Haute Secrets Boston: Matt Burns of The Aquitaine Group

If you have dined in the South End, chances are you have tried out one of the restaurants owned by The Aquitaine Group, which includes Metropolis Café, Aquitaine (Boston, Chestnut Hill, and Dedham), Cinquecento, Gaslight Brasserie and Green Light Café.

Photo Credit: The Aquitaine Group

The most recent addition to their restaurant portfolio includes La Motta’s Italian Specialties, which opened a few days ago in the former Union Bar & Grille space serving up “Bronx style” thin crust pizza, baked clams, mozzarella sticks and several types of meatballs.

The Aquitaine Group is owned and operated by partners Seth Woods, Matt Burns, and Jeffrey Gates.

We recently caught up with Matt Burns to find out what he loves most about Boston.

Where were you born?   Seattle

How long in Boston?  Since I was a child

Where do you live now? Back Bay

Occupation? Restauranteur, Aquitaine Group

Favorite Restaurant: Cinquecento (Ok, it’s one of mine, but it is true!)

Best Sushi: O-Ya

Best Italian: La Motta’s

Best dessert: The Bristol Lounge

Best place for a romantic date: Metropolis Cafe

Best Sunday brunch: Gaslight

Best place for a power business meeting:  Grille 23

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend?  XV Beacon

Favorite shopping venue/boutique:  Alan Bilzerian and Riccardi

Best place to buy Jewelry/Watches:  Elite Time (Province Street)

Best Spa: Equinox Spa

Favorite Charity Event:  Make a Wish, Medical Missions for Children

Favorite Cultural Event:  Super Bowl (If the Pats are in it!)

Favorite Cultural Institution:  BSO

Best Steakhouse:  Grille 23

Best Pizza:  Mistral

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: Equinox

Best Massage: Equinox Spa

Best Driving Service: Uber

Best Museum/Exhibit:  Isabella Stewart Gardener

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore:  Arnold Arboretum in Jamaica Plain

Describe Boston in three words:  America’s most beautiful

All-around favorite locale in Boston, whether a neighborhood, restaurant, venue, or other:  Back Bay, particularly surrounding the Public Garden.

Best aspect of Boston:  Its late 19th & early 20th century architecture