When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
République Café Bakery & République Restaurant
Why République Café Bakery & République Restaurant is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
République Café Bakery & République Restaurant is a premier culinary destination located in the heart of Los Angeles’ Miracle Mile neighborhood. Housed in a historic 1928 building originally erected by Charlie Chaplin, this establishment beautifully marries rich history with modern gastronomy. The space is thoughtfully divided into a casual bakery, café, and bar at the front, and a more formal dining room in the rear, catering to different dining moods and occasions. Known for its French-inspired menu developed by acclaimed chefs Walter and Margarita Manzke, République offers an immersive experience that ranges from artisanal pastries and freshly baked bread to sophisticated dinner dishes featuring locally-sourced, high-quality ingredients. Chef Margarita’s expertise has been internationally recognized, earning her the 2023 James Beard Award for Outstanding Pastry Chef or Baker. Highlights of the bakery include butter-spread baguettes and delicate croissants, while the restaurant impresses with creative French and Californian fusion plates, such as the Liberty Farms duck liver tartelette and charcoal-grilled Santa Barbara prawns. This combination of elevated cuisine, historic ambiance, and a versatile setting makes République an exceptional spot to meet friends for breakfast, brunch, or dinner in Los Angeles.
Here's what people think of République Café Bakery & République Restaurant
As of recent, République Café Bakery & République Restaurant holds a 4.5-star rating based on 6636 reviews.
Customer reviews of République consistently praise the combination of historic ambiance and outstanding food quality. Many reviewers highlight the inviting atmosphere created by the grand, bustling café filled with the scent of freshly baked bread and the elegant yet casual dining space in the back. Positive feedback frequently mentions the artisanal pastries and bread, with specific admiration for the croissants and baguettes, as well as the creative, well-executed French-inspired dishes that reflect a blend of European techniques and Californian ingredients. Reviewers also appreciate the attentive service and the passion evident in the chefs’ work, making it a memorable gourmet experience.
The most enthusiastic reviews focus on the bakery’s exceptional quality, the fresh, flavorful dishes, and the overall vibe of a lively, yet refined spot perfect for both casual meet-ups and special dinners. Some emphasize the value they feel for the price, given the ambiance and food quality, while others applaud Chef Margarita Manzke’s James Beard Award credentials as a testament to the establishment’s excellence.
On the other hand, a minority of negative reviews mention occasional inconsistencies in service speed during busy times or express that some dishes did not meet their personal expectations for flavor or portion size. A few reviewers noted that the pricing can be on the higher side, which might not appeal to all budgets.
Overall, République’s reviews reflect a highly regarded culinary and social destination in Los Angeles that balances historic charm with top-tier French-American cuisine and bakery offerings, earning it a strong 4.5-star rating based on over 6,600 reviews.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Shawn Sheng
No wonder this place is one of the most popular spots in all of LA. During the day they operate as a cafe and amazing brunch spot, and in the evening become a fancy dinner restaurant. The bakery selection is incredible, and everything looks so good. They also have a regular menu with food and drink options. The interior is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen, grand architecture and plenty of space in a bustling environment. Despite the chaos they keep things very efficient and operating smoothly. The food was wonderful, everything we got was delicious. Definitely worth checking out, be sure to go early to avoid a long wait time.
Z z
République is one of the few trendy spots in LA that actually lived up to the hype — no disappointment here! 🌟 We came in with high expectations, and it truly delivered. The atmosphere is absolutely beautiful — warm, vibrant, and full of charm ✨. The food was just as impressive as the space! We ordered the Eggs Benedict and the Chia Seed Bowl, and both were excellent 🍳🥣. The flavors were light yet well-balanced — exactly what you’d want from a quality brunch. It felt like a perfect, peaceful way to start the day ☀️. We also tried one of their freshly baked cinnamon rolls (I think that’s the name — pictured here 📸), and it was super soft, fragrant, and not overly sweet — just right! 🌀🍥 Definitely a place I’d return to, whether for brunch, pastries, or just to enjoy the space with a coffee. Highly recommend! ✅💯
Gray Stone
République is an amazing brunch spot! The pastries are an absolute must—everything from the croissants to the seasonal specials is top-notch. Honestly, anything you order will be magnificent. I especially love the French toast and the omelette, they’re both standouts. The atmosphere is beautiful. Definitely one of my favorite places for brunch in LA!
