East Brown Cow welcomes Barkada to Old Port Square at 425 Fore St.

Portland, ME East Brown Cow has assisted in opening Barkada, one of Portland’s first Filipino restaurant, at 425 Fore St. in Old Port Square. The concept officially opened to the public the weekend of May 30, 2026, bringing a fast-casual dining experience of Filipino cuisine to the town.

“It’s exciting to see Barkada come to life in Old Port Square,” said Tim Soley, president and CEO of East Brown Cow. “From the beginning, this team has brought energy, creativity, and a strong sense of purpose to this project. They’re introducing something entirely new to Portland’s food scene, and we think the community is going to embrace it.”

Barkada — meaning “a group of friends” in Tagalog—is led by chefs Nicole and Ben Bowers alongside business partners Margaret and Luka Dow. 

The restaurant builds on the success of their popular food truck and introduces a permanent home for their approachable, build-your-own bowl concept rooted in Filipino flavors. Guests can expect a fast-casual format where they select a base, proteins, and toppings inspired by authentic dishes, all designed to make the under-represented cuisine accessible.

“Our goal has always been to introduce Filipino food in a way that feels welcoming and familiar, but still deeply authentic,” said chef Nicole Bowers. “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 refine modern recipes that reflect traditional techniques. The team has been intentional about every detail — from the menu to the design of the space — to create an experience that feels vibrant and reminiscent of the legendary hospitality found in the Philippines.

“It’s an elevated quick-service experience, but it’s also about connection,” said Margaret Dow. “We want Barkada to be part of the community—so we’re collaborating with local events like the Resurgam festival in June. We’ll be introducing new dishes throughout the year and giving people something they can keep coming back to.”

The 1,59 s/f space, designed in collaboration with Woodhull, has undergone a full transformation. It has a bright, modern interior and will feature grab-and-go options, rotating specials, and plans for catering services in the future.

“We would like to say a special thank you to Woodhull for bringing our vision to life,” said Dow. “We’re also grateful to East Brown Cow for their great partnership and the City of Portland; the entire experience has been very accessible for a small business to navigate.”

Barkada joins a growing mix of retail and dining destinations within Old Port Square, which reimagines a four-acre site as a new urban heart for Portland with residences, retail, restaurants, hotels, offices, parking, and inviting public spaces. Located within the Old Port Square Garage — recently reimagined by the world-renowned firm Safdie Architects — Barkada has outdoor seating on one of the most bustling streets in the Old Port. Another culinary newcomer, Ladyfish, is set to open next door.

“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.”