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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 Alison Barnard O’Brien, the founder of Injeanius.
This week we have Patrick Lyons, owner of the Lyons Group (Sonsie, Rochambeau, Scampo, Game On, Loretta’s Last Call, Summer Shack, Lucky’s and many more) giving us his top tips around town. And by the way, one of our favorites from the Lyons Group, Sonsie has recently opened back up after a renovation and they are also celebrating 30th Birthday this year!
What are your favorite neighborhoods in Boston?
I love Beacon Hill, Back Bay and Fenway.
Where do you go for a late night bite?
I have been really enjoying the Wig Shop lately.
In general, what are some of your favorite restaurants and bars right now?
I can’t help it, but at 30 years, Sonsie is still a favorite of mine. It is the quintessential neighborhood spot for the Back Bay. I also like Yvonne’s, Kava Neo Taverna, Bar Mezzana, Stockyard and Jin’s Chinese. I can be found at most of those places when I have dinner out.
Name a “hidden gem” where you always take friends or family when they are visiting from out of town?
My favorite “hidden gem” to take friends is Shabu Zen in Allston
What do you think is the best thing about Boston right now?
People are starting to get back into the city and it is starting to feel alive again. I am hoping that the politicians understand the quality-of-life improvement associated with expanded outdoor patios. They are one of the positives to come out of the past few years. Change the laws, keep them!
What do you think is the worst thing about Boston right now?
Bike lanes, bike lanes, bike lanes. To accommodate 10 or 20 bikes a day, and entire swath of mom-and-pop businesses are going under. It was a horrible urban planning decision. Bike riders do little to encourage T ridership, which should be the focus instead.
What is your go-to Dunkin Donuts coffee order?
Small dark roast with a turbo shot, cream and sugar.