PUBLIC, located in Manhattan’s NoLIta neighborhood, serves Australasian cuisine, inspired by Executive Chef Brad Farmerie’s London training and travels through Australia, New Zealand and the East. Featuring a menu that “knows no ethnic borders,” established in 2003, PUBLIC serves up “lip-smacking tapas-style dishes to main courses any globetrotting gourmand would love.” The restaurant was awarded a coveted Michelin Star for both the 2009 & 2010 New York Guides and has been awarded Best Brunch by Time Out New York. PUBLIC is owned and operated by design and concept firm AvroKO.
Dining Style: Casual Elegant Price: $31 to $50 Parking: No Cross Street: Spring and Prince
"Excellent and creative cuisine. Highly recommended."
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
03/14/2010
(review submitted 03/18/2010)
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Review 2 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"The service was excellent! Attentative but still relaxed and friendly."
Special Features: great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
03/14/2010
(review submitted 03/16/2010)
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Review 3 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"Outstanding cuisine. Each course presented delicate blends of flavors. Gentile touch of spices and herbs enhanced the seafood, meat, vegetables. In other words the chef did an outstanding job of understanding the cuisine and brought out the best flavors. Everything was top quality."
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
03/12/2010
(review submitted 03/14/2010)
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Review 4 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"Great greeters / maitre'd staff. Very pleasant and accomodating though fully booked. Excellent food - well prepared - interesting blends of flavors.portions were small, not the right place for her to have 2 appetizers instead of an entree.. Kitchen so busy it seemed too late to add another dish so we ended up with 2 desserts."
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
03/11/2010
(review submitted 03/13/2010)
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Review 5 for Public
Overall Rating
(Good)
"I want to love this restaraunt for a lot of reasons, but it's a few big ones that keep me from being able to do so. The food was fantastic; I've never had better duck in my life! The lamb was wonderful, though a couple of the other flavors in the dish really made it a bit too busy.. The drinks were well made and strong, though were shaken a bit too vigorously, so they had a slightly more than ample amount of chipped ice pieces in there that watered it down fairly quickly. That's not really my complaint either though. My problem was that the portion sizes would have been expected had I had another 3 courses to go; not when its just the 1. It was a ripoff. And it was as loud as a nightclub. I was literally almost shouting and they werent busy"
Special Features: late-night find, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Fair)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
03/10/2010
(review submitted 03/12/2010)
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Review 6 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"We were in on a sunday night, but didn't have the sunday night 5 course special as it was all fish and no meat. Also, there were so many tempting things to chose on the main menu!"
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/28/2010
(review submitted 03/11/2010)
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Review 7 for Public
Overall Rating
(Fair)
"Waiter added two extra drinks on to our check. When we pointed it out, he didn't seemed surprised at all, immediately offered a pat, insincere 'sorry about that,' and convinced us completely that he was padding our check. He was lucky to get our 10% tip. We won't go back."
Food
(Fair)
Ambiance
(Fair)
Service
(Poor)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
03/05/2010
(review submitted 03/08/2010)
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Review 8 for Public
Overall Rating
(Good)
"The food was very good. I liked the modern setting though it was way too dark (it was difficult to read the menu) and too noisy."
Special Features: fit for foodies
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Good)
Service
(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
03/06/2010
(review submitted 03/07/2010)
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Review 9 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"Overall very positive experience - but... We were early for a 6pm dinner and were moved into the 'Wine Room'. The coat staff were friendly but the Senior Waitress/whatever was snooty/rude. The room is dark and has a warm ambience, but the wine list is poor for price and quality (Louis Jadot Burgundy at $20/glass is a total rip-off). We had to settle that tab before moving to the dining room - which is a little odd - it also exposed us to the same waitress :-( The main room is industrial in style (x-Muffin bakery) with some nice touches. Tables well spaced, you can hear each other talk without shouting. Service very friendly but not overly so. Food interesting, tastes/flavours good and unusual. Portions adequate and satisfying.Overall7.5/10"
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/26/2010
(review submitted 03/03/2010)
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Review 10 for Public
Overall Rating
(Fair)
"the sunday supper was a let down. the food and arrangement of the food was as mediocre as the service.The bread offered was a catastrophe. only the price level was up to the high expectations..."
