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    Bayan Ko

    4.4 (234 reviews)
    ModerateCuban, Filipino, Diners
    Closed Closed

    Bayan Ko Photos

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    BAYAN KO ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Trendy
    Intimate

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    Recommended Reviews - Bayan Ko

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    Reviews With Photos

    LECHON ASADO
    Jean V.

    My husband and I came here to celebrate our anniversary and Bayan Ko did not disappoint, we felt this was an intimate place for a romantic dinner. The staff was attentive to my food restrictions and explained the menu really well which helped ease any anxieties. They have a great selection of NA drinks that were refreshing. The tasting menu was very filling. We started off with the Prawn Kinilaw and this was one of my top 2 favorite dishes (the other was the Arroz Caldo), I liked how crispy the Prawn head was. The Arroz Caldo had so much flavor, rice was nice and buttery. Their Duck Croquette was an indulgent treat. I forgot to take a picture of the Flan Cake, but it was outstanding. We'd come back again for a nice dinner.

    Burrito
    Esther C.

    I was super excited to try Bayan Ko, but unfortunately was a bit disappointed. I came for a late lunch on Saturday around 2:15, which is shortly before they closed. I ordered the pork belly with garlic rice. The garlic rice was lukewarm at best and the pork belly had a gamey/funky taste which I was not too keen on. I would give bayan ko another try for dinner.

    Melissa S.

    First time trying the Bayan Ko tasting menu and WOW!!! Such a great experience from start to finish. Every course that came out was even better than the last, and they were all exceptional. I also did the wine pairing option which was fabulous. It's great to have a tasting experience like this in such an intimate restaurant. Our server and host were fantastic all night. I also cannot believe what an incredible value the meal was. I can't wait to return.

    Lico J.

    We had a great brunch experience here! The staff were so friendly and took good care of our little toddler. The vibes were casual and comfortable. The food was yummy - we liked the Ube pancakes and spring rolls particularly!

    Dish 1
    Ben J.

    Bayan Ko is easily a five star restaurant. The theme is Filipino-Cuban fusion. The place itself is small and somewhat inconspicuous. We were greeted and shown to our table. They only offer a five course dinner, but everything was great. They surprised us with caviar initially which tasted like salmon. I'm not a fan of caviar, but this was surprisingly okay. The first dish was the best of the night - Arroz Caldo. It had tons of flavor and a nice portion of lobster. The flavors were very cohesive. The second dish used octopus as the the star. The sauce went well and this dish tasted fresh overall. The third dish consisted of wagyu beef which was very tender. A great bite and a solid 8/10. The fourth featured a sizeable piece of pork. The flavor was great and the sear was perfect, but you have to like pork as there was substantial fat. The fifth dish was essentially an elevated chocolate cake with homemade whipped cream, coconut, and hazelnuts. Delicious, light, and fluffy. If you're in the mood for something different and a unique experience, try Bayan Ko.

    Amuse
    Susan W.

    I wasn't sure what to expect, but had heard great things. It's located in an unassuming storefront and ambiance is very casual neighborhood vibes. It does get exceptionally loud when full and we had a hard time hearing and speaking to one another. Service was so warm and welcoming and probably the main reason for 4 stars. We sampled the vegetarian and regular tasting menus and a number of drinks. Everything was served timely and beautiful to look at. Our primary challenge with the food was it all pretty heavy and rich tasting. There didn't seem to be a progression and no lighter places to rest your palate. Even though we started with two seafood dishes they were lobster with a super umami rice and octopus with heavy rich sauce. By the time we got to the steak we were struggling. The vegetarian menu was a little better. I don't know that we will return, but I think people who love these cuisines will find memories of home and a super kind and attentive staff. Worth trying at least once.

    Menu
    Ernie H.

    Short Review: It's pricey, portions are small, space is tight, and they're only open for dinner. It is however one of the best Filipino/Cuban fusion I've had. Full Review: Sisig nigiri is a bayan co original. It's sushi with the sensation of salt and vinegar top with quail egg that just completes your palette of everything. I can't explain it. You just have to try it You must eat the ropa vieja with the plantains otherwise it's just another brisket dish. Do not use the plantains as an offset, have it with a spoonful of the beef, plantain and the rice. Nirvana is achieved. The ginatang with the squash is subtlety to perfection. You taste the individual vegetables of squash and eggplant with just a hint of lemon. The coconut milk puts all those together. The cumin lamb has a hint of sweetness. The lamb by self it's not the same as having it with the yucca. The yucca takes it to another level The ube sundae is absolutely recommended. I don't know what they did with that ice cream but it's amazing. The coconut flan is good, but it didn't blow me away. One of my best meals is here.

