Matt Reis: Star goalkeeper for the New England Revolution, husband, father of three and chef? That’s correct; when he’s not on the field, Reis can be found in the kitchen, cooking for his family. We sat down with Reis at Tico in the Back Bay to learn how this goalie found himself in the kitchen.

By Brigitte Charest — Photographed by Jazz Martin

Having lived in California, and now in Massachusetts, do you find a difference between cuisines on the West Coast vs. East Coast? Yes, they’re very different. If you’re looking for Italian food: pizza, pasta, Boston is easy. Out west, it is very eclectic; you can find a variety of options in a small area.

Which do you prefer? I am West Coast bias from growing up and going to college there. Coming from SoCal, I love Mexican food and there are some great places out there for that.

What is your go-to pre-game meal? I prefer chicken teriyaki and rice. It is easy to make at home and on the road, which gives my body consistency before a game.

How have the places you’ve traveled affected your tastes in food? Fortunately I have been able to travel to some great places with the team and it all adds to my tastes. I take inspiration from each place I’ve been and the food I’ve tried. I take ideas and flavors from all the places and try to incorporate them into meals at home.

How did you get interested in cooking? Soccer doesn’t have a typical schedule so my girlfriend at the time, who is now my wife, Nicole, suggested I start doing something with my free time, like cooking. Once I started I realized I actually enjoyed the creativity that comes with cooking; like cooking with wine. I get to drink while I work and add it to the meal!

Breakfast, lunch or dinner, which do you prefer to make? My favorite time to cook is actually for special occasions, with everyone around the table. I really enjoy cooking for a crowd and enjoying our family’s company.

What is your favorite thing to cook? I really enjoy shrimp stir fry or pulled pork in the slow cooker. The slow cooker can make great food when it’s a time sensitive day.

How does your family affect what you cook at home? My three boys all eat well, we [wife Nicole] don’t have to make separate kids meals at home for them. We’ll have sushi, salmon or stir fry and the kids will eat it all.