BARKADAS | FILIPINO charleston, wv

This year, We decided to celebrate Josh's birthday with a special lunch at Barkadas, a charming restaurant that has quickly become one of our go-to spots. Knowing how popular this place can get, we decided to make a reservation the day before. We also couldn’t resist the opportunity to sample some of their cocktails and appetizers.

https://www.barkadasrestaurant.com/

When we arrived, Tara opted for the Lavender Rosemary Martini, a beautifully fragrant cocktail that was as refreshing as it was unique. The blend of lavender and rosemary created a perfect balance of floral and herbaceous notes, making every sip a delightful experience. Josh, on the other hand, went for a sour beer, a perfect choice for his taste, with its tangy, crisp finish.

For appetizers, we couldn’t pass up the Bang Shrimp and Shrimp Bao Buns. The Bang Shrimp was a flavor explosion—crispy, spicy, and drizzled with a sweet chili sauce that left us wanting more. The Shrimp Bao Buns were equally impressive, with soft, pillowy buns filled with succulent shrimp, topped with pickled onions that added the perfect crunch. Satisfied and with our reservation made, we headed home, eagerly anticipating the next day's celebration.

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shrimp

bao buns

beer

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The next day, we arrived at Barkadas right at noon, and our table was ready and waiting for us. The service was great, with our waitress making us feel welcome and well cared for from the moment we sat down.

Josh couldn’t resist ordering the Crispy Spam Burrito. Now, if you think Spam doesn’t belong on a menu, this dish would change your mind. The burrito was filled with perfectly seasoned rice, soft scrambled eggs, and crispy slices of Spam, all wrapped in a crunchy shell. The contrast between the crispy exterior and the savory, tender filling was just phenomenal. Each bite was a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that made it impossible to put down.

Tara went for the special of the day: Avocado Toast. Simple in concept but elevated in execution, this dish was a true delight. The toast was perfectly crisp, providing a sturdy base for a generous spread of creamy, ripe avocado. It was topped with a medley of fresh ingredients that added layers of flavor and texture. Each bite was a testament to how something so simple can be so satisfying.

Anna, our oldest daughter, ordered the Karne Norte, and it was everything a good hash should be. The potatoes were golden and crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. Corn beef hash with queso and egg, it was a hearty and comforting dish that hit all the right notes.

To finish off the meal, Josh had the Cheesecake Burrito for dessert. If you’ve never had a dessert burrito, you’re in for a treat. This one was filled with rich, creamy cheesecake, wrapped in a crispy shell, and dusted with cinnamon sugar. It was decadent without being overly sweet, and the combination of textures—the smooth cheesecake with the crunchy exterior—was simply irresistible.

All in all, our birthday lunch at Barkadas was everything I could have hoped for: great food, wonderful company, and memories to last a lifetime. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or planning a special occasion, Barkadas never disappoints. We can’t wait to return!

BARKADAS | FILIPINO charleston, wv

https://www.barkadasrestaurant.com/