Haute Secrets Boston: Mike Shaw, Owner/Partner of Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar

South Boston (better known as Southie to locals) has become one of the hottest sections in town to not only live, but dine. One of the restaurants that has taken the restaurant scene by storm is Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar, a funky neighborhood haute spot that specializes in tacos, raw bar, and tequila.

Come here for the taco specials (think fried shrimp tacos with avocado purée, curtido & aji aioli or pulled BBQ pork with coleslaw, cheese and crispy tortilla chips) and stay for the impressive flights of tequila like the Ballin’ complete with Arette Grand extra Anejo, Clase Azul Repo and Don Julio 1942.

Photo Credit: Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar

We caught up recently with Mike Shaw, Loco’s owner/partner, to find out what he loves most about Boston.

Where were you born: Boston

How long in Boston:  Seven years

Neighborhood: South Boston

Occupation: Partner at Loco Taqueria & Oyster Bar

Favorite Restaurant: Row 34

Best Sushi: Uni

Best Italian: Mirisolas on L & 8th for takeout and great conversation and for sit down Rhino’s in Eastie.

Best dessert: Chubby Cupcakes

Best Favorite place for a romantic date: Still looking for a replacement since Hammersley’s closed!

Best Sunday brunch: Lincoln Tavern’s brunch kicks a**. Really, anywhere in Southie on a Sunday rocks.

Best place for a power business meeting: My partner and I always have our most productive meetings at Castle Island.

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? The Liberty Hotel

Favorite shopping venue/boutique: I have a sneaker addiction so Bodega and Concepts are two of my favorite spots.

Favorite place to buy jewelry/watches: I’m personally not a watch guy, and the only piece of jewelry I’ve ever purchased is an engagement ring for my fiancée Molly. I went to Descenza Jewlery and they were great from start to finish considering it’s always a nerve racking experience.

Favorite Charity Event: Haymakers for Hope

Favorite Cultural Event: Marathon Monday is without a question my favorite day of the year in Boston.

Favorite Cultural Institution: ICA is fantastic and their outdoor space during the summer is great.

Best Steakhouse: Stockyard Restaurant.

Best Pizza: Santarpio’s or Picco.

Best Lunch: Soufu3l. If you don’t know, now you know.

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: Peter Welch’s Gym. All you have to do is show up and they take care of the rest.

Best Massage: Natalie Johnson at Crossfit in Southie.

Best Limousine/Driving Service: Uber.

Best Exhibit: Boston Public Library.

Describe Boston in three words: Really great people.

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: I dig the North End, especially in the summer.

All-around favorite spot in Boston: Sully’s at Castle Island.

Best Aspect of Boston: The South Boston community is amazing. The fact that I’m able to see neighbors, friends, and regulars every morning when I walk to work is what I love most about Boston (specifically Southie).

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