Boston Uncommon
What’s new in the Bay State
By Christina Ohly Evans
If ever there was a city synonymous with fall, it would have to be Boston, with its many academic institutions, stately brownstones lining the leafy streets of Back Bay, the sweeping Charles River and a generally tweedy vibe. This autumn, there are even more reasons to return—and rest—in sumptuous style with the reimagining of several of the city’s storied properties. Here are just a few of the best places to perch before setting off to see this year’s stunning New England foliage.
Mandarin Oriental
After a long closure for COVID-19 and a $15 million renovation overseen by Alexandra Champalimaud of Champalimaud Design, the Mandarin Oriental is back and buzzier than ever. It has always benefited from a great location in the heart of Back Bay, steps from the Prudential Center and minutes away from the area’s many colleges and universities. Embracing its popularity with families and long-stay guests, the hotel’s 126 spacious, light-filled rooms and suites have been reimagined with a residential feel in mind. Looking ahead to late fall, the hotel will see the opening of Ramsay’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay—a bustling all-day dining destination featuring the chef’s iconic recipes like beef wellington and an elevated take on fish and chips, with nods to Boston’s rich culinary history. For those in search of lobster and clam bouillabaisse with a Back Bay twist, be sure to book this November.
The Newbury
Opened in 1927 as one of the original Ritz-Carlton hotels, The Newbury was an iconic property from the start. Set at the edge of the historic Boston Common at the intersection of Arlington and Newbury Streets, the hotel’s 268 rooms and suites—as well as its public spaces—have been massively renovated, restored or reimagined by a trio of design talents: architect Jeffrey Beers (entrance and public spaces, including the cozy library and bustling Street Bar), Champalimaud Design (guest rooms) and Ken Fulk (the rooftop restaurant Contessa). The results of this collaboration are a seamless mix of old-world elegance and colorful modernity. On the roof, you’ll find Contessa, a 140-seat bustling trattoria with stunning views of the Back Bay and grilled Mediterranean branzino to match. Overseen by Major Food Group, Contessa will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as a robust bar for that perfect afternoon aperitivo. Highlights include wood-fired pizzas that are perfect for sharing, spicy lobster capellini and a signature 40-ounce Bistecca Fiorentina for two.
The Langham
Following a $200 million, two-year renovation, the iconic Langham is once again offering classic American elegance, albeit with state-of-art fitness facilities, elevated culinary offerings and a world-class art collection. Set in the heart of downtown, the storied property—built in 1922 as the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston—is rich in New England history, but with modern twists including in-room Peloton bikes upon request and a rare (for any city) indoor lap pool. The 312 rooms have been reimagined in muted shades of gray and blue, while the dining spaces, including Grana and the cocktail bar, The Fed, promise to be lively destinations for tourists and locals alike. From the luxurious lobby to bilevel Loft Suites that are perfect for lengthier stays, the Langham offers a one-of-a-kind experience for art aficionados, finance fiends and anyone interested in hotel history.