Hell’s Kitchen Local

I’ve made VERS Bar a pseudo second home base for this campaign, bringing the community together first for a Summer House Watch Party with my wife, Darya, and Jackie Cox, then for the LGBTQ+ for Bores canvassing launch earlier this month. There’s something special about a space where you can have a serious conversation about what’s at stake in this election and then turn around and cheer at reality TV together.

This is one of those places that just feels good to walk into. Fountain House + Body is doing incredible work creating job opportunities for people living with mental illness. I love stopping in for a coffee or browsing their handmade soaps and candles. Everything is made with care and intention. And if you get a little gift from me, there is a good chance it’s from here.

It’s the perfect place to grab a pastry and some Colombian bites while I enjoy reading my book. The ambiance is cozy, making it easy to lose track of time. Plus, I love that I can bring my dog along, and they even have treats for her! It’s a great little haven for both of us.

I don’t find myself in bars too often (I’m such a morning person!), but Vers is definitely one of my more frequent nightlife haunts. I have many fond memories of grabbing drinks with friends here before seeing a Broadway show. I recently attended their monthly musical theatre trivia night and had a great time. I consider myself to be pretty knowledgeable and was very much challenged.

I am a bread lady and I cannot live without a good Amy’s baguette. I go to both the Hells’ Kitchen and Chelsea locations, but I love how intimate the Hell’s Kitchen location is. It’s a great place to meet friends in the neighborhood. It’s always lively.

Great coffee, amazing food, lots of tables. I’ve written many songs sitting at this coffee shop.

It’s one of my favorite places to walk when I need to clear my head. Being by the Hudson feels surprisingly peaceful for Manhattan, and I love just walking along the water and letting the noise of the city fade into the background for a little while.

I love Empanada Mama because there are so many different flavors to try, and it’s an easy place for everyone in the family to find something they enjoy. As someone who loves cooking, I’m always interested in the different fillings, seasonings and cultural influences behind the food.

Perfect place to grab a drink and dinner before going to catch a show.

I love this place. In a sea of chain stores in Port Authority, this shop is an oasis of creativity. It’s filled with one-of-a-kind clothes and accessories from local designers. I always pop in to see an ever changing stock of unique pieces. I love that it’s in Port Authority.