Barkada Pinoy — Restaurant in Melbourne

A Taste of Nostalgia, but Missed Opportunities – A Filipino Restaurant in Melbourne CBD

It’s exciting to see a Filipino restaurant right in the heart of Melbourne CBD, tucked away in one of the city’s famous laneways. The first impression is truly charming — the facade is a creative nod to the classic Filipino tindahan (a small neighborhood shop), complete with nostalgic elements like jars of candies, canned goods, and other staples that many Filipinos grew up with. It instantly brings back memories of buying snacks or borrowing essentials "utang". That moment of connection is powerful — it draws you in with warmth and familiarity.

However, unfortunately, that nostalgic magic doesn’t carry through into the restaurant itself. Once inside, the vibe feels somewhat disconnected and uncoordinated. It’s unclear whether they’re aiming for a karinderya-style setting — a simple, everyday eatery in the Philippines — but if so, it could’ve been executed with more thought and creativity to authentically reflect Filipino culture beyond just simplicity.

Customer service is another area where the experience falls short. While the use of QR code ordering is becoming the norm, the intimate size and layout of the restaurant would actually benefit from more personal interaction. A warm welcome, guidance to a seat, and a quick introduction to the menu would go a long way — especially for non-Filipino diners who are curious to explore the cuisine. The famed Filipino hospitality was noticeably missing, which was disappointing.

As for the food, it was, unfortunately, underwhelming for the price. The flavors were average, and when compared to the many vibrant and satisfying options around the area — like hotpot or Korean BBQ — it didn't quite measure up in terms of value or satisfaction.

This review isn’t meant to put the restaurant down — in fact, it’s the opposite. It’s written with hope and encouragement. The concept has so much potential. With some refinement in ambiance, a touch of heartfelt service, and more consistent quality in the food, this restaurant could truly become a proud representation of Filipino culture right in Melbourne’s culinary scene.

I’d love to see it thrive, not just as a spot for Filipinos craving a taste of home, but as a cultural and culinary ambassador introducing Filipino cuisine to a...

I was probably one of this business top supporters. Talk about pork skewers everytime and it wont be just 2 pcs. I would order 12 so i can take it home to bundoora. It was recommended by a friend and since then i cant stop eating them. I used to save the sauce and eat with with rice alone. Thats how good it was! So when they opened this restaurant, i was excited because finally they have a place. Super happy for them but it wasn’t how it used to be. Maybe because their OG Workers is not the one marinating the meat now or mixing the sauce. I noticed more new workers in the kitchen.

I went again yesterday and today, hoping they bring back their old mix. But i noticed Some days, the meat was tiny bit saltier or citrusy than other days. Although it was still good, but not as good.

About customer service, their waiters do not seem they enjoy their job. I brought my kids with me and they loved to interact with filipinos because everyone we met was nice but unfortunately not their staff. Ok maybe they had a bad day, so i went the next day but nothing changed. Maybe a “enjoy your food” reply would be nice after my kids and i say thanks… lol but no biggie. My non Filipino kids were trying to speak tagalog to the waiters, they didnt reply nor smiled with their eyes(since they wear facemask) after that interaction, kids never talked when they served. I can understand 1 day of bad service, but it happened every time i visit. Cashier was great tho, at least he and she looks happy to be working.

Overall, great place to eat, but dont go there expecting waiters to say anything after they serve your food. Other than that, love the food and the cashier staff, environment, smell. The best filipino restaurant...

It's not the first time I visited Barkada Pinoy. As a Filipino, I support local and love local food. However, one eventful visit left a bad taste in 2025. I ordered their grilled chicken combo. I was happily enjoying my meal with my friends, chatting and laughing then halfway through my meal I noticed there was blood in the chicken meat, I verified it with my friends who worked in the same industry and confirmed that it is blood. I asked the staff what is the best option for this issue.

I asked the staff if they can replace it, the staff took my plate to verify it in the kitchen and said they'll give me 2 skewers instead, I said OK. After a long wait, the staff went back and told me they won't be replacing it as I already consumed 90% of my meal which is ridiculous because blood in my meal is blood in my meal regardless of the percentage of how much I consumed.

They even put the blame on me saying why didn't I tell them sooner and accused me of eating it until I had my fill and asked for another because of the blood.

First and foremost, the chicken was uncooked and shouldn't be served.

The horrible experience left me gaslighted when it could have been an easy experience if the staff were provided proper customer service, humble and held themself accountable of the situation.

The food I can say that it's "OK" not astounding not wow factor but if you're hungry and in the city, I say go for it but if you're someone who's particular of good food experience, I would say there are other good Filipino restaurants to go to.

PS. Long waiting time and poor...