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.

This is my favorite health food store in the city so I’m so happy to have it close to home. I’ve been going here for 26 years and will continue to go for their incredible organic produce, snacks, supplements and clean products.

Founded by three Hell's Kitchen natives, whose family has run a deli in the neighborhood for years, they serve what I think is the closest to In-N-Out burgers, which the former Californian in me appreciates.

I love taking my daughter to neighborhood playgrounds and watching her explore, develop new skills and become more confident with every new challenge. Seeing the world through her eyes reminds me why curiosity, courage and kindness became such an important part of Max's Adventures.

Pier 84 gives me a chance to slow down and enjoy the waterfront with my family. I love watching the boats, taking in the open views and sometimes letting my mind wander toward a new adventure for Max.

My favorite place to grab a Guinness and some wings, or my current favorite, their braised-beef brisket tacos (formerly sliders) after a long day or week.

I love the marquees, especially around sunset when the natural light and theater lights start mixing together. There are moments when the whole area feels almost cinematic.

The creative hub where we recorded Constellation. It’s been an independent recording studio for almost 30 years, hosting everyone from Aerosmith, Slash & Duff, Ozzy Osbourne, to Living Colour and The Fray — and now our band.

Their $16 Siesta Lunch Special is one of the finest deals in the neighborhood. My rotating order includes the lamb barbacoa braised in Negra Modelo with salsa borracha and serrano chilies, the crispy Gulf shrimp taco with guacamole, pico de gallo, and the beer-battered mahi mahi with poblano slaw and lime aioli on a flour tortilla. Bright, satisfying and always a treat.

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.