To Catch a Thief was "strong on sight and performance values" though it had "some plot weaknesses and is not as smooth in the unfolding as one might expect from an upper 'A' presentation." "Harrison's Reports" wrote, "Alfred Hitchcock has not endowed the action with as much suspense as one might expect in a picture produced and directed by him; nevertheless, its story of a one-time jewel robber who sets out to establish his innocence by catching a thief who was using his technique is tight and swiftly-paced, and constantly offers dramatic and comical developments." Richard L. Coe of "The Washington Post" called it
To Catch a Thief (Once Upon a Time in Wonderland) director. The episode was watched by 3.35 million American viewers, and received an 18-49 rating/share of 1.0/3, down in the total viewers number but up in the demo from the previous episode. The show placed fourth in its timeslot and eleventh for the night. Christine Orlando of "TV Fanatic" gave the episode a 4.2 out of 5, signaling positive reviews. Ashley B. of "Spoiler TV" gave the episode a positive review. She said: To Catch a Thief (Once Upon a Time in Wonderland) "To Catch a Thief " is the twelfth episode of the "Once Upon a Time" spin-off series