PLEASE SUPPORT W42ST

W42ST runs on limited resources to keep Hell’s Kitchen connected, updated and upbeat. Access is totally free. Please consider supporting what we do so that we can continue our work!

The Artist Co-op

W52nd St – 10th Ave

I am so grateful for this home for multi-hyphenate artists. As a founding member of this co-working space for creatives, I can enjoy the luxury of printing audition materials, booking rehearsal space to self-tape, free coffee and/or tea for those infamous coffee dates with potential collaborators, and more, all in the same space where other artists are flexing their creative muscles.

52nd Street Project

10th Ave – 52nd/53rd St

After returning to NYC after nine months in Louisville, I became a volunteer for this amazing organization serving the kids and teens of Hell’s Kitchen, and they made the transition back so much easier. All of the programming is free, so stop in for some really inspired, no-holds-barred fun with professional theatre makers and some of the smartest, creative kids I have had the honor to create with

Gyu-Kaku

W44th St – 8th/9th Ave

This is my little secret that I only share with a few folks – my favorite happy hour in the city. The Japanese BBQ spot is perfect for big groups (you can cook/grill your own veggies and meat) and/or for friends to get a few pre- show drinks. I’ve been known to stop by for a late-night drink after seeing a show. It’s affordable and the food is also very satisfactory. Garlic fried rice FTW!

Vivi Bubble Tea

9th Ave – 43rd/44th St

This is my go-to spot for a boba (also called bubble) tea fix. From fruit teas to a classic like Thai milk tea, this is the perfect place to not only stop in and get your delectable tapioca-filled drink of choice, but their popcorn chicken and French fries are great to nom on as well.

Pio Pio

10th Ave – 43rd/44th St

For a fancier night out on the town, this beautiful Peruvian restaurant is perfect for family-style eating. Their dishes are filling and you can order a whole chicken for the table. Seems excessive; but after doing a show with a cast of eight, it’s the perfect spot to replenish. And the pitchers of sangria aren’t bad either.

Playlist

Thursday – Jess Glynne Feat. H. E. R.

Shadow Man – Noname, Phoelix, Smino, Saba

Django Jane – Janelle Monae

All Night – Big Boi

Velvet Rope – Rita Ora

Mirirai Sithole is an actor, mentor, and public speaker who is currently starring in If Pretty Hurts, Ugly Must be a Muhfucka at Playwrights Horizons.

This article originally appeared in April 2019 issue of W42ST magazine.