Category: Lenox Suggests

Top 3 Breweries Boston Breweries

Posted on by Meredith White

If you like cool craft beer as much as we do look no further.  Boston is bursting with new local breweries and we are here to show you the best ones to visit while in Beantown! Here are our top 3 Boston breweries.

Stop #1: Cisco

Located in the gorgeous and modern Seaport Area, this outdoor beer garden claims to “bring a little bit of Nantucket to Boston”.  While it doesn’t necessarily have the quaint New England feeling of Nantucket, if you are a fan of Cisco beer look no further.  Basically, a tented area with little VIP covered huts, so make sure you go on a decent day.  Definitely a bustling fun summer/fall place to hang out and relax.  Some of our favorite beers included the Whale’s Tale Pale Ale, Grey Lady Wheat Ale, and Gripah Grapefruit IPA.  They also have a nice selection of fall hard ciders to wet your whistle and, don’t forget to visit their nice little pop up gift shop for some cool Cisco swag, we couldn’t resist a new sweatshirt and trucker hat!

Per Commonwealth of Mass.  you must order food when ordering alcohol, don’t fret they have an awesome partnership with OATH pizza-yum!

Sorry no 4-legged friends (boo!)

The beer garden is a seasonal operation so be sure to check out their hours of operation before heading over.

Stop #2 Trillium Fort Point

A farmhouse inspired craft beer founded by a super cute couple JC and Esther in 2013!  This new location is a must see, the marriage of old with super modern is a perfect addition to the cool Seaport area and this doesn’t even touch on the delicious array of craft beers they have.  The have outdoor seating as you enter as well as a fun roof deck.  Our favorite beer was the Double Dry Hopped Fort Point Pale Ale, however if you are a fan of IPA’s come here!!

Reservations required same day, make sure to make online.

The Beer is top notch and the outdoor space is substantial, and a real cool industrial loft feel. And the eats are fun too!  Food is all QR based ordering so you do everything yourself. The menu is limited but everything was super fresh with a farm to table feel.

Stop #3 Dorchester Brewing Company

Just on the outskirts of the city and only 2 miles from The Lenox we visited Dorchester Brewing Co.  In 2020 they expanded their Tap Room space to include their Hopservatory, 4 season Rooftop Greenhouse, a Game Room, Restaurant and More, while continuing to help other brewing partners to increase their beer production.  Dorchester Brewing sells their labeled beers which are very tasty along with teaming up with smaller breweries they allow to use their facility.  This is a very cool, spacious spot and they do allow dogs out on the patio. They have a cool sampler you can select your own beers, we tried 8 different ones and they were all delicious.

For drinks, I would recommend the samplers since they have so many different varieties you can really see which one you like best. Food comes from M&M BBQ – make sure you try their brisket. This is a really fun place!

Overall, some great spots to checkout in Boston and the surrounding areas, a great 1-2 days of fun checking out the local brews in Beantown!!

What To Read This Summer

Posted on by Lisa Burns

With the start of the summer right around the corner, I decided to put together a list of some of my favorite books, all written by Black women.
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Becoming


by Michelle Obama
Becoming is a memoir of Michelle Obama, the former First Lady of the United States. In addition to describing her time in the White House, Obama details her upbringing, her education, her work in community outreach, and her relationship with former president Barack Obama all of which contribute to the process of becoming the woman she is today. Loved the intimate details of her relationship with Barack and her daughters – so uplifting and heartwarming.

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The Vanishing Half


by Brit Bennett
The Vanishing Half is a novel that weaves together the story of twins, as well as those who’s lives have been touch by them. The Vignes sisters run away from their small black town, of which the people look all the same—light-skinned black people. One twin returns to her roots and stays. The other twin fades farther into crossing over as a white woman. This novel transcends time and place to tell a story of what it means to know who you are and the illusion you create for other people.

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This Close to Okay


by Leesa Cross-Smith
The novel centers on two strangers—Tallie and Emmett—who spend an emotional weekend together after Tallie, a licensed therapist, finds Emmett attempting to take his life on a bridge. As they both come to terms with their pasts, Cross-Smith illustrates two complex characters who share their vulnerabilities, dreams, grief, and, ultimately, compassion with each other.

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Cane River


by Lalita Tademy
This is the first book I chose for my book club 20 years ago and is still one of my favorite books ever. Cane River is a fictionalized version of the lives of author Lalita Tademy’s female ancestors over the course of four generations. The story stretches all the way back to 1834, beginning with Tademy’s great-great-great-great grandmother, a woman who was born into slavery, living on a plantation off the Cane River in Louisiana. It explores the choices they made in order to survive slavery and tragic losses and to create a legacy for the generations to follow.

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Memorial Drive: A Daughter’s Memoir


by Natasha Trethewey
Written by former US poet laureate, Memorial Drive is a memoir that copes with the circumstances that led up to the death of the author’s mother, Gwendolyn Turnbough. The book takes its name from Atlanta’s major thoroughfare, where Natasha last lived with her mother, on and off, during her college years. It also bears significance as the site of Stone Mountain—a Confederate monument—and, metaphorically, as a site of memory and reckoning.

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PS – be sure to follow The Lenox Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for announcements on our next Author Events, which have been postponed to a later date this summer/early fall.

Cape Cod Cones

Posted on by Lisa Burns

Nothing epitomizes a summer vacation treat to me than an ice cream cone, especially one from Cape Cod! During my childhood, we often spent a week during our summer vacation, on the Cape, in different towns each year. I have to say, I am an ice cream aficionado, and know great ice cream when I taste it!