Food
(Fair)
Ambiance
(Good)
Service
(Poor)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/28/2010
(review submitted 03/01/2010)
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Review 11 for Public
Overall Rating
(Good)
"Overall, i good experience. the host was very welcoming so that started well. however, the person who seated us was borderline rude when we asked for another table instead of the one right in front of the bar where 30 people were crowed and having a jovial time. although we had reservations for 7pm and there were many tables open away from the crowd we were told they were all reserved. what about our reservation? food was different and delicous, and the rest of the wait staff was attentive and good. the atmosphere was good, although the restuarant a little cold in both temperature and feeling (for the upstairs)."
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Good)
Service
(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/27/2010
(review submitted 03/01/2010)
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Review 12 for Public
Overall Rating
(Good)
"The hostess, bar tender and servers were great! Friendly and cheerful. The place is bigger than I had thought and the interior is really nice but the food is just so so. I had the swordfish and it was very fishy and dry- the sauce was too salty and definitely overpowered the fish which was lucky for me as it covered up the taste of the swordfish.
The menu is limited- not too many choices to pick from-
All in all, the bar area and the people who work there made it nice but I wouldn't go there for the food."
Special Features: good for groups, notable wine list
Food
(Fair)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/24/2010
(review submitted 02/28/2010)
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Review 13 for Public
Overall Rating
(Fair)
"we're very disappointed w/public. heard great things & by all accounts food was fantastic but the service was terrible- dishes were auctioned off @ the table, our 3rd course was placed @ table next to us & handed to us by those diners! We ate @ 6PM, the place was 3/4 empty so no excuse. Super small portions on mandatory $90pp menu - was laughable. Nothing special about that night. For pre-fix go to Babbo or Daniel. We left public hungry and feeling like we were ripped off!"
Special Features: fit for foodies
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Fair)
Service
(Poor)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/14/2010
(review submitted 02/25/2010)
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Review 14 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"We dined at Public for their Valentine's Day special meal, which was excellent! All of the staff were very professional and efficient, while maintaining that genuinely friendly demeanor which can be so hard to find. Almost every course was a melt in your mouth experience. The entire meal was a treat, and I look forward to my next visit!"
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/14/2010
(review submitted 02/24/2010)
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Review 15 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"Public is an excellent find and fully worthy of its Michelin star. If you are going there for a special evening ask the owner about setting us a Chef's Tasting menu and pairing. It is well wroth every penny and they are very generous with wine portions plus you receive a personalized menu listing out what you had that you can then take home. They also paired us with sommelier that was an excellent guide through our "wine tour". It was a pleasure to have an evening with friends here and will definitely be back!"
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Quiet)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/18/2010
(review submitted 02/22/2010)
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Review 16 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"Public has always been one of our favorite New York restaurants, with great food, a terrific waitstaff, inventive drinks, etc. However, this latest experience was definitely a step up from our last meal there, and I would have to say that the single Michelin star Public received in 2009 was definitely warranted.
Superb butternut squash soup, a fantastic terrine of pork, followed by beautifully presented main dishes - New Zealand lamb (of course) and roast duck, were topped off by a sticky toffee pudding that was simply the best we've ever had!!
I should also mention the unusual guava/red chile margarita ... yummy!! All in all, a superlative dining experience ... highly recommended.
One small caveat ... noise levels were a bit hig"
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/19/2010
(review submitted 02/22/2010)
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Review 17 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"Great food and great staff. The service was a little slow, so don't be in a rush. I think we were in and out in 2.5 hours, including half hour wait for the table once we got there. They apologized to us because they were running late with their reservations that night. We had a very secluded table for Valentine's Day, only 7 other tables around in a very large space and they were all couples. The staff was great, the waiters knew the food and were able to give informed recommendations, and of course everything was delicious!"
