Forget synthetic chairs and pink paper napkins reminiscent of your favourite childhood Chinese restaurant. Instead, imagine a pimping 1,200 square metre emporium boasting a (errr modest) $7 million fit-out with no shortage of bells and whistles. This is the picture of China Republic – a brand spanker in World Square adding to Sydney’s new wave of sophisticated Chinese restaurants.

Peking duck is king with a custom-made oven which can roast 20 of the little guys at once. Other signature dishes include eggplant and coriander salad, Beijing style tofu with shallots and fish roe, and sweet and sour pork ribs.

As far as the surrounds go, think opulence: huge Terracotta Warriors stand tall in strategic corners, while dim lighting and dark wood make for a moody vibe. If you really want to pimp it out though, book one of the two private dining rooms and feast like an Emperor in intimidatingly big chairs.

Don’t go expecting swan-shaped serviettes or cheap hanging lanterns. Do go for impeccably presented food that’ll have you saying “let’s come back” quicker than you can open your fortune cookie.

China Republic
World Square Shopping Centre 
Upper Level, 680 George Street Sydney 2000 
(02) 8081 0888