Bar Publica

The atmosphere was wonderful! The rooftop patio is adorable and charming. I ate there on 8/2/2026 and sadly I was not impressed with the drinks or food. We ordered a total of four drinks and one literally had to be retuned as it was not drinkable. We were still charged for it. Why is there heem and mezcal in a Paloma? It caused immediate heartburn and another drink was extremely sour and no fun to taste. The plátanos maduros were good but the rest of what we ordered seemed to be made with ingredients that just don’t complement each other. The fish was overcooked and not flavorful. I wish the foo and drills matched the amazing and colorful design of the restaurant, which is so lovely.

My husband and I moved to Maine 6 years ago from NYC. Coming from Latin households and a city with so many options for cuisine we are always looking for a taste of home in Maine. THIS WAS IT! Chef Ron and his entire team gave us that! The food was hands down the best Puerto Rican cuisine we have had in Maine (and Boston to be honest lol) the food was truly authentic and delicious . The drinks were on point! The bar uses Don Q which we were so happy to see, true Puerto Rican rum! The prices are reasonable and portions were great! We loved it so much and will be going back as often as possible!

I’d like to give this place a reasonable score. It seems like a generally fine spot. Unfortunately, I went in last night and a friend and I had 4 casamigos and soda. Our bill was 101 dollars. Don’t go to this place. That’s insane. Keep your money don’t give it to people who think they can charge you 100 dollars for 4 drinks. Shame people like that. Don’t give them business.

Bar Republica was an absolute 10/10 experience! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was incredible, the drinks were expertly made, and the food was outstanding. Every dish we ordered was full of flavor and exceeded our expectations. What really made the night special was the hospitality. The owner, Ronnie, came out to introduce himself and spent time talking with us, which made us feel genuinely welcomed and appreciated. If you’re looking for amazing food, great drinks, and an unforgettable dining experience, I can’t recommend Bar Republica enough. We’ll definitely be back!

Lovely service and fun atmosphere. The food was amazing- fresh and delicious! We enjoyed a cozy dinner in a booth on a rainy night, but I can’t wait to come back to enjoy the roof top deck! Highly recommend.

We love Caribbean flavors, and Bar Publica delivered. First, those cocktails are a standout and at a great price 🍹. We started with a mojito and a Paloma, both were refreshing and full of flavor! To start, we ordered the yuca fritters. They were phenomenal! Think mini hush puppies, but lighter, crispier, and even better. For our entrées, we went with the classic mofongo with shrimp IYKYK, an iconic Puerto Rican dish made with fried and smashed green plantains, garlic, and chicharrón (check them out in the photo), and the Viejita Frita which includes crispy short ribs with peppers, onions, and white rice. Both dishes were packed with flavor. Don't expect heat; instead, expect layers of rich, unique Caribbean flavors 😋. We finished the night with a couple of daiquiris....the Parcha and the Pineapple. Light, fruity, refreshing, and not overly sour or sweet. They were the perfect way to end the meal. But let's not forget the service or the rooftop patio. The views, the atmosphere, and the Puerto Rican flags strung across the deck made for a fun summer evening. Even if the weather doesn't cooperate, the inside is colorful, vibrant, and full of personality. We'll definitely be back. No idea why it took us so long to stop in! Go!!! Go now!!!!

If you're looking for amazing food, drinks, and humans...THIS IS THE PLACE. I thought I was going in "just to check it out" while I was in the area and ended up having a drink, full meal, and dessert. In a world of bars and restaurants chasing trends for social media—often sacrificing taste and authenticity—Bar Publica holds a timeless vibe that stays true to the importance of community, quality, and craft. You could still get epic photos from inside or on the rooftop, too, if that's what you want. But if it were me? I'd be too distracted by enjoying the IRL experiences in this place...the amazing tastes and smells, the people, the music... As a descendant of Puerto Rico myself, I also had an immediate sense of comfort when I walked in and wondered what my grandmother, who moved to Maine in her 20s, would have thought about how much of her culture and home is coming to life here in Portland. Aside from an overall great spot, it feels like an important place in the here and now. I'll be a regular at this place for sure and can't wait to bring my friends and family!