Public Fare

- 81st &, Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024

New York City is a whirlwind of activity, and sometimes all you need is a quick, straightforward place to grab a bite without sacrificing quality or convenience. When you’re spending a day near Central Park, whether it’s for a leisurely stroll, a visit to the American Museum of Natural History, or simply enjoying the Upper West Side atmosphere, a dependable and accessible dining option is a must. This is where a place like Public Fare comes into the picture. More than just a typical fast-food joint, it offers a simplified yet satisfying menu that caters perfectly to the needs of park visitors and busy locals on the go. Its location and straightforward offerings make it a valuable spot for those who want to fuel up quickly and get back to their day.

Public Fare is known for its no-fuss approach to casual dining. It understands that people in this bustling part of the city are often looking for efficiency and a pleasant environment to take a quick break. The establishment has a clear purpose: to provide simple, well-made snacks, salads, and drinks without the long wait times often associated with full-service restaurants. While its setup has been noted by some customers as having room for improvement in terms of signage and line organization, the core mission of providing a fast and convenient service remains. This focus on speed and simplicity is a key part of its appeal, especially for families, tourists, and solo diners who need to make the most of their time in the city. This article will provide a detailed look into what makes Public Fare a noteworthy option for your next visit to the area, highlighting its menu, location, and unique features.

The following sections will break down the various aspects of Public Fare, from its exact location to the different food and drink options available. We’ll cover everything from their simple yet appealing menu, which includes everything from salads to sweet treats, to their unexpected offerings like wine and beer. The goal is to give you a clear and engaging overview, helping you decide if this fast-food spot is the right choice for your next outing. By the end, you'll have a good sense of the atmosphere and offerings, enabling you to navigate the experience with confidence and get the most out of your visit. It’s the kind of place that embodies the pragmatic spirit of New York, providing a necessary service in a key location.

Location and Accessibility

Public Fare is located at 81st & Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024. This address places it in an incredibly convenient and highly trafficked area. It is situated right next to Central Park, making it an ideal spot for park-goers to grab a bite before or after their activities. Its location is also extremely accessible via public transportation, which is a significant advantage for New Yorkers. The establishment is just a stone's throw away from the 81st Street-Museum of Natural History subway station, which is served by the B and C trains. This prime spot makes it a go-to for anyone visiting the American Museum of Natural History, located just across the street. The area is also very pedestrian-friendly, ensuring that walking to and from the location is a breeze.

Services Offered

Public Fare is primarily a fast-food and grab-and-go establishment, offering a streamlined service model designed for speed and convenience.

• Quick Service: The primary service is providing food and drinks that can be ordered and received quickly, ideal for a "quick bite."

• Takeaway: All items are packaged for easy takeaway, allowing customers to enjoy their food while continuing their day, whether in the park or on the move.

• Limited Menu: The menu is concise, focusing on a selection of simple and popular items. This includes snacks, salads, and various bites that are easy to prepare and serve efficiently.

• Beverage Service: They offer a variety of drinks, including both hot and iced coffee, teas, lemonades, and sodas, providing a wide range of options to quench your thirst.

Features / Highlights

Public Fare, while simple, has several features that set it apart and make it an attractive option for its target audience.

• Simple and Clean Atmosphere: The venue is described as having a pleasant and clean environment. While it is a small area, it provides a comfortable space for a quick stop.

• Unexpected Offerings: A standout feature is the availability of alcohol, specifically wine and beer. This adds a unique dimension for a fast-food establishment, offering a more grown-up beverage option. The wine, including wine in a can, has been noted by customers as being surprisingly good.

• Limited but Quality Food Menu: The food menu, while simple, includes appealing options like Housemade Ice Cream, Flourless Brownie, and a Farro & Quinoa Salad, catering to different tastes and dietary needs.

• Affordable Pricing: The prices for the food and drinks are reasonable, especially for the location, making it an accessible option for people on a budget. For instance, a coffee is priced at $3.00, and a salad is priced at $8.00, which is very competitive for the area.

• Prime Location: The proximity to Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History is a major highlight. It's the perfect spot to grab a snack before or after visiting these major attractions, saving you from a longer search for a food option.

Contact Information

For more information or to inquire about the offerings, you can contact Public Fare using the following details:

• Address: 81st &, Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024

• Phone: (212) 488-1500

What is worth choosing

For anyone in New York City looking for a quick and easy dining solution, especially in the vicinity of Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History, Public Fare is a solid choice. Its primary appeal is its unmatched convenience and straightforward service. You don't have to worry about a lengthy wait for a table or a complex menu. Instead, you can quickly grab what you need and be on your way. The menu, while simple, is thoughtfully curated with a mix of sweet and savory items, including healthy options like the Green Market Salad. The availability of alcohol, such as wine and beer, also makes it a unique and appealing stop for adults looking for a simple, refreshing beverage with their snack.

While some customer feedback highlights a need for clearer signage to improve the ordering process, the core of what Public Fare offers is excellent value for its location. The prices are fair, and the food is generally well-received. It's the kind of place that fills a necessary gap in the market: providing a clean, accessible, and fast option for a quick break in a bustling urban environment. Ultimately, if you're looking for an efficient and no-frills spot to grab a bite or a drink while exploring one of New York’s most iconic neighborhoods, Public Fare is definitely worth your consideration. Its focus on simplicity and speed makes it a pragmatic choice that aligns perfectly with the rhythm of city life.

Public Fare

81st &, Central Prk W, New York, NY 10024, USA