Haute Secrets Boston: Ricardo Rodriguez

From classic Beacon Hill brownstones and stunning Venetian gothic single family homes in the South End to sprawling penthouses in Back Bay and luxurious modern condominiums at The Lucas, Ricardo Rodriguez has seen it all. That’s because, of course, he has represented some of Boston’s most exclusive listings.

The former creative director for fashion designer Daniela Corte and elite real estate agent (who recently received the coveted Best of Boston Real Estate Agent award by Boston Magazine) recently created and curated a “Live Like a Local” program for the Nine Zero Hotel that enables guests to shop, dine and experience the city of Boston like only Bostonians do.

Photo Credit: Ricardo Rodriquez

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

Where were you born: Cali, Colombia. Don’t ask how long ago…

How long in Boston: 23 years

Neighborhood: South End

Occupation: Realtor, Ricardo Rodriquez & Associates

Favorite Restaurant: Select Oyster Bar- the food is simple and clean. And their bar is amazing!

Best Sushi: Oishii- the creativity is unparalleled.

Best Italian: Pomodoro- they have two locations: North End and Brookline Village. Try their Crispy Eggplant Parmesan…

Best dessert: Island Creek Oyster Bar- they have the most amazing Banoffee pie with dulce de leche and bananas.

Best place for a romantic date: No. 9 Park- exciting, understated and delicious; just like the best dates are.

Best Sunday brunch: Doretta’s- a fabulous Greek menu, a wonderful bar and a lively atmosphere.

Best place for a power business meeting: The Bristol Lounge- as Boston as it gets.

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? Kimpton’s Nine Zero hotel, of course!

Favorite shopping venue/boutique: Bodega- the best curated selection of shoes/sneakers…and I love my shoes!

Favorite place to buy jewelry/watches: Patch NYC. I want to buy everything there!

Best Spa: Spa at The Mandarin- it’s a total experience!

Favorite Charity Event: The Storybook Ball- it benefits Massachusetts General Hospital and virtually everyone is in attendance!

Favorite Cultural Event: Commonwealth Shakespeare’s “Shakespeare on the Common” – incredible free productions staged on Boston Common.

Favorite Cultural Institution: The Boston Ballet- nothing else needs to be said.

Best Steakhouse: Boston Chops- the food is incredible and their wine selections are just as amazing.

Best Pizza: Mistral- their beef tenderloin, mashed potato and white truffle oil thin pizza is to die for!

Best Lunch: The Café at The Taj- they have the best Indian menu ever!!

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: Equinox

Best Massage: Stephen Cabral Wellness Institute- it is an intimate and calming experience like nothing else.

Best Limousine/Driving Service: Uber

Best Museum/Exhibit: MFA – it’s the quintessential Boston experience.

Describe Boston in three words: Historic. Beautiful. Smart.

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: The Boston Public Library

All-around favorite spot in Boston: The Boston Public Garden – can’t get better than being outdoors in this tranquil park.

Best Aspect of Boston: The walkability. You are always minutes away from everything, anyone and anywhere you want to go.