Hell’s Kitchen Local

This new coffee shop and eco-friendly sundries store has become one of my favorite places to get an afternoon coffee and tea (the hibiscus iced tea is to die for). They also sell a terrific line of vibrantly scented homemade candles — the chocolate covered strawberry actually smells like chocolate covered strawberries. I love supporting this shop because, according to its website, it’s an “employment social enterprise” where most of the employees are on six-month long job placements, “learning new skills and gaining the confidence and resume to find permanent work.”

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.

Restaurant Row is one of those streets where you can find every cuisine imaginable, along with some great hidden gems. I especially love it at night, when the whole area comes alive with energy and so many delicious options to choose from!

A coffee shop owned by a Korean-American woman (Vanessa), who researches everything from coffee beans to matcha leaves on the ground in Asia to produce the best-quality coffee and tea in our neighborhood. The owner also started a run club and supports local athletes and sports events. With plenty of seating, it’s a great place to get some work done.

Flex is a great neighborhood bar. I love the crowd and there’s always a crowd in there. It’s got a fun Happy Hour.

I love catching up with friends or stopping by alone and taking in the vibrant energy of midtown at Worldwide Plaza on a warm summer day.

It’s a nice place to grab cocktails while people-watching on the street.

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.

Good food and a nice cozy atmosphere to meet up with friends.

This is a great way to get out any stir crazy feelings or Seasonal Affective Disorder behavior — go rock climbing at the gym! I love to do this especially in the winter, where you can self belay up walls with different rock climbing routes, or try bouldering. It’s hard!