Hell’s Kitchen Local

Of course, Birdland is a legendary venue, but we particularly enjoy Monday nights when our pal Jim Caruso hosts Cast Party. It’s the open mic night for the jazz/Broadway/cabaret communities. We’ve seen some legends perform (Liza Minnelli, Marilyn Maye, Faith Prince) followed by some kid right off the bus who you know is going to be a star. And then there are some truly bizarre performances. On a recent night there was a puppeteer who had a geriatric marionette on a stripper pole.

Juiciest burgers with the best fries and veggie options!

Small but mighty. A great selection and very knowledgeable staff. Great recommendations for both drinking and cooking.

Wow, that breakfast burrito...this is such a great addition to the neighborhood. They do a wonderful job with their curation of products and of course their merch. That camembert hat is calling my name.

Everything at Empanada Mama is amazing! Despite the name, they offer so much more than just empanadas (although their empanadas are incredible) and every single thing on their menu is truly delicious. Plus, it’s one of the few spots open 24-hours in the neighborhood. Word to the wise however — be careful with that sangria. It’s tasty but deadly.

This place is just a burger joint, and they know how to donut right and you can see them do it right in front of you. The bun is a Martin’s Potato Roll which properly handles the juices as opposed to the ridiculous brioche buns some places use. They do one thing and do it right and don’t try to be more.

Hardware is super close to my apartment, so whenever I have some free time, I love popping in to catch a show. It’s such a fun way to support my sisters, hang out, and enjoy the drag from the other side of the stage for a change!

I love the design of the space — it’s so chic and fun! Plus, so many of my friends work there, so I was genuinely thrilled when I found out I’d be starting a new show there. It felt like everything aligned perfectly.

The homemade mini muffin tin you're greeted with instead of bread is my favorite thing! Then the cocktail menu for the Broadway lovers and the beautiful fresh flowers and outdoor flower boxes elevate the whole experience (and are details I notice and appreciate)! Lastly this establishment menus my favorite salad in all of NYC!

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.