NYMAG once interviewed Sam Talbot (season 2, Top Chef) and he claimed that The Republic is his favorite spot for “cheap, solid food.” Most people actually miss the restaurant because it’s nudged between two other restaurants. Regardless, I would consider it cheap for its central location in Union Square West.
I came here twice before and left both times with above average remembrance. Sabrina and I came for a “quick” snack. I indeed made it a snack by ordering this Mango Salad (it’s not on their online menu, so I can’t find the exact name), but Sabrina decided on the Spicy Beef Noodles. My salad, when delivered, looked like a tall mound of shredded goodness. It had mango, radish, bean sprouts, scallion, and chopped peanuts for the topping as well as mint on the side for garnish. Even though it was extremely tangy, it wasn’t overwhelming and made a great refreshing snack. I’d recommend it for hot days.
Sabrina’s noodles were good! It’s really hard to find fusion restaurants where their broths are on target with the right amount of seasoning, but these noodles were. The only thing I don’t like about their noodles is that they came thin. I’m not sure whether you can request a different kind.
The decor of The Republic is quite unique compared to most other noodle shops. Sabrina likes it because it reminds her of Wagamama’s from London. They both have long benches and tables. The walls are bare except for large portraits of people enjoying their noodles. It’s always dim and pretty loud inside, so it’s not the greatest place if you want to talk.
MENU
37 Union Sq. West
New York, NY 10003
Near 16th St.
See Map | Subway Directions 
212-627-7172
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- Takeout Available | Delivery Available
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- Delivery Payment: $10 minimum
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- Delivery Hours: Sun-Wed, 11:30am-10:30pm; Thu-Sat, 11:30am-11:30pm
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- Delivery Area: Houston St. to 40th St., Ave. B to West Side Hwy.
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Posted in New York City, Union Square
