Restaurant: The Republic Restaurant and Lounge
Location: 650 North La Cienega (West Hollywood)
Type of restaurant: Contemporary American/Asian
We stipulated: A friend and I were meeting an executive muckity-muck for dinner; rather than the usual suspects, we wanted to try something new. Our dining companion has sophisticated tastes, so we thought we'd check out the new Republic.
They stipulated: The extensive wine list almost demands that you partake, although our guest was not as impressed with the wines available by the glass.
What we ordered:Mike: Pulled Duck Confit (with crispy spinach, cranraisins, maple demo drizzle) as a starter ($14) and seared rare ahi tuna (with white bean "cassolette," chorizo oil and pea tendrils) as a main ($29); Friend who wishes to remain anonymous, as well as our guest (both got the same things): Caesar salad (with Reggiano parmesan and hush puppies) for starter ($12); Dry Aged New York ($38); and grilled veggies ($7) and "The World Famous Smoked Cheddar Mac n Cheese" ($7) for sides.
High point: The service, from start to finish, was absolutely outstanding. Attentive, helpful, everything you'd want in an outstanding waiter. My ahi tuna was also excellent -- the rosemary/salt/pepper rub made it one of the better ahi entrees I've experienced in quite a while. Also, the wine by the glass pour was extremely generous.
Low point: I waited a bit for the valet, who never came... so I finally parked around the corner. Sure, I saved some cash, but it took a while to walk back to the restaurant.
Overall impression: Republic had only been open 21 days when we arrived, but they appear to have already ironed out any of the typical early kinks. The dining room was impressive, the food strong and the service top-notch.
Chance we will go back: It's a splurge, so I'd more likely return for a business meal... but that said, I'd love to return.
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