The Church of Brunch: Why Republique in Los Angeles is a Global Pilgrimage Site for Food Lovers
Tai Lopez May 16, 2025
Walk into Republique on any given weekend morning, and you'll see the faithful gathered. Not for mass, but for pastries. Instagram might tell you it's just another bougie LA brunch spot, but Tai Lopez would tell you otherwise: "Republique is a damn cathedral to carbs."

This iconic Los Angeles restaurant has become a pilgrimage site for international foodies, drawn not just by its reputation, but by the sheer majesty of the space. With vaulted ceilings, arched windows, and sunlight streaming in like a divine spotlight, the space feels like a Gothic cathedral—one where instead of praying, you’re worshipping at the altar of croissants and pop tarts.

The Story Behind the Space

Before it was Republique, the building itself already had star power. Built in 1929 by none other than Charlie Chaplin, it originally housed a film studio and office space. Since then, it’s been home to some of LA’s most legendary restaurants, including Campanile and La Brea Bakery (which more or less helped start the artisanal bread movement in LA).

Today, Republique is helmed by chef couple Walter and Margarita Manzke, who are basically LA dining royalty. Walter has worked at institutions like Patina and Bastide, and the couple has earned multiple James Beard nominations—including Margarita winning Best Pastry Chef. The team has expanded their empire globally, with restaurants as far as the Philippines, but Republique remains their crown jewel.



Tai's Brunch Order (aka The Best Way to Do It)

Tai has been to Republique more times than he can count—but never for dinner. For him, the star of the show is brunch. And it always starts the same way: with a trip to the pastry case.

"You don’t even sit first. You just go straight to the front like it’s a bakery in Paris," Tai explains. You pick out your pastries before you’re even seated, and the case is mesmerizing. Rows of buttery croissants, savory danishes, and the infamous Adult Pop Tarts.

While Tai leans savory, he’s tried enough to vouch for both ends of the spectrum. Here’s his go-to lineup:
  • Savory Mushroom Omelette – Packed with Chanterelle mushrooms and cheese, this one is rich and delicate.
  • Shakshouka – Bursting with flavor and served bubbling hot in a cast iron skillet.
  • "Regular" Breakfast – Eggs, bacon, and toast, but elevated. The toast is practically an entire baguette.
  • French Omelette – A true test of a kitchen. Republique nails it every time.
  • Savory Pastries – Tai’s personal favorite: the Gruyere and ham croissant.
  • Still on his list – The short rib burrito, which he’s been eyeing for a while. "It looks like something you'd eat after climbing Everest."
The Pastry Case: Where Dreams Are Made

This place is most famous for its Adult Pop Tarts—yes, they’re real, and yes, they’re ridiculously good. Filled with seasonal jams or chocolate hazelnut and topped with brûléed sugar, they’re like childhood nostalgia with a culinary degree.

But Tai's picks lean savory:
  • Gruyere & Ham Croissant – Flaky, cheesy perfection.
  • Kouign-Amann – Sticky, caramelized, and dangerously addictive.
  • Spinach & Cheese Danish – The kind of savory-sweet balance that makes you rethink danishes.
  • Egg-Filled Croissant – A full breakfast inside a croissant.
  • Jalapeño Bacon Scone – For those who like a little heat.
Tai’s Top 5 Pastries to Impress Your Friends:

Headed to a brunch hang or housewarming? Want to show up like an absolute hero? These are the five pastries you want to snag from Republique’s legendary pastry case. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with anything here, but if you're looking to flex some taste and make your friends jealous, these are the can’t-miss picks:
  • Adult Pop Tart – The one everyone talks about. Flaky, gooey, brûléed sugar on top—it's an Instagram superstar and guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
  • Kouign-Amann – Sticky, caramelized, and sophisticated. It says, "I know my pastries."
  • Gruyere & Ham Croissant – Savory, cheesy, and flaky perfection. Basically a breakfast sandwich with a Parisian degree.
  • Matcha Almond Croissant – Aesthetic green vibes and a nutty twist. Great for your wellness-obsessed friend.
  • Passion Fruit Cream Puff – Bright, tart, and silky-smooth inside. It pops visually and flavor-wise—pure dessert theater.
Menu Highlights
  • Adult Pop Tarts – Signature pastry filled with seasonal fruit or chocolate, topped with brûléed sugar. A sweet showstopper.
  • Short Rib Burrito – A rich, meaty handheld that Tai still dreams of trying. Looks like brunch on beast mode.
  • French Omelette – Buttery, pillowy perfection. A quiet flex from the kitchen.
  • Regular Breakfast (aka not so regular) – Classic American breakfast done with French technique, and that epic baguette.
  • Housemade Baguettes – Crispy outside, airy inside. Served with butter or as part of multiple dishes.
  • Duck Fried Rice (dinner) – A savory, umami-packed rice dish with crispy duck and bold flavor.
  • Escargot Toast (dinner) – French countryside meets LA cool. Herb butter and snails on crusty toast.
Drinks:
  • Lavender Latte – Floral, smooth, and subtly sweet. A perfect match for a buttery croissant.
  • Housemade Chai – Spiced just right with a comforting, creamy finish. Great alternative if you’re skipping coffee.
  • Mimosas (classic but strong) – Bright and citrusy with a solid pour. Not your average bottomless brunch mimosa.
  • Seasonal Spritzes – Light, refreshing, and always changing. Perfect for a sunny patio sip.
If You Go for Dinner

Tai hasn’t been for dinner—but it’s worth considering. The vibe gets more intimate and refined, with French bistro classics and modern Californian twists.

