Hell’s Kitchen Local

I always go to VIV when I’m in the mood for Thai food. The vibe here is just so great!

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.

The New Dramatists has a striking Gothic aesthetic that has always captivated me. Long ago, the building served as a church, and that history can still be felt throughout its halls and architecture. Before the pandemic, it was a vibrant gathering place filled with activity and community.

This place is like eating a home-cooked meal every time. The food is authentic Italian cooking at its finest. For more than 50 years, this wonderful family has been feeding our community. The people who work there are fantastic, the location is convenient, and the food is both affordable and delicious. If you’re in the area, stop in and enjoy a meal.

This is the only place in the neighborhood where I can find passion fruit juice! As a good Latin boy who grew up in Brazil, I have to get my passion fruit fix.

I love bringing relatives here for breakfast when they are in town, or stopping by with my co-workers for brunch after an early morning matinee. Great pancakes!

This Korean Vegan restaurant and cafe is my go-to for yummy vegan breakfast, delectable matcha and cocktails with special ingredients like homemade candied ginger, my favorite. Mi-Young Yu, the owner, is an incredibly inspiring woman and entrepreneur who is also quite funny. She makes you feel like you’re a guest in her home and it’s very comfy, yummy and fun.

The Marshal is the perfect cozy brunch spot. It has such a warm, welcoming vibe — especially on weekends. The food is soooo delicious and the drinks are even better. It’s the kind of place where you want to sit, relax, and enjoy a long brunch with friends. One of my favorite cozy spots in the neighborhood.

An unassuming gem tucked among the tourist bustle. I went for dinner with a beloved executive coaching client and her family, and the chef’s treats and seasonal seafood were unforgettable. Fresh, refined and beautifully composed.

It’s one of my favorite places to walk when I need to clear my head. Being by the Hudson feels surprisingly peaceful for Manhattan, and I love just walking along the water and letting the noise of the city fade into the background for a little while.