Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Chicago

Bayan Ko is celebrated for its unique fusion of Filipino and Cuban cuisines, offering a tasting menu that has garnered praise for its innovative dishes and attentive service. The intimate setting and reservation-only policy contribute to its popularity, making it a sought-after dining experience in Chicago.

Bayan Ko: Filipino-Cuban Fusion Delight in Chicago's Lincoln Square Neighborhood.

Nestled in the vibrant Lincoln Square neighborhood of Chicago, Bayan Ko is a culinary gem that masterfully blends the bold flavors of Filipino and Cuban cuisines into an unforgettable dining experience. Known for its creative tasting menus and intimate artsy atmosphere, this restaurant is a must-visit for adventurous foodies and culture lovers alike.

Bayan Ko proudly offers a seven-course tasting menu priced at $119 per guest, featuring standout dishes like the succulent Prawn Kinilaw, crispy Duck Croqueta, rich Arroz Caldo with lobster, tender Adobong Pugita (octopus), savory Lechon Asado, slow-braised Ropa Vieja, and the decadent Chocoflan dessert. Each dish brings complex layers of flavor, weaving Filipino and Cuban traditions into a harmonious culinary journey.

Vegetarian diners rejoice — a vegetarian tasting menu option is available upon request, ensuring everyone can savor Bayan Ko’s creative fare.

The restaurant’s snug and artsy setting, coupled with outdoor seating options, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for intimate dinners or small groups. Guests appreciate attentive, friendly staff who enhance the experience with passion and knowledge. While the main focus is dinner service from Wednesday to Saturday, 5 PM to 10 PM, reservations are essential as walk-ins are not accommodated.

Bayan Ko is proudly a BYOB venue, inviting guests to bring their favorite beverages to complement the vibrant menu.

Bayan Ko has earned mostly glowing reviews, praised for its innovative tasting menu and rich flavor profiles. Highlights often include the lobster rice and wagyu beef, along with plantain puree and decadent desserts like bibingka. Guests consistently mention the fun, attentive service and the unique fusion that blends comfort with sophistication.

Some visitors have noted areas for improvement, such as enhancing service consistency and refining the pre-fixe experience, especially for those seeking a Michelin-star level outing. Despite this, the restaurant remains a beloved spot for modern Filipino food with a Cuban twist in Chicago.

 The tasting menu at Bayan Ko is a seven-course dinner priced at $119 per guest, featuring dishes like Prawn Kinilaw, Duck Croqueta, Arroz Caldo, Adobong Pugita, Lechon Asado, Ropa Vieja, and Chocoflan.

 Yes, a vegetarian version of the tasting menu is available upon request.

Do I need a reservation to dine at Bayan Ko?

 Yes, reservations are required as the restaurant operates on a reservation-only basis.

What are the operating hours of Bayan Ko?

 Bayan Ko is open for dinner from Wednesday to Saturday, 5 PM to 10 PM, and is closed on Sundays and Tuesdays.

 Yes, Bayan Ko is a BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) establishment.

North America

United States

Overview  
Bayan Ko is a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Lincoln Square, Chicago. This unique restaurant marries the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine with the rich traditions of Cuban cooking, creating an unforgettable dining experience. With its cozy, artsy ambiance and outdoor seating, it’s the perfect spot for food enthusiasts seeking something truly special.

At Bayan Ko, every dish tells a story, blending cultural influences and culinary techniques. The restaurant offers a **5-course tasting menu** that showcases the best of both worlds, with standout dishes like the **Octopus Adobo**, which elevates a traditional staple to new heights, and the **Lobster Arroz Caldo**, a comforting rice dish infused with the essence of the sea. Each bite is a delightful journey, rich in flavor and creativity.

The ambiance at Bayan Ko is as inviting as its menu. The snug interior is adorned with local art, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests can also enjoy their meals al fresco, making it a delightful spot for a summer evening. The restaurant is known for its attentive service, ensuring that each dining experience is memorable.

Bayan Ko’s commitment to quality and creativity shines through in its menu. The **5-course tasting menu** is a must-try, featuring a delightful fusion of flavors that reflect both Filipino and Cuban culinary heritage. The **plantain puree** served with the Wagyu beef is a standout, providing a rich and creamy contrast to the savory meat. Fun fact: the restaurant’s name, Bayan Ko, translates to "My Country," reflecting the owners' pride in their heritage and the flavors they bring to Chicago.

