The name “Hell’s Kitchen” is derived from the area’s reputation as a tough place to live and work. In the 19th century, the area was known for its gangs and violence. The residents of Hell’s Kitchen were also known for their fiery temperament and their willingness to fight at the drop of a hat.
The name “Hell’s Kitchen” first appeared in print in 1881, when a New York Times reporter used it to describe the dangerous conditions in the West Side neighborhood. The name quickly caught on, and by the early 1900s, “Hell’s Kitchen” was being used as a synonym for the entire city of New York.
Today, Hell’s Kitchen is a far different place than it was in the 19th century. It is now one of Manhattan’s most desirable neighborhoods, with luxurious apartments and trendy restaurants. But its gritty past has not been forgotten; there are still many reminders of Hell’s Kitchen’s turbulent history.