Ryoshi – October 6, 2016

As the dining scene grows ever more diverse around Bali, it’s always good to take a moment to revisit some of the long-time eateries that have been keeping punters happy for years.
Opened way back in 1993, Ryoshi is one of those places, and with eight locations around the island, it’s the go-to Japanese joint for many people who love their sushi, sashimi, katsu and cold beer. The formula for success is simple: good food, cozy atmosphere and super reasonable prices. Each restaurant is decked out in a beautifully understated Japanese style – casual and cool with low-slung wooden tables, Japanese lanterns, bamboo mats and bright wooden paneling throughout.

On top of the fantastic food and classically cool vibe, Ryoshi Seminyak also hosts regular live music nights, with a heavy focus on old school jazz and blues from some of the island’s best-known performers. Think Rio Sidik, Balawan, Jim Larkin and Nina Aartsen – legends one and all, and anyone who likes their tunes live and sincere will get a kick out of these weekly performances that fire up at 9pm on Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays, and more often than not roll on ‘til midnight.

Food wise, it’s pretty much what you’d expect from a Japanese menu, but the quality and prices of the Ryoshi menu continues to leave others in the dust. Generally it’s all traditional Japanese, with a huge choice of sushi or sashimi (both ala carte and set combos), rolls, katsu, soups, salads and noodles, but there are a few new-school touches like the Tuna Panko (45k++) – tuna rolls flash fried in crunchy panko batter – that keep the menu a cut above.

For the drinks – there’s all the usual favourites like beers, iced coffees and soft drinks, but to keep things cultural it’s worth checking out the hot Ocha tea, Sapporo beers, or best of all, fruity Chu-Hai (35k++) – a selection of fruity sake-based cocktails that are spot on for washing down your dinner. Speaking of which, the hearty and healthy Miso Shiru Soup (15k++) or Ryoshi Ceviche (40k++) are both excellent places to start, followed ably by the Kushi Age Set (65k++). Essentially a mixed satay sampler, it’s great to share and the sweet soy dipping sauce is properly moreish. Meanwhile the Tori Kara Age (49k++) is also superb if you prefer to stick to chicken. A sprinkling of desserts like ice cream, particularly green tea ice cream, and sweet pancakes complete the picture at this Bali Japanese favourite.
Dan Ashcroft
Ryoshi Seminyak
Jl. Raya Seminyak #15
731 152
www.ryoshibali.com