Public Kitchen

- 215 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002

In a city known for its vibrant and ever-evolving food scene, Public Kitchen stands out as a destination that perfectly blends high-end cuisine with a cozy, approachable atmosphere. Located within the trendy Public Hotel in the Lower East Side, this restaurant is the brainchild of legendary chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, whose name alone promises an exceptional culinary experience. Public Kitchen is designed to be a New American eatery with a global perspective, offering a menu that is both familiar and exciting. It's a place where you can find a classic cheeseburger on the same menu as a delicate tuna tartare and a sophisticated black truffle pizza, catering to a wide range of tastes and moods.

The restaurant's design and vibe are as much a part of the experience as the food itself. The environment is described as "super cozy" and modern, with comfortable seating that allows for easy conversation. It’s a versatile spot, equally suited for a special occasion, a casual breakfast, or a lively girls' night out. The wood-fired oven is a central feature, producing some of the standout dishes and lending a unique flavor profile to many of the menu items. Public Kitchen has earned praise not only for its food but also for its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, which is evident in every dish.

Customer reviews consistently highlight the quality of the food and the ambiance. One diner raved about the "excellent quality for the price" and the freshness of the ingredients, while another praised the "amazingly good" roasted cauliflower and the perfectly cooked short ribs. The cocktails and wine list also receive high marks for their interesting and varied selections. It's clear that this is a restaurant that delivers on its promise of a memorable dining experience.

Location and Accessibility

Public Kitchen is situated at 215 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002, USA. The restaurant's location within the fashionable Public Hotel places it at the center of the Lower East Side's dynamic cultural scene. This is a very convenient area for both locals and visitors, with easy access to a variety of shops, art galleries, and other attractions.

The restaurant is easily accessible via public transportation. It is within a reasonable walking distance from several subway stations, including those on the B, D, F, and M lines, making it simple to get to from almost any part of the city. While specific parking information is not explicitly detailed, the area offers paid street parking. The hotel's affiliation may also provide additional options for those arriving by car. The restaurant also features outdoor seating, which is a great option during pleasant weather to enjoy the neighborhood's vibrant atmosphere.

Services Offered

• Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner: Public Kitchen serves meals throughout the day, providing options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu is diverse enough to cater to different times of day and different appetites, from a hearty morning meal to a more sophisticated evening entree.

• Brunch: The weekend brunch menu is a standout, offering a wide array of choices including classic American breakfast dishes, organic egg options, pancakes, and a selection of fresh-pressed juices and smoothies. The American Breakfast special, priced at $25, is a great value and includes two eggs, potatoes, a choice of meat, toast, fresh orange juice, and coffee or tea.

• Outdoor Seating: For those who enjoy dining al fresco, Public Kitchen offers outdoor seating. This feature provides a relaxed setting to enjoy a meal while taking in the sights and sounds of the Lower East Side.

• Table Service: The restaurant offers full table service with attentive and professional staff. As noted in customer reviews, the service is often a highlight, with servers being cheerful, efficient, and well-versed in the menu.

Features and Highlights

• Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Menu: The culinary vision of world-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten is a major highlight. The menu is a unique mix of American and international flavors, featuring wood-fired pizzas, innovative appetizers like Crispy Basil Pancakes and Popcorn-Cheddar Frico, and classic dishes with a modern twist. The quality of the food is consistently praised by patrons.

• Diverse Menu for All Tastes: The menu's "something for everyone" approach is a significant feature. It includes a variety of options, from a robust raw bar with Spicy Tuna Tartare and Sliced Fluke to hearty mains like the Soy-Garlic Marinated Steak and Grilled Lamb Chops. There are also healthy and vegetarian-friendly options, such as the Watercress and Baby Kale Salad and Roasted Broccoli Rabe, as well as a selection of pizzas and pastas.

• High-Quality and Fresh Ingredients: Patrons consistently note the freshness and quality of the ingredients used in the dishes. The commitment to using organic eggs, Russ & Daughters smoked salmon, and Niman Ranch bacon showcases the restaurant's dedication to sourcing the best products.

• Excellent Beverage Program: Public Kitchen features a strong selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The cocktail and wine menus are noted for their "interesting selections." Reviews mention delicious, well-priced cocktails like the White Heat, and a great wine list. For non-drinkers, the fresh-pressed juices and smoothies are a great option.

• Cozy and Trendy Atmosphere: The ambiance is a major draw. The space is described as cozy and stylish, with comfortable seating and a warm, inviting feel. This setting, located within the sleek Public Hotel, makes it a desirable spot for both a casual meal and a special occasion.

Contact Information

Address: 215 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002, USA

Phone: (212) 273-9403

What Is Worth Choosing

Public Kitchen is worth choosing for New Yorkers who are looking for a high-quality dining experience without the stuffiness of a formal fine-dining establishment. The restaurant's greatest strength is its ability to offer a sophisticated, chef-driven menu in a relaxed and comfortable setting. It’s a place where you can enjoy a complex and flavorful meal, whether it's the recommended Black Truffle Pizza or the "awesome" Tuna Tartare, and feel completely at ease.

The versatility of the menu is a key selling point. With offerings that span breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a variety of salads, pizzas, and main courses, it’s a spot that can satisfy almost any craving. The fact that the restaurant is led by a culinary icon like Jean-Georges Vongerichten ensures a level of quality and innovation that is hard to find elsewhere.

For a night out, Public Kitchen offers a great "gal's night" or date-night spot. The delicious food, combined with a selection of great cocktails and wine, makes for a memorable and enjoyable evening. The pricing is also noted to be fair for the quality and portion size, which is a big plus in New York City. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients and attentive service, as praised by customers, makes it a reliable choice for a consistently good meal. For a blend of high-end cuisine and a relaxed, trendy atmosphere, Public Kitchen is a standout in the Lower East Side dining scene.

Public Kitchen

215 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002, USA