Hell’s Kitchen Local

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!

It has such a cozy environment that feels like home. The Sicilian food is delicious, and their gnocchi is simply amazing! It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy some comfort food.

Tannen’s Magic Shop is so historic, dark, mysterious and everything you want a magic shop to be. You’ll regularly find me here browsing the huge bookshelf of magic books. I just can’t get enough!

Magick Balay, the demonstrator and owner of Don’t Blink Magic Shop, has such incredible energy! He is so keen to show anybody who walks through the door amazing close-up magic.

A Black owned juice and smoothie shop?? YES PLEASE!!! Fresh From Hell is great, from their acai bowls to their fresh juices and smoothies. This place keeps me feeling good and healthy! And did I mention that it’s Black owned?!

Cubby’s is run by my good friend Charles, my old coworker at Pastis! I remember we would talk about our futures together on our breaks — his dream of opening up his own establishment and my passion for public service. I visited again recently and it was quite emotional to see where we have both ended up.

Rudy’s is such a classic. It’s one of those places people from all around the world somehow end up at because of the famous promos and the fun atmosphere. Having it here is such a gem. I’ve gone there so many times with friends — it’s always a great, easy spot to grab a drink, laugh, and just enjoy the night.

This restaurant has delicious catfish, Cajun fries, lobster mac and cheese and cocktails to-go, which I’ve packed for summer picnics in Central Park. The mango margarita has a real kick!

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.

Grind is a relatively new (at least for my long HK history) addition to Hell’s Kitchen. The coffee is very good and they have a nice selection of breakfast and lunch options. If you sit in the window, it makes for excellent people watching.