I was caught off guard at CATCH.

I never ever thought I would enjoy one of LaLaLand’s newest, scene-iest and hottest restaurants.

Why…trendy and celebrity driven is just not my thing.

After working for decades with notables, that is not a draw.

I was curious about CATCH, the LA version of the NYC sensation.

I had no expectations.

Allow me to digress for a moment.

It’s summertime in Los Angeles.

That translates into impossible beach traffic.

I found it necessary to institute a new Saturday afternoon tradition.

Living by the beach becomes problematic so after we each hit up our weekly exercise classes, we now head to West Hollywood, Bev Hills and downtown LA for some afternoon delight.

I took action and booked lunch at CATCH.

I was told I would hate it so I looked forward to ripping CATCH to shreds.

I must admit, I really enjoyed the rooftop ambiance and food.

CATCH is visually very appealing.

CATCH LA is the west coast outpost of acclaimed NYC CATCH, as conceptualized by Eugene Remm and Mark Birnbaum, the duo behind the EMM Group hospitality enterprise.

CATCH also has outposts in Dubai and Playa Del Carmen.

The 350-seat restaurant seems smaller and more intimate then its’ size indicates.

And yes, there is an entitled vibe amongst the younger crowd that is scattered about, posing, taking selfies, exhibiting their Guccis, Puccis and Hermes conquests.

But the staff was welcoming and gracious and could not have been less pretentious.

Are they aspiring actors and models…absolutely, but they were lovely.

A host greets you (Ryan Ray Vincent) at street level.

You then take the elevator to the rooftop.

The view is imposing and the environs redolent with flowers, greenery and a wonderful aesthetic.

We briefly waited at the bar and spoke to an accommodating, personable bartender who recommended a delicious rose from Provence.

Another popular bar item is the Pineapple Trainwreck (Belvedere vodka and pineapple juice with splashes of lemon and a pinch of bittersweet tarragon), one of CATCH LA’s signature $14 cocktails.

We were soon led to a table in the middle of the action.

Our server was outgoing and was right on with his recommendations.

The menu is seafood-centric.

Before ordering, he brought over a refreshing fruit plate, compliments of the hosts.

We kicked things off with Crispy Cauliflower with spicy vegan aioli which was wonderful ($18).

Our neighbors had ordered the shrimp version, Crispy Shrimp ($23) with spicy mayo and insisted we sample the shrimp as well as the Frozen Rose cocktail…both were excellent.

Next up, Black Cod Lettuce Wraps comprised of Bourbon-miso, kataifi and shiitake mushrooms. The fish was prepared perfectly and the lettuce was fresh and crisp ($22).

The Smashed Organic Avocado Toast sprinkled with pomegranate seed, toasted almond, roasted tomato, poached organic egg on toasted seven grain was amazing. The pomegranate seeds were a tantalizing bonus, the bread exceptional ($15).

Don’t be caught flatfooted.

Saunter into CATCH even for a drink and to take in the view.

If celeb stalking and gawking is your thing, then you are in the right place.

CATCH 8715 Melrose Avenue West Hollywood, California. Open Monday-Friday 5pm-2am, Saturday and Sunday 11am-3pm 5pm-2am. Valet as well as ample metered street parking.