Guy's Behavior

Does it mean anything special if a guy takes you to his favourite restaurant/places?

The guy I like is wonderful, he's a bit older than me and he's a total gent. I love hanging out with him (when possible because we're currently living at opposite end of the country). We're just friends, but I know he's attracted to me. I really want to date him, only I don't want to push this right now because he's just come out of a messy, long-term relationship. Anyway... Last time we were together he took me to a beautiful park which he said was one of his favourite places to be. We talked lots as per, took a few photographs... nothing beyond what I would expect from a day out with a friend. Later in the day he said he wanted to take me to his 'absolute favourite restaurant' in town... It was a lovely day with a friend... until my friends started calling it out as a date. So guys... why do you take someone to your favourite places? Is it something special? Or do you do it a lot? I would just like a wider sense of perspective :)
Does it mean anything special if a guy takes you to his favourite restaurant/places?
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