words by Phoebe Vertigan
This time every year, as the days get shorter and the last glimpses of summer disappear, I frantically begin to plan my winter getaway. Get me to a beach! How about a European getaway, friends?
If you haven’t quite got around to planning an exotic getaway of late, don’t fear! Simply hop on the 96 tram and it won’t be long before you've escaped to Republica at the St Kilda sea baths.
Looking out at the palm trees from this beach-front restaurant and "place for the people", I couldn't help picturing myself in a tropical location. It seemed only appropriate to order a mojito to kick off the evening. Packed with fresh lime, my holiday at home got off to a fabulous start.
To accompany our cocktails at Republica, we enjoyed the Italian culatello ham, fresh figs, buffalo mozzarella and fig vincotto. For mains, we loved the Ranger’s Valley wagyu rump cap with asparagus, mash potato and jus gras. This dish satisfied the self-styled steak critic at the table, despite initial reservations that there was simply not enough sauce. Crisis was averted when the sauce was both delicious and sufficient when paired with the medium rare steak.
On the recommendation of the chef, we also enjoyed pan-fried ocean trout, with fried eggplant and baba ganoush. Now I really felt like I was on a tropical get away. The perfectly cooked fish rivaled the steak with points awarded for delicious eggplant chips: yum!
For the sweet tooths out there, we recommend saving room for dessert at Republica. We couldn’t resist the caramel parfait, which did not disappoint. Be warned, it’s very sweet and big enough to share – so grab two spoons.
If you are going to holiday at home, there has to be room for a little indulgence. Republica is a great place to start.
Republica
St Kilda Sea Baths, 10-18 Jacka Boulevard
Mon - Fri 11:30am till late, Sat & Sun: 9:00am till late
A little note from LMM: Our Little Miss contributor was a guest at Republica to help us bring the good word to you. xo