Jamie Fowler is getting ready for a “lane change” in her career, but a move from Hell’s Kitchen is not on the agenda — “it’s my favorite place” — she even has her own plot in the Clinton Community Garden! This is Jamie’s West Side Story.
So, what’s your New York story? Born here, or just arrived?
I was born in Arkansas, but moved to New York as quickly as possible. I lived here in the early 90s. Eventually, my job took me away from New York, but I made my way back as soon as I could. I’ve lived in several different parts of NYC and in many different states, but my favorite place is Hell’s Kitchen.
What was your first job? What do you do now?
My first job as an adolescent was mowing lawns. As an adult, my first job was in the business office of my college. Now, I’m getting ready for a “lane change” as I move from my former role as Chief Transformation Officer of an accounting firm to whatever comes next.
What’s your favorite New York minute (or moment) so far?
There are so many good New York moments! In August 2022, I helped ring the NASDAQ bell, and in September of that same year I marched (as a bumble bee!) with Machine Dazzle from Columbus Circle to Lincoln Center with Little Amal, the giant puppet who represents a 10-year-old Syrian refugee.
Share with us why you love Hell’s Kitchen
What I love about Hell’s Kitchen is the community-mindedness, can-do spirit and positive outlook of welcoming willingness.
What’s your superpower or hidden talent?
One of my hidden superpowers is quietly recognizing and admiring the many fantastic actors and actresses who live in our neighborhood. I follow their careers and know their trajectories almost like some people know baseball stats. I see them, I know them, and I respect what they do.
What else should we know about you?
I was the winner of the American Business Association’s Maverick of the Year and Woman of the Year (Stevie Awards) in 2021. My career was in Corporate America for 38 years, but at heart I’m a creative spirit. I’ve worked background on some popular television shows, and I serve on the Board of Manhattan Theatre Club.
I spent 7+ years on the waiting list for Clinton Community Garden, and now I finally have my own little garden plot. The best things in life often require patience! I’ve been told I’m a walking advertisement for the diversity of Hell’s Kitchen. I’m Native American and I’ve been with my same-sex partner for 20+ years.
read more west side stories
Jamie’s Favorite Hell’s Kitchen Places
Via Toscana — 344 W52nd Street (bw 8th/9th Ave)
Via Toscana’s chef and owner Andrea Della Pina is a big part of what I love about this neighborhood restaurant. Andrea was born in Tuscany, and he provides a welcoming, authentic atmosphere that makes guests feel comfortable. He’s an attentive host who serves incredible dishes.
Delphinium Home — 353 W47th Street (bw 8th/9th Ave)
Need a unique gift or home item? This is the place!
MAD Museum — 2 Columbus Circle
Quirky, interesting exhibits!
ROBERT — 2 Columbus Circle
Great views, delicious food!
Central Park
Love our neighborhood’s proximity to the greatest park in the world.
Clinton Community Garden — 434 W48th Street (bw 8th/9th Ave)
A haven in the middle of our busy neighborhood. Behind the scenes, the garden is well-run and seamlessly governed. I love the annual sale of honey made by our very own Hell’s Kitchen bees.
CityStar Salon — 875 8th Avenue (bw W52/53rd St)
Need your hair cut and colored? This is the place!
Brow Society — 433 W45th Street (bw 9th/10th Ave)
Eyebrow artistry like no other!
Dolly Varden — 302 W51st Street (bw 8th/9th Ave)
I love to take my out of town guests to this restaurant. The food and drinks are reliably good and there’s something for everyone.
HK Free Store — 401 W45th Street (bw 9th/10th Ave)
This community spot is a place where neighbors take and leave items such as books, toys, toiletries, and household goods. It embodies our helpful HK spirit. [The Free Store is currently closed after a recent spate of vandalism.]
Anything else you’d like to tell us?
One of the things I love most is how neighbors help neighbors. Also, I love how W42ST.nyc educates us about what’s happening in our community and brings us together.
If you know someone who would make a great West Side Story (or you would like to nominate yourself) please fill in this form — w42st.info/WSSnominations
You can check out more West Side Stories and reader recommendations on W42ST’s Hell’s Kitchen Local App.
I have known Jamie for over a decade. She is a creative force and has wide ranging interests and I am sure that she will achieve success in her next endeavor. Surprised to learn about her love for New York city and her commitment to Hells Kitchen!
Interesting story. Thanks Darin Narayana
Jamie is the personification of the perfect Hell’s Kitchen resident – and a wonderful friend!!