Hell’s Kitchen Local

Because I have a sweet tooth, working out is a necessity for me to stay in shape. My first personal trainer in New York City was Ben Unger who owns BUF (Ben Unger Fitness). I don’t really like going to the big, impersonal chain fitness places. BUF is smaller and more intimate, and the trainers there are so friendly.

I’m always happy walking into Frisson. The staff are incredibly friendly and somehow manage to create a unique latte art experience every time. The ambiance, the vibes are just uplifting and it feels like you’re home. Having some of my artwork and sculptures on display there certainly doesn’t hurt, but what really inspires me is that it’s run by young Dominican brothers who do an outstanding job.

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!

I love to cook, and when I crave making ox tail or lamb neck stew, this is where I go. They stock cuts you won’t find in the more curated parts of Manhattan, along with produce that still assumes people actually cook. It is also remarkably affordable. I love walking into their meat refrigerated chamber. I admit to visiting the store with ulterior motives in the very hot summer months just to be able to walk into the refrigerated meat chamber. During a heat wave, it amounts to finding heaven, (only to be sent back to hell).

I love seeing the incredible exhibitions Fountain House presents featuring artists living with mental illness. They’re constantly engaging with the community and bringing people together through art programs and thoughtfully curated shows.

BDC makes me happy because it’s a place I’ve always dreamed of. Even when I was very young in Argentina, I had heard about it and imagined what it would be like to take classes there. Now, being able to go whenever I want, take any class I want and learn from teachers who are truly amazing and rare gems — it’s honestly a dream come true. Just being able to walk through those doors feels like a dream.

I love the Hudson River and spend a lot of time in Hudson River Park, especially Pier 84. It’s such an important green space for our neighborhood and we’re lucky to have it. I’ve spent so many afternoons there with my daughter at the water sprays when she was younger and now with a good book she’s older. As a member of the park’s Advisory Council, I’m especially excited about the improvements coming. It’s only going to make an already special place even better.

The recently re-imagined restaurant atop the Marriott Marquis is an elevated (pardon the pun) updated version of the original. The food is excellent and the relaxed atmosphere makes Times Square seem quaint 48 floors below.

The classic, nearly half-century old Hell’s Kitchen LGBT watering hole. I’ve made life lasting friendships, over a drink.

Living near It’s Him, I know it is a great place to catch up with friends over a drink, or for a nightcap after a long day. I recently held a campaign event here, and we filled the place! I’m so grateful to the workers for their incredible help that night, and it was a great place to build excitement for our growing campaign.