Hell’s Kitchen Local

Afali and baklava are heavenly! They’re my dad’s favorite treats when he’s visiting town. He’s been going there for decades.

Joe Allen has been my pre-theater or after-show drink go to for my whole life. It’s reliable, stress free and changes little. It celebrates flops and it just turned 60 (like me). I ate there before I saw A Chorus Line for the first (of eight) times. Original cast.

I enjoy visiting the Intrepid because it brings history, exploration and imagination together in one place. Seeing families discover the aircraft, submarine and space exhibits reminds me of the same curiosity I hope to encourage through Max's Adventures.

The Intrepid is a preserved piece of history that we are so lucky to have in Hell’s Kitchen. The museum holds so many pieces of military history and I always learn something new.

Reliable, hearty and consistently excellent. Their pad kee mao, the drunken noodles with tofu and mixed vegetables, is my comfort food of choice. When I am under the weather or just exhausted, this is my go-to spot for delivery.

I love Empanada Mama because there are so many different flavors to try, and it’s an easy place for everyone in the family to find something they enjoy. As someone who loves cooking, I’m always interested in the different fillings, seasonings and cultural influences behind the food.

Even though it’s usually bustling with tourists and Broadway patrons, Jorge and Gustavo, the managers, always welcome us with a hug and make us feel like family. We’ve celebrated many special occasions here, and even our Mexican friends have approved the authentic flavors. From melt-in-your-mouth tacos to delicious espresso martinis, everything is flavorful and made to perfection.

This spot is not only meaningful to me and my community because of its San Juan Hill history (MCB4 actually attended a documentary screening about it), it's also where I got engaged — at the Paul Milstein Reflecting Pool. Beyond the pool and terrace, I love the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts and the Philharmonic's lobby at David Geffen Hall, both of which are free and open to the public daily — and also great spots to get some work done while supporting the city's public spaces.

Poseidon Greek Bakery has been doing the job of providing Hell's Kitchen with sweetness for the past 100 years. My favorite is the koulourakia, a delicious brittle and crispy cookie sprinkled with sesame seeds. I love indulging with a cup of strong espresso.

I don’t go there often, but I adore old chandeliers and antiques. They make me happy, the grandeur, the history, the way they SPARKLE. The chandeliers embody the ability to SPARKLE — to emanate light, to revel in one’s majesty, it’s a wonderful metaphor. Shine Bright. Share Your Gifts. Make a Difference. They have absolutely beautiful pieces in there, and just going in feels like a kind of solace to be around such beauty and majesty. They have also advised me on pricing, trends and have suggested different resources. Another great go-to place.