Hell’s Kitchen Local

I don't go to fancy hair places but Robert at Barber Shop NYC on the corner of 50th and 8th is my go-to. He offers me a punch card punch every time for a free haircut, and I always decline, because who carries extra cards around these days? I think after all these years I have about 20 free haircuts worth of credit.

My go-to neighborhood pizza spot and, in my opinion, one of the best slices around.

It is so new and sparkly — love walking through it to Whole Foods or to the High Line.

Little Pie Company combines two things I love: baking and sharing good food with my family and friends. There is something especially comforting about a handmade pie, and I always enjoy seeing what seasonal flavors they have available.

For over 100 years the women in my family came together to make a recipe which required suet (yes — raw beef fat). As the years passed, Esposito became one of the only places in the city to get it. Thankfully, we have moved on to the vegetarian version of the same dish!

I enjoy visiting the Intrepid because it brings history, exploration and imagination together in one place. Seeing families discover the aircraft, submarine and space exhibits reminds me of the same curiosity I hope to encourage through Max's Adventures.

A great place to hang out on a weekend afternoon. The Bianca Buns made from slow-fermented Roman pizza dough are elite. I always grab a coffee and buy extra to take home. Make sure to catch the neighborhood acoustic jams every second Sunday of the month in the afternoons.

Delicious Pakistani cuisine that eases the ache of missing my mother’s cooking in Virginia. Their seekh kebabs and fresh, piping-hot naan from the tandoor oven are like a small homecoming that satisfy the need until I can make it back down to my family in Virginia.

Well this should have been on top too but it is not in Hells Kitchen — what an amazing place to see some of the best photography in NYC. Soho Photo Gallery is New York City's longest-running member-run, artist-operated photography cooperative, founded in 1971 by a group of New York Times photographers.

Brendan is my go-to for a haircut in the neighborhood. He takes his time, pays attention to the details and always gets it right. Plus, the atmosphere is always good with great music playing and a beverage waiting for you.