Republique, a popular bakery, café, and restaurant located on La Brea Avenue in Los Angeles, has received another prestigious accolade. It has been named one of Tasting Table’s 14 best French bakeries in the United States, marking its recognition as one of only two California bakeries included in the list, alongside San Francisco’s Arsicault Bakery.
The establishment, co-owned by Chefs Walter and Margarita Manzke, has garnered numerous accolades since its opening in November 2013. Recently, Republique was highlighted in the Michelin Guide, and Chef Margarita Manzke was honored with a James Beard Award for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker in 2023.
Margarita Manzke, originally from the Philippines, began her culinary education at the Cordon Bleu in London and further honed her skills at the Culinary Institute of America in New York. Before launching Republique, she worked at several esteemed Los Angeles restaurants, including Patina and Spago, before operating restaurants in Carmel with her husband, Walter.
Republique now occupies a historically significant building that dates back to 1928 and has previously housed notable eateries such as La Brea Bakery and Campanile. The restaurant has consistently appeared on The Los Angeles Times’ Best 101 list and is recognized as a favorite by food critic Bill Addison.
In response to the latest accolades, Chef Margarita expressed gratitude for the recognition and emphasized the collaborative effort of the entire team in creating a positive dining experience.
The café operates daily from 8 AM to 2 PM, with dinner service from 5:30 PM to 10 PM Tuesday through Friday and from 5 PM to 10 PM on Saturday.
Why this story matters:
- Highlights the cultural impact of culinary excellence in Los Angeles.
Key takeaway:
- Republique’s continued success underscores the importance of teamwork and dedication in the culinary industry.
Opposing viewpoint:
- Some critics argue that awards can be subjective, with many excellent bakeries overlooked.
