Cata Restaurant – Pizza, Tapas E Vino
A Mediterranean Affair
By Hiranmayii Awli Mohanan
The aesthetics of Cata’s storefront is n indication of what lies inside. Crossing its threshold, a collection of antiques, unique yesteryear lamps, reconditioned wood and steel make up the interior of Cata. Here, one discovers a good range of hot and cold artisanal tapas, alongside heartier dishes, all of these bursting with Mediterranean élan. Cata is a neighbourhood restaurant that caters to most dietary practices and encouraged communal eating between family and friends.
Our appreciation of the interior and 1980’s ballads playing in the background was interposed by the well-curated charcuterie board of imported cold cuts and cheeses. Following suit, tapas. From the cold tapas, slivers of marinated anchovies and olives create a wonderful brininess on the palate.
Duck Confit
Then, from the hot tapas, the Duck Confit arrived. Cannellini beans and radicchio formed a bed and atop, perched the duck confit seasoned with fresh herbs and a dash of pepper. While in anticipation of the following dish, we cleansed our palates with sips from the spicy concoction that was Cata’s sangria.
We couldn’t stop singing songs of praises for the CATA Potato Gnocchi. It is comfort food of the highest order, emitting ever so slight creaminess and umami flavours from the medley of brown butter, sage, baby artichokes, capers and anchovies.
Mussels
While the ideal setting would have been the scenery of a Mediterranean town, we settled for indulgence in the form of mussels. Boasting glistening, fresh mussels and a delicious broth of white wine, parsley and garlic, we ordered a side bread to lap up the savoury juices.
CATA’s Wood-fired Oven Pizzas
Next came a meal that carried a bit of heft — Cata’s wood-fired oven pizzas. These labours of love are flamboyant and stay true to the complexities of the Mediterranean flavours. Crafted from sourdough that is left to set for 24 hours, it is only kneaded, rolled and adorned with pizza toppings upon order. Whether it’s the Margherita or CATA pizza, expect a waft of alluring aroma, tender texture and potent piquancy.
Desserts
The Pacojet (professional kitchen appliance) adds to Cata’s trump card, delivering pure, natural fruit sorbets and homemade ice cream. For something a little more decadent, the creme brûlée does the trick, sealing the culinary journey with a sweet finale.
Address: Cata – Pizza, Tapas E Vino *Mediterranean cuisine *Casual dining (non-halal)
Plaza Damansara, 50-G, Jalan Medan Setia 2,
Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03-2011 8587