Cherry Creek Catfish

 
Cherry Creek Catfish is one of those places where the food fits your palate the way your favorite pair of jammies did when you were a kid. There’s a comfort there that you’re just not willing to give up. And there’s a security you get from knowing that they’re gonna feel great every time you put them on. When you’ve got a S. Austin restaurant that works like that, you’re most definitely going to have a winner. So welcome to Cherry Creek Catfish on 5712 Manchaca Road at the corner of Stassney.

The first thing that really got my attention at Cherry Creek was the Gumbo. This is a shrimp and crawfish gumbo with okra, celery and bell peppers. The roux is on the milder side but there’s loads of flavor there. I had two bowls on the last visit. And if Fried Green Tomatoes are your thing, Cherry Creek’s version of this southern favorite is quite serviceable. I like the zesty cornmeal batter. And the crunchier, the better. And the Basket of Crawfish will make even the most demanding nibbler a happy camper. The tails are crispy, quite tasty, and on the two occasions I’ve had them, very fresh. And it’s rare that I’d order New England Clam Chowder in a catfish joint. But I’ll tell you what, it’s creamy, not overly tricked up with potatoes (always a sign that the cook doesn’t get this soup) and has a very pleasant and engaging flavor.

An entrée that you wouldn’t expect in a catfish restaurant is the taco salad. I like the grilled beef version of this dish in a flour tortilla shell with the requisite veggies and of course, cheese, sour cream, and a zippy salsa. And for those looking for flavor without excessive calories, try the Blackened Catfish. Ask for the Cajun seasoning. The two filets are exceptionally tender and have that searing flavor that only a cast iron skillet can impart. Neat dish. But if you’re not counting calories, and let’s face it, the majority of folks who come here have left their Atkin’s books at home for the night, then go for the Fried Shrimp and the Fried Catfish. Both the fish and the shrimp and fresh and hand breaded. They came out a comforting golden brown. Not the least bit over done. And the taste was both immediate and unequivocal. Add a squeeze of lemon and the cocktail or tartar sauces (I prefer the tartar) are all you need. This is some seriously lip smackin’ seafood. Want more? Then belly up for the Fried Oysters. They are just as good if your taste runs to our favorite gulf import. And again, not greasy and they don’t have the taste fried out of them as can happen.

For you carnivores, Cherry Creek offers up some very tasty BBQ ribs as well. I tried the ½ rack for $11.99 and the meat was perfectly cooked. Tender as all get out.

And don’t leave there without a taste of their Key Lime Pie. I’m very particular about the taste of this pie and Cherry Creek’s measures up. Also liked the Peach Fruit Cobbler. I’m a sucker for a good one of these. They key is the flavor. Not gobs of dough, and lots of peaches. Yes.

So another S. Austin restaurant makes it onto the pantheon of Balon favorites for the family. Reasonable prices, consistency, a really friendly staff, and fresh and tasty vittles. Cherry Creek Catfish will induce that feeling of comfort we discussed earlier. Just don’t show up in your jammies!