The Duck Republic

We first found DR when wondering the streets of Cronulla on a Tuesday night. The place was busy and we grabbed one of the two available seats outside and were blown away by the meal. We’ve been meaning to come back since and finally had a birthday to use as an excuse.
Since our first visit, the menu and location have changed. They’ve now got a bigger venue, which was still busy on a Sunday. Thankfully I had booked ahead this time.
I wound up chatting with the owner who said they change the menu frequently (I had sad face the potatoes from the last visit were absent from the menu). That said, when you only offer 5 dishes at a time, it makes sense to switch things up. They were working on their new menu at the time and I was informed they change the menu on the website before they roll it out in the restaurant. Make sure you check the official website, as they don’t control the mobile site, and dimmi and eatability aren’t always up to date.
Anyway, on this night our table of four split three appetizers. I had the poached chicken, which was beautifully seasoned with a zaatar vinaigrette, and complimented by an eggplant purée and mint labna.
Also on the table were scallops, which I’m told were wonderful and some roast duck betas leaves which were served with a beautiful pineapple jam and peanut praline.
For mains two of us had the pecan duck (hoisin and pecan crusted duck maryland), one person had the steak and one had the lamb. Sides are needed for a full meal and we had the potato mash and broccolini (with lightly spiced kimchi) for the table.
We were fortunate enough to save room for 2 desserts for the table and had what may be the best brûlée I’ve had — coffee flavoured with an espresso marshmallow and coffee bean biscotti also shared was a trio of chocolate — delicious delice, ice cream, and mousse.
Everyone was happy with all of the food — and I was with a tough crowd to please. The bill came to about $ 85/​pp including drinks. Portions are on the small side, but that allows you to have all three courses.