Blue Cat = Happy Kitty

So I had to have one of those lovely tests suggested for the 50+ crowd.  You know the one…a 24-hour liquid diet then a regimen of Gatorade mixed with the dreadful white powder that works its intended but miserable magic.  Those of you who endured this test know what I mean.

Anyway, before my 24-hour moratorium from real food, I went out to dinner with younger daughter, sister and mother to a place called “Blue Cat”, a restaurant featuring Latin inspired dishes. The inspiration for the name of this delightful restaurant is the owner’s very own Kitty, a domestic grey foundling who thinks he is a Russian Blue cat.

One of the many in the collection of fantastic Philly neighborhood restaurants, this charming little BYOB is tucked nicely on the corner of Fairmount and Uber Streets in the Fairmount Section of Philadelphia.  The chef, Guy Shapiro, serves up daily fish specials along with a wide selection of Latin appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches and dinners. The desserts are to-die-for and include tarts, flans, cakes and puddings.  There are wonderful little paintings of cats scattered about the place and one entire wall is adorned by the most beautiful fresco of a blue cat.  I now know for sure that the steady stream of diners throughout the evening were not there to merely admire the fun and flirty art work!   The food is delicious and creatively prepared and presented.  No worries if you forget your favorite spirit…a wine and liquor store is just steps away!

The main courses are listed on the menu as “Cat’s Meow.”  How cute. 

Mother and I had the Cubano, a warm pressed sandwich of roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese and pickle on Cuban roll. 

Younger daughter had Cubanelle Peppers stuffed with quinoa, mushrooms and almonds, braised in smoky tomato sauce.

Sister had Gustavo’s Cod Fish Tacos, batter-dipped fillets topped with avocado, pico de gallo, shredded cabbage and chipotle mayo on soft blue corn tortillas

Following dinner, we enjoyed a selection from“Cat Tails” or desserts.  We all shared a lime tart, banana cake, cherry apricot flan and rice pudding.  We walked away totally stuffed but completely satisfied.

A delicious meal, reasonably priced, made even more memorable by the wonderful vibe and friendly service.    Blue Cat, 1921 Fairmount Avenue. Philadelphia, PA 19130, 267.519.2911.  www.bluecatrestaurant.com.