Meet @wannabestayathomedad, the food enthusiast who’s making waves in Boston’s culinary scene. As a fan of food and cooking shows, Keonte Henson decided to launch his Instagram account after moving to Boston in 2022. His channel isn’t just about pretty pictures; it’s about capturing the essence of each dining experience through engaging narration. With a heart full of enthusiasm, Henson dove headfirst into Boston’s diverse and dynamic food scene. From iconic local staples to innovative newcomers, he’s trying it all, and now, is here to spill the beans on his top picks and insights.
Tell us a little about yourself. How’d you end up in Boston, and what inspired you to create your Instagram account?
I originally moved to the Boston area in the Spring of 2022 to move in with my girlfriend who had started a job in the Seaport. When trying to figure out the best way to expose myself to all the Boston area has to offer, I began doing food reviews because of my longtime fandom for food-based television shows like Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.
What makes the Boston restaurant scene special?
I feel there are two main factors that make the Boston restaurant scene special. The first is the abundance of local staples still serving high-quality dishes across the city. The second is the current growth the scene is undergoing, with new restaurants providing creative takes on different cuisines and highlighting a variety of cultures.
Name the top five dishes on your Boston food bucket list.
- Kava Neo-Taverna – Moussaka
- New Deal Fruit – Italian Sub
- The Coast Café – Fried Wing Combination Plate w/ Mac & Cheese and Candied Yams
- Buttermilk & Bourbon – Warm Honey Glazed Biscuits
- Tenoch – Campechana Torta
What do your friends and family think of your life as an influencer?
My friends and family have all been incredibly supportive. I know my mom is a little concerned that my diet is getting a bit outlandish, but her cooking is the reason I eat the way I do anyways.
What’s your food photography/videography philosophy, and can you share your top tips for taking awesome food photos or videos? Do you use any fun tools or equipment for snapping the best ‘gram worthy content?
This is an area where I should probably be investing more focus, but I’ve always based my content in the belief that people want more than just pretty pictures of every dish. I personally enjoy when creators share their genuine thoughts on the food through narration which is what I aim to do with my content. I want my viewers to feel like they’re sitting across the table from me and we’re chit-chatting about the first bites we just took.
What advice would you give someone just starting out as an influencer?
The best way to improve is to keep posting consistently. Additionally, try to interact with your viewership, whether it’s responding to comments or asking for feedback within your post. Be mindful that influencing is the sharing of an opinion and there will be people that disagree with you. Most importantly, do everything you can to make it as enjoyable for you as possible!
Which Boston restaurants and chefs are nailing it on social?
Beyond chefs, what are your top three favorite food Instagram accounts to follow?
Favorite spot that everyone should try once: La Posada
Favorite place to splurge: Buttermilk & Bourbon
Favorite brunch spot: Committee
Favorite pizza joint: Regina’s
Favorite neighborhood for food: I’ll say North End for Boston proper and Somerville if we’re talking the entire Boston area.
Favorite spot to take visitors from out of town: Ciao Roma
Favorite foodie book or movie: Burnt
