Raex Murillo is a busy man. In addition to operating Barko & Co – one of 2019’s most popular cafe newcomers – he travels the world working as a fashion photographer, spearheads a company that manufactures textiles from farming excess and helps out with his family’s coffee bean and coffee by-product ventures. You’d think that a person with this much on his plate would pass on any opportunity for a bigger workload, but when West Village came knocking and pitched the idea of opening a second Barko location at street-side dining hub The Garden Pantry, it was an offer too good to refuse. Seeking an accomplished vendor that could add to The Garden Pantry’s offering, the West Village team approached Raex after catching wind of Barko’s reputation for sustainable and ethical operation – a philosophy that aligned with the development’s ethos. Up until now, Barko & Co’s Teneriffe location has boasted a roaring brunch trade, but the West End expansion provided an opportunity to branch into night trading and a chance to dip into Raex’s Spanish heritage with some exciting new menu items. After a two-month period of preparation, Barko & Co 2.0 officially opened at The Garden Pantry on Friday November 15, slotting in neatly next to established vendors Cheeky Poké Bar and Mr Bunz.

Barko & Co’s new location overlooks the leafy surrounds of West Village’s The Common, with plenty of seating near the greenery or in the indoor dining area. Fans of the cafe’s killer brunch will be able to nab the same day starters (and cups of the Murillo’s own micro-lot coffee Mr Coffee’s ) here, including the Spanish omelette with chorizo, blue cheese and capsicum passata, brioche French toast with caramelised banana, ice-cream, Sunshine Coast honey and seasonal berries, and the spicy huevos rancheros. As day turns to night, the likes of Barko’s vegan-friendly veg burger, linguine with grilled prawns, traditional Spanish paella, quesadillas and empanadas enter the mix. The menu is set to evolve, with ceviche, cheese and charcuterie platters and new meat-alternative vegan burger patties to be added in the coming months. The ever-growing drinks selection currently boasts eight wines by the glass, eight cocktails (think classics that have been given a slight attitude adjustment) and a clutch of spirits that are a few notches in quality above most house pours, but expect the overall selection to soon boast natural Australian wines, local craft beers and more. Goods from local brands specialising in ethical and sustainably made products are available to purchase on site, and businesses eager to have their products showcased are encouraged to get in touch. Raex and his team are currently working on opening a smaller kiosk-style space opposite Barko & Co, which will serve tea-infused juices and other grab-and-go goodies – stay tuned for more on that soon!

Barko & Co at The Garden Pantry is now open to the public. For opening hours and menu details, head to the Stumble Guide.