Rendang Republic
Rolo · 353 Google reviewsRendang Republic — Lakeview pub grub that sets the standard. It wears its years well. The menu takes creative swings, and lands them, and owner on site. "The meat is insanely flavorful—tender, rich" — Amiracle Oneal
What 259 diners keep saying
What 259 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“Rendang Republic is an absolute gem in the city. A family recipe brought to life half way across the globe from its origin is not easy to pull off. Great work, friend! So happy that Thanh and I were able to experience your delicious food. We'll be back!”
“Wow, this place is sensational!! My new favorite restaurant in all of greater Lakeview. I've always loved Indonesian food and was so happy this place opened up… It most certainly did not disappoint. Everything we had was sensational, most of all the collard greens! Not to be missed. I highly recommend and will be back time and time again.”
“We were originally planning to eat at Bites, but they were closed because the whole block had no electricity. Luckily, we walked a little farther north and discovered Rendang Republic—and we’re so glad we did! The food was absolutely delicious. I ordered the Nasi Goreng Ayam, while my sister and brother-in-law both had the Nasi Goreng Daging Sapi. Every dish was flavorful, well-seasoned, and cooked perfectly. I also tried their Egg Coffee, and it was rich, smooth, and a great way to end the meal. Sometimes the best dining experiences happen unexpectedly, and this was definitely one of them. We’ll definitely be back to try more of their Indonesian dishes. Highly recommended!”
“Got the beef rendang tacos, fast, fresh, flavorful with kind staff”
“Rendang Republic is one of the most unique and delicious spots I’ve tried in Chicago. Cozy little restaurant right off Clark Street with about 15–20 seats and metered street parking nearby, but the food is absolutely worth it. Everything tastes handcrafted and full of authentic Indonesian flavor. We ordered the Malay chicken shish kebab, the Rendang Plate, and the Coconut Pandan Halwa for dessert, and every dish was packed with flavor. The rendang especially stood out with its rich spices, protein, and creamy coconut milk. You can tell a lot of care goes into the food. What I also loved is how creative and diverse the menu is. They offer everything from burgers and sandwiches to duck dishes and even a hot dog, while still keeping the Indonesian flavors front and center. They also have great drink options like coffee and milk tea. Highly recommend checking this place out if you want something different, flavorful, and comforting in Chicago.”
“This place deserves more than a five star review. I wanted to take my husband to try some Indonesian food, but this place really did exceed my expectations. We are from India traditionally and everything about this meal felt like a taste of home. If you’re looking for some quality, Indonesian food, come here and I promise you won’t be disappointed. I asked for a spicy meal and it was actually pretty spicy so just beware.”
“The food here is AMAZING! Loved the flavors and the take on different local foods! We had the Rendang Sandwich and the Duck Inn-Do Dogs 10/10! I want to come back and try different dishes!”
“Been here a few times but writing review after the 3rd visit. I’ve had the beef plate (red sambal & garlic chips), the Rendang burger, and the IFC sandwich. The beef plate was great, I’m not used to beef Rendang being well formed (mine at home falls apart). I’m told this is how beef Rendang is supposed to be, and I love it! The red sambal was really spicy for me but full of flavor. I liked mixing up the plate together and incorporating all the flavors. I sent my compliments to the chef and he gifted me a durian creme brûlée! Honestly I hate the smell of durian, but this was awesome. Definitely my favorite form of durian, maybe I’ll try the actual fruit solo. The Rendang burger was so fire. I really like that the Rendang flavors are very prevalent in the patty. The marinated heirloom tomato & lettuce work really well with the burger. The chicken sandwich is so good, definitely my personal favorite item on the menu. The papaya slaw on top with the crispy shallots really make the dish!! Overall, have never had less than a great time here, really excited to be a regular!”
“If you are looking to experience Indonesia in Chicago, this is the place. Just down the street from the Wrigley Field. Their rendang was born out of extensive research and learning it first-hand in the city of Padang, Indonesia. The owner and the chef are both great persons and love to support the community. You should try their rendang plate, hotdogs, burgers and chicken satay. You also don't want to miss out their Indomie-inspired French fries and Rendang latte. While you are there, talk to the chef and he would be more than happy to share with you the history of the restaurant and stories behind each menu as well as how his mom's cooking inspires him. Happy 1st yr Anniversary, Rendang Republic and congrats for the Global Cuisine Award 2026! As Indonesian in Chicago, we are proud of you ❤️”
Sounds like your kind of place?
Star it — your hit list is where dinner decisions get made.
One email a month — new openings, hidden gems, and where locals are actually eating.
More dining in Lakeview & North Center
See the ranking →
In the same lane
If it's packed, walk to…
More good rooms in Lakeview, minutes away.