Haute Secrets Boston: Carolina Martinez, Director of the Pedro Martinez Charity

Behind every legendary Red Sox pitcher, there is an outstanding wife. Take, for example, Carolina Martinez. The Boston College graduate received a degree in journalism and went on to become a reporter for ESPN Deportes, Did we also mention she is the wife of #45 Red Sox Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez, who will always be a pitching legend in Boston? Today, she runs her Dominican husband’s charitable organization, The Pedro Martinez Charity.

On Saturday, May 6, the charity will host a “Feast with 45 at Fenway” featuring more than 35 of Boston’s best chefs, including Nick Calias (Brasserie JO), Tony Maws (Craigie on Main), Jason Santos (Buttermilk & Bourbon, Abby Lane and Back Bay Harry’s), Tiffani Faison (Sweet Cheeks and Tiger Mama), Andy Husbands (Tremont 647 and The Smoke Shop), Matt Louis (Moxy) and Allen Campbell (Raw Body Foods). The proceeds benefit the charity, which helps to educate and support under served children and families in the Dominican Republic.

Photo Credit: Cindy M. Loo/The Boston Red Sox

We caught up recently with Carolina to find out what she loves most about Boston.

Where were you born: I was born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

How long in Boston: I lived in Boston from 1999 until 2003 when I attended Boston College and then after I started dating my husband. We now come back during the baseball season.

Neighborhood: My favorite neighborhood was Chestnut Hill to live in. It is close to the city, close to Boston College, but peaceful.

Occupation: I am a journalist and the director of the Pedro Martinez Charity.

Favorite Restaurant: I love Brasserie Jo at the Colonnade Hotel. Chef Nick is a good friend of ours and knows what we like and cooks off menu for us, which I think is a lot of fun.

Best Sushi: Fugakyu in Brookline is my favorite sushi restaurant. I will eat all kinds of sushi. I am very adventurous.

Best Italian: We love Strega in the North End. We also really like Strip by Strega as well.

Best dessert: I love dessert. I have such a sweet tooth. My favorite dessert is the Godiva Chocolate Cake at Morton’s.

Best place for a romantic date: I would have to say Morton’s because it holds special memories for Pedro and me.

Best Sunday brunch: I love the brunch at Brasserie Jo; they do a great job.

Best place for a power business meeting: I love going to the Boston Harbor Hotel. It is a beautiful view and really is a great place to hold a meeting. 

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? We stay at The Colonnade and so I always suggest that to out of town guests.  It is so convenient to everything.

Favorite shopping venue/boutique: I love Intermix on Newbury Street. 

Best Spa: My favorite spa is Bella Sante. I always leave there feeling so relaxed. 

Favorite Charity Event: The Pedro Martinez Charity’s Feast with 45, of course! Tickets are on sale now at www.pedromartinez.com.

Favorite Cultural Event: I love the Boston Marathon. The whole energy of the city changes and it is so exciting to be part of. 

Favorite Cultural Institution: Jamaica Pond and Jamaicaway. It is just beautiful there. 

Best Steakhouse: Morton’s is definitely our favorite steakhouse. We love it there. 

Best Pizza: I love CPK (California Pizza Kitchen). They have a great menu.

Best Lunch: Abe & Louie’s does a great lunch.

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: I used to work out at the BC gym and I really enjoyed it.

Best Museum/Exhibit: I recently went to The Kennedy Museum and I really enjoyed that. 

Describe Boston in three words: Festive, young and welcoming. 

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: Fenway Park, of course!

All-around favorite spot in Boston:  I do love Jamaica Pond. It is so peaceful.

Best Aspect of Boston: It is easy to get around and easy to navigate. Everything in the city is so accessible.