Bark Barbecue's Bold New Chapter in Bushwick

Ruben Santana's culinary journey has reached a new milestone with the opening of Bark Barbecue's first standalone restaurant in Bushwick. Located at 25 Thames Street, this new establishment marks a significant evolution from Santana's beginnings as a backyard pop-up to a celebrated food-hall stall, and now, a full-fledged dining destination. The restaurant is a testament to Santana's unique fusion of Dominican and Central Texas barbecue styles, which has captivated New Yorkers and earned critical acclaim.

A Unique Culinary Fusion

Bark Barbecue is renowned for its innovative blend of Dominican flavors and Central Texas barbecue techniques. This fusion has not only won the hearts of locals but also earned a spot on The New York Times' list of "57 Sandwiches That Define New York City." The Bushwick location continues this tradition, offering a menu that features low and slow brisket, pork ribs, and longaniza sausage. Notable sandwiches include the chicharrón sandwich and the Tres Golpes, stacked with pulled pork and maduros.

The restaurant introduces new menu items, such as whole hogs pit-smoked in the Dominican tradition and Criollo-style BBQ beans mixed with pulled pork. Sides like arroz congrí and a mac and cheese infused with adobo and Dominican oregano highlight the cultural fusion that defines Bark Barbecue. These dishes reflect Santana's commitment to honoring his Dominican heritage while embracing the robust flavors of Texas barbecue.

Santana's culinary approach is not just about combining flavors but also about storytelling through food. Each dish at Bark Barbecue tells a story of cultural convergence, where the smoky, bold flavors of Texas meet the vibrant, spice-laden tastes of the Dominican Republic. This fusion is not merely a culinary experiment but a celebration of Santana's roots and his journey through the diverse food landscape of New York City.

A Community Hub

The new 8,000-square-foot space in Bushwick is designed to accommodate a large number of guests, with seating for 200 indoors and an additional 90 on the patio. The industrial-style restaurant features an illuminated bar, oak paneling, communal tables, and a stage for live performances. A glass wall offers diners a view of the four smokers that are central to the restaurant's operations.

Santana's decision to open a standalone location was driven by the need to address frequent complaints about long lines and limited seating at the Time Out Market. The Bushwick venue not only expands seating capacity but also enhances the dining experience with live music and comedy events. This new space aims to be more than just a restaurant; it is a community hub where people can gather to enjoy good food and entertainment.

The design of the restaurant reflects Santana's vision of creating a welcoming space that fosters community interaction. The communal tables encourage diners to share not just food but also conversations, making Bark Barbecue a place where strangers can become friends over a shared love of barbecue. The inclusion of a stage for live performances further enhances this sense of community, offering a platform for local artists and performers to showcase their talents.

Drinks and Cafecito

While the restaurant awaits final approval of its liquor license, patrons can look forward to a full bar offering cocktails that play with classic and tropical flavors. The tamarindo fizz and watermelon highball are just a couple of the creative concoctions planned. In the meantime, Bark Barbecue's day program, Cafecito, brings Dominican coffee culture to the forefront. The coffee menu includes Dominican cortados, iced coconut Americanos, and a coco miel drink made with coconut water and Madagascar bourbon vanilla.

The Cafecito program also offers breakfast tacos with a BBQ twist, featuring chopped brisket, chicharrón, smoked carnitas, and longaniza sausage, all wrapped in house-made beef tallow flour tortillas. These offerings provide a unique start to the day, blending traditional breakfast items with the bold flavors of barbecue.

The introduction of Cafecito is a nod to the vibrant coffee culture of the Dominican Republic, offering patrons a taste of authentic Dominican coffee experiences. This program not only diversifies the restaurant's offerings but also provides an opportunity for morning visitors to enjoy a slice of Dominican life in the heart of Bushwick.

Practical Tips for Visiting

Bark Barbecue's Cafecito opens daily at 9 am, with lunch service starting at 11 am. The restaurant closes at 10 pm from Monday to Wednesday and at midnight from Thursday to Sunday. For those who have enjoyed Bark Barbecue at the Dumbo location, there's good news: the market outpost will remain open for a few more months, offering two locations to experience Santana's culinary artistry.

For locals and visitors alike, Bark Barbecue's new Bushwick location offers not just a meal, but an experience that celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of Dominican and Texan cuisines. Whether you're a barbecue aficionado or a curious foodie, this new spot promises a memorable dining adventure. The restaurant's design, with its communal tables and live entertainment, fosters a sense of community, making it a perfect spot for gatherings. As the restaurant continues to grow, it remains committed to its roots, offering a unique blend of flavors that reflect Santana's culinary journey from a backyard pop-up to a celebrated dining destination.

The opening of Bark Barbecue in Bushwick is more than just an expansion; it's a testament to the power of culinary innovation and cultural fusion. Santana's journey from a garage in Queens to a standalone restaurant in Brooklyn is a story of passion, perseverance, and the transformative power of food. As Bark Barbecue continues to evolve, it stands as a beacon of culinary creativity, inviting diners to explore the delicious intersection of Dominican and Texan flavors.