Let’s start on the Upper Cape, which actually seems like it should be called Lower Cape, since it starts when you cross over the bridge coming from Downtown Boston! Enjoy and be sure to tell them I sent you! (insert happy face).

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UPPER CAPE

Ice Cream Sandwich
66 Route 6A, Sandwich, MA

Polar Cave Ice Cream Parlour
22 Falmouth Road, Mashpee

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MID CAPE

Four Seas Ice Cream
360 S Main Street, Centerville, MA

Sundae School
381 Lower County Road
Dennisport

Ben & Jerry’s
352 Main Street, Hyannis

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LOWER CAPE

Buffy’s Ice Cream Shop
456 Main Street, Chatham

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ISLANDS

Mad Martha’s
7 N Water Street, Edgartown, Martha’s Vineyard

The Juice Bar
12 Broad Street, Nantucket

Escape To Cape Cod

Posted on by Nick Peterson

Summertime on Cape Cod is one of our favorite times of the year in Massachusetts. Known for its quaint villages, fresh seafood, historic lighthouses, bayside & ocean beaches, it is the perfect getaway for any guest looking to escape the summer heat!

Cape Cod is easily recognizable on a map – just look for the ‘bent arm’ on Massachusetts’ east coast. Separated from the rest of the state by the Cape Cod Canal, the peninsula is home to 15 distinctive towns, each with their own flair and character.

For a first time visitor, it can seem overwhelming when trying to decide where on ‘The Cape’ to visit. While we are firm believers that you cannot go wrong visiting any of these coastal towns (okay, we might be a little biased) – here are a couple recommendations & travel options that we think offer the quintessential Cape Cod experience!

We’ll start with the ‘Outer Cape’ as the locals like to call it:

Provincetown

Located at the very tip of Cape (about 2 hours from Downtown Boston), Provincetown, aka P-Town, offers something for everyone. With its beautiful beaches, cool boutiques & diverse culture, it has become a top vacation spot for the LGBTQ community. The quickest way to get to this beautiful town we would suggest for you to hop right on the Provincetown Fast Ferry. The fast ferry operated by BOSTON HARBOR CRUISES, is a 90-minute ride to/from Long Wharf, Boston to MacMillan Wharf, Provincetown.

The PILGRIM MONUMENT is the tallest all-granite structure in the United States; built to honor the Mayflower Pilgrim’s first landing in the New World. With over 116 steps and 16 ramps, you’ll climb with an interior view of stones that were donated by cities, towns and organization from all of the United States ending in breath taking views.

After your experience all P-Town has to offer, we’re sure you’ll be looking for a little something to munch on. With the help of our fabulous Doorman, Peter Medeiros, here are a few of the best places to go:
BUBALA’ BY THE BAY – 185 Commercial Street; BAYSIDE BETSY’S – 177 Commercial Street and THE PATIO – 328 Commercial Street.

Before you leave don’t forget to finish your time in P-Town with a few words from Zac Brown Band, “toes in the water, ass in the sand, not a worry in the world” at the #1 beach, RACE POINT BEACH. With ample parking, soft beaches and even a few whale-watching opportunities, Race Point Beach is #1 on Trip Advisor’s 2017 Travelers Choice list of 25 best beaches in the United States.

When heading back to Boston consider taking the long way, because why not? You’re on vacation! Head right down to the most popular town in the ‘Mid Cape’

Hyannis

Also known as the “Capital of the Cape”, Hyannis is the most accessible town for visitors. Well known for the JFK Memorial, the private Kennedy Compound & the JFK Museum. Hyannis also boasts the best fish shacks, quaint B&B’s, unique shopping and much more! Feeling up for something crunchy, salty and maybe a little hoppy we suggest you make your way over to what we think are the best spots: CAPE COD CHIPS – 100 Breeds Hill Road; CAPE COD BEER – 1336 Phinneys Lane and MAIN STREET HYANNIS.

Once you’re ready to head back to Beantown, you might be interested to know about an alternative way to go! We suggest you take the CAPE FLYER TRAIN, which runs each weekend from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The passenger train runs to/from Boston & Hyannis a few times throughout the summer. Or, a quick alternative, albeit more expensive – CAPE AIR – which has daily direct flights!

As you make your way back into the Lenox Hotel lobby we hope our suggestions help with your adventures through New England! There’s no time to be bored in a world as beautiful as this! So keep your eyes out for the next edition of our summah summah summah time travel list!

Pup Strolls Around the Back Bay

Posted on by Meredith White

Traveling with your pooch can seem a little daunting, especially when you are headed to a city. But fear not, we know getting your four-legged friend outside is the key to happiness for you and your pet. Here are a few spots that are close to The Lenox to take your dog.

Commonwealth Avenue Mall

The closest spot to the hotel to get outside for a walk. Comm Ave, located just two blocks north of the hotel, has a lovely park and path running in between the car lanes that is perfect for a city stroll. You and you companion might think you are on a Parisian Boulevard walking on this historic path.

Carleton Court at Ink Block

This is a fully paved fenced in area for pooches to run around off leash. Just a 7-10 minute walk from the hotel off the Southwest corridor heading towards the South End. Ink Block is one of the newest developments in the city so there it’s worth the stroll.

Peters Park

A bit further into the South End is Peters park at 1205 Washington Street. This is a popular spot for the pooches and your dog will be sure to make a friend or two! Right in the middle of the bustling south end, one of Boston’s prettiest neighborhoods.

After all that walking I’m sure your pup will want a treat or a souvenir. Here are a few of my favorite spots:
Polka Dog Bakery on 256 Shawmut Ave in the South End
Fish & Bone at 217 Newbury St in the Back Bay
Pawsh Dog Boutique on 31 Gloucester St in the Back Bay
Jack’s Snacks in our very own lobby Lenox Mercantile!

