The Buzz Word
Buzz Café, to be found
in the bohemian bar/ café neighbourhood of Kita-horie, is
a relatively new addition to the area, and is a triumph of style
and design.
I was first introduced to Buzz by a friend of
mine, an architect and a man with an eye for the aesthetic. He enthused
about its interior — all clean lines and monochromatic schemes.
He wasn’t wrong about that, but to focus on this exclusively
would only tell half the story.
Buzz is a bar that epitomizes Horie, a fine mix
of style and substance. The name reflects the atmosphere —
the kind of energy that enlivens the place on a busy night can be
electrifying. Masterminding the operation is Fukuno (Fuu), manager
since its reinterpretation in February of this year. At that time
Buzz’s owner, along with Fuu, coordinated with an interior
designer to re-fit their bar to some exacting specifications. The
results are plain to see — Buzz is split-level, with a small
balcony sitting atop a well-stocked, sleek bar. The sound system
is impressive but almost invisible, as all the speakers are hidden
behind sliding panels that do much to improve the look of the seating
area without taking anything away from the sound quality.
These speakers are put to use every night, with
Fuu preferring a house sound during the week, also dabbling in R&B
and rock, depending on his mood. The first Friday of every alternate
(odd-numbered) month is given over to DJ events, with an eclectic
mix of DJs and styles — an all-genre night with wide appeal
for all music lovers. Fuu says that these nights fill the space
to capacity — around 40 — but the space is never over-crowded.
Weeknights are usually quieter affairs, with a steady stream of
regulars augmented by newcomers drawn to the interior and stylish
entrance.
 One
of the great things about Buzz was the food — a little on the
small side, but adventurous in a Southern-Europe-meets-Japan kind
of fusion. Unfortunately the old chef has parted ways with the establishment
but this, will lead to an interesting make over of the menu. His
replacement, penciled in to begin in July, means a new menu, bringing
with him an eclectic new range. Until he’s settled in there
is still bar food to keep you satisfied.
One thing that hasn’t changed is the bar.
It is impressively stocked, with quality spirits including a selection
of shochu and sake. Regular mixed drinks and draft beers are ¥630
apiece but the real draw is Fuu’s original cocktails —
just tell him what you like (you can be as specific or as vague
as you like) and he’ll mix you up something unique for ¥735.
Another promising point about Buzz is its availability
for private parties. It was recently featured in Zekushi, a prominent
wedding magazine as one of Osaka’s best places to have your
wedding party. Menu and drink options are negotiable, as is the
music, so should you wish to celebrate a special occasion in style,
Buzz will be able to help you out.
Buzz Café
1/F Crest Bldg 1-10-2,
Kita-horie, Nishi-ku
Open: 5pm-late
Nearest station: Nishi Ohashi (Exit #4)
Tel/Fax: 06-6536-3454
www.buzz-vc.jp
Text & Photos: Euan Mckirdy
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