Haute Spots Boston: Davio’s

Boston arguably has its fair share of steakhouses throughout the city, but just one northern Italian steakhouse – Davio’s located in Back Bay – continues to stand out for its steaks, pastas and beloved spring rolls. The restaurant first made a name for itself 30 years ago when it opened on Newbury Street. Since then, it moved to its current location on Arlington Street when owner Steve DiFillippo purchased the restaurant. Today, it has become a prominent fixture as a haute spot with Boston diners for power meetings and has since expanded to include additional Massachusetts locations in Foxboro, Chestnut Hill and Lynnfield as well as Philadelphia, Atlanta and Manhattan. (To find out the secret to his continued success, be sure to check out DiFillippo’s book, It’s All About The Guest).

Photo Credit: Davio’s

High ceilings, beautiful columns and a bustling bar surround the spacious main dining room here that is always busy (reservations are recommended). Request a comfortable booth and get started with a glass of pinot grigio or cabernet to complement their famous spring rolls (think chicken parm, buffalo chicken, Reuben or shrimp cotija). We love their signature steak and cheese spring rolls, crisp and golden on the outside and filled with tender juicy meat and gooey cheese on the inside. For lighter fare, don’t miss the tuna tartare served with their own herb pasta chips.

Photo Credit: Davio’s

There is an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs preparing starters like American Kobe beef meatballs, crispy fried oysters and an oven baked Jonah lump crab cake and classics, including a grilled center cut veal chops, Maine lobster risotto and tagliatelle Bolognese made with beef, pork and veal.

Photo Credit: Davio’s

We recommend the roasted Atlantic halibut, a large fresh white fish with clams, leeks and mushrooms. For the beef lover, the center cut filet mignon should not be missed, a tender and juicy melt-in-your-mouth cut cooked to a medium rare perfection. Sides are served a la carte and include rich offerings like goat cheese puffs, mac and cheese with white truffle oil and mushroom-pea risotto.

Photo Credit: Davio’s

Good news for all spring roll lovers, you can now find them in your local grocery store. Davio’s is located at 75 Arlington Street in Boston.