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, romantic, hot spot
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/14/2010
(review submitted 02/21/2010)
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Review 18 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"I had the chef's tasting, and it was once of the nicest meals I've had."
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/17/2010
(review submitted 02/19/2010)
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Review 19 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"The food was awesome during the valentine's day meal but a bit overpriced. It was way too much food. I would eat there again but would opt of the prefixed. I wish I could have chosen a three course instead of the five. It would have sped things up a bit. Desserts were great. The carrot soup with the marshmellow foam was awesome. Short ribs so tender and fell off the bone."
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, hot spot
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/14/2010
(review submitted 02/17/2010)
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Review 20 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"Dinner was excellent! Cute design, great food and service. Will be back!"
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/15/2010
(review submitted 02/17/2010)
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Review 21 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"Food and service was excellent. I took my g/f to Public for Valentine's Day and was very pleased. "2-seaters" were a little close to one another, but the cool vibe of the restaurant made up for it. Enjoyable experience -- I will recommend to my friends."
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/12/2010
(review submitted 02/17/2010)
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Review 22 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"This was the second time we had dinner at Public and I didn't expect to have a meal that could be better than the last. The menu was wonderfully crafted, the service was excellent, and the food outstanding; Public is now my favourite restaurant in Manhattan."
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/14/2010
(review submitted 02/16/2010)
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Review 23 for Public
Overall Rating
(Fair)
"crowded, obviously a very popular place, had to wait too too long for a table even with reservation, staff not attentive simply because they do not managed, absolutely not possible to communicate because of the noice,never received some of the orders because staff simply did not heard my order or forgott, rated a star in Micheling guide but definetly not worth it or did I just have a bad luck?"
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Fair)
Service
(Poor)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/06/2010
(review submitted 02/11/2010)
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Review 24 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"I took my friends from London because I felt that Public is a good NY experience. Despite the crowd, the food came at a good pace. The cured boar was great, as was the snail and oxtail ravioli. Was happy with the food overall. Service was not outstanding but there was nothing wrong either. Great spot."
Special Features: good for groups, hot spot
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/06/2010
(review submitted 02/10/2010)
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Review 25 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"The food was very good with great taste combinations. Deep fried oysters were magnificent as was the Tasmanian trout. The wine list was good offering wines from around the world with a good range of prices. Only one complaint the temperature was up and down all evening one minute very cold the next roasting."
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Good)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/31/2010
(review submitted 02/08/2010)
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Review 26 for Public
Overall Rating
(Fair)
"I can't believe Michelin gave this place a star. The food was pretentious, with relatively imaginative seeming menus, but the imagination didn't result in good food (and I am a fan of Jean-Georges who also uses sometimes strange combinations). There was a wonderful soup with fried mushrooms and truffle oil, but the anchovies and polenta were tasteless. The char was OK but the surrounding stuff was so salty as to be inedible. The lamb was paired with a jelly which didn't work (and the lamb itself was not top-notch meat). One dessert (toffee cake) was very good. The wine list was reasonably priced - a Jolivet Sancerre was good, but was served too warm and had to be chilled. By the time it was cool enough we were well into our 2nd course."
Food
(Fair)
Ambiance
(Fair)
Service
(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/05/2010
(review submitted 02/07/2010)
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Review 27 for Public
Overall Rating
(Poor)
"Why did the Michelin give them a star 2 years in a row????? The food was very common (I had the foie gras as an apetizer and the lamb as an entree), nothing original, the products used were not of particularly great quality, and the service was below average. Definitely not for foodies."
