Hell’s Kitchen Local

The neighborhood go-to for freshly made sushi, well-composed salads, guacamole, and just about anything else you might need in a pinch. The vegan EatPastry Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough has become a personal indulgence.

When I’m craving Korean food, I often visit this neighborhood spot instead of traveling down to Koreatown on 32nd Street. Their Korean fried chicken, tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes), and bibimbap (veggie/meat rice bowl) always hit the spot.

It supports notable playwrights, offering residencies to artists from underrepresented ethnic communities and giving them space to develop their work in a secure environment. My favorites are Lynn Nottage and Anna Deavere Smith.

Another classic pre- or post-theater haunt with great atmosphere and history!

Restaurant Row is one of those streets where you can find every cuisine imaginable, along with some great hidden gems. I especially love it at night, when the whole area comes alive with energy and so many delicious options to choose from!

A simple yet sophisticated intimate setting with the most delicious homemade Italian food — and everything is actually gluten free. My hubby and I save this spot for special occasions.

I love Irish arts and literature, and it's incredible to have a globally significant center for Irish arts right here in the district. It’s also an amazing story of a small but mighty organization that was able to give life to an old historic Hell’s Kitchen building.

This restaurant on W44th and 10th is always welcoming and friendly, and the chicken kabobs are terrific. They have red and green harissa and I strongly recommend them both.

I love the marquees, especially around sunset when the natural light and theater lights start mixing together. There are moments when the whole area feels almost cinematic.

Their $16 Siesta Lunch Special is one of the finest deals in the neighborhood. My rotating order includes the lamb barbacoa braised in Negra Modelo with salsa borracha and serrano chilies, the crispy Gulf shrimp taco with guacamole, pico de gallo, and the beer-battered mahi mahi with poblano slaw and lime aioli on a flour tortilla. Bright, satisfying and always a treat.