18 North Kitchen & Bar — Restaurant in Republic

I am only contributing to warn folks passing through as we wish we would have been warned coming out of a 4 day camping trip and seeing this well rated establishment.

My wife and I spent roughly 50 bucks on the weakest coffee I have ever had, cold eggs benedict (with no side and grocery store English muffins), and a tofu dish that consisted of large cut cubes (i.e. how people that don't eat tofu prepare tofu) and undercooked potatoes. It took over 20 minutes and was not only overpriced and bland, but not at all filling. We don't require a very large breakfast to feel full, but this was a snack. I was also not about to drop more dough on another plate (think: tapas style). We ended up getting more food and coffee elsewhere.

The only thing nice I can say is that we didn't feel ill afterward (we were actually wondering if we had been foolish for not sending it back and leaving for this reason and felt relieved once out of the food poisoning window). This is one of the few times I felt had at a restaurant (most others were at the airport). If this is not just exploitation of the current market and of tourists passing through, I hope this place reconsiders the value placed on the customer because there was too much going wrong here to be a one off, and that's with me being nice enough not to detail the service (not unkind, just disorganized and...

We are so excited about this new restaurant in Republic. It is next door to the very best brew pub in Washington, Republic Brewing Company, which is very convenient for getting a take out meal to bring back to the pub. On the menu is a cheese-steak sandwich. I have been on a lifelong search for a cheese-steak sandwich which could compare those I had at the first place I worked as a 15 y/o kid in California, an Italian restaurant run by an Italian man from Philadelphia. I have consistently been disappointed in my search. The Philly cheese-steak of my memory was the best I had ever had (I am 65 yrs old now) and nothing since compared until I had the 18 North cheese steak sandwich. Finally, a cheese-steak sandwich that matched, actually exceeded, my recollections of 50 yrs ago! We also had Sunday brunch there which was fantastic. I kept trying to figure out how they prepared the eggs that made them taste so much better than just normal scrambled eggs. Belgian waffle was perfect. Best of all, the staff is so warm and welcoming. After recent concerns about economic decline of Republic, WA we are so happy to know that our home-away-from-home (we live in Seattle, second home in Republic) is making a come-back in a big way with the addition of a top-notch restaurant...

Where do I start in singing the praises of this new discovery in Republic? We’ve now had three meals and all were fantastic. This is an elegant but down to earth place, with great attention to all the little details and great skill and creativity in the kitchen. If you’re feeling worn out and dusty and just want something casual, order something from the long list of deli sandwiches. We especially rave about the Rueben and the Cheesesteak. Both are classic versions with creative updates. Best I’ve had in decades. If you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion - first date or golden anniversary - order one of the beautiful entrees and enjoy the attentive and friendly service. But my special praise is saved for Sunday brunch. Too many great choices but we decided on the egg scramble and the wonderful eggs Benedict. When was the last time you tasted homemade Hollandaise? Never? Eat here and you’ll know why it’s famous. And of course, one Mimosa led to another….but I still had room to share the homemade Pannacota. Topped with homemade berry sauce, it was truly the best version I’ve ever had, in the US or Italy. The owners have created a comfortable haven where everyone in the community is welcomed and respected. Really, you...