Republica

By Sara E. Teller

A TESTAMENT TO MODERN EATING

REPUBLICA IS A FAMILY OWNED GASTRO-PUB THAT HAS BEEN NESTLED INTO A FAMILY-ORIENTED COMMUNITY FOR ALMOST TEN YEARS.

“We opened it as a testament to modern eating even in a laid-back, non-pretentious environment,” said Alexis Drakopoulos, who co-owns Republica with her husband Petro and parents, Keith and Georgia Omand. She added of the name, “Plato’s The Republic is looked at as the genesis point of the roles of government and the effects of tyranny. We thought the same was true of the food we eat, because no one can tell you what to do or how to do it in a free country. So, too, are those principles attached to how one eats. Food doesn’t need to be full of grease and high sugar for it to be delicious. It can be healthy and fresh and local as well. And it doesn’t hurt that the word pub is in the middle!”

Republica focuses on fresh and creative ideas, striving to utilize local offerings whenever possible. It also offers $5 wines every day.

‘We always try to stay local and support local businesses,” Drakopoulos said, adding, “We pride ourselves in using the freshest of ingredients while creating something as simple as a hamburger or one of our homecooked entrees. We feel our customers appreciate the quality of our food, first and foremost.”

A STAPLE IN THE COMMUNITY, DRAKOPOULOS SAID that even during the height of the pandemic, Berkley and nearby Huntington Woods’ residents were extremely supportive.

“Republica has Berkley and Huntington Woods to thank for its success through the pandemic,” she said. “Our community made it very clear they wanted us to stick around, so we were greatly supported.”

The owners have seen a lot of changes happen in the community over the past decade. “Over the last nine-plus years, we have seen the rebirth and growth of Berkley,” Drako poulos explained. “It’s been amazing to watch, and we are proud to be part of that.” 1999 Coolidge Hwy., Berkley | www.republicaberkley.com | 248.268.3175 republicaberkley@gmail.com