California's Santa Clara: Pacific Catch

During my visit to Pacific Catch in Santa Clara, I was drawn to this Cal-Asian seafood restaurant based on a friend's recommendation. Conveniently located near the Westfield Valley Fair shopping center, the restaurant offers easy access and parking. The overall ambiance is bright and comfortable, featuring a fresh wooden decor style with well-spaced seating, making it ideal for both dates and casual gatherings with friends. We ordered two main dishes: the Mexican Grill and the Fish & Chips combo, paired with iced tea and Thai milk tea. ⸻ 🌯 Mexican Grill This seafood rice bowl was undoubtedly the highlight of the meal! Packed with a variety of ingredients, the base consisted of brown rice and some greens, topped with grilled shrimp, black beans, Mexican corn salsa, pico de gallo, guacamole, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of yogurt sauce. The shrimp was perfectly cooked—neither too dry nor overdone—retaining its elasticity and fresh flavor, with a sprinkle of cilantro and chili powder for added zest. The combination of flavors and textures was delightful, with the vegetables and beans providing a refreshing crunch, while the guacamole and salsa balanced the dish with rich and tangy notes. I particularly loved the corn salsa, which was sweet with a hint of spice, giving a "summer dancing in your mouth" sensation. The portion size was generous, ensuring even a hungry diner would feel satisfied. ⸻ 🐟 Fish & Chips The other dish was the classic fish and chips. The three pieces of fried fish had a crispy exterior while the white fish inside remained moist and tender, offering a non-greasy and pleasant taste. It was served with tartar sauce and a mildly spicy salad dressing, along with a slice of lemon for added zest. The fries were seasoned with a special spice blend, likely containing smoked chili powder, giving them a unique California-Mexican twist compared to regular salted fries. The accompanying coleslaw was straightforward—a refreshing cabbage salad that balanced the richness of the fried items. ⸻ 🍹 Drinks The iced tea had a natural unsweetened flavor, complementing the main dishes without overpowering them. The Thai milk tea was rich and perfectly sweetened, showcasing authentic ingredients rather than cheap powdered mixes—highly recommended! ⸻ 📝 Summary Overall, Pacific Catch is a restaurant that balances flavor and health, making it especially appealing to seafood lovers who prefer less greasy options. Both the classic fried dishes and the California-style healthy rice bowls were impressive. Next time, I’d love to try their poke bowls and tacos, as the menu looks equally enticing. 💞 Recommended for: Friends who enjoy fresh seafood and creative fusion cuisine. Prices range from $15–$25, which is reasonable for Bay Area dining standards, offering good value for money. 📍 Address: 3315 Coronado Pl, Santa Clara, CA 95054 🕰️ Hours: 11:00 AM–9:00 PM, Friday & Saturday: 11:00 AM–10:00 PM 💰 Average cost per person: $20