Voice of Boston is a new 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 where the Artistic Director of the Boston Ballet, Mikko Nissinen, likes to hang out around town.
Next up is Chef Jason Santos, owner of Buttermilk & Bourbon, Nash Bar and Citrus & Salt. He is also the author of the Buttermilk & Bourbon Cookbook and Simple Fancy. As a national TV personality, you will also find him on “Hell’s Kitchen” and “Bar Rescue”. We started the new year by chatting with him on his favorite spots around town.
What are your favorite neighborhoods in Boston?
Back Bay, of course! There is so much energy and so much happening in the Back Bay. Plus, two of my restaurants are there, so I tend to spend a lot of time there.
Where do you go for a late-night bite?
For late night, I love the espresso martinis and brick oven pizza at Bricco in the North End. They only make pizza late night, so it is a secret menu item for those who are in the know.
In general, what are some of your favorite restaurants right now?
I am loving Geppetto in Cambridge at Cambridge Crossing and I am a giant fan of Viet Citron in Burlington. Will Gilson and his team are doing great things with Italian food at Geppetto. And Viet Citron is a favorite date night spot for my wife and me.
Name a “hidden gem” where you always take friends or family when they are visiting from out-of-town?
When I have out-of-town guests, I have to take them to Sapporo Ramen in Porter Square. They have the best ramen around.
What do you think is the best thing about Boston right now?
Besides the sports camaraderie that we have here in Boston, I would have to say I love that Boston is renovating itself (seaport, ink block etc.) all the time. There is always something new and exciting on the horizon.
What do you think is the worst thing about Boston right now?
I hate that there is not enough of a late-night eating culture. I work late hours and so does my staff, so it is hard to find places to eat after our shifts.
What is your go-to Dunkin Donuts coffee order?
It will always be a large Toasted Almond Iced Coffee, with almond milk & cold foam, I start my morning out each day with that.
Where is your favorite place to go for a walk in the city?
I still love walking down Newbury Street. It never gets old and is a great place to people watch.