The stretch of 9^th Avenue between 42^nd street and Penn Station used to be a rather desolate no-man’s land - a solemn strip between two transportation hubs littered with nothing but Jersey offal and understocked bodegas. Yet since its neighbor to the north has became a bit more glittery and…well, gay, it too has enjoyed a similar renaissance, complete, of course, with a kitschy nickname: SoHell (yes, that's South of Hell's Kitchen. Thanks, New York Magazine).  So, for those who can brave the sketchy shadow of Port Authority (or those who live in Hudson Crossing) He Said brings you a few of our favorite SoHell haunts.

H.K. - 523 9th Avenue at 39th Street

H.K. was really the first restaurant of substance to venture its way south of 9th Avenue, planting its flag and declaring itself the "uptown Cafeteria." Back when it was the only game in town, it ruled as the perfect place for brunch before or after browsing the Hell's Kitchen Flea Market or a great non-crowded pre or post theater option. But, things started to go downhill when it opened an accompanying club/lounge and wasn't sure where to focus its energy or income (hint: it's not the lounge). It's still never a bad choice - we're still big fans of the grilled calamari and the Spa Martini - but it's lost a bit of its lustre. A great place to take out of towners for a no-fail dose of SoHell "fabulous."

Market Café - 496 9th Avenue, btw. 37th & 38th Streets

Straight from the hidden gems department, this charming, airy café has actually been around for quite some time.  But since its recent menu and décor makeover, it’s threatening to eclipse HK as the best kept secret in the neighborhood. Touches like cucumber water and subtle but lovely light fixtures have turned this place from a walk-by to a stop-in. Add a small but fresh and tasty menu, a friendly staff and cheap drinks, and you’ve got yourself a perfect little café.  Try the lentils with shrimp or the hummus, and save us a seat.

Empire Coffee and Tea - 568 9th Avenue at 41st Street

Something about the homey yet chaotic vibe of this place just makes us smile. Remeniscent of Porto Rico or McNulty's, this is definitely the best you're gonna do for a decent, non-Starbucks cup o' joe in this neck of the woods. The house drip and espresso drinks are pretty standard, but what makes this place stand out are the beans themselves.  Should you wish to start saving the daily $3.55 you're spending on that morning latte by making your own coffee, stop in for a pound of Brazilian Mocha Java or the Obama Blend ("smooth, exciting, and hopeful!"). Your morning buzz will never be the same.