Hell’s Kitchen Local

I always recommend this restaurant to friends and family before a show. It’s a fabulous restaurant, with a great staff and a super nice owner. They often keep the kitchen open late for Natalie and me, so it’s our go-to spot.

Incredible food, great atmosphere and staff. Jim Lahey, the owner, is a passionate foodie who travels the world looking for great food, and he loves this neighborhood.

This was my home for 10 years while dancing with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in the early 2000s and again for the past six years as I’ve been teaching at Ailey Extension. I love teaching Pilates Fusion on Sundays at 11am. My students are of all ages and levels but are all so open and receptive to my unique style which combines Pilates, dance, yoga, mobility, stability, muscle activation and breath work. I have people in-studio and from all over the world online as well. Then I get to teach dance classes to the kids and teens. I love getting to help shape young dancers and share what I’ve learned throughout my journey as a performing artist.

Grind is a relatively new (at least for my long HK history) addition to Hell’s Kitchen. The coffee is very good and they have a nice selection of breakfast and lunch options. If you sit in the window, it makes for excellent people watching.

B&D Halal is new to Hell’s Kitchen. I’ve tried it twice already and quite enjoyed the various options. The flavors span several cultures and countries. Excellent for take out.

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’ve spent more time working at The Actors'Temple Theatre than I have in any other venue in the city. It feels like an artistic home base to me. I’ve performed in five different productions at the Temple since 2021, four with Vital Theatre Company. The house is intimate and beautiful, featuring stained glass. I love the photographs of famous entertainers that line the staircase just inside the main entrance. It’s amazing to feel both the history and spirituality present in the building every time I’m at work.

Cubby’s is run by my good friend Charles, my old coworker at Pastis! I remember we would talk about our futures together on our breaks — his dream of opening up his own establishment and my passion for public service. I visited again recently and it was quite emotional to see where we have both ended up.

Midnight Recovery Face Oil Serum feels so good, especially when you wake up in the morning.

A lovely restaurant with a romantic lower level lounge — have a seat on the sofa by the fireplace.