新潟バル OLMO（オルモ） Spanish Food Bar, Niigata City: Dinner& Interview with Shinichirou Kajii

If you ever get bored of eating strictly Japanese food when you’re out and about or just find the urge to try something new, then there’s a good chance that south sides Balolmo’s got what you’re looking for.
Personally, in my first years here I had always been skeptical of trying Western food in a proper restaurant. It’s not because I had thought it would be bad or anything, I actually struggle to remember the last time I had a bad dining experience. It was simply that I had always been afraid it wouldn’t be the same. It’s important, however, to bear in mind how much care the Japanese take in everything they do, especially when it comes to food. Suffice to say then that over time I have started to look forward to trying what is the exotic/fancy to this side of the world.
Balolmo is a cosy Spanish counter seating place that has recently gone under renewal and subsequent new management. The new manager and head chef Shinichirou Kajii is a master at his craft, supported by an exceptionally warm floor staff that are knowledgeable and eager to please.
The food quality was never overshadowed by this however and we will definitely be back. Featured in the video (in order) were complimentary spaghetti appetiser; lamb chops with sauerkraut and mustard; acqua pazza (poached fish, mussels, veg); Angus steak, fries and garlic onion sauce; finishing with chefs choice bacon and tomato spaghetti. Next time we’re there I would probably be inclined to order exactly the same again, it was really that good.
Since starting this video series we’re having our eyes opened to some very special places and are in danger of being spoilt for choice. Long may it continue.

Please be sure to check out the second half of the video for the interview with Balolmo’s manager Mr. Shinichirou Kajii.

*Please forgive the light strips in this video, it was pretty dark in the restaurant and I had LEDs hovering over me the entire time.*

Find Balolmo at

Video is in Japanese, with English subtitles.

Where should we try next? Let us know in the comments! Thank you so much for watching, please be sure to like and subscribe

Music by epidemicsound.com
Subtitle assistance by JPC