Dine In or Dine Out

Posted on by Lisa Burns

Eating at our favorite restaurants during the last few months has certainly been a challenge. The Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau offers DINE OUT BOSTON twice a year, providing locals and visitors an opportunity to sample area restaurants at special prices. Each restaurant offers either/or both a lunch and dinner prix fixe menu at an excellent price.

Sólás, our Irish Pub at The Lenox is excited to announce we are doing a special City Table Pop-Up for Dine Out Boston August 16 – 21 & August 23 – 28. Enjoy a three-course meal for only $33 featuring your City Table favorites from the comfort of our pub! A full menu can be viewed on the link above and even better, almost everything is available for take-out!

I was happy to see a few of my favorites on the special menu – the Chopped Salad, the Maplebrook Farms Burrata and especially the Green Circle Farms Chicken, my absolute favorite dish at City Table!

Dine Out Boston is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of delicious deals at restaurants offering indoor or outdoor dining options, with many offering take out and delivery service. Bon appétit!

We’re Open – Slainte!

Posted on by Executive Chef Sean MacAlpine

Eating out during COVID-19 has been nothing short of a challenge, but now that the state has lifted many of the dining restrictions, we’re happy to say that Sólás is offering extended patio seating, dining in and take-out options as well. The summer weather is here to stay and we have some great seasonal options in addition to many of the Solas fan favorites!

Two of my summer go-to’s are the Chopped Salad – a filling but light option featuring chopped mango, Roma tomatoes with grilled corn and crumbled feta. Nothing says summer like a great seafood dish and I highly recommend the Grilled Salmon with a spicy-sweet chili glaze. Of course you can still indulge in our fresh New England Lobster Roll or Fish & Chips or the Soft Pretzels with cheddar IPA dipping sauce. Then you can top it all of with a perfectly poured Guinness!

We hope to see you soon and be sure to let them know Chef sent you!

Sólás hours currently are:
Mon-Thu – 11:30AM – 9:00PM
Fri – 11:30AM – 10:00PM
Sat – 10:00AM – 10:00PM
Sun – 10:00AM – 8:00PM

Check out our menu here.

Get Outside!

Posted on by Lisa Burns

Boston is a four-season city, with all sorts of wonderful things to do outdoors and The Lenox is located right in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay – a perfect starting point for any of the following!

Here’s a list of popular outdoor activities in Boston including parks, walking and running trails, water activities and more. Get outside and enjoy all that Boston has to offer:

BIKING

Located right outside our door on the corner of Boyslton and Dartmout at the Boston Public Library, Boston’s Blue Bikes  have docking stations with rentable bikes. Whether you want to explore the city for an hour or two, or an entire day – this is a great way to do it. Here’s an itinerary that we created for a ride around the neighborhood.

BOSTON WALKING & JOGGING TRAILS

Our Director of Sales Lorna created a great jogging itinerary which follows part of the famed Boston Marathon route – check  it out here.

Boston Freedom Trail –

Take an unforgettable walk through history as you follow the 2.5 miles of Follow the famous red brick path with the kids to 16 historic sites through Boston’s most historically well known neighborhoods that provide a fantastic way to introduce kids of all ages to Boston’s rich history and America’s path toward liberty. Check out our concierge’s itinerary here.

Boston Public Garden –

The Boston Public Garden is the oldest public park in the country, with beautiful winding paths surrounded by antique trees and impressive gardens; and lots of benches to sit and relax. Don’t miss the famous Ducklings sculptures, along with the many hidden fountains and statues within the park.  It’s quite beautiful any time of year

The Charles River Esplanade –

A 17-mile stretch of land runs along the banks of the Charles River. There are paths that span the entire stretch that make for a glorious place to walk, jog, rollerblade, bike or just get some sun and people-watch.

Underground Inkblock –

An 8-acre underpass located between Boston’s South End and South Boston neighborhoods that has been transformed into an active urban park, cultural attraction and parking amenity.  This is a cool alternative to a conventional park, with the added bonus of colorful art murals and whimsy.

The Rose Kennedy Greenway –

Made up of 15 acres of vibrant, public parkland. When Boston’s Big Dig project plunged previously elevated roadways underground, the city found itself rich in prime urban land. The Greenway encompasses gardens, plazas, and tree-lined promenades. Offering beautiful places for relaxation within the rhythm of the urban environment, the Greenway is a key feature of the modern reinvention of Boston.

Castle Island –

Often missed by tourists, Castle Island is a great place to walk along Boston Harbor.  Refreshing breezes, fantastic views of planes taking off and landing from the airport, and lots of wide open space compliment this venue – with the added bonus of the popular Sullivan’s snack shack.   This 22 acre land-bound island (it’s the site of an old armory), features a number of interesting and entertaining sites.

Franklin Park –

Franklin Park is home to Boston’s largest forest, walking trails and lots of wide open green space. It boasts an 18-hole public golf course, tennis courts, baseball fields, old stone ruins, and New England’s largest Zoo.

ON THE WATER

Boston Duck Tours –

The only tour to traverse both land and water, led by ConDUCKtors who give an often colorful spin on the history and landmarks of Boston – this is popular attraction in the city.

Community Boating & Sailing –

Located on the shores of the Charles River, visitors can rent sea kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and windsurfers for a daily fee.

Great Food, On The Go

Posted on by Lisa Burns

We are all adjusting to the new normal here in the Back Bay, and that certainly goes for our food and beverage options.  But don’t get too down, throughout this pandemic there are still some excellent take out and delivery options available!  Here are a few we recommend.

