Haute Secrets Boston: Steve DiFillippo of Davio’s

Davio’s made a distinct name for itself in Boston 30 years ago when Steve DiFillippo took ownership of the Newbury Street property. Soon after, the restaurant moved to its existing location in Park Square where they just last week celebrated their 30^th year in the restaurant business with a benefit for The Greater Boston Food Bank.

Photo Credit: Davio’s

DiFillippo has taken the Davio’s name and expanded the brand along the East Coast from Manhattan to Philadelphia and will be opening its first West Coast location in downtown Los Angeles within the next year.

Known for their massive cuts of northern Italian steaks, veal chops, homemade pasta dishes, signature spring rolls (think chicken parm, Philly cheesesteak and shrimp cotija) and avid celebrity clientele, Davio’s remains one of the best restaurants in town for good reason.

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

Photo Credit: Davio’s

Where were you born? Springfield, MA

How long in Boston? All my life. I grew up in Lynnfield, MA

Where do you live now? Wenham, MA

Occupation? CEO/ Restaurateur of Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse

Favorite Restaurant: TORO

Best Sushi: Douzo

Best Italian:  Bricco

Best dessert: I love chocolate brownie  ice cream from Ben & Jerry’s.

Best place for a romantic date: L’Espalier

Best Sunday brunch: The Four Seasons

Best place for a power business meeting: Davio’s – especially since I don’t have an office.

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend?  The Four Seasons because it’s so close to Davio’s

Favorite shopping venue/boutique: Giblees for suits and The Tannery for my clogs – I own several pairs.

Best place to buy Jewelry/Watches:  DePrisco at The Jewelers Building

Best Spa: Exhale

Favorite Charity Event: Best Buddies / Rodman Rides

Favorite Cultural Event:  Football

Favorite Cultural Institution: Patriot Place

Best Steakhouse: Grill 23

Best Pizza: Santarpio’s

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: The Charles River – I love running outside.

Best Massage: Exhale

Best Driving Service: Herb Chambers

Best Museum/Exhibit: Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: The North End

Describe Boston in three words: Great walking city

All-around favorite locale in Boston, whether a neighborhood, restaurant, venue, or other: The Waterfront

Best aspect of Boston: The views