Buzo Bali: A Tale of Two Flavors

Tucked within Seminyak’s buzzing “Eat Street,” Buzo Bali is the kind of spot that makes you stop mid-stroll. The crowd spills onto the patio, laughter rising with the night air, and for a moment, all eyes on Kayu Aya Street are drawn to this lively corner. Step inside and you’ll find more than just a restaurant; you’ll discover a story of flavors, cultures, and collaboration.

We were recently invited to experience Buzo Bali’s latest Pizza Showdown as part of their Nom Nom vol. 12 for a night of beats, fresh bites, and signature cocktails!

A lively collaboration between head Chef Will Meyrick and former MasterChef Italia contender Andrea Torelli of Pigstone Taphouse, it was clear just how much personality both chefs bring to the table. The evening unfolded as a celebration of bold flavors and culinary playfulness, with each dish highlighting a different facet of their creative partnership.

The Concept: Itameshi in Bali

Buzo Bali brings a refreshing twist to the island’s dining scene with Itameshi: a bold culinary style where Japanese precision meets Italian soul. At the helm is Chef Will Meyrick, celebrated for his boundary-pushing approach to Asian flavors through his acclaimed ventures such as Mamasan in Seminyak, Hujan Locale in Ubud, Billy Ho in Canggu, and Will St. in Perth.

From delicate sushi to wood-fired pizzas, handcrafted pastas, and housemade cocktails, each dish is crafted to surprise and delight. It’s a dining experience that feels both international and deeply rooted in Bali’s eclectic, food-forward culture.

The Atmosphere: Izakaya Meets Trattoria

The space itself tells the tale of two flavors. Imagine the intimacy of a Japanese izakaya blended with the warmth of an Italian trattoria. Dim lights bounce off natural textures, while curated beats set a rhythm that’s relaxed yet electric. In the corner, the DJ spins their tunes, from ambient beats to crowd classics just in time for post-dinner cocktails.

On the Table: A Taste of Buzo

We began with a few appetizers, but my favorite was the Whipped Ricotta, a deceptively simple dish that set the tone with its airy texture and clean, creamy flavor. The Snapper Tartare followed, light yet complex, balancing delicate Japanese knife work with Italian zest. Next comes the main courses. I managed to snag a quick bite of the breaded fish fillet and the flavors linger to this day (though the exact menu name has slipped past my memory!). A decadent blend of fresh fish with a tangy lemon twist hits just right.

The pizzas, of course, were the stars of the showdown. The sourdough-based Mortadella Pork Pizza was all Chef Andrea Torelli’s, with flavors that are rich and savory, while Chef Will Meyrick and Ryan Wicaksono presented their signature Marinated Sardine Pizza with a salty punch that paired beautifully with my crisp Head Over Heels cocktail (pomelo gin | strawberry | elderflower | yuzu).

Desserts carried the same thoughtful creativity. The Cheesecake with Yuzu is both sweet and striking, a perfect balance between creamy and refreshing with the right amount of matcha crunch on top! The Orange Chocolate Sorbet ended the meal on a high note, a dessert that was both indulgent and palate-cleansing. Personally, I preferred chocolate orange medley as it combines two of my favorite flavors in every spoonful.

Why Buzo Bali Stands Out

In a neighborhood where competition is fierce and new restaurants open every season, Buzo Bali has carved out its own lane quickly. It’s not just another pizza place, nor is it just another Japanese-inspired eatery. Instead, it’s a space that feels international, experimental, and communal all at once.

You don’t need to be a culinary insider to appreciate the flavors, but if you are, you’ll recognize the finesse at play. It’s the kind of place where a local foodie, a visiting chef, and a first-time traveler can all sit at the same table and walk away impressed.

And then there’s the vibe. In a world where dining out can often feel transactional, Buzo manages to capture something more personal. It’s a place where the atmosphere feels alive, where the music, the design, and the energy of the crowd are as much a part of the experience as the food itself.

Final Thoughts

Seminyak has no shortage of places to eat, but Buzo isn’t here to compete. It’s here to collaborate with its chefs, with its diners, and with the spirit of Bali itself. The result is something that feels both surprising and inevitable, as if this little izakaya e birra was always meant to be here, right on Eat Street, buzzing with life.

So next time you’re wandering Seminyak’s brightly lit streets, follow the sound of laughter and the scent of wood-fired pizza mixed with umami. Chances are, it will lead you straight to Buzo Bali, where two worlds come together, and flavor tells the story.