Hell’s Kitchen Local

The neighborhood go-to for freshly made sushi, well-composed salads, guacamole, and just about anything else you might need in a pinch. The vegan EatPastry Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough has become a personal indulgence.

As the new kid in Hell’s Kitchen, Spitfire has become an instant favorite. My parents owned a small cheese shop when I was growing up so places like this hold a special place in my heart, especially ones as homey and delicious as Spitfire. If you ever can’t reach me, this is probably where I am. A few recommendations: the tuna melt is amazing, the iced cardamom vanilla matcha latte is my new favorite and don’t miss the small basket of “walking cheese” at the checkout counter.

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.

A coffee shop owned by a Korean-American woman (Vanessa), who researches everything from coffee beans to matcha leaves on the ground in Asia to produce the best-quality coffee and tea in our neighborhood. The owner also started a run club and supports local athletes and sports events. With plenty of seating, it’s a great place to get some work done.

Valla is my favorite Thai restaurant in HK! Their drinks and dishes are delicious ALWAYS!

This is a truly unique arts space created by ChaShaMa and its founder, Anita Durst. They provide artists with opportunities throughout the city by partnering with property owners who have vacant storefronts and unused spaces. Instead of letting those spaces sit empty, they give them new life by offering artists and small businesses a chance to transform them into galleries, studios, and creative spaces of their own. It’s a brilliant idea that supports both artists and neighborhoods.

The food is amazing and the service is always friendly. The vibe is lively and welcoming, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal. Whether it’s their pollo adobado, spicy mezcal paloma or their delicious guacamole, I always leave happy!

Their Ceviche Limeño with diced corvina, lime juice, red onions, cilantro and rocoto pepper is not to be missed — every visit feels like a quick, fun trip to Peru.

My go-to spot for delicious and healthy Greek food in the neighborhood. I love their fresh Greek salad, generous gyro platter, pillowy pita bread, spanakopita and various Greek desserts.