republic - from the dark to the bright

i found the 'republic' is one of the best places to go grab a meal and a drink. so far vlad has three locations.  i've gone several time to the one near work for lunch. they serve cafeteria-style food so it does give you the feeling you're back in high school.  and sometimes i wonder what that strange stew is next to the mashed potatoes or mixed vegetables.  i've never had any problem with the selection.  although one of my friends did get sick on a salmon pattie-thing once.  there's amble seating space that spills over into the bar, which serves both coffee and alcohol.  i've been there for the evening rush and it's always busy, but usually you can snag a table within a few minutes. 

the republic that's fartherest away, has more of a dining hall theme to it with covered tables and traditional menus (only in russian).  i've had a great chicken/potatoe salad there the last couple times.  republic often serves up special brews.  so we tend to check it out when a new one is offered.

i've noticed several places have an abundance of tables available when i've gone out to eat.  i haven't figured out why that is yet.  although i think the busiest times are usually weekend evenings.  that's the time when most places are packed with no free tables.  but during the week, it hasn't been too difficult to walk in to a new place and get a table immediately. 

another popular hang out is the presto cafe.  it's a coffee house with an excellent selection of pastries and deserts.  i've been there a couple times and plan to go back soon.  seating can get cramped like any other coffee shop but it's worth it for a good cup of coffee.

i'm finishing up last minute stuff as i get ready for a trip back to the states.  i'll miss the warm weather and friends, which both seem to be increasing in my stay here.  but it'll will be great to see family again.