Hell’s Kitchen Local

Hell’s Kitchen Park is a real neighborhood park, made even more so by the local volunteers who help maintain the plantings, and those who promoted the new mural on the east building facing the park. This is exactly the kind of public space this City needs more of. It became one of my favorite places and a core memory from this campaign: standing in that park surrounded by the labor leaders and rank-and-file members from the unions backing this race, looking out at a crowd of working New Yorkers who built this city and still fight to make it work for everyone. That’s the coalition I’m running with, that’s the neighborhood I’m running for, and Hell’s Kitchen Park is where it all came together.

One word — Margarita. Now, I previously said authentic Mexican was important to me and something I’m on the hunt for. I can’t say I come here for that. I come here because it’s an institution! The margaritas are lethal, the staff is fun, and the food? Well, the food is good enough. Love this place for a pre-show drink and chips.

Consistently satisfying and bountiful doner kebab. Their babaghanoush is superb, and their gyro and chicken tucked into freshly baked bread, the Ramazan Pidesi, is a chef’s kiss. I come here when I need a quick, filling, quality meal and the least amount of decision-making.

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.

The Little Pie Company makes the most delicious, old fashioned pies. The classic apple is amazing but their seasonal flavors are just irresistible. At the moment, the strawberry-rhubarb is on the board and I urge everyone to run before they take it off the menu. I've already inquired and the next seasonal pie is cherry. But the best of all is the summer special: Georgia peaches. I will forego summer travel plans in order to not miss it!

An unassuming gem tucked among the tourist bustle. I went for dinner with a beloved executive coaching client and her family, and the chef’s treats and seasonal seafood were unforgettable. Fresh, refined and beautifully composed.

Angelina’s bombolones are the best. I like to get two and share with whomever I am meeting with: usually a glazed and one of the many filled flavors.

I love the Hudson River and spend a lot of time in Hudson River Park, especially Pier 84. It’s such an important green space for our neighborhood and we’re lucky to have it. I’ve spent so many afternoons there with my daughter at the water sprays when she was younger and now with a good book she’s older. As a member of the park’s Advisory Council, I’m especially excited about the improvements coming. It’s only going to make an already special place even better.

After trying almost every Thai restaurant in Hell's Kitchen, (of which one is almost on every block) I found that most places have a dish or two they really shine on, but Wondee is solid across their menu items. I’ve seen both Thai natives traveling to NY as well as Thai New Yorkers come and compliment the food (that’s a good sign).

There is a new location for this Italian restaurant at Silver Towers, and I am obsessed with their $7 breakfast special of a pastry and the coffee. The elderly mother of a neighbor described their Pain au Chocolate as "elegant," and when I had it for the first time, I could not agree more. I am also into their focaccia. I am spoiled that this is right near where I live, so it's a good location for a quick late night bite before bed when I've had a long day campaigning.