Bayan Ko

Husband and wife team Lawrence Letrero and Raquel Quadreny are raising the stakes at their intimate restaurant in Ravenswood. In a departure from the usual family-style dishes, they offer a tasting menu in a quest to celebrate their Cuban and Filipino heritages on their own terms. Black rice and lobster poached in calamansi butter come together for their version of arroz caldo. Vaca frita translates here to grilled wagyu beef with black bean and plantain purees. Smeared in mojo and sporting a fine crust, pork belly is a recent highlight. The new format is far from stuffy, thanks to a relaxed dining room and a zippy menu, but those wanting to go casual for the likes of lumpia or pork adobo can visit the couple’s diner next door.