a sip of culture

meet our founder

A Decade in the Making! Our founder, Omaru Washington, made the first-ever version of BAAKO in 2014 at a college dorm party in Madison, New Jersey. Playing the role of a mixologist, Omaru created our first flavor, Ginger Pineapple fusion inspired by his grandmother's recipe from Guinea. The recipe was taught to him by his grandmother, mother, and five sisters. This first flavor he made in 2014 was a hit, and it created a moment for his college friends to enjoy, connect, and be part of a fun, energized community.

Jumping to 2017, while completing his graduate studies in London, Omaru introduced the same flavor to friends and classmates at a small gathering in his studio flat. Just like food, he realized the potential of beverages to bring people together – without needing to be alcoholic.

Flash forward to 2023 and back across the pond in America, Omaru introduces two new flavors at his birthday party in Brooklyn – a hibiscus and watermelon fusion and a coconut and lemon fusion. That’s when BAAKO went from a party and social project to an inclusive beverage that people enjoy.

After a decade of social testing and feedback in various cities across the world, Omaru has refined the recipes, and BAAKO is here to be part of your magical moments no matter where you are and from.

- omaru

BAAKO celebrates community by crafting culturally inspired flavors with vibrant ingredients — delivering bold taste and better choices for the moments that bring people together, wherever you are.

bold taste
Better Choices
Community
bold taste

baako's flavors are more than combinations — they are stories in a sip. Inspired by cultural traditions and made with care, each drink is bold and adventurous, yet balanced and familiar — connecting people to both home and discovery.

Better Choices

baako is made with vibrant ingredients that deliver great taste without compromise. Naturally sourced and low in calories, it’s a better-for-you option made for those who value both flavor and wellbeing.

Community

baako belongs where cultures meet. Designed for easy drinking, it’s a sparkling experience that celebrates the simple joy found in shared moments.