With the mishmash of random typefaces that were not aligned and white tape masking obsolete items, the overhead menus of Blue Mountains Seafood in Katoomba resembled more of an ersatz ransom note than a guide of what was offered for sale on which to dine. The photographs of assorted seafood and other food long gone by on the menus were faded to the point that I felt like I was back in the 1970s — and some of them were unrecognizable. Still, I decided to order food here.
Blue Mountains Seafood in Katoomba. Restaurant Review.
The man behind the counter had a somewhat acerbic no-nonsense attitude; but I guess that lent to the overall atmosphere of the place. A paper sign warns that once a customer places an order, it cannot be changed. He did not seem to have the patience for customers who were not yet prepared to submit their orders at the counter. He can be rather sarcastic; but he got the job done.
As the primary purpose of this place is for takeaway orders, wait service is not offered. I placed my order, which would not be fulfilled for at least 30 minutes — but I was in no hurry.
The dining area is nothing fancy. A total of six tables — coupled as three larger tables — with chairs are located inside of the establishment. I did have to wait until a set of tables was free, as customers were already sitting at them when I arrived. I also noticed a steady stream of customers walking in and placing takeaway orders, which is a good sign that the food is at least reasonably good. Some of them seemed like regular customers, as the man behind the counter appeared to have conducted business with them before.
Crumbed Barramundi was exactly what it was: a fish which is native to Australia that was fried with a coating of crumbs. The portion was large enough that the fish overflowed over the edge and out of the cardboard container. It was served with a slice of lemon. $19.00 in Australian dollars
The Deep Sea Cod was grilled. It was also served with a slice of lemon. Cutlery comprised of bamboo accompanied both meals. $14.00 in Australian dollars
Final Boarding Call
If you find yourself in Katoomba after a day in the Blue Mountains of Australia and are in the mood for fish, consider patronizing Blue Mountains Seafood. The ambiance was rather plain and ordinary — one might even consider this place a “hole in the wall” — but I recommend eating the food from here, as the food was good. Do not expect any extraordinary dining experience. This was no frills and no nonsense — just basic good food. Blue Mountains Seafood specializes in fish and chips; but it also sells hamburgers and meal items known as packs, which include side dishes.
The prices were rather reasonable, as both orders of fish cost a total of $33.00 Australian dollars or $22.54 United States dollars — including the surcharge for using a credit card, which is accepted as a form of payment.
Blue Mountains Seafood
191 Katoomba Street
Katoomba, New South Wales 2780
Australia
+61-2-478-22964
Operating Hours
Tuesday through Saturday: 10:45 in the morning through 7:30 in the evening
Sunday: 11:00 in the morning through 7:30 in the evening
Closed Mondays
Free parking is available out front along the street.
All photographs ©2024 by Brian Cohen.
