We were excited to go back to Publik today for their long-awaited reopening in their beautiful new space. The menu hasn't changed much and we were happy to see some old faves and reasonable prices. I'm sure a lot of staff have been cross-trained from the 300 W location, but there was a complete lack of hospitality that left me a little shocked. We were in today around 1:30, it was fairly slow when we came. The host was friendly and that's where it ended - we sat at the bar and waited more than 5 minutes for anyone to even greet us, odd considering we're two feet away from multiple employees and the only ones at the bar. When they did, it was literally "do you know what you want?" Had to ask for water, was never offered our check, not a single check back after our food was received... Again, a bit weird considering we were sitting literally at the bar and it wouldn't have cost anyone extra steps. Subbed the eggs in the burrito for tofu (never been an issue) and the burrito was missing potatoes. We felt too awkward to mention that due to the complete lack of communication at that point.
No one picked up our stacked, empty plates even though we sat at the bar for a bit after finishing. Coffee wise, the cortado espresso sat out for a few minutes while milk was steamed. I'd expect that mistake at a place that didn't have the rep Publik does.
Hoping Missy or mgmt will read this and consider this criticism constructive since I think Publik typically does really care about their brand and their customers. There is clearly some cross-training needed and an FOH manager to do some...
Read moreHave been wanting to check out this cute couple of blocks in Sugar House where Publik is, and decided to hit them up this morning after going to make breakfast at home and discovering we were out of sausage AND bacon (the horror!)
They did not disappoint.
I had to try the Hash, especially after someone rated them 3 stars because of their 'pretentious' take on the staple dish. It IS indeed a different take on the dish - i.e. instead of a small diced greasy hashes mix, it consisted of thin sliced potato rounds, country sausage patties, and sauteed onions, with a thick slice of sourdough bread. So, different, yes. But good. I would prefer a chorizo or other spicy sausage option though. Only complaint would be that one of my poached eggs was cooked through (instead of a runny yolk).
Also got the avocado toast. Probably also considered a pretentious dish by some, so totally worth it. Thick, rich avocado slices, perfectly ripe, and seasoned just right, also on a nice fat slab of bread. This was my favorite of everything we tried!
My wife got the French toast, eggs over medium and a side of thick cut bacon. The eggs were cooked perfectly, and the French toast (with real maple syrup!) and bacon were fantastic.
Of course, Publik has their own roastery, so we had to get coffee as well. Got a cold brew iced....so good. Smooth and full of flavor.
Service was great (we sat outside under a table umbrella).
Prices were as expected for the quality and area - we spent about $40 with tip. I'd probably go back and just get the avocado toast...
Read moreI love Publik Kitchen. The food, the coffee, the ambiance, the service, ALLLL of it. I’ve been taking friends and family here for years, and I am always thrilled with my experience. They recently remodeled, and WOW. The vibe is classy and chill at the same time. The breakfast burrito is a favorite, and I love how the baristas are cool to make whatever fun latte concoction I can come up with (alternative milk, half sweet, a little chocolate and a little brown sugar—you get the idea). My daughter is obsessed with the sparkling mint limeade, and I highly recommend the brown sugar latte. When I’m not super hungry I get the avocado toast and it hits the spot. I’ve had friends get their salads and sandwiches and they always look delish. Vegetarians and vegans have great options too (I’m a flexitarian and my kid is a vegetarian), including a fabulous tofu rancheros. The people are friendly, and I always feel welcome. If you haven’t been, do yourself a favor and head over. You’ll feel extra good knowing you are supporting a small locally...
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