Special Features: good for groups, hot spot
Food
(Poor)
Ambiance
(Good)
Service
(Poor)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/03/2010
(review submitted 02/05/2010)
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Review 28 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"Public has to be one of my favorite restaurants in the city, and not just because I am an Australiaphile. The food is inventive, the wines perfect, and the staff could not be more accommodating and helpful."
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, hot spot
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
02/01/2010
(review submitted 02/03/2010)
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Review 29 for Public
Overall Rating
(Good)
"Loved the ambiance of the place. The lounge towards the back would be perfect for a small group of friends for cocktails before/after dinner! Speaking of cocktails, the ginger-lime cosmopolitan was a heavenly mix of sweetness and tanginess! The scallops for starters went really well with the sweet chili sauce. Of the main courses, and we had a couple at the table to taste, the best was the roast duck in my opinion. Unfortunately though, we had to send one of the dishes back as it was too salty for our palettes, but apparently that was typical for that type of preparation. The servers were extremely accommodating nonetheless."
Special Features: special occasion
Food
(Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/30/2010
(review submitted 02/02/2010)
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Review 30 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"My main motivation for going here was the vibe, the space and decor. Extremely cool venue, lots of exposed and partially painted brick, high ceilings, kind of industrial feel. The food I think isn't that accessible, it's a tad pretentious and overpriced."
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Food
(Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/30/2010
(review submitted 02/01/2010)
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Review 31 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"Great restaurant and great food. Wish the menu had more items to choose from in terms of red meat but overral super great."
Special Features: good for groups, romantic
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/24/2010
(review submitted 01/26/2010)
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Review 32 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"the space is really cool and modern with high ceilings and skylights. service was great and food was delish. the only drawback is it can get really loud and it seems hard to hear the person you're talking to from across the table... otherwise great spot and i definitely will make return visits."
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/23/2010
(review submitted 01/26/2010)
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Review 33 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"This was one of the best restaurants we have ever been to in New York. The Sunday Supper was an incredible deal - 5 courses for $50. And the food was amazing. Creative, beautiful, and simply delicious. Each course was more complex and intense than the next. And the ambience was really comforting and classy. I would recommend this place to everyone I know. We can't wait to go back."
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/17/2010
(review submitted 01/19/2010)
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Review 34 for Public
Overall Rating
(Fair)
"We were very excite to take some friends from out of town to public. We hadn't been there but had heard good things. We were all very disappointed in the food and especially the service. The food was alright and if the service was better we might have had a better experience overall. It seems like another case of hype and too much attention paid the the design and look of the place and not enough to the food a hiring or monitoring good servers."
Food
(Fair)
Ambiance
(Good)
Service
(Poor)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/17/2010
(review submitted 01/19/2010)
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Review 35 for Public
Overall Rating
(Good)
"Upon arrival the atmosphere was really nice with a variety of 'rooms' with somewhat different themes. However, when we sat down to look at the menu I noticed it was changed from what was on the website... no barramoundi (which is why I wanted to try the place). So I looked for a substitute. When the waiter arrived, we were advised that the kitchen was out of 3 of the 8 main course items and 2 of the 4 side dishes and 1 of the 2 infused vodkas = basically half their menu. Mind you we had a reservation at 9:30pm on a Friday I was pretty shocked. I ended up ordering the duck and my girlfriend ordered the snail and oxtail ravioli.. food was really good. Who ever designed the place = great, the chef = great, whoever managers the kitchen=sad"
Special Features: hot spot
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/15/2010
(review submitted 01/19/2010)
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Review 36 for Public
Overall Rating
(Fair)
"I do not normally write reviews about restaurants. However, I felt compelled to do so after my utterly disappointing dining experience at Public. The space is undeniably adorable. The ambiance was nice as was the staff. But the food...not so good. The apps and entrees were average at best. Absolutely nothing special. And let's not forget that this is not an inexpensive meal. The couple sitting at the next table sent back two different entrees and finally settled on not eating at all. My friend and I are still trying to figure out how Public received a Michelin star. Overall, the food was a total let down and certainly not worth the money. I would have rather had a slice of pizza!"
