Voice of Boston is our series where we interview local tastemakers on their favorite neighborhoods, restaurants and hangouts around the city. If you missed our last one, catch up on our chat with Chris Himmel, of Himmel Hospitality.
This week we are speaking with Mike Lamagna, founder of Long Wharf Supply – a fisherman-inspired sustainable fashion brand that specializes in ‘your dad’s favorite vintage sweaters’ for men, women and children. Mike Lamagna grew up a beach kid hunting for oysters. After spending years on the water, Mike was deeply affected by how much plastic and waste he saw in the ocean. This inspired him to set out and develop high quality goods that promote the use of recycled materials.
What are your favorite neighborhoods in Boston?
I'm a big north end guy. The more charm the better in my book!
Where is your favorite place to go for a walk in the city?
I love a good stroll around Long Wharf or Lewis Wharf. For a long time, Boston was the largest seaport in America and I love walking around the waterfront thinking about all the history around the harbor.
Where do you go for a late night bite?
I like walking into Warren Tavern if I need a beer and light bite or we'll dive into espresso martinis at Artu if we're up to no good.
In general, what are some of your favorite restaurants and bars right now?
I'm a huge fan of Select Oyster over in Back Bay and Banyan over in South End right now. Both have great vibes, are pretty laid back, and serve some of the best meals I've had in the city.
Name a “hidden gem” where you always take friends or family when they are visiting from out of town?
For a long time, it was Pomodoro in the North End, but like many old school spots over the last few years they've closed for good. It's no secret, but if I had to pick a spot to bring people it's got to be Neptune Oyster. If you can get in, it's one of the best presentations of local seafood I've ever seen.
What do you think is the best thing about Boston right now?
There's so much going on around the city right now there's literally never a dull moment, but my favorite part about Boston is everything around Boston! Between the Cape and Islands, Maine, and the mountains you've got endless adventure within a couple hours in any direction.
What do you think is the worst thing about Boston right now?
To me, the worst thing is traffic. It's the worst I've ever seen next to LA. Additionally, there's just a loss of character around Boston and the older generations that made it so special. You're seeing this across the country. A lot of new development tends to look the same, walk the same, talk the same and cost a ton of money!
What is your go-to Dunkin Donuts coffee order?
I live for Dunkin's ice coffee. I don't get too fancy; if it ain't broke don't fix it! Medium Iced Coffee cream 'n sugar with a glazed donut and I pray it's real fresh and doughy every time!