Two Boston properties –– the Boston Harbor Hotel and the Revere –– are bringing the hotel dining experience to a whole new level. Here what to expect when you check in:
The Buzz This classic property encompasses all the elements that go along with a luxe hotel stay, from its sophisticated lobby through its well-appointed rooms through its responsive customer service.
The Location Situated majestically on the famed Boston Harbor, this refurbished grand dame is well-situated for strolling along the water and admiring the views, as well as walking to Chinatown and Little Italy’s must-visit pastry shops.
The Meal Chef Daniel Bruce –– creator of the nearly quarter-century-old Boston Wine Festival –– presides over his signature restaurant, Meritage. The seasonal menu spotlights locally-sourced products and emphasizes wine pairings: The menu is divided into such categories as Sparklers, Light Whites and Fruity Reds, to help guide you to the right wine choice. We received additional help with our pairings from sommelier Nick Dodona
If the culinary experience weren’t enough, the elegant dining room’s huge windows provide gorgeous harbor views.
Bells & Whistles The Boston Harbor is home to a full-service gym and spa featuring a pool, Jacuzzi and welcome amenities (Icy cold towel and fresh lemon-water anyone?).
The Buzz Across town (and worlds apart), the boutique-style Revere hotel sets an immediate contemporary tone with its striking lobby, replete with modern art, copper-toned metallic wall and a circular ramp to the front desk.
The Location Located just a few blocks from the Boston Common and the tony Beacon Hill neighborhood, the Revere is an excellent spot to explore the city on foot.
The Meal The Revere’s restaurant, The Rustic Kitchen, is a stylish Italian trattoria with a robust Mediterranean menu of homemade pastas and brick oven pizzas, as well as inventive salads and zesty sandwiches. With an open pasta-making station and wood-burning oven, the bistro nicely mixes modern with the traditional.
As the the home of the locally produced The Cooking Show, the Revere attracts a crowd every Friday night for the taping of the series in a special soundstage. The restaurant also sports a spacious bar, with a seasonal selection of cocktails made with housemate infused vodkas. We enjoyed the pear, blueberry and apple cinnamon creations –– beware the friendly bartenders encouraging you to try them all.
Speaking of cocktails, the hotel is also home to The Emerald Lounge, a massive 6,000 square-foot hotspot that is jumping on the weekends with club-goers. Revere hotel guests get the VIP treatment, and can skip to the front of the line. Don’t forget to check out the “secret” Ruby lounge behind the main bar.
Bells & Whistles The guest rooms reflect the modernist vibe, with spacious desks, flat screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and plenty of electrical outlets.