The dining experience at Bayan Ko is intimate and engaging, with a focus on quality service and a thoughtfully curated menu.

Yes, reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get quite busy, especially during peak hours.

Bayan Ko is open for dinner service, and it’s best to check their website for the most current hours.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting Chicago, make sure to stop by Bayan Ko for a remarkable dining experience that celebrates the best of Filipino and Cuban flavors. Book your table today and indulge in a culinary adventure that you won’t soon forget.

Creative Filipino-Cuban fare & BYOB offered in a snug, artsy setup with outdoor seating.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfeVBXeFh3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJF2DcZgPTD4gRKm-aJ9pu4BM/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfeVBXeFh3EAE

Whewww you know when you find a neighborhood gem? 💎

Sat down for the final day of the 5-course tasting. Everything was good, but the lobster rice and the Wagyu did it for me. So rich and deep in flavor. I drooooooled over the plantain puree and they brought me a lil cup with the bill. 😂 very fun staff— Alfredo & Kyle made my night such a joy. The dessert was decadent, probably added to my top 10 global desserts. I’m not a huge fan of hazelnut but the texture on that bibingka was otherworldly. I cannot wait to try out the diner.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyNDlxcFFnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJF2DcZgPTD4gRKm-aJ9pu4BM/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyNDlxcFFnEAE

Amazing 5-course tasting menu blending Filipino and Cuban flavors.

Each of our dishes were complex layers of flavors woven into an amazing experience. Cooking techniques were spot on. All three of us had a different favorite dish (arroz caldo / octopus / dessert).

Service was attentive and courses were well paced. Good sized portions and attractively balanced plates.

Very enjoyable experience!

My only (very minor) critique is that our menu was entirely very rich dishes - would have liked one lighter course.

Note: Reservations only, no walk-ins

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYaklYelB3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJF2DcZgPTD4gRKm-aJ9pu4BM/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYaklYelB3EAE

I like their diner food even before they moved their regular menu from the main restaurant to the diner.  But when I heard about them getting on to the Michelin list and having a pre-fixed menu, I had to try it for myself.  And as much as I like their regular menu, they NEED WORK on their entire experience in their main restaurant if they ever want a Michelin Star.  First off, the service was SLOPPY.  You have one guy dressed as t-shirt and jeans and a lady who doesn’t look like she wants to be there.  I got sat by the door.  So, when people enter and leave I get a breeze of cool air.  I put down a deposit of $10 when I reserved my spot and a deposit for the wine pairing, but was told it would be “refunded” back to me instead of applied to my final bill.  By the way, I’m STILL waiting for that refund at the time of this post.  The guy with the t-shirt was my server and had ZERO KNOWLEDGE of the wines he was serving me.  No backstory of the wine, no explanation to why this was selected with the dish, NOTHING like a starred Michelin restaurant.  “Here’s (insert name of wine).  Enjoy”.  Seriously, if you want that Star, you have to know the “Who What Where Why When and How” of what you’re serving.  Plus, some of the wines were served in glasses I would not serve wine in.  The last glass in particular looked just wrong.  The food was just ok, nothing that says, “Wow” in my mind.  Although, one dish in particular (the beef dish) was chewy in its medium rare (more like rare) state, not melt in your mouth as a Wagyu steak would be.  Overall, like I said, I like the diner food.  But they need work on their pre-fixe menu and service, especially if they want that Michelin Star or even be elevated to “Bib Gourmand”.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYaWZYc3N3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJF2DcZgPTD4gRKm-aJ9pu4BM/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYaWZYc3N3RRAB

The food was really good, we would definitely go again, it’s like nothing I’d ever had before & I’ve had a lot of fine cuisine.  Love their take on filipino/cuban fusion food.  I’m interested to see how they develop their menu going forward.  I would recommend going to try modern Filipino food!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURidGRmSlh3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJF2DcZgPTD4gRKm-aJ9pu4BM/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURidGRmSlh3EAE

We had a great experience at this place! The tasting menu is inventive while reminiscent of familiar flavors.

