ABOUT US
What is Barako Bistro
For many Filipinos, one of the most well-known meanings of the word Barako is connected to Kapeng Barako - the bold and aromatic Liberica coffee proudly grown in Batangas, Phippines. Known for its strong character and rich aroma, it's a coffee that represents strength, tradition and Filipino pride.
Barako Bistro is a modern Filipino-inspired café and bistro rooted in craftsmanship, culture, and community. Built on a foundation of from-scratch cooking, everything—from fresh breads and pastries to thoughtfully prepared dishes—is made in-house using quality ingredients. The menu highlights bold, vibrant Filipino flavors, reimagined with contemporary techniques and influences, and is complemented by coffee sourced from the Philippines. With a strong commitment to supporting local farms and producers, Barako Bistro brings together heritage and innovation to create a warm, welcoming space where guests can experience something both familiar and new.
Who We Are
SHERWOOD SUPA & CAMILA ABALOS
Owners
Barako Bistro is founded by two passionate chefs with over a decade of experience each in Edmonton’s culinary scene. Throughout their careers, they have trained in kitchens that emphasize craftsmanship and quality—preparing everything from scratch, including breads, pastas, and house-made sausages. Both chefs are graduates of the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) Culinary Arts program, where they built a strong foundation in technique, ingredient knowledge, and kitchen operations. From there, they advanced through the industry, refining their skills and developing a deep respect for locally sourced and thoughtfully prepared food.
Driven by a shared vision, they set out to showcase the rich, bold, and diverse flavors of Filipino cuisine in a modern and approachable way. For Sherwood, who was born in the Philippines and raised in Canada, and Camila, who grew up in the Philippines before moving to Canada in her teenage years, food has always been a meaningful connection to their heritage. Their partnership grew from a shared passion for cooking and the joy of bringing people together through food. By combining their experiences and the flavors they grew up with, they have created Barako Bistro as a reflection of their story—one that celebrates culture, creativity, and community.