The Place Republic is the latest dining concept to open in The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore this year and it is definitely a good switch from the previous Chihuly Lounge in terms of aesthetics. The space of Republic is split into two main dining areas – the lounge space which boasts a nice natural lighting in the day which is great for afternoon tea, and the bar section which is more conducive for drinks and bar grubs. 

The Food I returned to Republic recently for its newly launched Sunday Punch Brunch available every Sunday from 12pm to 3pm. Priced at S$168++ per person, the curated brunch menu includes a series of appetisers, a main course and dessert complemented with their signature punches and cocktails. 

The value definitely lies with the unlimited pours of Republic’s signature punches and cocktails. There are three distinct punch bowls which have been developed in conjunction with David Wondrich, widely hailed as one of the world’s foremost authorities on cocktails and their history.

Expect the likes of Paul Jones Punch (a combination of Michter’s straight rye whiskey, with East India sherry, a dash of curaçao, citrus juice, sugar, and citrus peels); Straits Gin Cup (Farmer’s Gin, lemon shrub and sparkling water, spiced up with Bénédictine, cherry brandy and bitters); and Captain Dampier’s Rack Punch (Sri Lankan palm arrack stiffened with French cognac pineapple-gula melaka syrup and citrus). 

For cocktails, the Sunday Spritz is a refreshing option to start, a concoction of Lillet Blanc, Chartreuse Yellow, London Essence Peach & Jasmine Soda. Other cocktail options include the likes of Bloody Mary, Espresso Martini and Irish Coffee. 

For appetisers, there is a wide range of options and each diner gets to select three appetisers. I went for the Foie Gras Terrine with Port Wine Gelée, Macerated Raisins, Brioche; Diced Avocado with Smoky Burrata, Diced Apple, Toasted Almonds, Chilli Lime Dressing; and lastly the Smoked Salmon with Cucumber, Red Onion, Tomatoes, Cream Cheese. 

I enjoyed these three appetisers as the flavour and presentation are very varied, and it goes well with the cocktails. The portion is bite-sized, so don’t worry about being overfilled. 

For mains, there are a good mix of meats to choose from and The Rantee and myself had the Steamed Cod Fish with Sautéed Seasonal Vegetables, Green Pea Mousse, Sauce Vierge; and also the U.S. Steak with Potato Cake, Sautéed Greens, Sauce au Poivre. 

I like the medium-rare steak which is succulent and a good portion. Alternatively, go for the cod fish if you fancy something lighter. 

Desserts wise, there are lighter options like the Berries Pistachio and Coconut Passion, though I settled for the indulgent Mini Warm Chocolate Pistachio Tart with Vanilla Ice Cream. Quite an intense and rich dessert and the vanilla is a good complement to balance the intensity of the chocolate. 

Rants Stating the obvious but less value for this punch brunch if you can’t drink as much as your peers, or at least 4 servings of alcohol to make it worth the buck. 

Will I Return Again? Ambience is on point at Republic and you can expect an attentive service too. The quality of food is generally good, though the alcohol options is really the highlight of this punch brunch. 

This was an invited tasting, though all opinions expressed are our own.

TheRantingPanda says:
Taste bud: 4/5
Hole in the pocket: 4/5
Ambience: 4/5
Overall Experience: 4/5

Republic  
7 Raffles Avenue  
Singapore 039799  
Tel: +65 6434 5288  

Opening Hours  
Monday to Sunday: 12pm to 11pm  
Lunch: 12pm to 3pm  
Afternoon Tea: 12pm to 5pm  
Dinner: 5:30pm to 10:30pm 

Ranted by The Ranter