Hell’s Kitchen Local

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.

Rain or shine, late night or early morning, this food truck has been a reliable affordable food option. With incredibly friendly habibis (Issam and Sa’id) and the three brothers (Saleh, Mo and Abdul) whose family have run business for generations, they serve what I think is some of the best halal food in NYC.

I walk the High Line from home to the gallery — love people watching the people who are making selfies of themselves.

The go-to spot for an egg & cheese sandwich and my regular neighborhood stop for a coffee, protein bar, or anything I need for a quick bite on the go.

This place makes me happy every time I walk by thanks to the local artwork displayed in the windows. I’ve worked with them for years, and it’s always been a pleasure. I usually do my own framing, but whenever I’ve entrusted them with a piece, they’ve done exceptional work. It’s an efficiently run business, and I’m glad to see it still thriving in a neighborhood that has lost so many great businesses since the pandemic. If you have a photograph, painting, or treasured piece of art that needs framing, I highly recommend them.

Delicious Pakistani cuisine that eases the ache of missing my mother’s cooking in Virginia. Their seekh kebabs and fresh, piping-hot naan from the tandoor oven are like a small homecoming that satisfy the need until I can make it back down to my family in Virginia.

It may not be one of Hell’s Kitchen’s hidden gems, but I’m claiming it anyway. It’s convenient, familiar and makes my life easier. Sometimes practicality deserves a place on the favorites list too.

The New Dramatists has a striking Gothic aesthetic that has always captivated me. Long ago, the building served as a church, and that history can still be felt throughout its halls and architecture. Before the pandemic, it was a vibrant gathering place filled with activity and community.

Ballet is one of my favorite hobbies and pastimes, and it’s way harder than it looks! Ballerinas do not get the respect they deserve! Hell’s Kitchen is home to so many incredible dance studios, but The Ailey is my go to.

A hidden gem for a great massage. Tony and the other therapists here really know what they're doing. I've introduced quite a few friends over the years, and they've all come away impressed. No frills, just skilled hands to help relieve some of the stress and pain of our hardworking Hell’s Kitchen neighbors.