The highly acclaimed Portland Mexican restaurant República, a former casual lunch counter turned innovative tasting menu venue, will close its doors for good on February 21st, 2026, as announced by co-owners Angel Medina and Olivia Bartruff. The decision comes as a result of a combination of factors, including the political climate, a sharp decline in reservations, and concerns for the safety of staff due to the aggressive tactics of Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers.
Medina, in a post on Substack and an interview with Portland Monthly, attributed the closure to Trump's 2024 election victory, a significant drop in bookings in the spring, and his own fears for his staff's safety following the ICE officers' aggressive actions in Minneapolis. The restaurant's early days were marked by its unique lunch menu, featuring tri-colored quesadillas and salsa macha, and the introduction of a tasting menu in the evenings, showcasing Romero's elegant dishes and the use of rare Mexican ingredients.
Despite its success, República faced challenges, with Romero stepping down as chef in 2022 and passing away in 2024. The restaurant has since been managed by a series of chefs, including Juan Gomez, Jose 'Lalo' Camarena, and Dani Morales. República's closure marks the end of an era for this once-celebrated establishment, leaving a void in Portland's culinary scene.
The restaurant's final days will be marked by a celebration of its legacy, with plans to stay open until February 21st at 100 N.W. 10th Ave. (541-900-5836), offering a final glimpse into the Mexico-forward dining experience it has become known for.
