Which Google Cloud service is recommended for managing public APIs?

Cloud Endpoints is the recommended service for managing public APIs in Google Cloud. This service provides a comprehensive solution for building, deploying, and managing APIs with enhanced capabilities not just for API management, but also for monitoring and securing the APIs.

It offers features such as authentication, quota management, and detailed logging, which are essential for controlling access and ensuring smooth operation of APIs. By using Cloud Endpoints, developers can set up and configure their APIs to handle traffic effectively, provide detailed documentation, and monitor usage in real time. This helps to ensure that the APIs are not only accessible but also secure and performant for end-users.

Other services like Cloud Armor, which focuses on security for applications, and Cloud Functions, which is designed for running lightweight, event-driven functions, do not specifically address the comprehensive needs of API management. Shielded Virtual Machines, while enhancing the security aspects of virtual machines, is not related to the management of APIs directly. Therefore, Cloud Endpoints stands out as the most appropriate service for this purpose.