I cannot recommend enough the Octopus adobo! Adobo is a staple dish in my house but this just takes it to a whole different level. I also never knew I needed lobster on my Arroz Caldo. What a treat!

Tasting menu is $95 per person, for a 5-course meal. It’s an intimate experience and very accessible by public transportation.

Savor 5-Star Filipino-Cuban Cuisine at Bayan Ko, Lincoln Square, Chicago

Bayan Ko, located at 1810 W. Montrose Ave. in Chicago, is a family-owned restaurant that offers a fusion of Filipino and Cuban cuisines. The restaurant has been recognized by the Michelin Guide and Chicago Magazine for its innovative approach to blending these culinary traditions.

A Historical Overview of Bayan Ko in Chicago's Lincoln Square.

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Lincoln Square, Bayan Ko has carved out a niche for itself since its inception. This charming restaurant at 1810 W Montrose Ave has become a staple for those craving an innovative blend of **Filipino** and **Cuban** cuisines. Founded in 2018 by the husband and wife team, Lawrence Letrero and Raquel Quadreny, Bayan Ko quickly gained recognition for its unique dining experience.

In its early years, Bayan Ko quickly established itself as a favorite among locals, thanks to its creative approach to combining traditional Filipino flavors with the rich, bold tastes of Cuban cuisine. Customers praised the restaurant for its inventive dishes that resonated with familiar yet exciting flavors. This culinary fusion became a hallmark of the restaurant, attracting foodies and families alike.

Fast forward to 2023, Bayan Ko underwent a significant transformation. The restaurant temporarily closed its doors for renovations, aiming to enhance the dining experience by adding more seating and securing a liquor license. This strategic move aimed to accommodate the growing number of patrons eager to experience their distinctive tasting menus.

In early 2024, the restaurant reopened, unveiling a reimagined tasting menu that received accolades from both Chicago Magazine and the Michelin Guide. This recognition solidified Bayan Ko's position as one of the **50 Best Restaurants** in Chicago, a testament to its dedication to quality and creativity. Guests were invited to indulge in an intimate dining experience that highlighted their signature dishes, expertly crafted to showcase the best of both culinary worlds.

Visitors to Bayan Ko can expect not just a meal but an experience that blends artistry with tradition. Whether you're a fan of Filipino dishes like adobo or Cuban classics, this establishment ensures every plate tells a story. The recent renovations and revamped tasting menus promise a vibrant atmosphere that complements the rich flavors.

Bayan Ko stands as a beacon of culinary innovation in Chicago. With its unique fusion of Filipino and Cuban cuisines, it has earned its place among the city's culinary elites. As it continues to evolve and inspire, this restaurant not only serves food but also creates a sense of community, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers.

2018: Bayan Ko was founded by Lawrence Letrero and Raquel Quadreny.

2023: The restaurant closed for renovations and expanded seating.

2024: Bayan Ko reopened with a new tasting menu and gained accolades.

Bayan Ko is a culinary gem in Lincoln Square, Chicago, offering a delightful fusion of Filipino and Cuban cuisine in a cozy atmosphere. The restaurant features a menu filled with traditional recipes and innovative dishes, inviting diners to experience the rich flavors of Filipino heritage.

Bayan Ko

A fusion of Filipino and Cuban flavors, featuring a selection of dishes that showcase the culinary heritage of both cultures.

Prawn Kinilaw

Duck Croqueta

Arroz Caldo

Adobong Pugita

Lechon Asado

Ropa Vieja

Chocoflan

7 Course Tasting Dinner

Experience Bayan Ko's Filipino-Cuban Fusion Menu in Chicago's Lincoln Square District.

Nestled at 1810 W Montrose Ave, Bayan Ko invites you to savor an inventive blend of Filipino and Cuban culinary traditions, masterfully crafted into a flavorful 7-course tasting dinner. This carefully curated menu showcases rich, complex layers of tastes that honor the heritage of both cultures, making it a standout destination for adventurous food lovers and those seeking unique dining experiences in Chicago.

 — A refreshing starter featuring tender prawns marinated with coconut, a kick of Thai chili, and a vibrant splash of yuzu that awakens the palate with tropical and citrus notes.

