The O-town Scene

 Local Eats steak and chops, salads with house-made shallot vinai- grette and soups made daily, as well as classics like spaghet- ti Bolognese. In the summer- time, Healy and Adams fea- ture locally grown vegetables, and use herbs grown right in the Meeker Hollow. What’s a signature meal in the Public? You could choose a Littleneck clam soup, steamed in a saffron broth with but- terbeans, then have the rare Ahi tuna with lemon-garlic aioli. Equally characteristic is an Asian Bok Choy soup with chicken and rice noodles, which goes well with the roast pork loin sliders served on toasted ciabatta rolls with tangy cole slaw and a spicy roasted red pepper dipping sauce. The wine list is also evolving: right now some stars are Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay from William Hill California, but you’ll find wines from France, Spain, Argentina and also New York state. Although there’s no draft beer, the Public carries all the Ommegang Belgian- style ales from Cooperstown. Specialty martinis and cocktails shift seasonally, and the staff is happy to perform “experimental mixology” with adventurous customers. The atmosphere is convivial, yet intimate. The Public is a great choice for a first date or a relaxing dinner with family and friends. You can also go solo and have a meal at the bar with the Public staff or enjoy peace and quiet at a cozy corner table. The Public Restaurant and Lounge is on Bridge Street, an easy walk from the Roxbury Arts Center, and across the street from WIOX, Roxbury’s community radio station. _ Simona David Public Restaurant and Lounge 2318 County Highway 41 (Bridge Street) www.publiclounge.net Public is open for dinner at 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. Reservations are highly recommended on weekends and holi- days, or for groups of four or more. To make reservations or find out more, call (607) 326-4026. Jan. 20, 2011 O-Town Scene 11                     Photo by Simona David                            

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