Haute Secrets: Kathy Sidell, CEO of Met Restaurant Group

From Boston, Dedham and Natick to Nantucket and beyond (think Bethesda, Maryland), Kathy Sidell’s collection of Met Restaurants have made a name for themselves with her specialty menu of comfort fare. Signature dishes include short rib tacos made with cola and cocoa, a “two fisted” chicken club, sirloin tips with cheddar mashed potatoes and a four-cheese gooey mac and cheese. The Boston location also features a decadent dry aged burger.

Photo Credit: The Met Restaurant Group

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

Where were you born: Newton, MA

How long in Boston:  All my life

Neighborhood: Back Bay

Occupation: CEO, Met Restaurant Group

Favorite Restaurant: Gourmet Dumpling House

Best Sushi: Café Sushi

Best Italian: Coppa

Best dessert: Tatte Bakery

Best place for a romantic date: Ostra

Best Sunday brunch: Bloody Mary Bar and Avocado Toast on 7 Grain with Burrata and a poached egg at MET Back Bay

Best place for a power business meeting: Four Seasons – Bristol Lounge

If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? Commercial: Four Seasons, or Boutique: XV Beacon

Favorite shopping venue/boutique: Hermès

Favorite place to buy jewelry/watches: Pageo

Best Spa: Exhale

Favorite Charity Event: ARTcetera

Favorite Cultural Event: Marathon Monday

Favorite Cultural Institution: A.R.T in Cambridge

Best Steakhouse: Mooo

Best Pizza: Regina Pizzeria – ONLY in the North End

Best Lunch: Neptune Oyster

Best Gym/Athletic Facility: I don’t go to the gym!

Best Massage: Private

Best Limousine/Driving Service: Boston Coach

Best Museum/Exhibit: Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Describe Boston in three words: Historic. Sports driven. Well-educated.

Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: Walking through the Boston Common on the way to work.

All-around favorite spot in Boston: Being on a boat in Boston Harbor looking back at the city. Magical.

Best Aspect of Boston: It is close to Nantucket. And, you can be at the beach or skiing within 2 hours.

Best New Restaurant: Tiger Mama