Hell’s Kitchen Local

I love seeing the incredible exhibitions Fountain House presents featuring artists living with mental illness. They’re constantly engaging with the community and bringing people together through art programs and thoughtfully curated shows.

Good food and a nice cozy atmosphere to meet up with friends.

I’ve spent more time working at The Actors'Temple Theatre than I have in any other venue in the city. It feels like an artistic home base to me. I’ve performed in five different productions at the Temple since 2021, four with Vital Theatre Company. The house is intimate and beautiful, featuring stained glass. I love the photographs of famous entertainers that line the staircase just inside the main entrance. It’s amazing to feel both the history and spirituality present in the building every time I’m at work.

This is probably my favorite steakhouse in the world, largely because of its incredible atmosphere. It embodies everything I imagine a classic New York steakhouse to be.

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.

I couldn’t pick my top 10 places and not mention Flaming Saddles. It’s a guilty pleasure. I’m from Texas and sometimes I just wanna have a beer and sing along to Reba, OK!?

A lovely restaurant with a romantic lower level lounge — have a seat on the sofa by the fireplace.

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.

A perfect location for a celebratory dinner and drinks — great vibes and fabulous margaritas!

The Ink 48 Hotel is where my family spent the first three nights before settling into our apartment. It became a home away from home. A lot of the members from our production team stayed here, so we got to know the hotel staff quite well. They took my son and me on a tour of the penthouse suite, and that’s how we found out about the incredible rooftop bar Hudson VU. The views from the rooftop are unparalleled. I highly recommend everyone visit!