Lukes Lobsters:

Get your lobster fix right next door at the world famous Lukes Lobsters. Traceable, sustainable seafood, including their famous lobster rolls.  A lobster roll and a bag of chips might be the best summer meal around and online ordering is available!

Dirty Water Dough Co:

A staff favorite pizza spot just a few blocks away on Newbury Street. Excellent pizza and a pretty neat tidbit from their website: “Dirty Water” was the rock band, The Standells, famous ode to Boston in the 1960’s. The song title referred to the then-famously polluted Charles River. At the time, the water was considered too dirty to drink so the fine residents of Boston started using beer instead of water to make bread. That is why we also use our very own home-brewed Dirty Water IPA as the secret ingredient in our pizza dough.

So if you’re ever Downtown and hankering for a delicious slice of Boston-style pizza, swing by Dirty Dough! Our pies are hand-stretched and come out of the oven with a perfectly thin and crispy crust. With our beer dough, special spice blend, and unique flavors, you’ll be in for a real treat.

The Dirty Taco Pizza is a personal fav of mine!  Delivery and takeout are both available.

Capital Grille:

Looking for that Back Bay steakhouse experience?  It can still happen with our friends at Capital Grille just down Boylston Street.  With some top notch steak and seafood options on their takeout menu, you can even pair your meal with a fantastic bottle of wine!

Eataly:

Pizza, pasta, cocktail kits and more! Take a stroll through Eataly in the Prudential Center for a quick snack or load up a basket for a picnic around town.  Give us a call if you need a recommendation on some outdoor space to enjoy your hand-selected cheese plate!

As always please call guest reception for more recommendations!

And if you don’t want to leave the building – join us at our Irish Pub, Sólás – menu and information here.

Real Weddings
Rebecca & Anthony

Posted on by Mara Payne

Rebecca and Anthony were married at The Lenox on August 24th, 2019, a beautiful and warm day. The happy couple recently shared details about their special day with our Catering Team.

How Did You Meet

We met as summer camp counselors at the YMCA in the summer of 2011.

Why Did You Choose The Lenox Hotel For Your Wedding?

From the moment we stepped into The Lenox, we knew it was where we wanted our wedding reception to be. The Dome Room was like nothing we had seen in our search for a wedding venue! We had been looking for a spot in Boston that encompassed our love of that “old Boston” feeling, while also being elegant and in the heart of the city. An added bonus was learning that Julie Garland lived in the hotel at one point in time. This truly added to how magical The Lenox felt to us.

What Was Your Favorite Or Some Of Your Favorite Moments Of Your Big Day? (Saturday October 13, 2018)

There are so many great memories of that day-it’s tough to choose one! Walking into the Dome Room and seeing how excited all of our friends and family were was definitely a moment neither of us will forget. Taking pictures on the rooftop was such an amazing and unique experience. The pictures taken under the hotel sign are some of our favorites of the day!

Any Advice for Other Couples During the Planning Process or Wedding Weekend?

Don’t stress! This day is about you guys. Be sure to be true to yourselves and embrace every moment of the day because it goes by in the blink of an eye.

Style Guide

Photographer: Nicole & Zach Gowan
Videography: Andrew Burke Videography contact: [email protected]
Hair + Makeup: Pretty Wife Beauty
Wedding Cake: Dessert Works
Music: Cape Tunes
Florist: The Sweetbay Shop

 

I Love Ribs

Posted on by Colin O'Donnell

I love ribs. Let’s skip over the background about how during self-isolation we all have more time to cook/bake/create and get right to the “meat” of this post! This is by no means the definitive written word on ribs. If there were a Library of Congress on slow cooking meats, this entry would likely not make the cut. I don’t have a ton of outdoor space so I can’t really justify a full-fledged smoker. I’m going to tell you my method for making pretty tasty ribs in an oven and a small Weber grill. So lets call this recipe “Ribs For The Smoker Deficient” and anybody from Texas will probably click away right now.

I went with a rack of St. Louis pork ribs mostly because that is what the store had. I start by making a dry rub to apply to the rack. Nothing too special here, so I’d recommend using whatever you have around the house or even a pre-mixed rub. 

For mine I went with an equal-ish parts combo of the following:

  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Paprika
  • Dark Chili Powder
  • Garlic Powder
  • Cayenne
  • Brown Sugar
  • Mustard Powder

Whenever I do this it tends to change based on my whims and what I have in the cupboard. I mix that up and rub down the rack generously. Then in a bowl I mix up some water, apple cider vinegar and if I have any of the dry rub left throw it in there as well. Place the ribs in a roasting pan with a rack to keep the meat off the bottom of the pan. Pour the vinegar mixture in to get coverage on the pan but not so high that it is touching the ribs. Cover with foil and bake in the oven at 275 degrees. I did this for just over 3 hours but I’m sure if you have the patience for longer, you won’t be disappointed!

About an hour before I was ready to take the ribs out of the oven, I got my Weber grill going. Nothing fancy, just your standard Weber charcoal grill. I started the charcoal in a small pile to one side of the barrel to get some heat going. 

Side note #1: At this point I’m outside and I’ve thus cracked a beer. On this occasion I’m drinking a Sip of Sunshine made by Lawson’s Finest Liquids.  Drink Vermont Beer! 

Using the air vents, I’m trying to get the heat to stay around 300 degrees in the grill. It takes a bit of playing with to get a steady temp which might take some time. Finicking with a grill and drinking beer is part of the reason to endeavor this operation anyway! Once I have the temp correct, I throw a few hickory chips on the flame to get some smoky flavors going. Then I take the ribs from the oven and put them on the grill, on the off-heat side. Try to save the liquid at the bottom of the roasting pan and brush the ribs on the grill with that mixture from time to time. 

