Josh Pickard’s bid for an alteration that would create a 2,000-square-foot lounge designed by David Rockwell on the mezzanine level of Joe’s Pub, which he co-owns at the Public Theater, was approved without any fuss as last night’s community board meeting. Pickard tells Grub Street that the plan “expands an existing [liquor] license and existing space and would add 84 new seats.” He noted the new lounge, with restaurant and bar, would allow theatergoers “to come in from the cold and sit and talk to performers.” The lounge has no official name as yet but is part of the Public Theater’s $40 million makeover — with funds mostly provided by the city. Joe’s Pub will also be getting a new kitchen as its part of the package. As for when both will open, “We’re shooting for this fall.”
