Restaurant Guide: Republic Tavern. One of my favorite parts of Downtown Detroit is the historic architecture that’s been modernized. Sitting on the corner of Adams Street and Grand River, The Grand Army of the Republic building is a beautiful castle-like structure that is home to the Republic Tavern. A charming restaurant tucked away in the castle that you’ll almost miss. It’s old but the modern feel makes it cozy and polished.
I went on a Friday night with my sister after getting reservations on the OpenTable App. The tables were full but I loved that the noise level was never too high which makes it great for long conversations. It’s family-style dining so our waitress suggested getting 4-5 small plates for two people. They specialize in nose to tail cooking but surprisingly had great options for vegans and vegetarians. The menus change often but classic dishes stay, I recommend checking the website before you go for the most updated menu. This includes the drink menu which is nice and long (my favorite). The happy hours are Wednesday-Thursday 4-6 PM and 8-10 PM and 5-7 PM and 9-11 PM on Friday.
We started off with getting drinks, I got an Aperol Spritz and it was made perfectly. That drink itself got them a five-star review from me. Finally, we ordered dinner, Bread and Butter, Royal Trumpet Mushrooms, Steamed Mussels, and Thai Cauli Curry.
The bread and butter board was a great start to our dinner. It was served with house-made bread and cornbread along with house-made butter and jam compote. It was simple, which I loved.
Restaurant Guide: Republic Tavern
The Royal Trumpet Mushrooms was one to remember. The use of rare ingredients that you don’t see often mixed with classic flavors made the dish excellent. The plate included a yucca pancake, topped with mushrooms with a spoonful of edamame hummus, and hoisin vinaigrette drizzled all over. Every aspect of this dish surprised me more. I would definitely get this again. (I’m 99% sure this was Vegan, I would double check with the servers.)
Next, the Steamed Mussels were served. One word: SPICY! But in the best way. Shishito peppers filled the large bowl along with sambai, white wine, and butter. The sauce was addicting. They should keep this on the menu for a while.
Last but not least the Thai Cauli Curry was served to finish off the dinner. The curry was spiced well and the cauliflower made the dish filling. The dish included seasonal vegetables, spicy coconut sauce, polenta, and cilantro lime zest. If you aren’t that hungry but still need something this would be a great dish because it’s very filling but still small. (I’m 99% sure this was also Vegan, I would double-check with the servers.)
The Republic stole my heart and I’m excited to go back and try even more dishes. The service staff was so kind and I loved that the chefs came to the tables to explain certain dishes. It was more than a dinner, it was an experience. Worth every penny.
If you go visit the Republic, which I hope you do, let me know how it goes and what you order!
Check out my other Restaurant Guides.
Restaurant Guide: Republic Tavern
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