yousef
Dining here is all about the ingredients, meticulously sourced and skillfully prepared. On a busy Friday night, the accommodation for a non-reservation was the first hint of the exceptional service to come. I was seated beneath the glass-paneled roof with sunset light fading above me. It felt like Europe. The service is a benchmark of excellence: attentive, communicative, polite. The corn beignet arrives looking like something too precious to eat, literally served on a silver platter, but you’ll devour it in one bite, maybe two. The oysters are next, clean, cool, briny, and balanced by the acidity of the mignonette. Then there’s the endive salad, precision, thoughtful composition with each element intentional. The corn agnolotti is tender pasta pillows bathed in rich brown butter, then crowned tableside with a drizzle of cherry balsamic. For my main, the duck offers varied textures from different cuts, each bite elevated by the blackberry peppercorn jus. The fries, yes, fries, deserve their moment: hot, crisp, herby. For dessert, the reimagined crème brûlée with tropical notes of mango and pandan layered under that crackled top. République knows what it’s doing. Every moment considered. Every plate thoughtful. This is L.A. dining at its peak, proving that the best dining experiences don’t need the beach surrounded by the sound of crashing waves or the sight of swaying palm trees.
Alexandra Cervantes
I came here on a Friday morning for breakfast with friends. My friend said there is usually a line for this place but there was a short line so we really didn’t wait too long. They have menus as soon as you enter so you can decide what to order. They also have a counter covered in all sorts of pastries so you order those first then your food. When you order food they give you a cup with a number associate with your order. Then you can choose to sit anywhere. The architecture is quite lovely and it makes you feel like you are in a small French street eating outside. I think they have a patio/ Terrance seating but I just saw the sign for it. The food was really good and filling. The pastries were also very good. For my eggs Benedict, mocha and three pastries I paid a little over $50. The prices are on the higher side but if you don’t mind the prices then I highly recommend this place.
How to reach République Café Bakery & République Restaurant
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Why République Café Bakery & République Restaurant may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at République Café Bakery & République Restaurant with your friends?
République Café Bakery & République Restaurant in Los Angeles is a standout choice for gathering friends or family for multiple compelling reasons. This vibrant venue offers an exceptional blend of a bustling café and a refined restaurant set within a remarkable historic building that exudes both charm and modern elegance, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for socializing. With a strong 4.5-star rating from over 6,600 reviews, it consistently impresses guests with its quality food and thoughtful service, making it a trusted spot for memorable get-togethers. Whether you start your day with the café's acclaimed pastries or transition into an evening of small plates and expertly crafted dishes in the restaurant, République caters to a range of tastes and occasions. The spacious high ceilings and airy ambiance ensure there’s ample room for lively conversation without feeling cramped, which enhances the group experience. Its versatility and unique blend of French technique with Californian ingredients guarantee an exciting culinary journey that’s sure to please everyone. This dynamic setting naturally fosters connection and enjoyment, making République an ideal rallying point for friends to gather over great food and drink.
What activities can groups enjoy at République Café Bakery & République Restaurant?
One of the key attractions for groups meeting at République is the opportunity to enjoy an extensive variety of culinary experiences that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. During brunch hours, the café bakery is a paradise of pastries, such as kouign amanns, bombolinis, and themed cakes, alongside savory dishes like silky shakshuka, kimchi fried rice, and herb-enhanced omelets, making it easy for everyone in the group to find something to delight their palate. The pastry case alone is a feast for the eyes and an engaging experience to share as you pick and savor treats together. Transitioning into lunch or dinner, the restaurant offers a menu designed for sharing, with small plates that highlight seasonal, local ingredients prepared with a refined French influence. This shared dining style is perfect for social gatherings because it encourages mingling and conversation over a variety of tastes and textures. Furthermore, République provides an elegant but comfortable environment where groups can linger over drinks, allowing time to savor quality wines and cocktails expertly paired with the meal. Altogether, these activities combine into a rich, multi-sensory outing, ideal for groups seeking both casual and sophisticated experiences.