    Shanghai Spring rolls
    Rie U.

    Filipino Cuban Fusion...?! I didn't even know that was a thing! Glad I know now bc it was freakin DELICIOUS. First things first, my absolute favorite thing about this restaurant was that they have HALF-PORTIONS! For anybody as indecisive as me when it comes to ordering food at a new restaurant, this is a godsend. I just wanna try E-VE-RY-THING or die trying--and we came pretty close to it after ordering 8 half portions. I can't even choose a favorite dish bc we loved just about everything! The Lumpia Shanghai were hot and crispy and went so well with their garlic sauce. The Lechon Kawali was flavorful and tender, and the Bistek was also just so juicy and rich. I could've eaten another order of their crispy Adobo Wings bc they were that addicting but opted for the Ropa Vieja instead; I gotta say the Ropa Vieja wasn't my favorite but that's because I prefer Asian flavors to begin with. I also liked the Sisig and the Crab Croqueta Tots but my bf wasn't a fan of either. But don't worry, the Ube Sundae totally made up for the two and was the perfect palate cleanser! Our server (who might also be the only server) was excellent! He had the calmness and patience of a wise man, and he navigated the packed restaurant with ease. Definitely make a reservation if you plan on coming for a weekend dinner bc this small restaurant fills up fast! They had to turn away most of their walk-ins while we were there.

    Croquettes
    Rina T.

    Honestly, as a Filipina it is hard to impress me with Filipino food especially in the city. BUT THIS. Literally this diner makes me want to go to DC and lift the cuban trade embargo myself. The main dish we had is an og filipino staple, Bistek with garlic rice (I think its a common dish in cuba too). I have no photo of that one because we quite frankly devoured it and left nothing. delicious. You could taste the grill on the bistek as if they imported the smoke straight from the Philippines. For starters though we had lumpia, ceviche, and the croquettes. All gas, I would highly recommend the croquettes it comes with this banana-ketchup mayo. I am gonna copy that sauce combo at home fs. I'm used to ceviche from latin restaurants in the US but this ceviche reminded me so much of the kinilaw from the philippines. as if they caught the seafood fresh even though we're in midwest far from any ocean. ALSO THE FLAN. it was the creamiest richest dessert ever. At this point i was so full though someone shouldve just wheeled me out. Honestly this place was rly cute with the lil banana mural. When I see a trendy looking filo spot usually I'm like this is gonna be bad and expensive. Bayan ko is fs the exception tho. The place was filled w customers so it took a while for some of the food to come in but our server gave us the late dishes on the house. he was white but forsure a certified honorary filipino in my book! 20/10

    Sisig nigiri
    Ariana G.

    Enjoyed my visit here because I love trying fusion cuisines, especially ones that involve my culture. I've also never heard of a filipino and cuban restaurant before! This cozy restaurant is nestled under the CTA. It happened to be a hot fall day so I sat outside in their small patio area. They have happy hour from 5-6pm so I was able to get discounted menu items! Their menu is set up family style with dishes (full or 1/2 size) that everyone can try. For myself, I ordered 3 1/2 dishes and it was plenty for me. Everything was delicious and I would come back. My only complaint is that the rice tasted dry and old. The rice in my nigiri and my kare kare did not taste fresh. Id have to say the vegetarian empanadas were my fav and I recommend! Otherwise, solid spot. Be sure to snag a reservation cause I heard they get busy.

    Take out cubano yasss
    Annie A.

    Came here for a little snack but everything we got was so good that I wish we stuck around for more of their dinner items! It was a quick and easy 30 minute train ride from the downtown area to the restaurant, which was conveniently located near the exit of the brown line. We got the empanadas, croquettas, and Cuban sandwich. All came out delicious and piping hot! The croquettas were crunchy outside with a smooth texture inside. The Cuban had unbelievably crispy bread with the perfect ratio of sauce, tangy pickles, and meat. The star of the show was the empanada plate for me. I've been searching for empanadas with a thick doughy outside and raisins inside, and these were PERFECT. I grew up with these! Just what I was looking for, but better! The place is pretty small but they have outdoor heated seating. I loved their playlist--90s and 2000s hip hop and R&B. Cool thing is that the owners are a Filipino and Cuban couple, just like myself and my partner! Only area of opportunity is that they aren't very responsive on social media. Their website says that they have delivery, but I didn't see a place to order delivery (only take out). Tried to clarify by sliding into their DMs but didn't get a response :(. It's ok because having their food piping hot and fresh is a must! Worth a visit!

