A recent LA Times restaurant review had the title of “This is the L.A. restaurant our critic recommends more than any other.” For many food enthusiasts, reading the headline almost causes a visceral reaction. We recently joined up with a friend to experience weekend brunch at République.
République opens each day at 8 a.m. and even though we arrived minutes later, the line was already ten deep outside of their front door. Everyone killed time playing with their phones. I was relieved that someone fetched a printed menu and began circulating it through our line. The mood immediately changed from boredom to one of tempered excitement.
In advance of our visit, my wife had studied the menu and looked forward to their Austrian souffléd pancake; unfortunately, it wasn’t available that day and she selected the Belgian waffle topped with fresh fruit and a dollop of their housemade Crèmerie ice cream. The waffle had a crisp exterior and was fluffy soft on the inside. Farmers Market quality fruit topped the waffle.
République’s bakery is first-rate and stacks up with any of the top bakeries in LA., the majority of their customers are there to enjoy the items that are prepared to order like the brioche French toast and the kimchi fried rice. République pastries don’t play second-fiddle to any French bakery in LA.
It was obvious that the chef placed quite a bit of effort on their Smoked Salmon Tartine. République nicely elevated this classic pedestrian dish by topping it with sliced avocados, radishes, frisée, arugula, and edible flowers. It was seasoned with za’atar giving it a nice Middle Eastern taste.
I was happy to see that the Croque Madame wasn’t smothered with melted cheese. It is made with house-cured ham, gruyère cheese, and a fried egg. Tasting the sandwich, the taste and texture of the bread made the difference. One can use high-quality ingredients, but it is the bread that can make or break a sandwich.
One of their most Instagrammed items is their Kimchi fried rice. This dish is simply made with a blend of kimchi and braised short ribs. It is topped with a layer of fried rice. Two fried eggs are added and the dish is garnished with sliced green onions and fresno chiles. The result is fried rice that is sour, salty, and spicy.
I wasn’t about to leave République without some pastries. The raspberry-pistachio kouign amann is one of their most popular. The scorched slice of Basque cheesecake also caught my eye. After arriving at home, I removed our precious contents, admired them, and began nibbling on a couple of them. Ahhhh, just like eating in Paris.
If you enjoy eating breakfast food prepared in an artisan way, be sure to try weekend brunch at République.
République, 624 South La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036; 310.362.6115
republiquela.com
Thank you!!