Nicolae Rita, a freelance hair and makeup artist, arrived in the United States from Romania in 2005 and has lived in Hell's Kitchen for 17 years. This is his West Side Story.
So what's the New York story? Were you born here or did you just come here?
I am originally from Romania and came to the United States in 2005. I won a green card after randomly applying for the green card lottery, so I decided to give it a try. This was my first time setting foot in America, which I had never been to before. I lived in Brooklyn for the first 3 years and in Hell's Kitchen for the past 17 years.
What was your first job? What are you doing now?
I am an artist. I attended art school from an early age, then went on to art high school and then art school. I majored in theater costumes and stage design, but I have always been interested in hair and makeup. After graduating, I received training in hair, makeup, and special effects. At first I worked in film, then moved to television. My first job in New York was as a visual merchandiser for a Turkish denim company that had a store in Soho.
What is your favorite moment (or moments) in New York so far?
One of the first things I remember was walking down West Broadway in Soho shortly after moving to America, and Chloe Sevigny passed me and smiled at me.
The other thing was, on my way to my first job in SoHo, I passed a homeless man who told me every morning, “You should go to Hollywood.'' I was so happy, until I realized he was saying the same thing to other people…
Why do you love Hell's Kitchen?
I remember the first time my boss took me to a gay bar in Hell Kitchen. I was so fascinated. The first was Posh and the second was Barrage, but unfortunately both went out of business during the pandemic. A few years later, I moved to his place on 8th Street (above a strip club called Lace) between her W43rd Street and his W44th Street. I was able to find an apartment because someone knew the owner.
I was so happy to finally live in Manhattan and fell in love with Hell's Kitchen instantly, intoxicated by the city's energy. I loved being close to bars and restaurants, being close to the river, and being able to walk everywhere, including work and Central Park. Every summer, my favorite pastime was soaking up the sun at Pier 84. And so is taking the train to Brighton Beach or Coney Island and spending the day at the beach.
What is your superpower or hidden talent?
I'm very creative, resourceful, and disciplined. You can transform anything from trash to chic on a budget.
What else should we know about you?
My New Year's resolution is to focus on art, especially painting, and learning Spanish. I have already received several commissions this year and am feeling very positive. I often dream of owning a small business, like a social club, where people can create art, have a gallery, discuss hot topics, and drink prosecco.
Nicolae's favorite Hell's Kitchen location
quota — 801 9th Avenue (corner of W53rd St)
The food and drinks are delicious and authentic, all with Italian accents for a full Sicilian experience. My husband is half Italian, so I'm biased.
Gilda — 401 W47th Street (corner of 9th Ave)
I love the great Mediterranean food, delicious cocktails, bartenders and friendly atmosphere. I hope it reopens soon!
Poseidon Greek Bakery — 629 9th Avenue (West 44th/45th Street)
I love that it's very old-school New York and has been there for generations. It's a very authentic shop, everything is delicious and made with love, and the owners working behind the counter are very friendly.
galaxy dinner — 665 9th Avenue (corner of W46th St)
My favorite place for a late breakfast/brunch. There are so many food options and the prices are cheap, so I love eating outside and people-watching when it's warm. Diners are the ultimate American experience for me, and I find them very comforting.
Balcon salon — 674 9th Avenue (West 46th/47th Avenue West)
This is my new favorite gay bar. They have a great happy hour and it's not crowded or noisy and feels very comfortable.great place to see rupaul's drag race And drag shows are held on Fridays.
wine toner market — 677 9th Avenue (toward West 46th/47th Street)
I love the beer selection. The sandwiches are delicious and generous (he can share one between the two of us), and the understated atmosphere and decor is great, giving it a very European feel.
You can follow Nicolae (@nicolaerita) on Instagram. If you know someone who would make a great West Side Story (or would like to nominate one yourself), please fill out this form at w42st.info/WSSminations.
Check out W42ST's Hell's Kitchen local app for more West Side Stories and reader recommendations.