Food
(Fair)
Ambiance
(Good)
Service
(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/16/2010
(review submitted 01/18/2010)
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Review 37 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"It was definitely a good dinning experience. The food was extremely tasty, although mine came a little bit "cold". The bread variety was not great though- and we didn´t had a chance to ask form more. The waiters were very nice, although the service was not the kind of service you expect when going to a one star Michelin Restaurant. Will definitely repeat in any case!"
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, special occasion
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/14/2010
(review submitted 01/17/2010)
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Review 38 for Public
Overall Rating
(Good)
"food and service overated, decor underated. Foi gras and toffe desert are the best"
Special Features: good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
Food
(Good)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/11/2010
(review submitted 01/13/2010)
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Review 39 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"Creative dishes, great presentation. Atmosphere was lively and busy, but not overwhelming. Service was a little spotty. Waited a solid 10 minutes looking around for our server to order."
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/07/2010
(review submitted 01/11/2010)
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Review 40 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"I had the anchovies for first course, and I found them underwhelming, primarily due to the density of the quinoa croquettes on which they were served. However, all other starters were very good, especially the scallops.
I had the duck for main course, and it was cooked to perfection, though could have been served a little warmer. Two of my fellow diners had the trout, and it was also perfectly cooked, firm yet still moist.
We shared two deserts, a sticky toffee pudding (beautiful presentation and good flavor) and a stout cake, which I liked though my girlfriend didn't.
Wines were excellent (the Sancerre and Mac Forges Pinot Noir) and the somelier helpful and receptive to our preferences. Overall very good, though the room is very n"
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/09/2010
(review submitted 01/11/2010)
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Review 41 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"the duck is excellent and the foie gras"
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic, hot spot
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/08/2010
(review submitted 01/10/2010)
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Review 42 for Public
Overall Rating
(Good)
"Food was good but menu is quite limited compared to other restaurants in its category. Biggest issue was that the dining room was just so cold! My date was wrapped up in cardigan, scarf and winter coat and still cold. Thankfully when we mentioned it we were permitted to have our dessert next to the fire in the annexe but when a table of 4 people next to us, all having the tasting menu, asked to be moved they were told that it wouldnt be possible and that "it's cold everywhere in the restaurant"...not the sort of service I would put up with when spending that much.
We were excited about returning after they were awarded the michelin star and I must say I was disappointed. It certainly wouldnt get one in London!"
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
Food
(Good)
Ambiance
(Fair)
Service
(Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/03/2010
(review submitted 01/08/2010)
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Review 43 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"That night there were severe heating problems in the restaurant, which somewhat lowers my rating. But the Sunday supper war truly delicious!"
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/03/2010
(review submitted 01/06/2010)
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Review 44 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"They made us feel special and well attended to. Great restaurant, food and service."
Special Features: neighborhood gem
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
01/02/2010
(review submitted 01/05/2010)
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Review 45 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"Public's food menu is not vast, but very unique. They have interesting combinations of ingredients such as oxtail and snail ravioli for the more adventurous foodie. This is not to say that they don't have other options. The swordfish and Tasmanian sea trout dishes were impeccable; perfectly cooked with complimentary flavors. The drink menu is outstanding, with equally adventurous cocktails (try the guava margarita with red spice) and a very comprehensive wine + beer list. The atmosphere is darkly lit, fitting for a romantic date or a chic dinner with friends. If you are looking for something not-so-traditional, Public may suit your needs."
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, late-night find, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/30/2009
(review submitted 01/03/2010)
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Review 46 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"My now fiancee and celebrated our engagement at Public, the site of our first date as well as our first anniversary. The staff made this such an exceptional experience with a quality of service that I have even found to be unparalleled amongst the SoHo / Tribeca restaurant scene. We both found the food to be excellent, particularly the main course and desert."
