May 24, 2011 
By Sue Arrowsmith
Sue.arrowsmith@yahoo.com
At the core of Downtown Miami’s cultural center is the Democratic Republic of Beer (DRB), a little world of its own boasting 500 beers from more than 60 nations. It’s home to the largest beer selection in the city, with an extensive menu serving global cuisine to match.
With the great mix of rock n’ roll oldies playing round the clock, burgundy walls and white leather seats, the DRB offers a happy, fun vibe.
This quirky little spot, located across from the Adrianne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, takes its name, and nationality, very seriously, right down to the hand soap dispenser in the bathroom with the DRB logo on it.
They print a weekly edition of The DRB Tribune, providing news updates, specials and listing all the beers available (it’s 14 pages long). In addition, you can become a citizen of the DRB by applying for a free passport, which is registered electronically at the restaurant’s website and offers rewards.
Prices range from $1.50 up to $100 per bottle of beer (no joke, that’s the cost of a rare Italian Vintage Barleywine called Xyauyu). But don’t panic, most bottles are priced under $8. Wine is also available.
The food menu is just as interesting, with a variety dishes representing several countries, including, of course, the DRB.
For starters, try the DWNTWN Miami Fries ($8.95), a helping of potato wedges topped with mild nacho cheese, diced tomatoes and fresh cilantro.
The vast selection includes Beef Sliders ($10.95), Kung Pao Chicken ($11.95) and Tilapia con salsa de coco (Tilapia smothered in a sweet, pink coconut sauce, $13.95), among nearly 40 items on the menu. The food is delicious, but please note portions are modest.
The DRB also offers a Sunday brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for $20 per person, which includes Mimosas or a Bloody Mary.
Open until 5 a.m. daily, this sovereign nation is a great place to visit anytime. Don’t forget your passport, and don’t forget to mention you heard about it on Great Food List.
Street parking available. DRB customers can also park in the open lot next door for $3.
The DRB
255 N.E. 14 St.
Miami, Fl. 33132
Tel. 305-372-4161
Visit them online, www.drbmiami.com
Visit them on facebook, click here
Visit them on twitter, click here
Hours
Monday through Saturday, 5 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 a.m.
No comments yet... Be the first to leave a reply!