Food & Drink

Andrew Walsh Brings Spanish Fire to Bali with Sazon

Bali’s ever-evolving dining scene welcomes an exciting new addition with the launch of Sazon, a Spanish Tapas Bar & Grill by acclaimed chef Andrew Walsh.

Located at Regent Canggu, Sazon is a bold new venture that blends authentic Spanish flavours with a contemporary twist, offering an immersive dining experience that takes guests from the streets of Barcelona to the heart of San Sebastián - all without leaving Bali.

A Journey from Ireland to Bali

Walsh’s culinary journey started in Ireland, working in his brother’s kitchen before attending culinary school. His career took him from Michelin-starred kitchens in New York and London to his first taste of Spanish cuisine at Singapore’s Esquina. This experience ignited a deep appreciation for Spanish food's bold, produce-driven nature, leading to the eventual creation of Sazon in Bali.

“I’ve been coming back and forth to Bali for over a decade, and I’ve always felt there was space for a great Spanish restaurant. Sazon is a culmination of my experiences, blending traditional Spanish techniques with my modern culinary style,” Walsh says. 

Spanish Influence with a Local Touch

Sazon is built around the principles of fire and flavour, with an open charcoal grill at its heart. The menu pays homage to Spain’s diverse culinary traditions while incorporating Indonesia’s vibrant food culture. Guests can expect dishes like squid-ink paella infused with Balinese sambal matah, Wagyu bikini sandwiches with pickled peppers, and a show-stopping suckling pig cooked over Spanish charcoal, a tribute to both Spain’s cochinillo and Bali’s babi guling.

“It’s all about letting great ingredients shine, I don’t believe in overcomplicating food. Whether it’s a simple piece of fish or a premium cut of beef, the key is to cook it perfectly and balance it with bold, fresh flavours,” Walsh explains.

More Than a Restaurant - An Experience

Designed with multiple dining experiences in mind, Sazon invites guests to enjoy its various spaces, from the lively horseshoe-shaped bar serving tapas and sangria to the more intimate main dining room and open-air courtyard. Whether stopping in for a quick bite or indulging in a long, leisurely feast, Sazon aims to transport diners to Spain through its flavours and atmosphere.

At the kitchen's helm, Andrew is joined by Chef Javier, a fellow Spanish native who ensures the authenticity of every dish. 

“We want guests to feel like they’re in a neighbourhood tapas bar in Madrid, but with Bali’s magic woven into the experience,” says Walsh.

Adding to Bali’s Culinary Landscape

For Walsh, opening Sazon is about more than just serving great food - it’s about becoming part of Bali’s dynamic restaurant community. 

“Bali has an incredible food scene, and we’re honoured to be a part of it. We’re sourcing local seafood, honey, salt, and produce where possible, supporting local farmers and artisans, and working alongside talented Indonesian chefs,” he says.

With Sazon now open and a new oceanfront project in the works, Walsh is firmly planting his roots in Bali. “We’re just getting started. I’m excited to see how Sazon evolves and how we can continue bringing fresh, exciting concepts to the island.”

Whether you’re craving a taste of Spain or looking for a vibrant new dining spot in Canggu, Sazon promises an unforgettable culinary journey filled with fire, flavour, and festivity.

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The Bali Bible is a part of the TRAVLR GROUP. © 2024 TRAVLR Pty Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

The Bali Bible is a part of the TRAVLR GROUP. © 2024 TRAVLR Pty Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

The Bali Bible is a part of the TRAVLR GROUP. © 2024 TRAVLR Pty Ltd. All Rights Reserved.