More than a year after Planta Queen suddenly closed at CocoWalk, one of Coconut Grove’s most prominent restaurant spaces is finally coming back to life. This May, Grand Public Kitchen + Bar will open in Coconut Grove, featuring an epic happy hour and brunch specials. It’ll open at the former second-floor location that was shared by Planta Queen and the Cheesecake Factory
The opening arrives at a moment when Coconut Grove continues to evolve, balancing its laid-back, neighborhood feel with a steady wave of new concepts. Grand Public positions itself somewhere in the middle, aiming to be both approachable and energetic without straying too far from the Grove’s easygoing rhythm.
A Space Built for Lingering
The indoor-outdoor restaurant is definitely swanky enough for date night, but mellow enough for weekday cocktails. A wraparound bar anchors the space, surrounded by curved banquettes, woven textures, and lush greenery that softens the room. Floor-to-ceiling windows pull in light during the day, while the lighting transitions into a more intimate, low-lit atmosphere at night.
It’s designed for flexibility. The kind of place where a casual lunch can stretch into the afternoon, or dinner turns into a second round without much planning. In a neighborhood known for its casual and breezy aesthetic, this already seems perfect. “Grand Public is about creating a place people want to return to,” says co-founder Matthew Tsoumaris. “We’re excited to introduce a place that blends great food with attentive service. Coconut Grove’s close-knit community made it the ideal home for our concept.”
A Menu With Broad Appeal
The kitchen is led by chef Leo Pablo, whose background includes time alongside Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Joël Robuchon. The menu will focus on modern American dishes layered with Mediterranean influences. It’ll offer a mix of familiar favorites and globally inspired plates…