Barka

Barka 2015 — What to expect.
Barka has been a staple in the Warsaw Summer River scene for three years running now — if not longer. It’s drinking and a dj on a boat with a good view. What more could you ask for? Here is a run down of what to expect at the venue for Summer 2015.
Drink of choice — double prosecco with ice.
Tip 1– note that the new metro line stops directly at Barka on the Kopernikus stop. Now Barka is easily accessable to all. Also there are new bike paths here as well.
Tip 2 — Try to get a beach chair, and if it’s crowded be careful because the metal floor gets sticky and slippery. Best on super hot days when the sun is still shining as the boat tends to be breezy and the evening djs are hit and miss.
For the Summer 2015 season, Ricos Tacos will be served on Barka from Wednesdays through the weekend. Ricos Tacos is by far my favorite Mexican food in Warsaw. It is also the most authentic. They’ve extended the menu since their days at Club 55 to include Korean fusion options like Kimchi Fire Chicken Quesadillas– thus Pacific Comfort Food is the catchphrase. Tex Mex options were added as of yesterday, burritos joined the menu along with guacamole and nachos. Absolute perfection. Tacos and Quesadillas also absolute perfection — you’ll have so much dopamine in your brain after eating one that you’ll want to slip into a food coma for the next two hours. This is why you need to get a beach chair. Foodgasm ladies and gentlemen and nothing less.
Other local attractions include the fact that 2015 has seen Plac Zabaw move to the bankside next to Barka — no Kolor Niebieskie this year folks. Instead the area has been very nicely landscaped into a family friendly grassy area with lots of beach chairs and activities. The river is not just for parties anymore. After being shut down in their Agricola location, Plac Zabaw has brought the party to the river. New attractions include a food festival and family friendly market (ala Targ Snidanowy) during the day on weekends, a BMX course (at least that’s what I think it is — I despise bikes), art installations, and live performances ranging from local bands to kabaret. It is really nice to see families here and children with their parents.
The changes this year has brought a different atmosphere to the area. While last year was about parties, this year is more about relaxing and taking it slow. Slow food, chill drinks — more wine and prosecco than vodka shots — lounging around, extra activities. It’s a really good spot this year if you just want a night out that is easy going. There is still dancing, but it is much less crowded and drunken as in previous years. I really recommend it. If you need to pick up the pace of your party however, it is now possible to walk all the way to Cud nad Wisla from Barka along the lovely new riverwalk promenade that they’ve opened. There are several bars and food trucks along the way to keep you going. I personally like to start at Barka — eat tacos — go all the way to Cud stopping along the way for drinks and a sit down and then come all the way back to watch the sun rise. It’s a night out full of possibility. Here’s to Summer!