Hell’s Kitchen Local

Hells Kitchen Pilates makes me happy because it’s more than just a place to train — it’s where I’m building a new pilates community. I’m meeting friends who are also my neighbors, and I’ve found the perfect space to focus on my body and practice what I love. I actually discovered it by chance one day while walking through the neighborhood. I decided to take a different street than usual and saw Nadya, one of the owners, with her beautiful dog Lucky, cleaning a new space that said “Pilates.” I asked her about it and told her I would love to work there — and now I get to be part of this amazing community every day.

I try to visit once a month for live music. The second you walk in, it feels like you’ve stepped into a new scene, a different era, and completely out of the city. It draws a great crowd of all ages hanging out, dancing and enjoying music. Plus, Butch Phelps has been playing there since 2021 and always puts on a great show.

I took my current girlfriend here on one of our first dates.

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.

I’ve been coming here since I worked at Waachtell.

A wonderful little bar with incredible cocktails after a show.

My favorite restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen, Il Melograno. I have so many great memories eating here, especially with my partner of 10 years, James. We especially love their outdoor seating, especially on a warm summer night. It reminds me of the magic of New York, and the vibrant community of Hell’s Kitchen. I always come back for the pappardelle and the cannolis.

Another classic pre- or post-theater haunt with great atmosphere and history!

I am a beer-on-tap drinker. Rudy’s is wallet-friendly, unpretentious and welcoming to everyone. No attitude, no judgement. Easy to strike up a conversation. Rumored to have been a speakeasy. One of New York’s first liquor licenses. And the pig in front is iconic!

Rain or shine, late night or early morning, this food truck has been a reliable affordable food option. With incredibly friendly habibis (Issam and Sa’id) and the three brothers (Saleh, Mo and Abdul) whose family have run business for generations, they serve what I think is some of the best halal food in NYC.