I cooked these ribs off heat, mopping occasionally, in the Weber for another 2 and ½ hours. I feel like that is enough time to take in the smoke from the hickory chips. That’s it. Cut them up using a cleaver or heavy knife and serve. I ate this batch with a simple potato salad and some dressed greens. 

Side note #2: The cleaver I have is great and I want to give a shout out to the Wok Shop in San Fran where I ordered it from. This place is awesome and might be worth another post altogether!

And while we are at it, here are a couple of my favorite ribs in the Boston area.  In case you don’t have a full day to make these or you just want the professionals to take over!

Smoke Shop – I like the one in Kendall Square but there are a few other locations. They do it right! Lots of great BBQ options including half and full racks. Plus, the bar area awesome, opening out into a courtyard. Worth a stop for sure.

Redbones – A standby in Somerville’s Davis Square, this place is still cranking out awesome BBQ and boasts one of the area’s best beer lists.  They offer baby back, St. Louis, Memphis, and even Texas style beef ribs.  They have a few bar style seats towards the back of the dining room that look right into the kitchen – my personal favorite spot.

Enjoy!

What To Read This Spring

Posted on by Lisa Burns

With the start of the Spring Season in Boston today and the need for everyone to self-quarantine and practice #socialdistancing during this scary and uncertain time, there is nothing better than a good book to take your mind off the anxiety we are all experiencing. I hope this list is helpful and encourages you to sit back, and lose yourself in a good book!
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Good Girls Lie

by J.T. Ellison
I had the pleasure of attending an author event at my local book store, An Unlikely Story featuring J.T. Ellison in conversation with Hank Phillippi Ryan (one of my favorite mystery writers!). She introduced her newest novel, Good Girls Lie which takes place at a prestigious prep school for daughters of the rich and influential, it accepts only the best and the brightest. It examines the tenuous bonds of friendship, the power of lies and the desperate lengths people will go to protect their secrets. Fast-paced with lots of twists and turns – this book will captivate you from the beginning!

MORE INFORMATION
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Such A Fun Age

by Kiley Reid
Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid is a provocative, multi-layered debut novel about race, privilege and the idolization of black people. Narrated in third person, Such a Fun Age explores the race relations and power dynamics between Emira and Alix, and Emira and Kelley. Kiley Reid is incredibly talented at making us despise and also sympathise for both Alix and Kelley. My opinion of the two characters kept changing throughout the book — are they genuine? are they really wanting to help, or are they pushing their own agenda? That’s the beauty of this book.

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This Tender Land

by William Kent Krueger
Our book club’s choice in February, we all gave high marks to William Kent Krueger’s
This Tender Land, a wonderful coming-of-age story filled with adventure and many moments where you are left on the edge-of-your-seat, in anticipation for what might happen next to Odie and his gang of Vagabonds as they make their escape down the Mississippi in a canoe.

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Writers & Lovers

by Lily King
I chose Writers & Lovers for our next book club in May – haven’t started yet but looking forward to reading this highly acclaimed book, a #ReadWithJenna Book Club Pick. Described as an “unforgettable portrait of the artist as a young woman. Blindsided by her mother’s sudden death, and wrecked by a recent love affair, Casey Peabody is thirty-one in the summer of 1997 and still clutching on to something nearly all her old friends have let go of: the determination to live a creative life as a novelist.”

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The Lost Family

by Jenna Blum
Jenna Blum, author of one of my all-time favorite books, Those Who Save Us, brilliantly brings to the page a husband devastated by a grief he cannot name, a frustrated wife struggling to compete with a ghost she cannot banish, and a daughter sensitive to the pain of both her own family and another lost before she was born. Poignant, and at times heartbreaking but very satisfying read.

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In addition, here is a great list of books recommended by indie booksellers, compiled by buzzfeednews.com. If you have any book suggestions, please feel free to send me an email at [email protected].

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PS – be sure to follow The Lenox Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for announcements on our next Author Events, which have been postponed to a later date this summer/early fall.

A Day at the New England Aquarium

Posted on by Stephanie Sgroi

The New England Aquarium has always been one of my favorite places to visit in Boston. It is located just two miles away from The Lenox Hotel, which is only about a 15 minute taxi ride and 25 minutes on the T. The aquarium is great year-round, but I especially like going in the winter to escape the cold for a bit.

Since there are so many interesting exhibits to see, I would definitely recommend allowing a couple hours to really experience all that the Aquarium as to offer. The Giant Ocean Tank, which is 4 stories high and 40 feet wide, is always a must-stop for me. The top of the tank is completely open and allows for a fun look at Myrtle the Turtle (a resident of the tank since 1970) who pops her head up for air every once in a while. Keep an eye out for divers in the tank as well. They often go in to feed the fish and it’s fun to observe how they interact up close with them.

One of the more interactive exhibits is the Shark and Ray Touch Tank, which is located on the main floor. You can actually put your hand in the water as sting rays glide past you, so you get a chance to experience what these animals actually feel like.

The top floor of the Aquarium is home to the Edge of Sea Touch Tank. Last time I was visiting this area, I had the chance to talk with the educator on duty, and they put a scallop on its side, so we could all watch it open its shell. Sometimes they will close really quickly and spit out water!

Are you more into rain forests and jungle creatures, rather than sea animals? Well, good news the Aquarium is also home to some breathtaking Amazon Exhibits that allow you to see all the bio-diversity that make our planet so unique. The Poisonous Frog Tank is a personal favorite of mine, but there are tons more to explore. As you look into some of these exhibits, take a moment for your eyes to adjust and look closely, as many of the animals have adapted to camouflage and blend in with their environment. Is that a branch or an Anaconda? A leaf or a Seahorse? Take a second look and you just might be surprised.

