Celebrity Chef Jason Santos' Guide To Boston

Chef Jason Santos discovered his passion for cooking at a very early age, spending most of his childhood experimenting in his grandmother's kitchen and idolizing Julia Child. Today, the charismatic, blue-haired chef is the mastermind behind three notable Boston eateries: Buttermilk & Bourbon, Citrus & Salt, and Abby Lane. Each restaurant, though distinct, mirrors his own larger-than-life personality.

Santos has garnered national recognition through his creative culinary approach paired with his television presence — after all, he was a fan favorite on Season 7 of "Hell's Kitchen." He keeps busy as a judge for several cooking events, an instructor for local culinary programs and the three-time winner of the National Pork Board's Statewide Annual Taste of Elegance event.

As a lifelong Bostonian, Santos knows a thing or two about the city he dubs "historic and fun." When he's not competing on "Hell's Kitchen" or whipping up some inventive dishes, you might find him enjoying Sunday brunch at Mike’s City Diner or visiting his beloved Fenway Park. From must-visit restaurants to significant local landmarks, take a look at this Boston chef's suggestions around the city that's "getting bigger and better everyday."

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What neighborhood do you live in? Woburn

What’s your occupation? Chef and restaurateur

Describe Boston in three words: Home, historic, fun

What’s your favorite overall Boston restaurant? My own! Buttermilk & Bourbon, Citrus & Salt and Abby Lane.

Best sushi: FuGaKyu

Best Italian food: il Casale

Best dessert: Modern Pastry

Best pizza: Pizzeria Regina

Best spot for a quick lunch: The Smoke Shop BBQ

Best food truck: Zinneken's Belgian Waffle Truck

Best spot for a romantic date: Deuxave

Best glass of wine: Eataly

Best Sunday brunch: Mike’s City Diner

Best spot for a power business meeting: Deuxave

A great cup of coffee: Dunkin', obviously.

Best steak: Smith & Wollensky

Best craft cocktail: Lion's Tail

What hotel would you recommend for your out of town guests? The W Hotel

Best gym or fitness studio: Orangetheory Fitness in Woburn.

Best spa: Bliss Spa

Favorite charity event or organization: No Kid Hungry

Favorite cultural event: Boston Marathon

Favorite cultural institution: Museum of Science

What’s the best museum or current exhibit in Boston: Museum of Fine Arts

Best historic or iconic Boston landmark to see or explore: Fenway Park

What’s your all-time favorite spot in Boston? Cure Lounge

The best aspect of Boston is: It’s getting bigger and better every day.

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More city guides from notable Bostonians:

• Pastry Chef And Restaurateur Joanne Chang's Guide To Boston
• Union Square Donuts Owner Josh Danoff's Guide To Boston
• 'Pork And Pints Boston' Blogger Lisa Nichols' Guide To Boston

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Image Credit: Jason Santos