There are hotels that make a city a destination to visit. That’s not to say that Boston doesn’t have its own virtues. We’ve never met so many people who can talk Revolutionary War. And tea parties. But with Raffles in residence, it’s a reason in itself to make a trip.
Atmosphere
I had not been to Boston for over twenty years, and the city has come a long way from lobster rolls and clam chowder. My means were more modest then, so I stayed at the Copley — but there weren’t real luxury hotels anyway. That’s completely changed with Mandarin, Langham, Four Seasons and now Raffles, which opened in 2023. I knew it was going to be nice, but I wasn’t expecting a world-class hotel, in a city that has also leveled up. My time at Raffles Boston was part of a hectic travel schedule around the country and the world. So, I had the context to compare it to a city like Chicago, which is also high on the luxury hotel scene. With Raffles, though, I’ll say that it gave Boston that edge to bring it a notch above Chicago. I think I can say that with authority, as a native Chicagoan who loves the hotel scene there too.
Like Asian hotels, the lobby of Raffles Boston was on a higher floor, which in this case was 17. It made the experience feel more exclusive from my arrival. The hotel also felt more like a residence, which is probably because it’s an extension of the Raffles Residences. The decor felt English-contemporary to me — I could have been in London the moment I walked in.
Rooms
I’ve been spoiled with hotels lately, and the details of Raffles were just locked down pat. The hallways felt like a luxury apartment building, with rich woods and carpeting that was pulled together to feel expensive. I trend to more modern decor but I loved the high-brow feel of it all. My suite was impressive, with a large entryway that also made it feel like an apartment. The mini bar had a full-sink which made it feel like you could really entertain and make drinks for guests. There was a large powder room as well, which made this room good to have friends over for a pre-party.
The living room had a full couch and loveseat as well as a dining/work alcove. I was just there for one night, but I wished I had 3-4, to spend more time at the hotel as well as to explore the Boston restaurant scene. The color palates were a dark wood juxtaposed with flower-printed carpeting and lighter furniture. The main bath was also huge by any standards, with bright light that made it feel fresh. It was overall just a pretty vibe in the rooms at Raffles Boston.
Dining
From breakfast until late-night drinks in the speakeasy, I liked being on a work trip at Raffles, because there was always a good scene. There were more Boston locals than tourists for drinks at Long Bar on the 17th floor and a vibe for after-work. Every table and spot at the bar was packed. Also, the tables on the outside terrace are good for groups and taking in the views of the city.
At breakfast, I had a generous room credit and ordered half the menu. The quality of the food and preparation was top quality. I had the rolled omelet with lobster and the cod Benedict. If I could have eaten it all, I would have. On the weekends the brunch is more robust, and includes oysters and lobster rolls.
A Destination for Locals
I did make it to the speakeasy The Blind Duck, which is behind a discreet door on the 18th floor. The drinks were solid and the Wednesday night scene was packed. Once again, it was more locals than guests at the hotel. Raffles has clearly made itself a destination for Bostonians. I met some new friends at the bar and there wasn’t a conversation about the Revolutionary War in sight. Instead it was cool, down-to-earth people.
A Few Things to Save for Next Time
I didn’t have a chance to go to Amar, the fine dining restaurant, but the room was a beauty. It’s on the list for the next visit. In lieu of eating at Padrona, the Italian restaurant, we went to a local spot on Newbury. However, the tagliatelle with balsamic and the sweet corn agnolotti are high priority for the next visit.
Spa
I didn’t have a chance to get a spa treatment at Raffles, but it’s also on the list for the next visit. I did have a chance to poke around the oasis, which is a luxurious jewel box with four treatment rooms. The 20-meter pool and the fitness center with a view are impressive, and besides the standard sauna, they also have ice baths. If I return for a girl’s trip or with family, my sense is that the treatments would be relaxation and wellness-focused.
Service
I was surprised at how sophisticated and elegant the service was. Not that Bostonians aren’t both, but it felt like I was in a European hotel. The front office staff was polished above what you would typically get in a US hotel. Servers and bartenders were all down-to-earth but also had their A-game on. I was only there for an evening for work, but Raffles is known for their butler service. I’m looking forward to testing the limits on that for the next visit. It definitely won’t be 20+ years from now.
Overall: 9/10.
I would come back to Boston just to stay at Raffles again.
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FAQs
Q: Where is Raffles Boston located?
A: Raffles Boston is located at 40 Trinity Place, Boston, MA 02116 in the Back Bay neighborhood of the city.
Q: What dining options are there at Raffles Boston?
A: The restaurants and bars that are run by Raffles Boston include the Long Bar & Terrace, Amar (a fine dining restaurant), and Cafe Pastel. There is also a hidden speakeasy, The Blind Duck. Lastly, there is the independently-run La Padrona on the second floor of the hotel.
Q: Is there a spa at Raffles Boston?
A: There is a luxurious Guerlain spa at Raffles Boston. In addition, there is a fitness center, 20-meter pool, steam, sauna and ice bath.
