Hell’s Kitchen Local

Hells Kitchen Pilates makes me happy because it’s more than just a place to train — it’s where I’m building a new pilates community. I’m meeting friends who are also my neighbors, and I’ve found the perfect space to focus on my body and practice what I love. I actually discovered it by chance one day while walking through the neighborhood. I decided to take a different street than usual and saw Nadya, one of the owners, with her beautiful dog Lucky, cleaning a new space that said “Pilates.” I asked her about it and told her I would love to work there — and now I get to be part of this amazing community every day.

I'm here every day at least once, since my rescue dog Ruthie loves the doggie pools in the summer and is a social bug. There is an amazing dog owner community that often hosts holiday events and social hours there, and great neighbors who help clean and maintain that space (thank you).

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.

My husband Bobby runs this theater company, The Actor’s Gym, there every Thursday.

A simple yet sophisticated intimate setting with the most delicious homemade Italian food — and everything is actually gluten free. My hubby and I save this spot for special occasions.

Libraries connect us with our community. So much knowledge, legacy and the power of our history, the arts and the programs they offer, in addition to the vast collection of books. I believe deeply in the importance of libraries. The staff at that library is so lovely, helpful, and welcoming. I feel sanity wash over me in a crazy world. I adore the Libby app, because I try not to order that much from Amazon, given their recent political leanings. YAY NYPL!

One word — Margarita. Now, I previously said authentic Mexican was important to me and something I’m on the hunt for. I can’t say I come here for that. I come here because it’s an institution! The margaritas are lethal, the staff is fun, and the food? Well, the food is good enough. Love this place for a pre-show drink and chips.

I love that Arriba Arriba is still going strong since it opened in the 80s. It still attracts a huge gay customer base, especially on Monday nights when Broadway is dark, making it one of the, if not THE, gay restaurant of Hell’s Kitchen.

Another classic pre- or post-theater haunt with great atmosphere and history!

It supports notable playwrights, offering residencies to artists from underrepresented ethnic communities and giving them space to develop their work in a secure environment. My favorites are Lynn Nottage and Anna Deavere Smith.