Haute Secrets Boston: Nick Penna, Jr. of SalonCapri

SalonCapri has been a household name in Boston since Nick Penna, Sr. and his wife Gina opened their first location in Hyde Park nearly 50 years ago. Since then, their children (Nick Jr. and Laura) are at the forefront of the business that now has locations in Newton Highlands, Dedham on Newbury Street in Boston. They also own and operate Be Styled blow dry bars in Chestnut Hill and Wellesley.

Photo Credit: SalonCapri

SalonCapri is a L’Oréal Professionnel Elite Black salon. Salons at this level – including Sally Hershberger and Oscar Blandi – carry the entire L’Oréal Professionnel brand portfolio.

Photo Credit: SalonCapri

Since opening, they have received numerous “Best of Boston” awards and have twice been named to ELLE magazine’s “Top 100 Salons.”

Photo Credit: SalonCapri

We caught up with Nick Penna, Jr. recently to find out what he loves most about Boston.

How long in Boston? I’ve been in Boston my entire life and grew up between the towns of Hyde Park and Milton.

Where do you live now? Newton

Occupation? Owner and Lead Stylist at SalonCapri (three locations: Newton Highlands, Dedham and Newbury St.) and Co-owner and Creative Director at Be Styled (Wellesley & Chestnut Hill)

Favorite Restaurant: Yvonne’s

Best Sushi: O Ya

Best Italian: Giulia in Cambridge

Best dessert: I’m much more of a savory guy and would actually skip dessert and order an extra appetizer or another course!

Best Sunday brunch: Coppa

Best place for a power business meeting: Eastern Standard

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

Favorite shopping venue/boutique: Barney’s

Best place to buy Jewelry/Watches: Shreve, Crump & Low

Best Spa: The Spa at Mandarin Oriental

Favorite Cultural Event: Shakespeare on the Common

Favorite Cultural Institution: Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum

Best Steakhouse: Abe & Louie’s

Best Pizza: Stoked Wood Fired Pizza Co. food truck

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: David Barton’s

Best Massage: Exhale Spa

Best Driving Service: LimoLiner

Best Museum/Exhibit: ICA

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: Concord, MA

Describe Boston in three words: Loyal, home and ever-changing

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

Best aspect of Boston: The best aspect of Boston is the fact that it’s maturing but still has a hometown feel. Lots of great new neighborhoods are being developed like the Seaport and there’s even more dining and nightlife options popping up. I like how the city doesn’t feel like it’s losing its roots while all of these exciting changes are taking place.