Republic Latin Fusion is quite the crowd pleaser, as it is a locale that not only serves mouthwatering Latin American dishes, but hosts different themes for each night of the week. Late at night the space converts to a lounge, where you’ll catch patrons dancing to Karol G, Bad Bunny, and more to ring in the weekend.

CUISINE

The cuisine at Republic Latin Fusion is primarily Peruvian, Venezuelan, Colombian, Mexican, and Brazilian. There’s also a touch of Japanese cuisine thrown into the mix because, as you may or may not know, there were many Japanese immigrants coming to Latin America after World War II, which influenced the cuisine in dishes like ceviche and Arroz Chaufa (Peruvian Fried Rice).

I happily sampled the culmination of cuisines. The Short Rib Empanadas reminded me of the Colombian empanadas my mother whips up at home for the holiday season, as they were made from a crunchy cornmeal dough, filled with an aromatic short rib and potato filling. The only difference was that they were served with a side of creamy aji verde and aioli (Colombian empanadas are usually served with Aji Picante, a hot sauce more like a chimichurri).

I next tackled the Arroz Chaufa de Mariscos (seafood), which had shrimp, calamari, and clams. This rice reminded me of a paella due to the plethora of seafood it contained, but rather than the usual rice, it was fried and crispy to the point where you could taste the mouthwatering soy sauce and sesame oil. For dessert, the Bon Bon Cubano was savory and sweet, a mix of crunchy and creamy textures with every bite. Made up of a rich molten lava cake, it was topped with salted caramel popcorn, vanilla ice cream, and a passionfruit reduction that paired well.

We also can’t forget the cocktails, as the wide assortment offered at Republic Latin Fusion is unique. I had a spiked Horchata (a popular Mexican sweet rice milk), which is one of the locale’s signature cocktails made with Abasolo Corn Whiskey, Rumchata, Horchata, vanilla, and almond extracts, and salt. It was served in a martini glass and tasted just like a spiked chai tea. Teapot shots were served directly from a warm teapot. There are four flavors available, the flavor I tried was the Nube Morada, which consisted of blue pea flower vodka, white rum, Violette liqueur, lemon juice, and Blueberry Red Bull. Overall, these shots were fruity and are great to order when stopping by with a group of friends for a night out.

HISTORY

Republic Latin Fusion is owned and operated by Syed Hossain and Christian Almonte. Before launching, the owners worked at various other restaurants and hospitality groups, and found that most places didn’t invest in their employees or try to have an active presence in their community. Hossain and Almonte wanted Republic Latin Fusion to be different. To that end, the duo has promoted multiple staff members internally, notably one from a busser to head bartender, another from bartender to beverage manager, and the current executive chef started as a line cook. Given the fact that Hossain’s extended family is Mexican, he decided to explore the different cultures in Latin America and to understand their rich history. The restaurant’s idea is to bring different cultures and cuisines into one building in a fun and creative way so that guests can have a curated journey through Latin America. At Republic Latin Fusion, you’ll hear Latin music, Bossanova, Latin jazz, Reggaeton, and Spanish music. Hossain mentioned they have a DJ lineup and throw reggaeton/Latin pop parties on the weekend as well as a live Brazilian dance show on the weekend.

DECOR

Republic Latin Fusion has a wall covered in artificial grass with an LED light that states “Con Amor”, which means “With Love”, which is the exact vibe you sense as soon as the hosts greet you at the door. You’ll also spot some green banquettes throughout the space along with green velvet high tops at the bar.

The decor inspiration comes from the fact that the building the restaurant is nestled in was previously a Lumber Mill. The founders wanted to preserve that heritage as much as possible. The goal was for Republic Latin Fusion to keep a rustic aesthetic, which is why wood, stone, and copper were the materials chosen for key design elements in addition to the greenery.

Overall, Republic Latin Fusion is the spot to throw a birthday dinner and party or have a girl’s or guy’s night out due to the delectable Latin American menu staples, cocktails, and parties thrown after dinner hours once the restaurant turns into a lounge.

For more information on Republic Latin Fusion, follow them on Instagram @republiclatinfusion

Republic Latin Fusion, 181 N 10th Street (Between Driggs/Bedford Avenue),Williamsburg, Brooklyn