Our Story
At the heart of Barakuda's success are the brilliant minds of Pauline and Xavier, the dynamic duo whose visionary spirit has transformed El Nido's culinary landscape. For over a decade, they've been pioneers of innovation, shaping the paradise with an unwavering commitment to creating unforgettable experiences. The pivotal moment arrived when they welcomed Chef Cheska into their gastronomic family, recognizing her extraordinary talents as the missing ingredient to elevate Barakuda into the epitome of gourmet seafood excellence.
Chef Cheska, hailing from a family steeped in culinary tradition, embarked on her culinary journey after discovering that her true chemistry lay in mixing flavors rather than potions. Her formal culinary education, coupled with internships in Singapore and Hong Kong, provided her with a diverse palette. Rooted in Central Tagalog flavors, Chef Cheska seamlessly combines Filipino heirloom recipes with modern techniques and fresh, diverse flavors. Her passion for cooking is a lifelong commitment, inspired by the warmth of home and the joy of creating something from scratch.
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As Chef Cheska's culinary journey led her to El Nido, she found a richer tapestry of seafood and a perfect canvas to create something new and refreshing. The international clientele in El Nido allows her the freedom to experiment with a fusion of flavors, blending local and international ingredients. In El Nido, Barakuda is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary sanctuary where every dish tells a story, rooted in the love, warmth, and joy that Chef Cheska experienced growing up at home. Cheers to innovation, flavors, and the magic that defines the Barakuda experience.
Meet Enzo, our brilliant 27-year-old mixologist and seasoned beverage specialist at Barakuda. With eight years of bartending expertise, Enzo is the maestro behind our exceptional cocktail creations. His philosophy is simple yet profound: he draws inspiration from the unique ambiance of our bar, infusing every drink with the spirit of the surroundings. Enzo's passion truly shines in crafting the Barakuda cocktails; his goal is not just to quench your thirst but to elevate your entire dining experience. As he puts it, "I aspired to create a menu that drives people to want to order its dishes, to give that additional piece of flavor that completes your whole experience." Indulge in a symphony of flavors curated by Enzo, where each sip is a journey and every cocktail tells a story of Barakuda's distinctive charm.
Meet the Team
Our Executive Chef, Cheska, with our Fried Crab and Grilled Squid
Chef Marz showcasing our newest dish, Lobster Pasta
Our Sous-chef Karen preparing a Pitik Shellfish for service
Chef Chris with one big lobster
Chef Gilbert with freshly made Moringa Focaccia bread
Chef Jeremie about to prepare Baraccuda for service
Enzo with one of his refreshing creations
Our head bartender JR with the Barakuda G&T
Meet our newest Bartender, Angelo
Gayda is here to serve and supervise
Dona serving some Grilled Squid for lunch
Get served some Fried Crabs by one of our waitresses, Regina
Ligaya: Tagalog for joy. Our waitress, Ligaya, definitely shows it!
Our waiter Allen with one of our dishes, Leche de Tigre
Our Mission
At Barakuda is rooted in crafting an unforgettable dining experience that seamlessly marries the sophistication of high-class cuisine with the warmth of a cozy, dimly lit setting. We believe in creating an atmosphere that lingers in your memory, where every visit to Barakuda becomes a journey of exquisite flavors and inviting ambiance. Our commitment extends beyond the dining table, as we strive to support local fishermen, farmers, and businesses by sourcing fresh and local ingredients. By championing sustainability in our kitchen, we aim to provide beautiful and tasty dishes that not only delight your taste buds but also contribute to a more environmentally conscious and responsible dining experience.
Our goal is to be a culinary haven that goes beyond the plate, embodying a commitment to minimizing waste and maximizing the use of the freshest ingredients. Through our sustainable practices, we aim to make a positive impact on the local community and the environment. Barakuda is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary sanctuary that believes in the power of responsible dining, where every dish is a testament to our dedication to supporting local communities, preserving the environment, and delivering an unparalleled dining experience.