Why is République perfect for a group meetup?
République’s layout and atmosphere are thoughtfully suited for group meetups, offering a spacious and vibrant environment that enhances social interaction without overwhelming noise or discomfort. The historic building features soaring ceilings and an open floor plan, giving the restaurant a feeling of grandeur and openness that contrasts nicely with the warm, welcoming service and attention to detail. This balance creates an upscale yet approachable setting that is equally fitting for a casual brunch with friends or a celebratory dinner with family. The service team is known for being knowledgeable and attentive, which makes coordinating orders and accommodating varying dietary needs easier and stress-free—an important factor when dining with a larger group. Another advantage is the restaurant’s flexibility in seating arrangements, accommodating everything from intimate gatherings to somewhat larger parties, making it a versatile choice no matter your group size. Additionally, the dual concept of both café bakery and full-service restaurant under one roof offers the flexibility of stopping by just for coffee and sweet treats or fully immersing yourself in a multi-course meal. This versatility combined with impeccable food quality and an inviting atmosphere makes République a top contender for hosting group events or casual meetups.
What makes the food and drink at République stand out for groups?
The culinary offerings at République stand out because of their creative blend of classic French culinary techniques with fresh, seasonal Californian ingredients, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and exciting for the palate. Guests have praised the restaurant’s ability to serve dishes that are rich and flavorful but also showcase thoughtful, modern details that reflect the best of the region’s produce and flavors. The small plates concept encourages groups to share and sample multiple dishes, enhancing the communal experience and sparking discussion among diners about each dish’s unique character. Brunch here is particularly beloved for its pastries, such as buttery kouign amanns and inventive doughnuts with rich, satisfying fillings, which provide a playful and delicious start to the day. In addition, the drink menu complements the food perfectly, featuring carefully curated wines and creatively prepared cocktails that balance well with the menu’s seasonal shifts. This focus on quality and thoughtful pairings elevates the dining experience, making it special whether you’re celebrating an occasion or just catching up with loved ones. The food and drink at République cater expertly to large parties by balancing innovation with comforting flavors, guaranteeing satisfaction across a diverse group.
How does République’s ambiance contribute to a memorable meetup experience?
The ambiance at République is a major part of its appeal, effectively merging the old-world charm of its historic structure with sleek, modern design elements that reflect contemporary Los Angeles style. This fusion creates a space that feels both timeless and fresh, providing a visually stunning backdrop that enhances any gathering. The bright, sunlit café area is ideal for relaxed daytime meetups, where natural light floods the space, creating a cheerful atmosphere for conversation and casual dining. As night falls, the lighting and layout shift to offer a more intimate and warmly inviting space that fosters longer, leisurely meals and deeper connection among friends and family. The design also pays careful attention to acoustics and seating comfort, so that even in busy periods, groups can enjoy a lively yet comfortable environment. This thoughtful ambiance, combined with attentive service and culinary excellence, ensures that every visit feels special. Overall, République delivers more than just food — it offers an experience that nurtures both social connection and personal enjoyment in an elegant setting.
What practical aspects make République convenient for group gatherings?
From a practical standpoint, République excels with features that particularly benefit group meetups. Firstly, its location in a vibrant Los Angeles neighborhood makes it easily accessible by car or public transport, vital for ensuring all guests can arrive conveniently. The size and layout allow for efficient seating of groups without long waits, though reservations are strongly recommended to guarantee seating during peak hours, especially on weekends. The dual function as both a bakery café and restaurant provides great flexibility in terms of timing and menu options, so groups can tailor their experience according to schedule or budget. The knowledgeable staff are experienced in managing group dynamics, smoothly coordinating orders and suggesting popular dishes, which makes gatherings hassle-free. Furthermore, République offers an excellent mix of indoor seating and occasional outdoor options, weather permitting, enhancing comfort and accommodating various preferences. These practical considerations ensure that organizing a meetup at République is as enjoyable as the event itself, enabling guests to focus on connecting rather than logistics.