Author: Ian Wilson

Melbourne is often known as a culinary and craft beer Mecca, so it’s no surprise that the outer suburbs continue to concoct noteworthy competition to inner city staples. The latest Northside instalment drumming up noise with its distinctive modern design is gastro brew-pub, Republic Tavern. Picture craft beer microbrewery meets classic cocktail bar, sprinkled with an Australian influence and you’ve landed in Epping’s new market-leading venue and home to Beer Republic Brewery and Twist Brewing. 

Based North of the Yarra, the inspiration for Republic Tavern drew from the team’s passion for memorable brew-pub experiences. After garnering a wealth of experience in the hospitality industry, owner of Republic Tavern, Ian Wilson, noticed a prevalent gap in the market where Northsiders were missing out on exciting culinary experiences simply due to distance and travel time to popular destinations. Thus, Republic Tavern was born.

Nestled next to the contemporary Mantra Epping Hotel, Wilson drew from his extensive background in the hotel management industry to create a sleek, individual design for Republic Tavern, whilst positioning it as a one-of-a-kind venue that can stand on it’s own two feet; given it’s distinct location and offerings. Wilson’s main focus was to provide an inviting space that both the seasoned Melbournian foodie and beer lover, as well as local Northsider, could find a homely sanctuary amongst the booming Northern suburb corridors. Whilst Wilson acknowledges that the brew-pub market has become saturated, his ambition was not focused on reinvention, but rather, on delivering pub-style bistro classics with a relaxed and casual atmosphere and a menu designed for comfort. Set to give city slickers some something to talk about, Republic Tavern offers a meat-centric menu that speaks to South American soul-food with an Aussie twist. While burgers and salads are a staple, it is the dishes designed for grazing that go the extra mile. Feast your eyes over the ‘Meat Republic’ sharing plate and delve into homemade beer ketchup sauce, succulent rotisserie chicken, IPA infused pickles, kranskzy and tender rump steaks. If that wasn’t enough to have you salivating, why not try comforting sides garnished with a modern twist, such as the Popcorn Prawns served with Lemon and Herb Mayonnaise or the Salt and Vinegar Smashed Chats.

The line up of impressive pub friendly classics may be the star of the show but, it is hard to look past the tavern’s twenty taps and small batch tanks that linger behind the bar. With half the taps lending to the Tavern’s in house brews and the others paying homage to Victorian craft brewers, Republic Tavern shines a light on the movers and shakers in the local craft beer scene. Providing tank to tap freshness, Republic Tavern offers an in depth beer experience that supports the little guy. You can find the likes of Victoria’s best and finest Dainton Bood Orange New England Rye IPA for the fruity fans, Bonehead ‘Sweet Pea’ Melbourne Dark Lager if you prefer the sweeter side of things, or a CoConspirators ‘The Beancounter’ Coffee Porter for the Melbourne coffee nerd in all of us. In choosing this selection, Republic Tavern hopes to nurture a community of  down to earth, artisan craft beer enthusiasts.