    Ceviche
    Echo L.

    This place is amazing! I am not disappointed at any items I ordered, and the sisig nigiri is definitely my favorite. This place is chic, and the quality of the food is excellent from inside out. They are doing the right thing about fusion food-- creative and strengthening. The restaurant is very small with tight spaces, but that would not stop me from going there again.

    Sophia S.

    We did the tasting menu. The octopus was the best. Also enjoyed the lechón and tamal on top. It's a small space but it felt more like an intimate environment which was nice. Service was great. They explained each dish and gave us new utensils each plate.

    Turon w the awesomest SkyFlakes ice cream

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    Ask the Community - Bayan Ko

    Are there highchairs available?

    Yes, they have highchairs.

    Does the restaurant have parking or a valet?

    No. There is street parking with pay boxes (free certain hours) on the main road and you can find some free parking on side streets.

    The decor is beautiful! Can't wait to go into Chicago to try it! Does it do takeout?

    Yes on their site they do take out.

    Can we call to make reservation?since it gets full right away and if the space is small

    Yes. Bayan Ko will now be accepting reservations to help alleviate wait times and accommodate more people.

    View All 5 Questions

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    Had a really good experience at Diner Grill. It's one of those classic late-night diner spots that…read morejust hits when you want something greasy in the best way. I came in the middle of the night and that whole breakfast-for-dinner vibe hit the spot. Parking is street only, but it was easy. Seating felt a bit limited(12 or so seating across the grill) since it's colder out, but I'd definitely come back to check out their patio when the weather's nicer. The staff was super helpful with recommendations. I ended up getting the southern omelette, corned beef skillet, hot cocoa, and a short stack -- and yeah, those pancakes are a must. Everything came out hot and satisfying, perfect late-night comfort food. Perfect spot for late-night eats or when you're craving something simple and filling. I'd go back for sure.

    My husband and I stopped by on a Saturday around 12:30pm. Diner Grill is a cozy, neighborhood…read morejoint. It was busy, but luckily seats opened right when we walked in so we were able to be seated right away. Diner Grill is no frills with just a bar, barstools, and a view into the small kitchen. Prices on the menu are very fair for the quantity and quality of the food. I ordered the breakfast burrito and my husband ordered chilaquiles w/ chorizo. After you order, you see your order made right in front of you. My husband especially loves the chilaquiles because of how crispy and fresh they are (he doesn't like soggy chips!) and argues Diner Grill has some of the best. I was impressed with my breakfast burrito and enjoyed it! When the staff sees you winding down, they bring the bill; this is an eat and go kind of spot. We both got orange juices (LARGE glasses, we'll share one next time) and that plus our entrees ran us about $20pp with tax and tip. Very reasonable in my opinion! Overall I really enjoyed my meal and will be back at Diner Grill!! Love how close it is to home and perfect for a good hangover breakfast/late night snack as they're open 24/7.

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    You want to know what's really cool about Golden House Restaurant and Pancake House? The condition…read moreof the vinyl! I would assume a place where the newest thing since the 1980s is the security camera would have vinyl with more cracks and patina than my trusty old leather jacket! But no, it's in fantastic shape. Especially given that, the vibe in here is awesome! It's like stepping through a time-portal. For food, I ordered an old favorite: Pigs in Blankets. The food came out fast, though, to be fair, there was only one other person dining in at the time. The sausage links were crisp, and the pancakes were lightly sweet and fluffy. All in all, great! While perhaps not enough to summon the Michelin Guide inspectors, it was better than the average greasy spoon. Finally, I really appreciate that the prices are reasonable, and that there is parking! Final verdict: I've had a small handful of spectacular breakfasts. I've also had criminal breakfasts, where two unsalted eggs, two bacon strips, and a tablespoon of potatoes costs $14.95. Golden House Restaurant & Pancake House finds itself in that sweet spot in between - it is neither a spectacular spot (often have prices to boot), nor is it an overpriced, underwhelming greasy spoon that stays in business thanks to regulars who have been coming for decades and don't want anything better.

    Bayan Ko - cuban - Updated May 2026

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