Authentic dishes inspired by the exotic flavours of the Mediterranean and Middle East

Republiq is a 220-seater shisha bar and grill offering a menu of authentic dishes inspired by the exotic flavours of the region. 

Located on the Grand Parade, the waterfront venue has a unique and intriguing decor where old meets new.

The classic Arabic tiles lining the floors, walls and ceilings transport you to the rustic and colourful streets of Morocco.

The sleek and polished marble bars include a one-of-a-kind bench-long fish tank filled with colourful fish and baby African sharks.

The modern fit-out extends across two levels; with the top boasting a trendy and intimate Shisha bar that offers up to 15 different flavours while the bottom level is a communal dining area with soft lighting and a distinctly sleek city chic.

While the decor is impressive, it’s the menu that takes centre stage at Republiq.

The menu is split into cuisines from five countries: Spain, Morocco, Greece, Lebanon and Turkey.

Head chef Bektas Özcan (ex Efendy & Anason) is aiming to make Republiq a dining spot that showcases the wide variety of fruit, vegetables, seafood and meats that are characteristic of the temperate Middle Eastern and Mediterranean climates.

‘‘We’ve incorporated the Mediterranean flavours brought to the Middle East by the ancient spice trail; the dishes are a combination of street food, local techniques and traditional recipes,’’ Mr Özcan said.

Mr Özcan’s signature meze includes a taramasalata with cemen spice, dried bottarga, salmon roe, kibbe nayyeh with hand chopped beef, Aleppo pepper and siyez cracked wheat.

The menu has been designed to share, with larger mains such as southern samke harra consisting of barramundi, broad beans and artichoke, alongside a lamb neck tagine with fig, almonds and sweet potato, set to become crowd favourites.

Republiq is an opulent experience of Middle Eastern modernism with a nod to old world charm and traditions. 

Details: rqrepubliq.com.au or  facebook.com/rqrepubliq