Hell’s Kitchen Local

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.

Living near It’s Him, I know it is a great place to catch up with friends over a drink, or for a nightcap after a long day. I recently held a campaign event here, and we filled the place! I’m so grateful to the workers for their incredible help that night, and it was a great place to build excitement for our growing campaign.

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.

Live jazz and a great atmosphere.

Joe Allen has been my pre-theater or after-show drink go to for my whole life. It’s reliable, stress free and changes little. It celebrates flops and it just turned 60 (like me). I ate there before I saw A Chorus Line for the first (of eight) times. Original cast.

Amy Scherber opened her bakery on 9th Avenue in 1992, when plenty of people doubted a small, hand-built business could make it in this part of the city. More than 30 years later it is still here, still turning out some of the best bread and pastry in the neighborhood, and still the kind of independent shop that gives Hell’s Kitchen its character instead of another bank branch.

When I lived in Hell’s Kitchen, I loved coming to Clinton Cove for a picnic, to read, or just take in the river. It reminds me of the beauty of our city.

The staff here are incredibly knowledgeable about wine and spirits. They have great prices, offer delivery, and occasionally host wine tastings. Javi is one of the main reasons I enjoy shopping there. He’s always ready to help and does it with a smile. They also keep treats on hand for dogs, which is perfect if you’re like me and take your dog everywhere.

As the new kid in Hell’s Kitchen, Spitfire has become an instant favorite. My parents owned a small cheese shop when I was growing up so places like this hold a special place in my heart, especially ones as homey and delicious as Spitfire. If you ever can’t reach me, this is probably where I am. A few recommendations: the tuna melt is amazing, the iced cardamom vanilla matcha latte is my new favorite and don’t miss the small basket of “walking cheese” at the checkout counter.

I’ve been coming here since I worked at Waachtell.