Rendang Republic

“Visited for the first time for Restaurant Week.”

Visited for the first time for Restaurant Week. Chicken satay, Beef Randang Plate, and Durian Creme Brulee were all awesome. The Mackarel Dabu Dabu plate (didn't get a pic) was outstanding; incredible flavor. We are still talking about the mackerel a few days later! Looking forward to coming back to try the fried chicken sandwich and the Duck Inn-Do Dog. Staff were really nice. I also appreciated the cloth napkins!

Julie J

Jan 2026

“The food was absolutely outstanding- one of the best meals i’ve had in a while.”

The food was absolutely outstanding- one of the best meals i’ve had in a while! The level of spicyness of the beef rendang plate was perfect for me! The owner was so welcoming and hospitable. Would highly recommend!

Lindsay Ruedig

Jan 2026

“I’ve been to Rendang Republic a few times, and my favorite rendang keeps getting better every visit.”

I’ve been to Rendang Republic a few times, and my favorite rendang keeps getting better every visit. The flavor is richer and it’s definitely worth the upgrade in my rating. The place is cozy with friendly staff. The restroom is clean. Recommended!

Deasy Pasaribu

Jan 2026

“Rendang Republic was and is straight fire.”

Rendang Republic was and is straight fire. Chef John hooked it up with the Beef Rendang Plate, Satay Chicken Skewers, and an incredible Durian Crème Brûlée. The drinks were also incredible and I had the Matcha Pandan Latte which had just the right amount of sweetness! The Bourbon Barrel Black Tea was also a major treat. The atmosphere was chill and the playlist was relaxing while we dug into our food. 10/10 would recommend and it felt incredible to support a small POC owned business. Rendang Republic isn’t one to miss!

Brandon Murray

Jan 2026

“My friend and I visited this restaurant for the first to try Indonesian cuisine.”

My friend and I visited this restaurant for the first to try Indonesian cuisine. The food was delicious and halal, which we really appreciated. The music was a bit loud but overall it was a good experience.

Aizada Gulamova

Jan 2026

“This is one of my favorite restaurants in Chicago, and now my favorite Asian one hands down.”

This is one of my favorite restaurants in Chicago, and now my favorite Asian one hands down. I’ve been waiting for Chef John to open up a new place ever since Minahasa and he definitely did not disappoint. His Nasi Goreng and Beef Rendang were my favorites from his old place and it is awesome that Rendang is now the star of the show. This is hands down the best Rendang you will find, outside the island, in Chicago. They need to start shipping their Rendang around the US asap because I can’t keep coming up to Chicago anytime I have a craving. They also have Pandan and Ube snacks every now and then which is pretty baller to the max.

CCW Technology

Dec 2025

“The food here is absolutely delicious.”

The food here is absolutely delicious! The chicken was cooked so well, the pickled veggies were great, rice cooked perfectly. Highly suggest!!! They also clearly mark which items those with gluten or shrimp allergies should avoid - which was very thoughtful.

peyton kenobi

Dec 2025

“Crazy nasi goreng.”

Crazy nasi goreng! Chicken was super moist Satay was lit Durian creme brule was a work of art!

Dipro Prattoy

Dec 2025

“Had a chance to try Rendang Republic in Chicago.”

Had a chance to try Rendang Republic in Chicago! The rendang was packed with umami flavor, and the sambal really stood out — spicy, bold, and so good! It definitely helped cure my craving for Indonesian food. My only note is that the rendang was a little too sweet for me, but overall, it’s a comforting taste of home. 🇮🇩❤️

Dee W

Oct 2025

“This Indonesian food has similar spice profile of many Pacific Islander cuisine such as The...”

This Indonesian food has similar spice profile of many Pacific Islander cuisine such as The Philippines which I have deep roots in. The beef was very flavorful and soft in its brown gravy and paired nicely with just plain white rice. The extra sprinkles of crunchy fried shallots and other dressing was nice contrast. The greens was also very nice with smokey flavor and acidity. The heat from the green chilis tied the whole flavor profile. Was amazed by how comforting this food was. The uber milk bar was a cooling effect to finish off the meal. Kudos to the kitchen staff for making this complex coordination of flavors seem easy to execute. This is a small space but worth the visit for the food, friendly staff and experience of this unique cuisine.

Rolo

Oct 2025

“Loved the beef rendang plate with green sambal.”

Loved the beef rendang plate with green sambal. Super unique coffee menu too, with house made syrups. Staff were super friendly, will def be coming back

Rebecca O

Oct 2025

“As soon as I walked in I was greeted.”

As soon as I walked in I was greeted. I wish I asked for her name but she was sweet and explained the menu to me. My food was delicious and I left full with food left over to take home. The atmosphere is beautiful and I love the art throughout the restaurant too. It's beautiful, clean and I WILL be going back!

Lysha B

Oct 2025