14 Best places for Spicy Food in Hell’s Kitchen New York City
Welcome to the sizzling world of "Places for Spicy Food in Hell's Kitchen NYC"! This vibrant neighborhood is famous for its culinary diversity, and when it comes to spicy food, it's a hotspot that's hard to beat. From authentic Asian fare to Mexican delights, Hell's Kitchen offers a variety of options to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey and discover the best places for spicy food in NYC's Hell's Kitchen!
1. Pure Thai Cookhouse
Experience genuine Thai shophouse-style dining in Hell’s Kitchen.

Thai food aficionados and newcomers alike are raving about the delicious and high-quality dishes served at this restaurant on 9th Avenue in Manhattan. Many reviewers have gone so far as to claim that it serves some of the best Thai food they've had in the city. While some customers found the spice level of certain dishes to be too intense, the overall consensus is that the food is top-notch.
If you're looking for a standout dish at this establishment, the papaya salad is a must-try. Order it at a medium spice level for a pleasant kick that doesn't overpower the fresh, flavorful taste of the other ingredients. The rest of the menu offers a variety of fresh and delicious options, making this Thai restaurant a top choice for any Manhattanite in search of an authentic and satisfying meal. The welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff only add to the overall positive dining experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
2. HYDERABADI ZAIQA
Experience the symphony of rich Indian flavors

The biryani offerings at this establishment are plentiful, with 14 varieties available to suit any palate. Pairing these dishes with mouthwatering sides like bagara baingan and chicken 65, coated in tangy chili sauce, enhances the dining experience. The taste is both satisfying and authentic, leaving customers content and impressed with the quality of the meal.
The portion size of the biryani is generous, ensuring that customers leave feeling full and satisfied. Additionally, the quality and quantity of the meat in the dishes are commendable, adding to the overall value and delight of the meal. These elements combine to offer a truly enjoyable and tasty biryani experience.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
3. Jaz Indian Cuisine
Authentic Northern Indian cuisine with a British-Indian twist.

The Lamb Vindaloo is a dish that is sure to excite the taste buds of those who enjoy spicy food. This fiery stew is made with red chillies and garlic, providing it with a bold and robust flavor that is both spicy and delicious. The lamb is cooked to perfection, making it tender and easy to savor with each bite.
For those who crave a meal with a bit of heat, the Chicken Vindaloo is a standout option. This dish packs a punch with its intense spiciness and rich flavor profile. The chicken is skillfully prepared, resulting in a satisfying and mouthwatering meal. Spice lovers will not be disappointed with the Chicken Vindaloo and its robust and spicy character. Both dishes are must-tries for anyone looking to add some heat to their meal.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
4. Kashkaval Garden
Casual dining with a Mediterranean twist in Hell's Kitchen

The chicken skewers at this establishment boast a delicious spicy marinade, enhancing the overall flavor and providing a nice kick. Those who appreciate a bit of heat in their meals will not be disappointed.
The peppadews, featuring spicy-sweet peppers stuffed with a delightful combination of feta and mint, are a must-try. The balance of heat and flavor makes for an exciting and satisfying dining experience. These menu items are not to be missed.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
5. Westville Hells Kitchen
Perfect stop for fresh, simple, delicious food.

For spicy food enthusiasts, the restaurant's spicy shrimp tacos are a must-try dish. These tacos offer a delightful combination of bold flavors and a satisfying level of heat. The shrimp are cooked to perfection, and the spices used in the dish complement the seafood beautifully. Each bite provides a burst of taste that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Similarly, the spicy chicken sandwich is a standout option for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals. The chicken is cooked to retain its moisture and tenderness, resulting in a sandwich that is just as enjoyable to eat as it is to look at. The spices used in the chicken's preparation provide a balanced level of heat that is not overwhelming but instead adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Overall, the spicy chicken sandwich is a satisfying and delicious option that is sure to please.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
6. Kochi
Combining street food accessibility with traditional Korean flavors.

Kochi is renowned for its exceptional dining experience, offering a varied menu filled with delectable dishes that are sure to impress. The restaurant's attentive service and cozy atmosphere make it a popular choice among food lovers. Standout dishes include the Mushroom Tempura with Potato Soup and Caviar, which boasts a delightful combination of flavors, as well as the King Salmon Bbimbap, which is both visually appealing and delicious.
The culinary expertise at Kochi is evident in the creativity and flavor of each dish. The potato croquette with purple beet soup is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, while the hwe dish provides a fresh and satisfying experience. The eggplant twigim with tteokboggi is another must-try, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to providing unique and memorable dishes. With its exceptional food and welcoming atmosphere, Kochi is a standout dining destination.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Affordable Nightlife
7. Guantanamera
Escape to Old Havana with our magnificent mojitos and live music.

