Hell’s Kitchen Local

The Little Pie Company makes the most delicious, old fashioned pies. The classic apple is amazing but their seasonal flavors are just irresistible. At the moment, the strawberry-rhubarb is on the board and I urge everyone to run before they take it off the menu. I've already inquired and the next seasonal pie is cherry. But the best of all is the summer special: Georgia peaches. I will forego summer travel plans in order to not miss it!

My go-to restaurant for meetings with friends and business meetings! The service is great, I love the food, and I’m happy to run in during the “off times” when it’s quieter.

I absolutely love MNN. It is publicly funded TV and podcast studio that allows anyone who wishes to, to start their podcast or talk show. I have used their facility for over two years now and this is where I produce my talk show Carte Blanche, where I invite guests for unscripted conversations about New York City. At MNN, the commitment to freedom of speech takes a physical incarnation. It is remarkable that the city makes such a robust financial commitment to the freedom of expression.

TJ is my grocery boyfriend. The staff want to be there and they are so helpful. I love how generous they are, and they donate so much food. And even when I’m in a long line, I never wait long, and people are pretty pleasant. Good food, good prices, and they are very cheeky with their humor, which I love. I also adore that you can try a product, not like it, and they’re totally cool about it. They inspire variety, adventure, and I love how much food to donate to locate communities.

This is probably my favorite steakhouse in the world, largely because of its incredible atmosphere. It embodies everything I imagine a classic New York steakhouse to be.

I love that in the middle of Manhattan you can suddenly find a place that feels peaceful and surrounded by nature. I discovered this park while walking around the neighborhood when my parents were visiting me in New York. We were all fascinated by it — how calm it felt and how it exists thanks to the community that cares about it. It’s one of those little hidden places that make the city feel special. I haven’t been there in a while and I really miss it there.

This fairly new massage parlor right by my building couldn’t be any better. Their practitioners do exquisite bodywork; it’s sparkling clean and it stays open daily until 11pm. I often treat myself to a back massage and reflexology.

This is our Sunday ritual. My boyfriend and I go almost every Sunday — it’s our favorite way to end the weekend with a movie. Even when family or friends are visiting from out of town, we always bring them here. It’s a must. We feel very lucky to have one so close to where we live. The tacos are incredible and it’s always full of energy. It has definitely become one of our regular neighborhood traditions.

I love sitting at the bar at Bocca di Bacco. It is a great place to meet a friend or date for civilized conversation, a glass of wine and appetizers.

OMG! It’s culinary history — from the push cart to the vast array of foods from all regions. I’m currently reading a book about the history of Zabar’s by the late Lori Zabar. I also heard three generations of Zabar’s speak; they were real, raw, authentic and wickedly funny. When I’m traveling, sometimes I’ll have my white shopping bag, and people will say, “OMG, I’ve been to Zabar’s,” and we bond immediately. They show up in movies, plays, and are part of the NYC tapestry.