Hell’s Kitchen Local

Any burger place with a house specialty sauce always excites me, and Cubby’s might have perfected it on their Sylvester Smash. The portion sizes are great- even with a single patty burger I don’t feel like I’m eating an appetizer, and the toppings are always generous and fresh. The Combo Number 5 might be the best deal in Hell’s Kitchen.

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.

This cute cafe next to the wonderful MCC Theater has incredible food (my fav is the avocado toast!) and a chill relaxed vibe.

The life within that building combines world-class artistry with true community access. The Ailey building is home to one of the greatest dance companies in the world and yet its doors are open to everyone. My son spent 10 years dancing there from 4th to 12th grade. I spent most afternoons and every weekend hanging out there, meeting other dance moms (and dads), exploring the neighborhood and watching these incredible kids do their jam. The Ailey tradition represents our city’s legacy and our future.

I’ve been going to Glass House Tavern for YEARS. It’s my go-to spot for a post-show drink or snack and I’ll always find a friend here. It’s like my own personal Cheers. Even with the change of management over the years I’ve always felt at home here.

Libraries connect us with our community. So much knowledge, legacy and the power of our history, the arts and the programs they offer, in addition to the vast collection of books. I believe deeply in the importance of libraries. The staff at that library is so lovely, helpful, and welcoming. I feel sanity wash over me in a crazy world. I adore the Libby app, because I try not to order that much from Amazon, given their recent political leanings. YAY NYPL!

Lemon flavored doughnuts. Olive bread. Salted chocolate chip cookies. Need I say more? I usually stop by here after canvassing in the neighborhood for a pick-me-up and it never disappoints!

“The Kash” as my sweetie Marty and I call it. I love how the Middle Eastern theme connects so many different regions and culinary delights. The kale salad is by far the best I’ve ever had — what do they massage it with? I’ll never know. But they add roasted walnuts, pecorino cheese and dried figs. The diversity of texture and flavor is delish! Plus the octopus skewers, beet skordalia, walnut pepper spread and spinach feta tapas. My favorite area is the garden room in the back.

There is no place as grounding for me as Pier 84. I love to go sit by the water and read or relax. It’s so peaceful and rarely crowded on the average day. They also have inexpensive kayak rentals available during the summer. I tried it once and was not very good, but I had a fun time!

I love bringing relatives here for breakfast when they are in town, or stopping by with my co-workers for brunch after an early morning matinee. Great pancakes!