Hell’s Kitchen Local

I’m always happy walking into Frisson. The staff are incredibly friendly and somehow manage to create a unique latte art experience every time. The ambiance, the vibes are just uplifting and it feels like you’re home. Having some of my artwork and sculptures on display there certainly doesn’t hurt, but what really inspires me is that it’s run by young Dominican brothers who do an outstanding job.

Industry is my very favorite gay bar in the city. It was the first gay bar I went to when I first moved to NYC. I still go there every Friday when DragRace is on. It's so fun and welcoming!

Perfect place to grab a drink and dinner before going to catch a show.

Baking is something I genuinely enjoy, so I love walking into Amy’s Bread and smelling the freshly baked bread and pastries. It often inspires me to go home, get back into my own kitchen and try making something new.

PS Kitchen on W48th Street is a fully vegan restaurant that proves plant-based food in this city can be genuinely great, not just a compromise. Beyond the food, they donate 100% of their profits to charity and hire people who’ve faced barriers to employment; it’s the kind of small business that makes the neighborhood come to life.

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!

This is a truly unique arts space created by ChaShaMa and its founder, Anita Durst. They provide artists with opportunities throughout the city by partnering with property owners who have vacant storefronts and unused spaces. Instead of letting those spaces sit empty, they give them new life by offering artists and small businesses a chance to transform them into galleries, studios, and creative spaces of their own. It’s a brilliant idea that supports both artists and neighborhoods.

The drinks are great, and their fried pickles are out of this world. On sunny days, I love hanging out with my dog. The staff is super friendly, making it such a wonderful place to chill and enjoy the vibes!

This is one of those places that just feels good to walk into. Fountain House + Body is doing incredible work creating job opportunities for people living with mental illness. I love stopping in for a coffee or browsing their handmade soaps and candles. Everything is made with care and intention. And if you get a little gift from me, there is a good chance it’s from here.

The recently re-imagined restaurant atop the Marriott Marquis is an elevated (pardon the pun) updated version of the original. The food is excellent and the relaxed atmosphere makes Times Square seem quaint 48 floors below.