Waatu’s Yakitori Showdown: Collaboration Between Chef Lachlan Budd and Chef Joel Bickford

Waatu in Bali will host a much-anticipated chef collaboration on 29 August 2025: the reunion of Chef Lachlan Budd and Chef Joel Bickford, Culinary Director for Sydney’s The Point Group and one of Australia’s most celebrated chefs. Known for his artistry and nearly 30 chef’s hats to his name, Bickford joins Budd poolside at Waatu for a fiery evening of flavour, creativity, and camaraderie.

This special chef collaboration at Waatu Bali marks a continuation of the duo’s past successes, blending Budd’s deep knowledge of local Balinese ingredients and fire-led cooking style with Bickford’s refined approach to texture, flavour, and visual elegance. Their reunion promises a dynamic culinary dialogue that evolves their shared passion into a new chapter of innovation.

“It’s fantastic to welcome an old friend like Joel back to the kitchen,” shares Chef Lachlan Budd. “We had such a blast cooking together in the past, and I know this reunion will be even more fun. It’s about creating something truly special for our guests.”

The Yakitori Showdown unfolds in two unique acts. The evening begins with a six-course wood-fired dinner prepared over open coals – Waatu’s signature cooking style that elevates simplicity into spectacle. True to the spirit of discovery, the menu will be revealed only on the night of the event.

Following dinner, Waatu will debut its first-ever supper club, transforming the restaurant into an intimate after-hours party. Guests can expect wood-fired late-night snacks paired with select whiskies, including pours from LARK, the evening’s official partner. It’s a chance to savour, sip, and celebrate behind closed doors in true Waatu style.

As a prelude to the main event, Chef Budd and Chef Bickford will also present a special Asado night at Sundays Beach Club on Wednesday, 27 August, bringing their mastery of open-fire cooking to the sands of Uluwatu.

Conceived by award-winning Australian Chef James Viles, Waatu celebrates cooking over coals with a philosophy rooted in sustainability, connection, and the primal joy of fire. Executive Chef Lachlan Budd continues this vision by showcasing Bali’s finest local produce through bold, elemental techniques. Waatu’s playful take on yakitori – dubbed “things on sticks” – alongside its wood-fired flatbreads, flame-kissed greens, and smoky bites, make it a dining destination where rugged authenticity meets refined execution.

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Jalan Pantai Selatan Gau, Ungasan, Bali 80361, Indonesia | +62 81138306286 | eat@waatubali.com | waatubali.com | @waatu.bali