Out of the Blue

Overview

Taking the first bite of a burger from Clovelly Eatery, Out Of The Blue is akin to that first dive into the water on a scorching hot summer's day. It is the ever satisfying scratch to a persistent itch. It's not so much a burger as a work of art.

An unassuming fish and chip shop nestled on Clovelly Road in Sydney's eastern suburbs, Out of the Blue is a family-run business. What distinguishes this shopfront from any other fish and chip joint is the sheer number of people lining up to get in on that sweet, sweet burger lovin' on a hot day. Or cold day. Or any day ever.

The burger variety is all about the classics — the standard hamburger ($6), chicken shnitty ($6.5), merguez ($7), scotch fillet ($7), fish ($6), bacon and egg ($6.50). Vegetarians, you are not limited to that one token veggie option. Here you have two — each damn good in its own special, meatless way. With the tofu option ($6.50), there is not a squishy lump of tofu in sight, but rather a firm and crispy square of deliciousness, coated with a sweet, soy-like tang. The veggie burger ($6) is a messy mash of pure joy for the weary vegetarian.

But let's get to the real star of the show here — the chilli mayo. Made in-store, this creamy concoction is thick in texture, with just the right amount of chilli kick. To their credit (and the joy of the consumer), the stuff is never applied too sparsely. Burgers are filled with a sliver of beetroot, shavings of carrot and lettuce, a sprinkling of cheese and a slice of tomato, all held together by a toasted sesame seed bun.

Fifteen minutes later, as sauce drips off of your fingers, you realise that this is a burger that has sent you on a roller-coaster of emotions: excitement (as you try to contain yourself from eating it too quickly), regret (for not bringing enough serviettes. Every time!), euphoria (as the perfect mix of flavours dance on your tastebuds), despair (when you've finished the burger) and curiosity (is it inappropriate to buy a second?).

Be prepared to wait, and then to leave. This is no fast food chain — each burger is freshly made in front of you — and though there's seating in the shop, it's just the one table, which is often filled up quickly. Fortunately, the eye-pleasing scenery of Clovelly and Coogee beaches is just a short stroll away. If you can't wait that long, make like a local and wolf lunch down on the sidewalk.

Being a fish and chip shop and all, they do sell fish and chips, but it's the burgers that will keep you coming back. Reasonably priced, every burger ranges between $5–8, and with a half serving of chips, it will come to under $10 for a very satisfying meal.