Hell’s Kitchen Local

This is probably my favorite steakhouse in the world, largely because of its incredible atmosphere. It embodies everything I imagine a classic New York steakhouse to be.

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.

In the last year or so I have become really conscious of my food choices as I prioritize my health and wellness. Ceviche is a sleeper hit when it comes to macros. Kausa delivers delicious Peruvian food (including a variety of ceviches and tostones), wonderful staff, great outdoor seating and great value! Love this spot!

I’ve spent many sunny mornings cheering on my son Ben from the sidelines of Dewitt Clinton Park as he played little league. This is a fleeting period in our life as a family and I know I will miss it enormously once it’s passed.

While I would never recommend anyone RSVP here, given the ridiculous fee if you cannot hold the reservation or cancel 24 hours before, I have often come to enjoy the view. It is a great date night location since you can get small plates, making it easy to finish up and leave if the vibe is off without being stuck through a big meal.

We always called it 52nd Street Park — so many memories growing up there.

On the other hand, my husband is Italian and has a high standard for Italian food. Norma has it. With a wonderful variety of dishes and pastas, the real hit here is the Neopolitan pizza. My favorite is the Norma, it makes sense that both their Norma pizza and pasta hit hard. Their friendly Italian staff and great outdoor seating make this one of my favorite spots to people-watch, enjoy some great high quality food and relax.

Our favorite restaurant is this delicious Mexican spot that opened in 2001. You’re not going to get better Mexican food in Hell’s Kitchen, thanks to the owners Jesús and Irma Verdejo, who are two of the hardest working people in the neighborhood. They always welcome us warmly when we eat there for hearty cheese enchiladas and vegetarian nachos or take home a fat torta with queso blanco. If there’s one Hell’s Kitchen restaurant I recommend, it’s this one.

Sometimes a wait, but well worth it!

As a native Texan, I am always on the hunt for wonderful tortillas. I am very pleased to proclaim this gem on 10th Avenue as not only really excellent authentic Mexican food, but also, and more importantly, homemade tortillas and salsas. Get the lengua and barbacoa! Shout out to Irma xo