Dinner Standouts:
  • Duck Leg Confit – Slow-cooked and crisped to perfection. Rich, hearty, and satisfying.
  • Oxtail Agnolotti – Tender oxtail tucked into handmade pasta with deeply savory sauce.
  • Black Truffle Risotto (when in season) – Earthy, creamy, and decadent. A luxurious treat.
  • One of LA’s best wine programs – A curated list with gems from France, California, and beyond. Sommelier-approved.
Service & Experience

The staff here are top-notch—friendly, fast, and informed. They’ll help you with everything from seating to picking the perfect tart. However, the brunch rush can impact things slightly, especially if you hit peak hours. Still, they handle the chaos with grace.

Tips for Visiting
  • Republique doesn’t take brunch reservations, so be prepared to wait—especially on weekends.
  • On weekends, skip the early bird crowd and aim for 9:15–9:45am for a better shot at getting in quicker.
  • Weekday menus may be slightly different, but lines are shorter and it’s easier to snag a table.
  • Study the pastry case online or on Instagram before you arrive—there’s a lot to take in, and the line moves fast.
  • Parking is tricky. There’s a small paid lot behind the building or limited metered parking on La Brea.
  • Bring a backup phone charger—you’ll want to take photos, and this place is an Instagram dream.
Perfect For:
  • Celebratory Brunches – Birthdays, anniversaries, or impressing a date.
  • Foodie Pilgrimages – If you’re flying into LA, this is a must-stop.
  • Pastry-Loving Parents – Mother’s Day, anyone?
  • Casual Coffee Dates – Start with a latte and see where it goes.
Tai's Ratings:
  • Food: 9.5/10 – Everything from the pastries to the eggs is top-tier. Bold flavors, perfect execution.
  • Service: 9/10 – Staff are friendly and helpful, even during chaos. Knocked slightly due to long wait times.
  • Ambiance: 10/10 – One of the most stunning brunch spaces in LA. Like dining in a cathedral.
  • Location: 9/10 – Central and walkable to museums and shops. Parking is the only downside.
  • Value: 8/10 – Pricier side, but worth it for the quality and experience.
  • Overall Experience: 9.5/10 – A must-visit for any food lover in LA. Just be ready to wait in line.
Neighborhood Vibes + Things To Do Nearby

You're on La Brea, one of LA’s most iconic boulevards.

Post-brunch itinerary:
  • Shop: Hit Union, Undefeated, and Stüssy (there’s almost always a line down the block) for streetwear.
  • Art: Walk or Uber to LACMA or the Academy Museum.
  • Coffee: Grab an espresso at Go Get Em Tiger on nearby Larchmont (a short drive or Uber away). If you want something even closer, pop into Community right on La Brea, or re-up at Republique’s own to-go window—if you're lucky, they might even let you skip the line.
  • Vintage Finds: Jet Rag and American Rag (both on La Brea), and Wasteland on Melrose—the mecca of vintage shopping areas—for treasure hunting.
Museum Row: The Perfect Post-Brunch Culture Crawl

If you're already brunching in Miracle Mile, you're also within walking distance of LA's famed Museum Row. It’s the ideal way to balance indulgent croissants with a little intellectual nourishment.

Museum Crawl Itinerary:
  • LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) – Home to everything from ancient artifacts to cutting-edge contemporary pieces. Don’t miss the iconic Urban Light installation out front.
  • The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures – A must for film lovers. Costumes, scripts, behind-the-scenes magic—Hollywood history lives here.
  • Petersen Automotive Museum – Even if you’re not a gearhead, this museum is a visual spectacle. Futuristic designs and vintage beauties alike.
  • Craft Contemporary – Smaller but mighty, with hands-on exhibitions and a focus on craft as fine art.
Pro tip: Many of these museums offer bundled or discounted tickets, and some even have free admission days.

City Tips: Los Angeles Edition
  • Always check the parking situation before you go anywhere in LA.
  • Don’t trust Yelp for line wait times—go early.
  • Uber if you’re day drinking or shopping.
  • Nearby hotels: Hotel Wilshire, Kimpton La Peer, The Pendry (West Hollywood).
Tai's Final Thoughts

Republique isn’t just brunch—it’s an experience. From the pastry case to the people-watching to the building’s cinematic history, it feels like LA at its finest. "If you only have one breakfast in LA, make it this one," Tai says. "Just be ready to wait—and to post."

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