One of L.A.'s best restaurants faces backlash after owner voices support for Elon Musk's Tesla diner
République—one of L.A.’s most critically acclaimed restaurants—has become the recent subject of online political controversy after one of its owners, Walter Manzke, was quoted in the New York Times as voicing support for Elon Musk’s yet-to-open Tesla diner in West Hollywood, where Tesla owners could charge their cars and grab a meal. Since news about the drive-in project first broke in 2022, the CEO of Tesla has morphed from space-obsessed billionaire to an icon of the far-right, as well as President Trump’s right-hand man.
“It sounds exciting,” Walter told former Times restaurant critic Pete Wells. “[République co-owner Margarita] told me the other day that she wants to buy a Tesla, so I can tell you what side she’s on.” The Manzkes are the veteran chefs behind République, which is equally beloved across the city for its California-inspired French savory menu and Margarita’s James Beard Award-winning pastries.
One anonymous user of Reddit reposted the article in the subreddit r/FoodLosAngeles, which fields regular discussion about all matters related to the L.A. dining scene. “Looks like Republique is off my list,” the post title reads. As of publication, the post is the subreddit’s top most-read post for the day.
In response, the Hancock Park restaurant released a statement on its Instagram around 3pm on Friday afternoon. “At République, we believe in focusing on what we do best—creating exceptional food and a welcoming experience for all our guests. In response to a recent New York Times article, we want to clarify that the quote about possibly buying a Tesla was simply about exploring electric vehicle options, not a political statement. We value innovation and sustainability, and we respect all viewpoints. République does not take political stances; we are here to create a space for everyone, no matter their background or beliefs,” the post reads in full.
https://www.timeout.com/los-angeles/news/one-of-l-a-s-best-restaurants-faces-backlash-after-owner-voices-support-for-elon-musks-tesla-diner-032125
https://www.reddit.com/r/FoodLosAngeles/comments/1jgokgi/looks_like_republique_is_off_my_list/
sm33
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4d ago
Appreciate the link. Not gonna lie, this sucks, but there are plenty of other great places for pastry in this city.
You_meddling_kids
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4d ago
I have maybe 3 or 4 years worth of dining I'd like to do around town, and new places open all the time. Will not be missed.
JABBYAU
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4d ago
It does suck. My kids treat the “pastry bar” at Republique like a Duncan Donuts early on a Sunday. This is going to break their pastry gorging hearts.
I do appreciate the every classy, yet totally bad ass Suzanne Goin.
Shivs_baby
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4d ago
Go down the street to Sycamore Kitchen
u/Ok_Island_1306 avatar
Ok_Island_1306
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4d ago
Head down to west Adam’s and go to Vicky’s All Day, my wife and I have been visiting it regularly for a couple years now. Always great
2 more replies
le_sighs
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4d ago
Go to Roji just down the street. Great pastries. Not quite Republique pastries of course but lots of delicious things.
Concernedkittymom
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4d ago
try Chaumont!
u/Excellent-Bluejay251 avatar
Excellent-Bluejay251
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4d ago
yeah this is kinda disappointing, but honestly la has no shortage of amazing bakeries. def gonna miss their pastries but there are so many spots that do just as good (or better) without the weird vibes. might be a good excuse to finally check out some new places tbh. any recs for a solid replacement?