After all that walking, you’ll probably be in the mood to sit down, which is the perfect time to visit the I-Max 3D theater. Here you’ll find giant rotating and informative films that are the perfect way to cap off a day at the New England Aquarium.

I hope you enjoy the Aquarium as much as I do, and if you ever have any questions about upcoming exhibits or anything at all, visit me at the Concierge desk and I’ll be more than happy to tell you even more about this great place.

Boston Microgreens At City Table

Posted on by Executive Chef Sean MacAlpine

Two miles from our doors in the basement of a nondescript South Boston corporate complex lives the smallest & closest farm we have partnered with at City Table, Boston Microgreens. Using state of the art equipment, they are able to grow an incredible amount of microgreens & herbs using organic nutrients & seeds all without any pesticides or herbicides.

We took the opportunity to tour their farm recently and see their micro-farm in person.

Being able to control every aspect of their growing environment, Boston Microgreens is able to grow delicious food with an extremely small physical and carbon impact. Every week, we take delivery of trays of living greens, which we continue to care for before harvesting immediately prior to going onto your plate!

We were lucky enough to spot the tiniest workers Boston Microgreens employees, a ladybug hard at work standing in for chemical pesticides.

Next time you’re enjoying a meal in one of our restaurants, we hope you have a little extra appreciation for the pops of green on your plate!

Our Partners

What To Read This Fall

Posted on by Lisa Burns

I’m a little late for my Fall edition of book suggestions, though technically the fall season doesn’t end until December 21st! Here are some recommendations – and be sure to check out our Event with Elizabeth Berg in our “Evening with An Author Series”!
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The Night of Miracles

by Elizabeth Berg
I was first introduced to Elizabeth Berg when we chose her book, Open House (an Oprah pick!) for book club back in 2000. We all enjoyed her style of writing – easy and almost comforting. “Night of Miracles” is the sequel to “The Story of Arthur Truluv”, although it can be read as a stand-alone book. It picks up on the characters who live in the small town of Mason, Missouri and focuses on Lucille and her baking class adventures and also introduces an eclectic group of new characters. Elizabeth’s latest book, “The Confession Club” and sequel to this will be featured at our next Author’s Event!

If you liked her book “Open House” you’ll love this!

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Ask Again Yes

by Mary Beth Keane
In her third novel, Mary Beth Keane introduces a tale of two families living on the outskirts of New York City, and is spread over the course of several decades. The Gleesons and the Stanhopes aren’t just neighbors. Francis and Brian are NYPD coworkers. Francis’ wife Lena is doing her best to make friends with Brian’s wife Anne, to no avail. This book explores relationships with the two families, and how one members mental illness affects everyone in the dramatic conclusion of this novel. I couldn’t put this down – be prepared to whip through it!

If you liked Celeste Ng’s “Little Fires Everywhere” you’ll love this!

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Mrs. Everything

by Jennifer Weiner
Was so looking forward to reading this long awaited book by Jennifer Weiner and it did not disappoint. She introduces us to two sisters’ lives as they struggle to find their places – and be true to themselves – in a rapidly evolving world. Growing up in 1950s Detroit, they live in a perfect “Dick and Jane” house, where their roles in the family are clearly defined. Jo is the tomboy, the bookish rebel with a passion to make the world more fair; Bethie is the pretty, feminine good girl, a would-be star who enjoys the power her beauty confers and dreams of a traditional life. This book is both funny and emotional and really makes you question what role a woman plays in the world.

If you liked her novel “In Her Shoes” you’ll love this!

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The Murder List

by Hank Phillippi Ryan
This is now my favorite Hank Phillippi Ryan book! Right from the start I was drawn in by the story of law student Rachel North, her husband – Jack Kirkland, and her boss – Martha Gardiner. When Rachel takes an internship with her husband’s adversary Martha, the tension created is suspenseful and the plot thickens as 3 different story lines all converge at the surprising plot twist at the end!

If you liked her book “The Other Woman” you’ll love this!

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Chances Are

by Richard Russo
I haven’t read this book yet, next on my list, but it was recommended to me by the delightful Karen at Titcomb’s Bookshop in Sandwich MA. It’s the story of three sixty-six-year old men convene on Martha’s Vineyard, friends ever since meeting in college circa the sixties. An unsolved case of a missing woman that they all had a relationship with in the past is brought to a head during this last hurrah weekend on the island. Looking forward to reading this critically acclaimed book!

If you liked his book “Empire Falls” you’ll love this!

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I hope these suggestions encourage you to grab a book, relax and let the story take you to another place! If you have any book suggestions, please feel free to send me an email at [email protected].

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PS – be sure to follow The Lenox Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for announcements on our next Author Event.

Day Trip to Tree House

Posted on by Beverly Doughty

If you’re an avid beer fan like myself, then you have definitely heard of Tree House Brewery. Since opening in Western Massachusetts in 2011, it’s become one of the most sought after breweries in New England and beyond.

The only way to normally try one of these infamous beers is to drive to their brewery in Charlton which is about 60 miles west of the city. I finally made it out their last summer. It’s located on a beautiful country hillside overlooking Central MA. I had heard it was a very busy brewery but was still a bit shocked by the lines when we arrived which was on a Tuesday, middle in the afternoon. One line for people to order beer to drink on the premises and another for people who were buying beer to take home. There were so many folks with hand trucks, I had never seen anything like it before! I definitely recommend giving yourself a few hours to truly experience the brewery because once you get there you going to want to sit back in one of the many Adirondack chairs that overlooks the beautiful hills with a beer and enjoy the atmosphere.

