When the urge for fresh and affordable seafood creeps up on you, there aren't many places to turn, especially during the rush of Restaurant Week. Luckily, Little Fish, a tiny South Philly BYO, serves up a delectable five-course prix fixe menu for just $28 per person.
The cozy feel of Little Fish provides a unique dining experience that you won't find in your typical Restaurant Week institution. Sizzling sounds from the open kitchen and upbeat Latin music fill the restaurant, giving it an intimate feel - at once homey and romantic. The meal began with a series of three rapidly served courses. The first dish was an elegantly presented Jonah crab rillette with an orange glaze. Simple flavors let the crab take center stage, and it held its own nicely. Next up were incredibly tender scallops with a potato leek bisque. The scallops, neatly cubed and served on a large ceramic spoon, tasted perfect when submerged in the warm bisque. Third was the salad, supplemented with dried cherries, candied walnuts, and bleu cheese.
After this pleasant introduction, my guest and I were able to recuperate while we watched the chef prepare our main courses. When the entre‚s came they were nicely sized - substantial, but not overwhelming. I had the escolar, also known as Hawaiian butterfish. It was gently fried and served with bits of bacon, lobster, and Brussels sprouts. The escolar was good, but my guest's Alaskan black cod was superb. Served in a romesco broth that added just the right amount of heat, the fish itself was juicy and full of flavor.
With our bottle of chardonnay nearly depleted, dessert was the warm and blurry experience it ought to be. Sweet orange rind slices topped my guest's chocolate torte, while I worked on my own vanilla and almond crŠme brulee. Hearty mugs of coffee gave us the energy we needed to finish off two very rich desserts.
Great service and perfect portions made the five-course dinner feel like a pleasant voyage, not a marathon. The scallop and cod were as good as any dishes I've had, and those alone are worth the price of admission. With its sophisticated presentation and fresh flavors, Little Fish's prix fixe is a steal.
