Voice of Boston is our series where we interview local tastemakers on their favorite neighborhoods, restaurants and hangouts around the city. If you missed our last one, catch up on our chat with Chef Erin Miller owner of Urban Hearth in Cambridge.
This week we are getting to know the man behind one of Boston’s top food Instagram accounts, @EverybodyGottaEat. Emmanuel Mervil has heated up the food scene with his bold flavors and unique perspective on food across cultures. One day he's curating menus for events, the next he's guiding viewers to restaurants across Boston. Inspired by his Haitian upbringing where food always brought people together, Mervil has grown his business to include a food blog, catering company and a dedicated Instagram following.
What are your favorite neighborhoods in Boston?
I'm from Cambridge so I have to say Central Square but if we're talking about Boston proper then it's the Seaport—good food and a decent enough nightlife.
Where is your favorite place to go for a walk in the city?
I don't walk much but maybe I'll start walking along the Charles River Esplanade when it gets nice.
Where do you go for a late-night bite?
Chinatown for Hot Pot—Shabu Zen is my spot.
In general, what are some of your favorite restaurants and bars right now?
Eva is my go-to spot for lunch and drinks, but I have a couple spots I like to hit up. I just added a running list to my site with my favorite restaurants and bars. Check it out at Everybodygotta.com.
Name a “hidden gem” where you always take friends or family when they are visiting from out of town?
Highland Cuisine for that real Haitian food.
What do you think is the best thing about Boston right now?
All the new restaurants popping up. The food scene is going crazy right now and I love it.
What do you think is the worst thing about Boston right now?
Not enough coverage on black and brown owned restaurants especially those in neighborhoods like Roxbury, Dorchester and Hyde Park. There are some hidden gems in these neighborhoods.
What is your go-to Dunkin Donuts coffee order?
Caramel coffee with cream and sugar!