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/31/2009
(review submitted 01/03/2010)
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Review 47 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"Beautiful and attentive service. Nice food selection, but the portions are small. A bit pricey but a cool place to hang with friends. Trendy. If you like oysters, you MUST order the fried oysters."
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/27/2009
(review submitted 12/29/2009)
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Review 48 for Public
Overall Rating
(Good)
"This Restaurant was given to me by a close friend who lives in NYC - he said the food/atmosphere is fantastic. I was underwhelmed by the food, although not TERRIBLE it just seemed to lack the flavor that the menu boasted. My boyfriend and I joked that it would be a horrible first date spot because the menu was printed in such light ink that I had to hold a candle up to it to read it - I'm 27 years old and have great vision...The evening was fantastic only because we always enjoy our time together and the service was exceptional."
Food
(Fair)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/22/2009
(review submitted 12/28/2009)
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Review 49 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"The menu was excellent--exotic in a nice way. I loved my scallop starter and dessert of apple crumble with a touch of miso. However, didn't care much about my fish main which was supposedly trout but tasted a lot like salmon. Service was okay: efficient but not warm. It's good place to get together with friends you haven't seen in a long time as Public is happening yet not too noisy to stifle conversation."
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/18/2009
(review submitted 12/28/2009)
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Review 50 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"wonderful and creative as ever! Sunday's tasting menu is a great deal!!!"
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/20/2009
(review submitted 12/22/2009)
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Review 51 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"Wow! I knew my dining experience was going to be good based on the reviews and friends' recommendations, but it far exceeded my expectations! There were foods that were paired that I never would have done on my own, but everything complemented the other foods well. You won't be disappointed with the food at all! I will definitely be back!"
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/18/2009
(review submitted 12/20/2009)
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Review 52 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"Everything was great!! This is the second time I come to the restaurant and I continue to have a great food experience and service. My only concern was that the table we were offered was by the bar when the rest of the dining room area was available and there was already a vibrant (loud) scene by the bar that was not appropriate for my dinner guests. Nonetheless, the lady that took care of us did not hesitate a moment when I requested to be moved to a quieter area in the room. Viola! The rest of the night was terrific!! I highly recommend this place!!"
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/14/2009
(review submitted 12/16/2009)
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Review 53 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"It is "a New York scene": beautiful people, dark and glamourous, good food and good wine, prepare to speak really loud and pretend that you hear what it is said to you... you will have a good time"
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, hot spot
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/12/2009
(review submitted 12/14/2009)
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Review 54 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"Overall a great dining experience. Everything from the welcome, the ambience, the service, the bread basket, the food and the wine was fantastic. I will definitely recommend Public to my friends."
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, great for brunch
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/12/2009
(review submitted 12/14/2009)
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Review 55 for Public
Overall Rating
(Good)
"Food has gone downhill since the last time I was there. Also, it felt like the servers were trying to rush us through our meal."
Food
(Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/11/2009
(review submitted 12/13/2009)
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Review 56 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"We had an amazing experience at Public. An eclectic menu with diverse flavors on the plates made for a phenomenal culinary experience. The atmosphere and service were great as well. We highly recommend dining at Public! Many thanks to the chef!"
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/10/2009
(review submitted 12/12/2009)
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Review 57 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"Terrif bar and restaurant! Exotic and interesting cocktails served by a v. professional bar tender were GREAT. Small but incredibly interesting list of appetizers. Entrees were delish. All staff encountered were friendly and warm. We will go back."
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/08/2009
(review submitted 12/10/2009)
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Review 58 for Public
Overall Rating
(Good)
"The creative menu is not so creative..."
Food
(Good)
Ambiance
(Good)
Service
(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/06/2009
(review submitted 12/10/2009)
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Review 59 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"what a great place! Loved the atmosphere, especially the Monday room and the fireplace room. Bar was nicely full and the resturant was warm and inviting. The food was fantastic, creative, and reasonably priced. I brought my own wine ($25 corkage) but next time will try the interesting wine list"
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/05/2009
(review submitted 12/08/2009)
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Review 60 for Public
Overall Rating
(Outstanding)
"Wow, now we know what the buzz is all about. It deserves the Michelin star."
