Not exactly sure what Bunzo means, but it is a great place in downtown Kumamoto that calls itself Italian, though how authentic it is is, frankly, a little debatable. Some Italian, some French, and some uniquely Japanese things like potatoes on pizza.
The first time I went it was on the recommendation of a professor at the local college, the second time I returned with a traveller who was looking for good food in town. Though the place isn’t the most vegan-friendly, they have a few good items on the menu (just be sure to mention no cheese!).
Bunzo brings your food out on a few big communal dishes for sharing, which combined with the dark, comfortable atmosphere of the restaurant makes it a great place to go for conversation or friendship.
Anyway, on the menu last night was “mushroom tomato sauce pasta” and pizza. Though the name sounds a little weird in English, it is some of the best pasta I’ve ever had, made with delicious mushrooms of a generous amount and in a very light sauce.
The pizza, unlike any that I have had anywhere else, is a simple, yet delicious thing. Baked on delicious, slightly crispy crust, they are happy to make a cheeseless pizza topped with tomatoes and potatoes (which are the only topping options besides cheese). Unlike anything I’ve eaten before, it is quite good delicious.
Overall, Bunzo is a great, reasonably prices restaurant. For two main dishes, a pizza, and oolong tea for two, the price comes out to only 4,000 yen (40 dollars). And according to my Swiss companion, it was unexpectedly good.
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