Hell’s Kitchen Local

Great no-frills neighborhood bar with even better bartenders.

It’s so pretty, and outdoor space is a premium, plus a garden is just a major bonus in this neighborhood! And I have a key.

Italian food! It’s my upbringing, and I love the staff, who can clock that I’m also Italian when I walk in. You can’t underestimate the quality of a classic Italian meal or a stuffed artichoke.

When I walk back from Westerly Health food, I know if my bags are heavy, I can stop in the little open plaza by The Sheffield and take a break. Or have my soup, or make a call. I love the statue, I call her "Nippertiti" (a take off of Nefertiti), except she looks like she's had a nip and tuck, LOL! I adore the greenery and all the wonderful dogs and the openness of the space. I get to connect with nature, people watch, and I’m so grateful for all public spaces in NYC — they ground us.

On the other hand, my husband is Italian and has a high standard for Italian food. Norma has it. With a wonderful variety of dishes and pastas, the real hit here is the Neopolitan pizza. My favorite is the Norma, it makes sense that both their Norma pizza and pasta hit hard. Their friendly Italian staff and great outdoor seating make this one of my favorite spots to people-watch, enjoy some great high quality food and relax.

Everything at Empanada Mama is amazing! Despite the name, they offer so much more than just empanadas (although their empanadas are incredible) and every single thing on their menu is truly delicious. Plus, it’s one of the few spots open 24-hours in the neighborhood. Word to the wise however — be careful with that sangria. It’s tasty but deadly.

I have been going to this news stand since the very first day I moved into Manhattan Plaza. I have a bit of a scratch-off situation so these guys see me every day. What makes it special is that it feels so neighborly. It’s nice to be asked “where have you been?” when I’ve been away. I ask them the same when they go visit their native country and return. It’s not the shop but the people that make it special.

“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.

This is my go-to pick up dinner spot. Grande burrito, please!

This shop is an absolute gem for finding unique, NYC-inspired gifts for any occasion. Every holiday or birthday, I love stopping by to pick up a fun mug, quirky magnet, stylish candle, or some other unforgettable find.