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, notable wine list, hot spot
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
11/17/2009
(review submitted 12/08/2009)
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Review 61 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"Striking decor. Very good food. Excellent service. Noise level was higher than desirable."
Special Features: good for groups, notable wine list
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Outstanding)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/05/2009
(review submitted 12/07/2009)
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Review 62 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"Great dining experience. Food was very good for carnivors and vegetarians alike. (Surprisingly enough, the tofu curry was fantastic) Osso-bucco and snail ravioli had lovely filling but pasta was a bit too al dente. While I generally dislike chocolate mousse, theirs was firmer in texture than most, and salted-- When paired with the tahini ice cream, it made for a fantastic dessert. Portions are large and service was impressive. The wait staff was very friendly, attentive and helpful. Looking around the restaurant, it seemed that every table nearby was similarly attended to. Would recommend highly and will definitely return."
Special Features: fit for foodies
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/05/2009
(review submitted 12/07/2009)
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Review 63 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"The service was excellent as was the range of menu items which were quite well prepared. Innovative interior in a cozy section of Soho."
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
12/02/2009
(review submitted 12/04/2009)
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Review 64 for Public
Overall Rating
(Good)
"The food is exceptional and extremely creative. The service could use some improvement. An accident occurred with a waiter and my friend and my friend was not compensated in any way. He was hit by a plate that a waiter dropped."
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, notable wine list, special occasion
Food
(Outstanding)
Ambiance
(Good)
Service
(Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
11/27/2009
(review submitted 12/03/2009)
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Review 65 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"The ambience is terrific, as is the decor, with its wooden floors, and the bar, and it was lively on a cold monday night.Now, the food tastes fabulous, the only problem are their small portions. If i wasnt on a diet, I would be upset (I would never take my father, who hasa big appetite) but it fits in with a healthy lifestyle. So one can have a three course meal and not feel guilty about dining out (except for your pocket, thankgoodness it wasn't on me !)"
Special Features: good for groups, notable wine list
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
Service
(Outstanding)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
11/30/2009
(review submitted 12/02/2009)
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Review 66 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"Public is one of my favorite restaurants. I've been there at least 10 times now. The food is always interesting. only thing is that I wish i would see beef more often on the menu.
Also, it would be nice to have some bar food on the menu"
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Very Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
11/28/2009
(review submitted 12/02/2009)
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Review 67 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"A fantastic and relatively low-priced way to get a Michelin star fix. The lentil salad and gorgonozola soup apps were delicious, and the sea trout dish was wonderful with the sauce and accompanying vegetables. I found the chestnut gnocchi in the trout dish to be a tad too oily, but that was a minor concern. The salted milk chocolate mousse (not a mousse texture at all, more like a caramel) was to die for--an amazing taste. The fig and vanilla bellini was yummy, though I couldn't taste either of those flavors. The downside was service. It wasn't rude or uninformed, but I felt we were sometimes a bit neglected. Dishes arrived at weird times. Overall, though an incredible meal, and well worth the price. THe space is nice as well."
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Fair)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Moderate)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
11/22/2009
(review submitted 11/22/2009)
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Review 68 for Public
Overall Rating
(Very Good)
"Food here was surprisingly excellent and inventive. Very attractive restaurant, but fairly noisy. Our server was a bit frightening--very stern and didn't seem to want to spend any time with us. Otherwise, great experience."
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, romantic, hot spot
Food
(Very Good)
Ambiance
(Very Good)
Service
(Good)
Restaurant Experience:
Noise Level
(Energetic)
By an OpenTable.com user
who dined on
11/20/2009
(review submitted 11/22/2009)
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Based on the average of (144) ratings-only reviews
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