Hell’s Kitchen Local

It’s so pretty, and outdoor space is a premium, plus a garden is just a major bonus in this neighborhood! And I have a key.

I couldn’t pick my top 10 places and not mention Flaming Saddles. It’s a guilty pleasure. I’m from Texas and sometimes I just wanna have a beer and sing along to Reba, OK!?

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.

Afali and baklava are heavenly! They’re my dad’s favorite treats when he’s visiting town. He’s been going there for decades.

“The Kash” as my sweetie Marty and I call it. I love how the Middle Eastern theme connects so many different regions and culinary delights. The kale salad is by far the best I’ve ever had — what do they massage it with? I’ll never know. But they add roasted walnuts, pecorino cheese and dried figs. The diversity of texture and flavor is delish! Plus the octopus skewers, beet skordalia, walnut pepper spread and spinach feta tapas. My favorite area is the garden room in the back.

There is a new location for this Italian restaurant at Silver Towers, and I am obsessed with their $7 breakfast special of a pastry and the coffee. The elderly mother of a neighbor described their Pain au Chocolate as "elegant," and when I had it for the first time, I could not agree more. I am also into their focaccia. I am spoiled that this is right near where I live, so it's a good location for a quick late night bite before bed when I've had a long day campaigning.

Having a great local izakaya nearby just makes Hell’s Kitchen that much better. The food and drinks are always on point, and they recently opened a small speakeasy-style bar in the back that’s become one of my favorite spots to unwind.

The most quietly radical restaurant in the neighborhood. Fully plant-based and donates 100% of its profits to charitable partners addressing food insecurity, restorative justice, and community wellbeing. As someone who does not eat dairy or pork, I appreciate a place where every dish is thoughtful and abundant, and I can eat anything on the menu. The bar seat is my preferred spot for a full meal on my own.

I don’t find myself in bars too often (I’m such a morning person!), but Vers is definitely one of my more frequent nightlife haunts. I have many fond memories of grabbing drinks with friends here before seeing a Broadway show. I recently attended their monthly musical theatre trivia night and had a great time. I consider myself to be pretty knowledgeable and was very much challenged.

One of my favorite dessert places in the neighborhood!. Their cookies are yummy. Dangerous, as I can only visit it sparingly!