If itโs hard for you to visualize a secluded garden oasis on the bustling streets of King West, youโll be in for a treat when dining at Public Gardens โa New York-inspired restaurant serving up Italian fare, daily happy hours and rotating DJs. And all on a rooftop garden.
โIf you’ve ever been to New York, you know the energy of a night out and the freedom where you so often end up in the rooftop areas at these venues that invoke such a feeling,โ says Asher Jones, the operating partner and general manager at Public Gardens. โWe really wanted to bring unique-characteristic venue like that to King Street.โ
Jones emphasizes that Public Gardens aims to offer something unique for the neighborhood, setting it apart from the typical King Street experience โ and it truly delivers. Located at 577 King Street West, this venue features an enchanting rooftop adorned with lush foliage, creating a hidden garden oasis right in the heart of the city.
โThe Garment District is just such a hub for life and activity and but at the same time, it was a little lacking in certain areas,โ Jones says, noting young working professionals often get โdauntedโ by King Street.
โWe try to provide an alternative to the club scene with something approachable, casual but sophisticated and character-driven.โ
As for the showstopping cocktails, alongside bellinis and house cocktails (including a strawberry negroni and Aperol strawberry sour) are nine original types of espresso martinis. In addition to Amalfi orange, Nutella, raspberry and decaf versions of everyoneโs favourite cocktails, the tiramisu is perhaps the most in-demand of them all โ and for good reason. All the espresso martinis are $10 during the daily 5 ย to 7 p.m. Happy Hour.
To create a cohesive yet unobtrusive backdrop for drinks and meals, Public Gardens features a soundtrack of rotating DJs spinning recognizable ’80s and ’90s classics alongside more modern beats.
โWe donโt want the music blasting in your ear,โ says Jones. โItโs levelled correctly for the designs of the area, so while you can hear the music, youโll always be able to hear yourself talk.โ ย ย
Jones highlights that Public Gardens also broadcasts all the local and international sports games that the crowd might want to catch.
โWeโre just a place in the neighbourhood where people can come and enjoy themselves,โ he says. โItโs something accessible for everybody.โ