Kolache Republic

One night in 2010 while having drinks, Rick Jardiolin and Dusty Kotchou were craving kolache but couldn’t find anywhere in Columbus that was selling this tasty treat. It was then, they envisioned the idea of introducing Columbus to this Czech pastry and opening Kolache Republic.

Rick, a Texas native, sought the help and advice of his sister-in-law, whose family owned a kolache shop in Texas, as well as the late Crazy kolache lady from Caldwell, TX (also known as the Kolache capital of Texas). After months of learning how to perfect the dough, the friends began creating a variety of gourmet kolache using fresh and local ingredients and selling their pastry at farmer’s markets.

In 2013, the guys opened their kolache bakery in German Village. Since opening their doors, they continue to create unique flavors like their famous Thanksgiving kolache. Stop in and visit Columbus’ original kolache shop in the historic German Village.

What is a kolache?

A kolache is a Czech pastry made of slightly sweet dough baked with a variety of fruit, nut, sweet cheese and meat fillings and are popular in areas with large Czech populations such as Texas, Nebraska, and Wisconsin.