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If it’s hard for you to visualize a secluded garden oasis on the bustling streets of King West, you’ll be in for a treat when dining at Public Gardens —a New York-inspired restaurant serving up Italian fare, daily happy hours and rotating DJs. And all on a rooftop garden.
“If 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,” says Asher Jones, the operating partner and general manager at Public Gardens. “We really wanted to bring unique-characteristic venue like that to King Street.”
Jones emphasizes that Public Gardens aims to offer something unique for the neighborhood, setting it apart from the typical King Street experience — 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.
“The 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,” Jones says, noting young working professionals often get “daunted” by King Street.
“We try to provide an alternative to the club scene with something approachable, casual but sophisticated and character-driven.”
While the patio is currently open, Public Gardens plans to extend its heated patio for those brisk October days — because as Jones puts it, “Canadians are tough and will drink outside until they can’t!” Inside, the restaurant features an indoor area with casual seating, dark wood, red accents and leather, capturing the refined vibe of King West.
On the menu, diners will find an array of pasta and pizza dishes, along with standout mains including a burger, chicken parm, and New York sirloin among others. The thin crust pizzas are light and delicious,offering everything from classic pepperoni and Margherita to more creative options. Pasta lovers will enjoy options ranging from seafood to vodka gnocchi and lasagnes. The Ciao Bella is already a crowd favourite, both for its name and the combination of spicy vodka sauce, pancetta, pepperoni and stracciatella.
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 everyone’s favourite cocktails, the tiramisu is perhaps the most in-demand of them all — and for good reason. All the espresso martinis are $10 during the daily 5 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.
“We don’t want the music blasting in your ear,” says Jones. “It’s levelled correctly for the designs of the area, so while you can hear the music, you’ll always be able to hear yourself talk.”
Jones highlights that Public Gardens also broadcasts all the local and international sports games that the crowd might want to catch.
“We’re just a place in the neighbourhood where people can come and enjoy themselves,” he says. “It’s something accessible for everybody.”
