If your date tells you to meet at The Library at The Public theater, first, don’t be alarmed; second, be happy, clearly your date has game. I walk or drive by The Public Theater several times a day, but not until recently did I hear of The Library located within the theater on the mezzanine level. This cozy and intimiate spot is one of New York City’s hidden gems; with an incredible cocktail menu and food to match, you won’t be disappointed by your experience…
My friends and I chose The Library for this year’s NYC restaurant week pick, partly because the menu was extensive but mainly because the cocktail menu looked ridiculously good. From Act I, I recommend having the roasted beets, arugula salad, and the farmer’s salad with kale and acorn squash. Shrimp tacos are also available and offered on corn taco shells, and they are another great nobread approved option. For Act II, I recommend the grilled bronzino, spiced pork chop, and steak frites. The grilled bronzino is served in top of farro, so be sure to ask for a nobread approved substitute, and the frites with your steak are subject to cross contamination, so be cautious.
Although there are more gluten filled foods than gluten free foods, the food is tasty and there are several ways to make your dishes nobread approved. Most importantly, take advantage of the incredible cocktail menu!! House cocktails, shrub pairings, and PAGES of spirits; there are plenty of drinks to indulge in! Great atmosphere, amazing drinks, and hip vibe, it’s only a matter of time before The Library becomes the new Mulberry Project.