After building a following through pop-ups and a food truck, the team behind Barkada has opened a restaurant in Portland's Old Port.
Located at 425 Fore St. in the former Paper Tiger space, the fast-casual Filipino eatery is led by chef Nicole Bowers and her husband, Ben Bowers, and business partners Margaret and Luke Dow.
The owners from Barkada from left Nicole Bowers, Ben Bowers, Margaret Dow and Luka Dow. PHOTO / JUSTINE JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY
The restaurant offers customizable bowls built with rice or noodles, grilled meats, vegetables and sauces inspired by Filipino cooking traditions.
The name Barkada comes from the Tagalog word for a close group of friends.
Development of the restaurant
For chef Nicole Bowers, the menu is rooted in personal experience.
“Our goal has always been to introduce Filipino food in a way that feels welcoming and familiar, but still deeply authentic,” she said. “Everything we serve is rooted in how I grew up eating — with recipes that taste like home. It’s a real joy to see people experience these flavors for the first time.”
Bowers, who was raised in the Philippines in a family of restaurateurs, worked alongside her husband to adapt traditional recipes into a quick-service format. The restaurant also plans to offer rotating specials, grab-and-go items and future catering services.
Inside, the 1,592-square-foot restaurant features a bright, modern design created in collaboration with Woodhull. The space includes indoor and outdoor seating.
The owners said Barkada plans to participate in local events, including Portland's Resurgam festival this summer, while continuing to introduce new dishes throughout the year.
“We’re excited for people to walk in and experience Barkada,” said Bowers. “To try something new, to feel welcomed and hopefully to leave with a new favorite dish.”
Barkada is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with extended hours on Saturday.
Other openings
Signal in Kennebunk is opening on June 27
Morning Cloak in Portland
Another Round in Portland
Chérie in Portland
Ladyfish in Portland
Cocktail Mary in Portland
Benny's in Portland
Elizabeth in Portland
The Dooryard Pub in South Portland
The Parlor in Bath
The Barn at Smith Farm in Falmouth
Oarweed in Ogunquit
Reader feedback
What new Maine foodie spots do you plan to check out out this summer? The Mainebiz Food Insider wants to hear from you! Contact Alexis Wells at awells@mainebiz.biz.
