The SavvyBostonian returns! I recently had the pleasure of traveling to Boston for a few fun days of seeing friends, visiting some of my favorite spots and Christmas shopping. Here are the highlights from my visit.
The Arrival
I flew from London to Boston on Virgin Atlantic. I really like flying Virgin Atlantic between London and Boston – even in economy it’s a good experience with decent food, legroom and in-flight movies. My only gripe is Virgin Atlantic’s Wi-Fi….it’s price gouging to charge by MB vs. a complete flight pass! You would need at least 2-3 flight passes at 15GBP per pass to cover the entire flight. Not cool! However, a highlight while waiting through the unusually long security lines at London’s Heathrow Airport were these signs. Very cute and on point for the Christmas holiday!
My Hotel: The Charlesmark
While I typically stay with friends, the arrival of families for Christmas means that I usually stay at a hotel at this time of year. I scored an incredible rate at The Charlesmark Hotel. Located centrally in Boston’s Back Bay, The Charlesmark is a charming boutique hotel with free wi-fi and a free breakfast every morning until 10:30 am that is filled with goodies from Dunkin’ Donuts (donut sticks, bagels, coffee), plus oatmeal and fruit. Note: The rooms are on the smaller side for two, but are perfect for a solo traveler.
I forgot to take a photo of my room, but take a look at this photo for a peek!
Additionally, The Charlesmark Hotel is home to a lovely lounge bar. As I was checking in, I happened to spot a few of my friends in the lounge bar and joined them for drinks! With great cocktails and food from the adjacent Ora Trattoria, it’s a great option whether you’re a local or a visitor to Boston.
Dining & Drinking
After living in Boston for 15 years, I look forward to visiting old favorites and trying new spots when I am back in town. Upon arrival in Boston, I hit the town to complete all of my Christmas shopping. I made a pit stop for lunch at one of my favorites, Tatte Bakery & Cafe. I’m so impressed by the growth of this wonderful cafe chain throughout Boston. I visited their Back Bay location on Boylston Street near the Public Garden and enjoyed a delightful halloumi salad with carrots, radish, apples, and almonds.
Later that evening, I tried to meet my dear friend Biana, of the popular Boston blog B Loved Boston, at “our spot,” City Bar. Unfortunately, as I arrived at the bar, I was so sad to see that it was closed for a private event. However, I couldn’t help but appreciate how cozy and wonderful it looked for the Christmas holiday. Whether you’re looking for a festive cocktail or a cozy lobby to rest your tired feet after shopping in Boston, I highly recommend City Bar.
After our City Bar disappointment, we ended up nearby at another favorite, Oak Bar. I absolutely love this bar and its delightful cocktail menu, however, the secret is out. Oak Bar tends to be really crowded, so I highly recommend booking a table on OpenTable in advance if you want to try it out. Booking a table in advance won’t score you a seat at the super cool bar, but you will get to enjoy a lovely table.
Somehow, I lucked out and elbowed my way into two seats! We enjoyed a fresh glass of prosecco and a perfectly crafted Negroni. I loved my negroni so much, I went back to Oak Bar again! It was also SO good to see Biana. One of my dearest friends from Boston :).
Later on in the week, I tried a new spot, Earl’s Bar & Kitchen. Located in the Prudential Center, I had been for drinks in the summer on the outdoor terrace, but I had not been for food. I met a few friends there on a Friday night and it was beyond packed. However, once again, luck was on my side and I snagged a table at the upstairs bar. Once settled, we feasted on sushi, which was pretty good (although not the best I’ve had in Boston).
I also tried the guacamole and chips (again, ok, not the best), plus the french fries (very tasty!). I sipped on Old Fashioneds the entire night and I’m pretty sure the bartenders kept switching between bourbon and whiskey for the base (for the record, I prefer bourbon). So, a note to everyone – just specify!
Last, but certainly not least, I tried a new spot in the South End, Whaling in Oklahoma. Recommended to me by a foodie friend, I was intrigued by the restaurant’s name and the Japanese menu. According to The Boston Globe, the name of the restaurant refers to a law that forbids catching whales in the landlocked state of Oklahoma.
I, unfortunately, forgot to snap photos of all the items we ordered, but everything was really good! Pictured below are miso aubergine, steamed pork buns and red snapper.
We also ordered the brussels sprouts which were incredible and a divine Japanese curry.
Final Thoughts
It was such a great few days in Boston. In addition to finishing my Christmas shopping, it was such a delight to see friends and visit a few of my favorite spots in the city. Boston will always be my home and I look forward to more visits in 2019!
For my Boston Guide, click here.