Public
New York, NY 10012
Phone: (212) 343-7011
- Price:
- $$$$
- Cross Street:
- Between Spring Street and Prince Street
- Directions:
- 6 at Spring St
- Specialties:
- Bartenders
- Hours:
- Mon 6pm-10pm, Tue-Thu 6pm-11:30pm, Fri 6pm-12am, Sat 11am-4pm, 6pm-12am, Sun 11am-4pm, 6pm-10pm
Editorial Review for Public – by Allison Austin
The Scene
Born of a partnership between the owners of buzz-worthy London restaurant Providores and a local New York design firm, this restaurant has an unmistakable air of trendiness. The crowd doesn't disappoint: A well-heeled, fashionable clientele packs the polished-wood-and-glass-partitioned space, settling into one of two dining rooms, or the bar, which is located at the farthest corner from the entrance.
The Food
With influences stemming from New Zealand, Australia, Asia and elsewhere, it's nearly impossible to put a label on the food here. Standouts among appetizers include hypnotically aromatic laska, a Southeast Asian soup; a trio of smoky seared scallops atop a mix of chili sauce and creme fraiche; and seared rare kangaroo served with a bright green, sweet-hot pepper relish. Entrees--with the exception of the tender venison loin--are less successful, but vanilla ice cream mixed with honeycomb helps make up for it.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Know Before You GoSmokers will be thrilled with the covered off-street patio.
What to DrinkThe wine list offers many quite reasonably priced Australian and New Zealand selections. There are several good options offered by the glass as well, ranging from $7 to $12.
BYOBThere is $25 corkage fee.
User Reviews for Public
09/30/2008 Posted by fwhite1303
Went here on a friday night recently with a party of 6 and we had an amazing dinner. Service was great and food was even better. Atmosphere was lively but we could still hear each other talk. Sticky toffee pudding dessert was the best!!!! Highly recommended!!!!
08/30/2008 Posted by nychica5
I had a great time here. I came for brunch with a friend on a Saturday around 11:45, and we were immediately given a table. Around 12:30-1pm there was a line of people waiting for tables. I ordered the coconut pancakes ($11) which while good, weren't great. My friend, however, ordered the Banana Stuff French Toast ($11) and it was amazing. They also had a good selection of scones or muffins to choose from, but I didn't pay the extra money to try it. But they did look tasty (they have it sitting out buffet style). Our waiter was really nice, and not pushy considering it started to rain and my friend and I lingered over our coffees so we wouldn't have to get drenched! A nice brunch spot that serves more than the usual fare with friendly service - something that can be hard to find in Soho!
Pros: Service, food, decor
Cons: A little pricey