And if you can’t make it Charlton then hopefully you will be able to attend one of their pop-ups at The Prudential Center this summer! It’s the first time they have done something like this in the area. It will be taking place on Thursday, June 27th, Thursday, July 18th & Thursday, July 25th. Hope you get a chance to try it! A few of my favorites are Haze, Lights On, and Bright.

Beaching Around Boston

Posted on by Stephanie Sgroi

Getting to and from beaches around Boston isn’t as hard as you may think! With an extensive public transportation system in and around the city, getting away to an adventure on the beach is just a t-ride, train stop or taxi away.

SOUTHIE
About 4 miles from The Lenox and easily accessible by taxi in 15-20 minutes (bus about 30 minutes) you can find yourself on miles of sandy beaches in South Boston. Pleasure Bay, the M Street Beach and Carson Beach form a three mile stretch of parkland along the South Boston shoreline of Dorchester Bay.

M Street Beach is a sandy beach where a lot of locals and young professionals soak up the sun. This is the trendy spot where you will find 20-30 year olds playing games, music and hanging out. Carson Beach is also family friendly and has amenities including a public restroom, first aid station, playground, rinsing showers, mother’s rest area and lifeguard services.

Castle Island is also located in South Boston and features Fort Independence. Fort Independence and Castle Island are on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. The 22-acre urban park is connected to the mainland by both walkways and roads. On Castle Island you can explore outside and sometime tour inside the historic fort. This historic park also has a heart healthy walking trail, fishing pier, a playground for children, picnic tables, and Pleasure Bay Beach. Leashed pets are allowed and dogs love it here with plenty of green grass! There are parking lots for both Castle Island and Carson Beach. After a day spend exploring the area, you should check out Sullivan’s concession stand at Castle Island which has fish and chips, lobster rolls, hot dogs and hamburgers, soft serve ice cream and cold beverages. Locals and visitors will picnic and enjoy the water views.

REVERE BEACH
Revere Beach is the oldest public beach in the United States. With over 2 miles of sandy beaches the amenities include life guards, public bath house and food vendors along the street.

About 12 miles from Boston, you can reach this beach using the Train and taking the Blue Line to Wonderland Train stop which will take about a hour. The drive may be about 25-45 minutes depending on traffic. Kelly’s Roast Beef is another famous dining option on the beach boardwalk. A fun event on Revere Beach is the Sand Sculpting Festival at Revere Beach and this year it will be held from July 26-28; sculptors work from 8am until 8pm – plus fireworks at 9pm on Sunday.

PROVINCETOWN
Looking to experience Cape Cod and its famous sandy beaches without the traffic? Bay State Cruises and Boston Harbor Cruises offers a fast ferry services to Provincetown in Cape Cod where you can have a quintessential Cape Cod beach day. The ferry takes 90 minutes is a great way to escape the summer heat in Boston. They generally run 4 round trips per day, and Bay State Cruises has daily departures at 8:30 AM, 1 PM, and 5:30 PM from Boston and departing Provincetown at 10:30 AM, 3 PM or 7:30 PM.

Herring Cove Beach and Race Point Beach both are just a couple miles away. Feeling adventurous you can rent a bicycle and explore the sand dunes. Arts Dune Tours is a one of a kind experience where you get a driving tour of the sand dunes along the Cape Cod National Seashore.

Our concierge team would be happy to assist with any travel plans or questions! Happy Summer!

What To Read This Summer II

Posted on by Lisa Burns

Summer reading is something I truly look forward to. Throughout the year I keep a running list of recommendations from co-workers, friends and family and try to read as many as possible during the season. Below is a list of books I’d like to suggest – I’ve only read two of them thus far and just started my third. Enjoy!

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A Woman Is No Man

by Etaf Rum
Currently my book club’s choice this month, I haven’t read yet but have heard great things about this author’s debut novel. Story line: three generations of women weigh family duty and desire in a conservative Palestinian community in Brooklyn. Looking forward to this one!

If you liked Yangsze Choo’s “The Night Tiger” you’ll like this!

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The Friends We Keep

by Jane Green
Always a great beach read, Jane recently debuted her 23rd book this summer! I had the pleasure of attending Jane’s first stop on the book tour and let me tell you, she is a hoot! This story transcends 3 close friends from their meeting in college to reconnecting at their 30th college reunion. Can their bond sustain a deep, dark secret that unravels…read, and find out!

If you liked Elin Hilderbrand’s “Barefoot” you’ll like this!

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The Farm

by Joanne Ramos
This book has received a lot of hype and because I love “The Handmaids Tale”, I was intrigued. The Farm is a place where young women are recruited to become surrogate mothers for wealthy clients. Critics argue that this book should be viewed as a character-driven exploration of race, immigrants, class, and reproductive rights in modern America, unlike the popular dystopian novel written by Margaret Atwood several decades ago.

If you liked Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale” you’ll like this!

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The Guest Book

by Sarah Blake
Truth be told, I have not read this yet – my mom just gifted it to me and have on my nightstand, ready to go! Blake’s third novel weaves the history of the privileged Milton family, spans multi-generations and is set on Crockett’s Island of the coast of Maine.

If you liked Joyce Carol Oate’s “We Were the Mulvaneys” you’ll like this!

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Montauk

by Nicola Harrison
I’ve really started to get into historical fiction and had read the ARC (Advanced Readers Copy) last winter. As Nicola’s debut novel, I was quite impressed with how this book just grabbed me from the beginning. Set in Montauk Long Island in the late 30’s, this story of a couple who spend their summer at a resort and their relationship is tested.

