Madhavan Parthasarthy is the head of innovation and marketing for a beverage packaging company and also a professional landscape photographer — a job that takes him all over the world — but it’s the pull of the many restaurants and vibrant lifestyle that brings him back to Hell’s Kitchen. Here’s Madhavan’s West Side Story.
So, what’s your New York story? Born here, or just arrived?
I grew up in New Jersey, lived in five countries and eight states, most recently in Connecticut. I moved to New York City just a little over a year ago after my kids went off to college, because I wanted to experience the excitement of living in the city.
What was your first job? What do you do now?
I served as a US Naval Officer straight out of college. Today, I am the head of innovation and marketing for a beverage packaging company. And I am a professional landscape photographer on the side.
What’s your favorite New York minute (or moment) so far?
My favorite New York moment was trying my first Midnight Manhattan with a very special person at the Plaza Hotel. Lots of laughs, lots of silliness and a new favorite drink!
Share with us why you love Hell’s Kitchen
Other than the fact that it’s my backyard, HK has the best variety of restaurants in the city, and a vibrant lifestyle that always manages to make me smile. It’s quintessential New York for me.
What’s your superpower or hidden talent?
One of the silver linings from the pandemic is finding these latent talents we all have. For me, that was photography. I began a serious pursuit of photography just three years ago, and found that I had the eye for creating compelling compositions. Along the way, I met a National Geographic photographer, who has since become my mentor and continues to push me to expand my creative boundaries.
What else should we know about you?
I am an avid hiker and adventure traveler. I enjoy traveling to exotic places to photograph sunrises and sunsets. I just recently returned from Norway, where I spent a week above the Arctic Circle photographing the Northern Lights. And I am excited about the opportunity to continue perfecting the art of creating beautiful NYC cityscapes.
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Madhavan’s Favorite West Side Places
Jaz Indian Cuisine —813 9th Avenue (between W53/54th St)
Jaz is where I met my NYC social group. Along with amazing Indian food, I love the social atmosphere, laughs and friendship in this very vibrant restaurant.
Medi Wine Bar — 811 9th Avenue (between W53/54th St)
A great selection of wines and a low key atmosphere. Medi is the perfect place to sip my wine and quietly plan out my next adventure.
More Photography Stories
Blue Ribbon Sushi — 308 W58th St (between 8th/9th Ave)
Sushi is always a hit or miss affair, and Blue Ribbon is my go-to place for reliable, fresh sushi.
Hudson River Park
One of my favorite places to run or just sit and people watch.
B&H Photo Video — 420 9th Avenue (between W33/34th St)
OK, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention B&H. Although it lies just outside the HK border, it’s close enough to warrant a mention. I wouldn’t be where I am without the help and guidance of the amazing people at B&H.
See more of Madhavan’s photography on Instagram @kpmimages and on his website at kpmphotos.com. 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.