Republique

I finally got a chance to try the new restaurant by Walter Manzke (formerly of Church & State) and to see what he and his team have done to the late, lamented Campanile space. Well, first impressions of the space are stunning! It's a pretty amazing space to begin with and it looks to be bigger than when Campanile was here (not sure what they did). We sat in an upper room lined with bookshelf wallpaper, giving the impression of a library. There appeared to be private rooms on the other side, and we could see below into the courtyard space, which was the primary dining area for Campanile. Most of the tables are long farmhouse style tables, and it appeared to cause some consternation among diners (a few groups sat and then resat, so I'm assuming they didn't like the tables). I kind of like this style, because it makes it easier for you to see what other people are eating and be open about it (you know you're going to do it anyway).

The food was amazing. There are 2 flatbreads, we had the mushroom one, which tastes so much better than a flatbread has any right to, and completely reminded me of the very first time I ate at Church & State and had their flatbread, which wasn't ubiquitous at the time. I don't know what Manzke is doing differently, but I'm so glad his flatbread is back! When you order wine by the glass, they give you a taste, and will offer multiple bottles to taste if you are unsure. So civilized! We ordered a couple of appetizers and a few entrees and shared everything. This is one of those kitchens where things come out as they are done, so if you are intent on eating in courses and keeping your food to yourself, you should mention this to the waiter. Ours did a great job pacing the food. We finished with three desserts. The bombolino is a must try (creme puff with hazelnut ice cream, I mean come on!) but the surprise was the Harry's berries. Sounded so simple, but with a few pieces of meringue and a scattering of grapefruit among the berries, this was a knockout dessert.

This is a place that would be great for a group of people who enjoy great food to share a bunch of small plates. And if you are dining alone, I suspect it would be fine to sit at one of those giant long tables and not feel so alone. I am definitely going to have to come back.

(BTW, they welcome walk-ins. We were not able to get a reservation, but had no trouble being seated when we showed up around 6p on a weeknight.)