 — Crispy bites filled with luxurious foie gras and a tangy guava sweet and sour sauce, blending rich and fruity flavors to start your culinary journey memorably.

 — A luxurious take on the classic Filipino rice porridge, featuring black rice, succulent lobster, bright calamansi, and a delicate quail egg that adds richness and depth.

 — Tender octopus simmered with potatoes and enveloped in a silky black garlic emulsion, melding earthy and savory flavors in a refined dish.

 — Featuring Iberico pork collar roasted to perfection with sour orange and paired with yuca con mojo, this dish offers a bright and hearty Cuban-inspired experience.

 — A sumptuous Wagyu brisket slow-cooked in an olive sofrito, accompanied by sweet plantain and traditional Cuban congri rice, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth texture and bold flavors.

 — End your meal with this decadent dessert combining coconut flan, chocolate bibingka, passion fruit, and a surprising touch of miso, white chocolate caramel, and black truffle for an otherworldly texture and flavor experience.

Bayan Ko complements its inventive dishes with an array of cocktails, craft beers, and wines that accentuate the rich Filipino-Cuban fusion flavors. The cozy, artsy setting with outdoor seating makes it perfect for intimate dinners or group celebrations. Reservations are recommended for this popular Chicago gem, where every dish tells a story of bold flavors and cultural heritage.

 Prawn Kinilaw and Duck Croqueta offer a tantalizing beginning.

 Signature dishes like Arroz Caldo, Adobong Pugita, Lechon Asado, and Ropa Vieja.

 The unforgettable Chocoflan completes the meal with unique textures and rich flavors.

Savor the vibrant flavors of Bayan Ko in Lincoln Square, Chicago! Experience a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds. Discover more today!

Bayan Ko: Vibrant Culinary Experience in Lincoln Square

Cook County

A vegetarian version of the tasting menu is available upon request.

Vegetarian Option

Bayan Ko: A Filipino-Cuban Culinary Gem in Chicago's Lincoln Square District.

Nestled at 1810 West Montrose Avenue in the vibrant Lincoln Square neighborhood of Chicago, Bayan Ko invites food enthusiasts to embark on a unique dining journey. This intimate restaurant brilliantly fuses Filipino and Cuban flavors, delivering an inventive and deeply satisfying experience that stands out in the city's diverse culinary scene.

 is a culinary masterpiece that marries complex layers of Filipino and Cuban flavors. Standout dishes like the rich lobster rice, melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu beef, and the unforgettable Octopus Adobo elevate the meal to an extraordinary dining experience. Guests consistently rave about the plantain puree's silky texture and the decadently textured bibingka dessert, ranking it among the world's top sweets.

Bayan Ko offers a cozy, artsy atmosphere with comfortable outdoor seating perfect for warm Chicago evenings. The restaurant serves dinner only and is known for its attentive, fun staff who enhance the intimate dining atmosphere. It is ideal for groups and those seeking to savor modern Filipino cuisine with a Cuban twist. While reservations are required to enjoy the tasting menu, takeout, delivery, and curbside pickup options are also available for convenience.

 will appreciate that a vegetarian version of the tasting menu is available upon request, priced competitively at $99. The menu also features an array of craft cocktails, wine, and beer to complement the rich flavors on the plate.

 as walk-ins are not accepted at the tasting menu.

 for a rich, unforgettable flavor experience.

 through this creative Cuban-Filipino fusion that will surprise and delight your palate.

Illinois

Experience the vibrant flavors of Bayan Ko in Lincoln Square, Chicago. Savor our 5-course tasting menu blending Filipino and Cuban cuisines. Reserve your spot today!

Bayan Ko: Unique Filipino-Cuban Restaurant in Chicago

Discover Bayan Ko's 5-course tasting menu featuring fusion dishes in a cozy setting. Reserve your spot now for an unforgettable culinary journey!

Chicago's Bayan Ko: 5-Course Tasting Menu

Learn about Bayan Ko’s unique blend of Filipino and Cuban flavors, its history, and what makes it a must-visit in Chicago. Join us for an exquisite dining experience!

Savor 5-Star Filipino-Cuban Cuisine at Bayan Ko, Lincoln Square, Chicago

Dining & Culinary Delights

Signature Highlights

FAQs

Visit Us Today