The Ropa Vieja, a traditional Cuban dish, was a standout. It featured perfectly cooked shredded beef, slow-cooked in a savory tomato-based sauce with bell peppers and onions until it was tender and full of flavor. The balance of spices was impeccable, creating a dish that was both hearty and delightful to the palate. Each bite offered a depth of flavor that was simply outstanding.
The Lechon Asado, another Cuban favorite, was equally impressive. The slow-roasted pork was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy with a desirable char in all the right places. The spicy mojo sauce added an exquisite touch to the dish, enhancing its taste with a tangy and slightly spicy citrus marinade. The combination of savory pork, zesty sauce, and melt-in-your-mouth texture made this dish a must-try for anyone dining at the restaurant. Overall, both dishes were skillfully prepared, offering a delightful and unforgettable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Affordable Nightlife
8. Le Sia
Cajun-style seafood boil meets traditional Wok Fried technique.

The skewers offered are quite delicious, but one may need to order a substantial quantity to feel satiated. The hot and spicy sauce that accompanies them is highly recommended.
The Chinese-style jambalaya and the large format seafood boils are particularly pleasing to the palate. These dishes are available in a range of spiciness levels, allowing for a customized dining experience according to personal preference.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
9. Empanada Mama Hell’s Kitchen
Biggest and best empanadas in NYC.

The empanadas on offer are a true delight, with four different varieties tried and all receiving high praise. These pastries are generously filled, with a noticeable abundance of quality ingredients, and a satisfactory amount of meat, setting them apart from other establishments that may skimp on this key component.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
10. Don Antonio
Guy Fieri-approved spot for authentic Neapolitan pizza.

The Padrino pizza is a delicious and flavorful option for those who enjoy savory and slightly spicy dishes. It boasts a generous topping of olives and sopressata, complemented by an expertly blended cheese. The combination of these ingredients creates a satisfying and salty taste that is sure to delight.
In addition to the pizza, the spicy olive oil provided as a dipping sauce was exceptional. It added a touch of heat to an already delicious calzone and elevated the overall dining experience. The flavorful olive oil was so impressive that it nearly prompted a bottle to be taken home.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
11. Noodies Thai Kitchen
Experience the art of home-style Thai cooking.

For spice enthusiasts, the Drunken Noodles are a standout option. These noodles offer an exquisite balance of spiciness and flavor, making them a must-try for those who enjoy a little kick in their meals. The dish features a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and spicy elements, resulting in a truly satisfying culinary experience.
In addition, the Spicy Basil Fried Rice is a remarkable choice. This dish boasts a measured level of spiciness that delivers a delightful sensation without overwhelming the palate. The basil adds a refreshing touch, creating a delicious and well-rounded meal. Both the Drunken Noodles and Spicy Basil Fried Rice are exceptional dishes, perfect for those who relish spicy cuisine.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
12. Sticky's
Home to the finest gourmet chicken fingers.

The Sticky Spicy Sandwich is a must-try for any food enthusiast. Its unique blend of spices and sticky texture makes for a flavorful and enjoyable dining experience. The sandwich's bold and spicy taste is sure to leave a lasting impression, making it a standout option on the menu.
The new Hot Chicken / Szechuan Spicy Fried Chicken dish is not for the faint of heart. This fiery dish packs a punch with its intense heat, causing even the most experienced spicy food lovers to break a sweat. Despite its spiciness, the dish remains flavorful and satisfying, making it a worthy challenge for those looking to test their spice tolerance.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
13. Mee Noodle Shop
A beloved spot for hearty Cantonese noodles since 1996.

For those who enjoy spicy cuisine, the Cumin Lamb is a standout dish at this establishment. The unique blend of spices, with cumin taking center stage, results in a meal that is bursting with flavor. The heat level is just right, adding a pleasant warmth without overwhelming the palate. It's a must-try for adventurous diners seeking a memorable spicy experience.
The Hot and Sour Soup is another excellent choice for those seeking a culinary adventure. This soup delivers on both promises, with a spiciness that delivers a satisfying kick, complemented by the tangy taste of sour elements. The balance between the heat and sourness ensures that neither flavor overpowers the other, resulting in a harmonious and delicious soup. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a side dish, the Hot and Sour Soup is a crowd-pleaser that is sure to impress.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Dinner
- Late Night
14. Nizza
Hell's Kitchen's quintessential Italian trattoria since 2007.

The Calabrian chili pasta at this establishment is a standout dish, particularly for those who enjoy a meal with a spicy kick. The bold use of Calabrian chilis in the sauce provides a pleasant heat that complements the pasta nicely. The dish exhibits a great balance of flavors, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a spicy dining experience.
The spicy marinara sauce is one of the highlights of this pasta dish. It provides a rich and robust flavor profile that elevates the taste of the pasta. The spice level is satisfyingly high, adding a layer of complexity to the dish without overwhelming it. The marinara sauce is clearly crafted with care, making it a must-try for any diner.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range