Hell’s Kitchen Local

I love Westville’s vast array of market vegetables, and I get to have my staples — sautéed mushrooms, roasted beets with goat cheese and walnuts, but then I splurge on garlic mashed potatoes and other treats. Veggies are so yummy, but sometimes in NYC, we don’t take the preparation time we need to have delicious veggies. They also have the BEST gluten-free carrot cake I’ve ever had — dense in the batter and fluffy in the frosting. I love how diverse the menu is too. When I took my niece there she had a hot dog and fries and I had the market plate. The staff really cares that you’re happy. The food is affordable, plentiful, and it’s fun. I also like getting credit for each meal. I’m a thriftista.

The Viagra Empanada, ’nuff said!

It’s centrally located and a cocktail bar, with a daily happy hour of good drinks. Essentially, it’s a meeting spot for my friends. I usually organize via text chains to meet up.

This is my go-to place whenever I’m craving tacos since it’s the closest spot nearby. The tacos are always solid, the prices are unbeatable, and I love that they also serve churros — it’s the perfect combo. Definitely the best-value tacos in the neighborhood.

Having a great local izakaya nearby just makes Hell’s Kitchen that much better. The food and drinks are always on point, and they recently opened a small speakeasy-style bar in the back that’s become one of my favorite spots to unwind.

I go to Dave’s fruit stand especially when I need heavily speckled bananas — very soft to the touch and intensely sweet and fragrant — for baking my vegan oatmeal raisin cookies. I’ll be doing a lot of baking for the coming holidays.

How can anyone resist Amy’s Bread for a sweet treat? Their carrot cake is hands down the best I’ve ever had in all of NYC!

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

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

Another favorite restaurant is this small Thai spot on 10th Avenue. It’s a friendly family-run business, and they always make us feel welcome. You can’t go wrong with their moist chive pancakes, one of the vegan curries with mock duck and a mason jar of Thai iced tea.