Courtesy of Katrina Bowden

Katrina Bowden will no doubt be recognizable to her East Village neighbors as 30 Rock’s resident hottie Cerie, who has been known to school her boss Jack Donaghy (Alec Baldwin) on the nuances of social networking. Though she is originally a Jersey Girl, Ms. Bowden, 23, says she was drawn to her home of the past two years “because I like the neighborhood and everything it has to offer: great restaurants, intimate wine bars and a fun downtown vibe.” It’s shaping up to be a thrilling year for the actress, who has three films coming out, including screamer “Piranha 3DD.” Even more exciting? She recently got engaged to her high school sweetheart, rocker Ben Jorgensen. Let’s hear where the happy couple likes to hang out.

Favorite people-watching
Pretty much anywhere! I guess a good place to do it though is at a corner coffee shop like Think Coffee or The Bean. Also, Tompkins Square Park is pretty incredible for people-watching (and cute-dog-watching!). They have a dog park within the park and I often stop to watch the dogs play. It’ll have to do until I finally get a dog of my own.

Best cocktail
Pilot Punch at Mayahuel — it’s a tequila, lime and jalapeño drink that’s spicy and zesty, my favorite! Also, you can’t go wrong with a dirty Hendricks martini with olives. Saxon + Parole makes my favorite, they are especially good.

Favorite restaurant for dinner.
The food at Westville East is so fresh and in season, and they have an extensive specials menu that changes daily. Each night they have about 20 side options. You really could eat a whole meal by choosing a few side combos. It’s a small place and gets very crowded but is worth it. Also, Yuca Bar has my absolute favorite ceviche in the city. Rayuela is also a favorite spot for Latin American food, which is my favorite.

Favorite new spot
Oficina Latina in Nolita — it’s a great, cozy little place to go for dinner, or just appetizers and drinks. They have a great list of interesting cocktails that change constantly. I had a mezcal chipotle drink recently that was amazing.

Best place to beat winter’s chill
Great Jones Spa — hands down, my favorite spa in the city. They have this incredible “wet lounge” with sauna, steam room, etc. all in a beautiful tranquil environment that is co-ed! A great place to escape for a few hours by yourself or with a special someone.

Before we let Ms. Bowden disappear, we finish by asking if she chose the East Village, or did the East Village choose her?

“I chose it!” she responds. “I always loved the area and its downtown ‘cool’ factor! I found myself frequently going to dinner in the area so when it was time to move, it was an easy decision!”

Angela Cravens is the editorial director of the pop culture “channelzine” Arcade 44

Previously:
Judith Malina
Prince Chenoa
Jim Meehan
Heather Burns
Andrew Buckler
Syd Butler
Constance Zimmer
Christina Tosi
Alain Levitt
Ajay Naidu
Rachel Dratch