We've been meaning to try Union Republic the new ramen joint in Downtown Jersey City. With the recent cold front, I figured now was as good a time as ever to slurp up a big bowl of salty broth and noodles. Disclaimer; I'm not a huge ramen fan, which is probably why it took me eight months to try Union Republic. If you're in our boat, don't let ramen stop you from trying this restaurant as there are plenty of other dishes to get excited about. The menu is comprised of seasonal salads, vegetable sides, a selection of butcher meats, and bowls also known as ramen.
Here is what we enjoyed:
We loved the grilled octopus salad with fingerling potatoes, roasted tomatoes, and chorizo with an herb vinaigrette. The softness of the potatoes was a great contrast to the charred cephalopod and crispy chorizo. The presentation was also food porn worthy.
The roasted butternut squash salad with avocado purée and pomegranate seeds was complex and unique, showcasing a balance of sweet squash, umami avocado, and pomegranate seeds bursting with acidity.
Now I know I'm late to the party, but I am obsessed with chicken and waffles, and Union Republic's version is pretty right on. I noticed it on a recent Saturday and forced Will to return the following day so we could try it. It did not disappoint. The dish features homemade waffles topped with a foie gras butter compound, and a flakey, crispy fried chicken leg that gently melts in your mouth. This is the perfect sweet/savory combination of all time; even better than chocolate covered pretzels!
We even loved the dessert; a savory squash cake (think zucchini bread) with a fragrant whipped cream and a pepita seeded caramelized brittle.
I'm so thrilled we finally gave Union Republic a chance, and I can't wait to continue to try more inventive dishes.
Union Republic
340 3rd St, Jersey City, NJ 07302
o(201) 279-5094
