Barako Somali Restaurant 1
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Welcome to Barako Somali Restaurant

About Barako Somali Restaurant

Looking for an authentic taste of East Africa in the heart of Indianapolis? Barako Somali Restaurant might just be the ticket. Nestled unpretentiously at 6447 W Washington St, this spot offers a culinary journey that's steeped in rich Somali traditions. Upon stepping in, there's a warmth that extends beyond the friendly service. It's in the air, in the colors, in the tantalizing aromas that escape the kitchen.

The menu, a delightful smorgasbord of Somali favorites, is where the adventure truly begins. Featuring a variety of dishes that span from hearty meat stews to spicy rice dishes, each plate tells a story. Imagine sinking your teeth into Suugo—a beef pasta dish wonderfully spiced and reminiscent of comforting home-cooked meals. Perhaps the Biryani, with its fragrant spices and perfectly cooked meats, tickles your fancy. It’s one of those meals that compel one to close eyes and just savor the myriad of flavors. And let's not forget the Canjeero, a traditional Somali pancake, providing the perfect way to mop up every last drop of sauce.

For those who are more adventurous, the goat dishes are highly recommended. They come to the table cooked to perfection, falling off the bone and infused with a flavor that speaks of slow, deliberate preparation. The vegetarian options are not an afterthought either; the vegetable stew, lush with locally sourced seasonal veggies, offers a satisfying depth and warmth that's both nourishing and delicious.

Guests who have dined here often speak of the charming ambiance—casual yet vibrant. The restaurant feels like a little slice of Somalia transported to Indianapolis, inviting in its authenticity. Locals and first-time visitors alike are drawn back not just by the food, but by the experience that it encapsulates. Reviews often highlight the warm hospitality and the staff’s eagerness to make sure every guest leaves with a smile and a full belly. Feedback consistently praises the delicious balance of flavors, the generous portions, and the knowledge of the wait staff, who are never short of a recommendation or two for the curious diner.

Don't just take the word at face value; Indianapolis offers many eateries, but there's something truly special about Barako Somali Restaurant. It's a refreshing dive into genuine East African culture and cuisine without leaving the Hoosier state. One visit might convince that diners have stumbled upon a culinary gem that has been hiding in plain sight all along. Do yourself a favor—go, explore, and indulge in the unassuming charm and delicious offerings that await at this lovely spot on W Washington St. The taste buds will surely thank you.

Features & Amenities

Service Options

  • Curbside pickup
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in

Highlights

  • Great tea selection
  • Serves local specialty

Popular For

  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Solo dining

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings

  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Healthy options
  • Quick bite
  • Small plates
  • Vegan options
  • Vegetarian options

Dining Options

  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Dessert
  • Table service

Amenities

  • Restroom

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cozy
  • Quiet

Crowd

  • Family-friendly
  • Groups
  • Tourists

Planning

  • Reservations required
  • Accepts reservations

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Children

  • Good for kids

Parking

  • Free parking lot
  • Paid parking lot

Reviews

Average Rating
4.3/5
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 — ShadzToobe
If you're looking for authentic East African grub, this is definitely the spot! Must try: lamb rice (grilled) + house Milk Tea ps: like if this review helped ;) Meat was cooked tender (could cut it with a plastic fork)!! Also try the sweet breads here, portions are Huge so you might want to share.... and bring an appetite! Very friendly staff, was treated to free bread + a traditional fruit drink (Vimto). There's also a small Muslim prayer room and the food is Halal. Lots of FREE parking but watch those potholes ... your tires + hub cap will thank ya. The area can be a bit intimidating, it's inside a road where big trucks stop, drive further in till you see a black building. Order your food to go of it's your first time but the cuisine was excellent.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 — Ajeng pujianti lestari
We came hungry and left super full. The rice and lamb is sooooo good! The price is very affordable since the portions also super big! It’s halal and provide prayer rooms. Barakallah
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 — Samina
My husband and I came to Barako for a late lunch and was greeted and seated at a table. I ordered the meat and rice dish and my husband ordered chicken and chapati dish. The food came out fast (5-10min) with a side of salad and a banana. The portions are very large, at least 2 people can eat from it. The food was SO good, this was my first time having Somali food and I loved it. My husband felt the same. The workers were very polite and gave such good hospitality. They even gave us a cup of their tea on the house and it was amazing too perfectly sweetened with a great cardamom flavor. Alhamdulilah it was great food and the people at this restaurant are so nice. It’s a simple layout for tables, which is fine for us. I would recommend to come here again! For parking, you must go down the dirt lot past the semi trucks to find this restaurant.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 — Cool kid 1605
Made it on time for lunch, race with lamb and Soup 🍜 it’s delicious definitely recommend
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 — Nabil Ibtehaz
This is not our first time trying Somali food, but still it took our breath away. The foods are all halal. We highly recommend both beef and lamb with rice. The beef dish had plenty of meat and the lamb was juicy and tender. The rice was delicious and filled with flavor. Last but not least, the staffs were so nice and welcoming. While we were waiting they offered us almost half plate of meat as appetizer. They also served somali tea and salad for free. The price is a bit high in Indiana standard but totally worth it. Also they have a place for prayer, which is very rare in USA.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5 — TheBashace
Went off the beaten path for lunch, was surprised to find this Somali Restaurant tucked in behind the main street businesses. As an eater with an international palet, just had to stop in and try the food. The dining area is open, sparse, and functional. Some items may not be available from the menu, but they are more than happy to cook something for you. I ordered the goat with rice, the goat was grilled and very flavorful. The rice was a real treat, almost like a fried rice with roasted vegetables, maybe a little Star Anise, and a touch of heat from some hot pepper (not too hot, but will warm the lips a little). My coworker ordered the fried Tilapia, he said it was really good, his rice was same as mine. The portion size is fairly large, I could only eat half, took the other half home for dinner😆 The service isn't very formal, so if you need something, just tell the guy behind the pick-up window and they will take care of you. A nice hole-in-the-wall if you are adventurous, well worth the visit, I will be a regular customer now🙂

Give Us Your Honest Feedback

Opening Hours

  • Monday: 8 AM–8 PM
  • Tuesday: 8 AM–9 PM
  • Wednesday: 8 AM–9 PM
  • Thursday: 8 AM–9 PM
  • Friday: 8 AM–9 PM
  • Saturday: 8 AM–9 PM
  • Sunday: 8 AM–9 PM