Hell’s Kitchen Local

Great place for quick dim sum, especially when the outdoor seating is available. The dishes come out fast and fresh, and if I ever get a craving, this is the first place I think of for a satisfying bite.

It’s an off-Broadway complex offering a variety of plays and musicals. I especially enjoy UnitedSolo.org, where up-and-coming writers and solo performers give heartfelt, expressive performances.

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.

Their burgers are honestly the best I’ve found in New York — juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time. I love their fries just as much, and they’re always quick with takeout orders. It’s also great that they serve hotdogs at such an affordable price for a quick snack. And Charles, the owner, might be the nicest guy on earth.

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!?

Magick Balay, the demonstrator and owner of Don’t Blink Magic Shop, has such incredible energy! He is so keen to show anybody who walks through the door amazing close-up magic.

Tannen’s Magic Shop is so historic, dark, mysterious and everything you want a magic shop to be. You’ll regularly find me here browsing the huge bookshelf of magic books. I just can’t get enough!

This is our Sunday ritual. My boyfriend and I go almost every Sunday — it’s our favorite way to end the weekend with a movie. Even when family or friends are visiting from out of town, we always bring them here. It’s a must. We feel very lucky to have one so close to where we live. The tacos are incredible and it’s always full of energy. It has definitely become one of our regular neighborhood traditions.

This was my home for 10 years while dancing with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in the early 2000s and again for the past six years as I’ve been teaching at Ailey Extension. I love teaching Pilates Fusion on Sundays at 11am. My students are of all ages and levels but are all so open and receptive to my unique style which combines Pilates, dance, yoga, mobility, stability, muscle activation and breath work. I have people in-studio and from all over the world online as well. Then I get to teach dance classes to the kids and teens. I love getting to help shape young dancers and share what I’ve learned throughout my journey as a performing artist.

I have always loved the various Delphinium Home shops. The owners are great guys and I love having independently owned businesses in the neighborhood. Great place to find a last-minute gift or card.