Menu

Public Kitchen and Bar

Public Kitchen and Bar, 120 Francis Street, Providence

4.6
RESTAURANT RATING: 
WONDERFUL
4.6 out of 5 (62 Ratings)
Powered By Opentable
0.5 miles Schneider Arena
About Public Kitchen and Bar
The Spotlight on Public Kitchen and Bar

Mid-Century Cool Meets Modern American Flavor in Downtown Providence

Located inside the Renaissance Providence Downtown Hotel, Public Kitchen and Bar brings a modern twist to classic American cuisine with a stylish, mid-century design. Just a short walk from downtown Providence’s most popular music venues, this contemporary spot offers a cozy yet upscale vibe with an open kitchen and sleek décor that makes it ideal for everything from a pre-show dinner to a post-concert cocktail. Expect a menu of elevated comfort food, craft cocktails, and a smart-casual crowd.

Why Concert-goers love it

Public Kitchen and Bar is loved by concert-goers for its prime location—just minutes from major venues like The VETS and the Amica Mutual Pavilion. The atmosphere is upbeat but not overwhelming, making it a great place to gear up for a show. Many reviewers note the efficient service and well-paced dining experience, perfect for those who want to eat and head to a concert without feeling rushed. There's a strong cocktail program and a curated wine list, ideal for pre-show sipping.

Who this Restaurant is great for

  • Groups of friends looking for a lively spot to gather before a show
  • Solo travelers wanting a stylish meal at the bar
  • Couples enjoying a romantic weekend with dinner and live music
  • Fans seeking a trendy but comfortable pre-show experience
  • Budget-conscious music lovers who appreciate good value in a chic setting

What People Say

Guests rave about the modern ambiance, with many calling it a “hidden gem” inside the hotel. The truffle fries, short rib, and signature cocktails get frequent shout-outs, and reviewers love that it’s “perfectly located” for a night out. Staff are noted as “friendly and attentive,” and several diners mention how smooth and quick the service is—great when you're on a tight show schedule.

Areas for Improvement

Some diners mention that the menu, while high-quality, could be a bit more expansive. A few note that the space can get a little loud during peak hours, though many see it as part of the energetic vibe. Parking can be tricky if you’re not staying at the hotel, so plan ahead if you're driving in.

The Bottom Line

Public Kitchen and Bar is a stylish, convenient, and flavorful choice for concert-goers looking to dine and unwind just steps from the action.

Average Price
$30 and under
Cuisine
Contemporary American
Dress Code
Smart Casual
Opening Hours
Breakfast
Daily 7:00 am-11:00 am
All Day Menu
Mon-Sat 4:00 pm-11:00 pm
Bar Area/Lounge
Mon-Sat 4:00 pm-11:00 pm

Public Kitchen and Bar Customer Reviews

Overall Average Score: 
Disappointing (2 out of 5)

Write a review

2

Disappointing - 2.0 out of 5

Beth, Boston Fri, 5 January 2024

I made a reservation for myself and 2 teenage daughters. We were excited to see a show at the Vet next door, but when we checked in, the host said "I hope you're not planning on making it on time to the show". I thought that was unfriendly and he seemed really grumpy! After we sat, it took the server 15 (or even more) minutes to come over and greet us (it was not that busy). We waited so long that I called a nearby restaurant to ask how long the wait was because we were going to leave. Once the server came over, he apologized for the wait, but I was really disappointed. As a server myself, I would have asked someone for help to greet my table, or send a manager over. It really wasn't the best experience. I probably won't go back. We chose this restaurant because we were goin to a show at the Vet next door.

Liked: Close to venue.
Disliked: Unwelcoming host.

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Public Kitchen and Bar is #109 of 853 things to do in Providence

5 of 5 stars5 out of 5
By: Rose_S778, Bronx, NY
Thu 12 Sep, 2024
l I was in Providence for NecronomiCon and went to Public Kitchen and Bar for their Rhode Island Clam chowder and their hot pepper calamari. I prefer Rhode Island chowder to the other versions and...

Read Full Review
1 of 5 stars1 out of 5
By: carolu33, North Kingstown, Rhode Island
Tue 30 Jan, 2024
l The food is good and the ambience nice but unfortunately the manager Christopher Moore is a nightmare. Our family, a party of four went out to celebrate a major event. The reservations were made...

Read Full Review
1 of 5 stars1 out of 5
By: Chelsea L
Mon 29 Jan, 2024
l While the food was decent, regrettably the General manager Christopher Moore was about as obnoxious and pompous as they come. We had made reservations for this past weekend to celebrate a major...

Read Full Review
Write a Review of Public Kitchen and Bar
Reference (Required)
Your Name (Required)
Your City
Your Email Address (Required)
Your overall rating of Public Kitchen and Bar
What was good?
What was bad?
Your review of Public Kitchen and Bar
Public Kitchen and Bar 120 Francis Street, Providence