Hell’s Kitchen Local

Joe Allen has been my pre-theater or after-show drink go to for my whole life. It’s reliable, stress free and changes little. It celebrates flops and it just turned 60 (like me). I ate there before I saw A Chorus Line for the first (of eight) times. Original cast.

This place is just fantastic, and my daughter gets to eat for free! The quality of the food is incredible, and the small sushi bar that they have on the island is surprisingly good.

Little Pie Company combines two things I love: baking and sharing good food with my family and friends. There is something especially comforting about a handmade pie, and I always enjoy seeing what seasonal flavors they have available.

A simple yet sophisticated intimate setting with the most delicious homemade Italian food — and everything is actually gluten free. My hubby and I save this spot for special occasions.

My favorite restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen, Il Melograno. I have so many great memories eating here, especially with my partner of 10 years, James. We especially love their outdoor seating, especially on a warm summer night. It reminds me of the magic of New York, and the vibrant community of Hell’s Kitchen. I always come back for the pappardelle and the cannolis.

Taking the kids to their baseball or flag football games, have a catch, play basketball, pickle ball, tennis…

Delicious Pakistani cuisine that eases the ache of missing my mother’s cooking in Virginia. Their seekh kebabs and fresh, piping-hot naan from the tandoor oven are like a small homecoming that satisfy the need until I can make it back down to my family in Virginia.

This is my favorite local supermarket for fresh produce. I love browsing the shelves, and often find unique items I wouldn’t expect to find in a typical grocery store.

This is a truly unique arts space created by ChaShaMa and its founder, Anita Durst. They provide artists with opportunities throughout the city by partnering with property owners who have vacant storefronts and unused spaces. Instead of letting those spaces sit empty, they give them new life by offering artists and small businesses a chance to transform them into galleries, studios, and creative spaces of their own. It’s a brilliant idea that supports both artists and neighborhoods.

I love the marquees, especially around sunset when the natural light and theater lights start mixing together. There are moments when the whole area feels almost cinematic.