What’s Clean
Republic makes local sourcing a priority. Most of the produce is organically grown and local. The seafood is wild-caught, some of the beef is 100% grass-fed, and some of the chicken is organic, ask for more specifics. The duck eggs and yogurt are organic, but the chicken eggs are pastured and supplemented with non-GMO grains. Housemade bread, buns, and desserts are made with King Arthur non-GMO flour. Just about everything on the menu is scratch-made on site except for the mustard and catsup. The pork and lamb are pastured-raised supplemented with non-GMO grains. The dairy is not organic. Cocktails are made with hand-squeezed juices and even the syrups are made in-house. A few of the wine choices are made with organically grown grapes.
What’s Served
Although the menu is seasonal, the local ingredients are transformed into foods with a Mediterranean twist. In general, you’ll find small bites, antipasti, and entrees such as Turkish Chicken, Curry Cauliflower, and Mussels & Preserved Meyer Lemon. Flatbreads, Paninis, Salads, and house-made desserts are also offered. The beverage list includes coffee drinks, specialty non-alcoholic drinks, a full liquor bar, craft beers, tap beers, and wine by the glass, bottle, or from the tap.
What I Ordered
I ordered the open-faced Kellie Brook Panini with a side salad tossed in a phenomenal house-made white balsamic dressing, infused with local honey. A perfectly cooked poached egg arrived atop the mound of ham, swiss, and onion jam, with drizzles of yolk streaks down the sides. The thickly sliced sourdough base and the sweetness of the savory onion jam complimented the proteins wonderfully and it was difficult to put my fork down.
The Vibe
Republic occupies an older building in downtown Manchester complete with open rafters, worn wooden floors, in a long and narrow space with the feel of an old saloon. Seating arrangements include booths, high and low tables, and bar seating at a large marble-topped bar. Outdoor seating is available at colorful tables on the sidewalk, weather permitting of course.
The Takeaway
Republic is a bistro serving local and scratch-made fare with a Mediterranean twist. The menu offers so many clean options, as well as veggie-rich dishes. A local town favorite, Republic is a sure bet when in Manchester. As of Summer 2020, Republic has moved a few doors down and joined its sister restaurant, Campo Enoteca, with both restaurants sharing the same space. Campo Enoteca serves farm to table Italian cuisine. Now you have the best local clean choices in Manchester under a single roof, Bravo!
