Hallmark’s ‘Catch of the Day’: The Perfect Summer Rom-Com to Stream or Skip? Find Out Now!
As the 2025 Summer Nights movie event on the Hallmark Channel winds down, it wraps up with its seventh and final film, Catch of the Day. Starring Emilie Ullerup and Michael Rady, this romantic-comedy aims to be the perfect send-off for your summer streaming lineup.
The story follows a successful fine dining chef in New York City who heads back to her hometown of Montauk to help rescue her family’s restaurant by the 4th of July. While she’s there, she bumps into an old flame, and suddenly her life and love choices don’t feel so clear-cut anymore.
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Table of Contents
A Plot That Feels Like Home
Catch of the Day introduces us to Sophie Monahan, played by Emilie Ullerup. Sophie is a driven chef at a top New York restaurant, chasing her dream of becoming an executive chef by forty.
Her plans hit a detour when her older sister, Abigail, calls, asking her to come home and help save their struggling family restaurant, The Slack Tide, in Montauk. Sophie hasn’t been back since Christmas, so this return feels big.
Returning to Montauk
Sophie shows up with big ideas: a new menu, more social media buzz, and a shake-up in staffing. Her intentions are good, but they create some tension with Abigail, who’s been juggling the restaurant and her own family.
Old Flames and New Challenges
Back in Montauk, Sophie runs into Cam Easton, her old school crush, played by Michael Rady. Their chemistry is obvious, and it’s not long before old feelings bubble up.
Just as things start heating up, Sophie lands a shot at an executive chef job in Las Vegas. Suddenly, she’s torn between her rekindled romance and her career ambitions.
Balancing Love and Career
The movie digs into whether Sophie can juggle family loyalty and her own dreams. The push and pull between her career and her heart gives the story a bit of weight—it’s not just fluff.
Performances That Shine
Emilie Ullerup’s take on Sophie is a real highlight. She’s got this spark—funny, warm, and easy to root for.
Her scenes with Michael Rady’s Cam? They just work. There’s a real connection there, and it makes their story feel believable.
Supporting Cast
The supporting cast adds a lot, too. Alison Wandzura plays Abigail with just the right touch of stress and love.
Everick Golding as William, the head chef, brings warmth, and Sharon Crandall’s Evelyn is every bit the tough restaurant owner you’d expect. Their interactions have a lived-in feel that gives the film heart.
Beautiful Montauk and Mouth-Watering Cuisine
The movie’s backdrop is Montauk, and wow—the cinematography really shows off the town’s charm. Sometimes it feels like a tourism ad, but honestly, who wouldn’t want to visit after seeing these shots?
On top of that, the cooking scenes are enough to make you hungry. The kitchen action and gorgeous plates are a treat all on their own.
A Feast for the Eyes
There’s something about the mix of seaside scenery and food that just works. It’s not just a love story; it’s a little visual getaway with some serious food envy.
Universal Themes of Family and Love
At its heart, Catch of the Day is about family, friendship, and following your gut. Those themes run through every scene, grounding the story in something real.
The bond between Sophie and Abigail, plus Sophie’s efforts to reconnect with her nieces, give the story some real texture.
Emotional Moments
There are a few scenes that hit harder than you might expect, showing just how tricky it can be to balance work and family. It’s those moments that keep the movie from feeling too light or predictable.
Refreshing Take on Romance
This movie takes a welcome detour from the usual rom-com miscommunications. Sophie and Cam actually talk to each other—no silly misunderstandings, just honest conversations.
It’s refreshing, honestly. Their relationship feels like something you could see in real life, not just on TV.
Rooting for the Couple
Because they’re so open with each other, you can’t help but root for Sophie and Cam. They’re easy to like, both together and apart.
Their story is grounded, and that’s a nice change from the usual romantic comedy formula.
Our Recommendation
If you’re after something pleasant and breezy to close out your summer streaming, Catch of the Day might just be it. There’s a certain charm in its schmaltzy sweetness, paired with some surprisingly real family moments.
Honestly, I’d say go ahead and STREAM IT!
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