Hell’s Kitchen Local

When Romer opened a few years ago, their goal was to be a true neighborhood hotel — more Hell’s Kitchen than Times Square. Long before they officially opened, they reached out to us, and it was immediately clear that supporting local businesses was a key part of their mission. Their Corner Store carries a selection of our items, and they’ve included us in several of their lobby events. We’ve had friends and family stay there, all of whom had great experiences. And since opening last Fall, their restaurant, So & So’s, has quickly become one of our favorite spots to hang.

Again, I know I’m partial because I work there, but their facility is outstanding, with views overlooking the Hudson while you work out. Plus I teach a killer Pilates mat class on Thursday mornings, and the outdoor pool deck is also a bonus.

I love theater and I love to write about theater, which is why this gem of a bookshop is one of my favorite places to sit and write or sometimes just plain read. Their book selection is fantastic but I’m also a big fan of their Broadway-themed lattes and Broadway-themed wifi passwords.

Norma is my go-to “treat yourself” spot. The pasta is fresh and homemade and they have the best bruschetta you will ever have.

They have the best cupcakes! Also a place where I (should) only visit sparingly!

The Sheep’s Meadow is a great respite from the city.

Hell’s Kitchen is full of Thai restaurants, and most are pretty good. Thai food is my favorite, but having been to Thailand many times, I am pretty picky about the taste. It has to be authentic. I love the food at Valla Table. They describe themselves as “elevated Thai cuisine”. The dishes are authentic and beautifully presented, and I love the interior decor. My go-to dishes here are the Pak Mor (steamed rice roll filled with cashew and sweet radish topped with coconut cream), the Massaman curry, and of course, the Pad Thai.

If I didn’t live in Hell’s Kitchen, I’d absolutely be living in Italy. I love going to Norma for their pasta alla norma, a classic Sicilian dish featuring eggplant and tomato. Paired with a glass of Grillo, this is one of the best ways to spend a Sunday night.

A favorite of mine for decades. When we go to a dinner party, it’s a given we bring a pie from Little Pie Company. I love how W43rd smells like their Sour Cream Apple Walnut pie. What other block has such a pleasantly identifiable scent?

Such a great spot. Beautifully decorated, with a wonderful assortment of small bites and an unbeatable happy hour.