If you liked Martha Hall Kelly’s “Lost Roses” you’ll like this!

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I hope these suggestions encourage you to grab a book, sit on a beach (or not…) and enjoy a good read this summer!

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PS – be sure to follow The Lenox Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for announcements on our next Author Event.

Explore Charles Street

Posted on by Ceci O'Marah

Ouimillie

Ouimillie is the place to go if you’re looking for fun colors and funky textures – like their pieces in yellow velvet, purple lace, and red leather.

Paridaez 

For more stylish basics, Paridaez is the store for you. Designer Allison Deroie has created pieces that can be converted from dresses to scarves or even worn backwards for a different look – making the most out of every clothing item.

Holiday

Do you love local designers? Head over to Holiday where Damon’s talented team showcases their signature “Pretty Little Thing” collection alongside fashionable pieces from around the world.

December Thieves 

This unique local store stocks their two Charles Street shops with clothes and home goods from small merchants, both local and international, that handcraft their items to make every piece unique.

Core de Vie, Pinckney Nails, and Townhouse Beauty Bar

Charles Street also has lots of places for you to pamper yourself! Head to Core de Vie for guided stretches and a massage. Then try out Pinckney Nails – a neighborhood favorite for a manicure. Head over to Townhouse Beauty Bar for a stylish new haircut!

Follain

Make sure you check out Follain for makeup, skin care, and bath products to keep your treat-yourself day going for weeks to come.

Tatte and Pressed

Shopping days would be incomplete without the short breaks for snacks, coffee, and wine! So while you’re between the perfect dress and your favorite new sunglasses, stop into Tatte on the corner of Mt. Vernon Street for a croissant and a cappuccino. You’ll quickly discover why Bostonians love our local coffeehouse and bakery. For a healthier option, check out Pressed for fresh juices and snacks!

 

Beacon Hill Chocolates and Sweet Bakery

If you want to go straight for the sweets, head to Beacon Hill Chocolates for rows and rows of tasty indulgences in an ornate and classic chocolate shop. Sweet Bakery also offers new cupcake flavors every day, so give them a chance to wow you with a cupcake you’ve never tasted before!

Toscano’s, Bin 26, and Artu

And of course, celebrate your hard day’s work with a glass of wine back at any of these great neighborhood establishments.

Beacon Hill Hotel & Bistro

Don’t forget to stop by our sister hotel at 25 Charles Street for a refreshing post-shopping drink and meal!

 

We hope this list gives you a few idea for your next Beacon Hill adventure. Regardless of the shops you choose to explore, a Charles Street shopping trip is immeasurably special.

Day Games at Fenway

Posted on by Ceci O'Marah

Accommodations

Almost goes without saying but stay with us at The Lenox in Boston. We are less than a mile from Fenway Park and it’s a nice walk, quick Lyft, or a fun pedicab ride over. Also,The Lenox is awesome just look around this website (I may be biased!).

Breakfast

Two good ways to do this. One is to mosey on down through the lobby to City Table for a Bloody & Brunch. I love the duck confit hash as it combines two of my favorite things. If Brunch is feeling a bit too fanciful for a Sox game day, go with the Pour House down Boylston Street. They do a nice greasy spoon breakfast and have an 8AM liquor license. There is something fun about having an early cocktail with all the hospital staff having their post work drinks after the overnight shift.

Once you’ve fueled up, take the walk to Fenway down Boylston Street. If you are feeling a pedicab ride, they are usually lined up near the corner of Boylston and Dalton Street.

Pregame

For a pregame beer I like the Baseball Tavern. It’s one of the few remaining old baseball bars near Fenway Park. Fenway has changed quite a bit in the last decade and a lot of the old spots have been pushed out for new restaurants. Don’t get me wrong, much of this change is for the better. But before a baseball game there is something to be said for a beer in a plastic cup and a sticky floor! Get there early and hit up the roof deck!

In-Game

Fenway is old and mostly charming! For a day game grab bleacher seats to be in the sun the whole game. Bring sunglasses and sunscreen! In game food I’d go Tasty Burger (under the bleachers) for a Jalapeño Burger. Obviously if you have never had a Fenway frank you should do that at least once. But I’m going to say something that won’t please the crowds here. The Fenway Frank is kinda overrated! I was in DC a few weeks ago and took in a Nats game for the first time. The Half Smoke at Nationals Park is way better than any of the sausages or franks I’ve had at Fenway. Sorry for that tangent. Have a hot dog at Fenway it’s fine!

Postgame

Hopefully you just caught a win although based on how the 2019 season has started maybe not. Part of the reason I love a day game is that you can bask in the postgame fun without being out too late. Once you leave Fenway hit up Citizen Public House and Oyster Bar. You are probably a little full form beers and brats at the game. This place has a great vibe and a nice Whiskey list. I’m not really sophisticated to understand that list, so I usually just fake it an order a Bourbon that I’ve heard of. Take down a dozen oysters with that beverage, you’ve earned it. See, that bloated feeling is cured!

Get Home Safe

Getting back to our hotel near Fenway Park is easy. From Citizen it’s just Boylston Street the whole way. Just look for the Prudential building and walk towards it. There are plenty of bars and patios along the way back towards The Lenox so if you are still up for it duck into whatever looks good. if it’s a Saturday Eataly will often have the Gelato cart out on the patio. Could be a nice way to finish off a great day watching the Red Sox.

What To Read This Winter

Posted on by Lisa Burns

Winter is the perfect time of year to snuggle by the fire with a hot chocolate, a warm blanket and a really good book. Here are some recommendations – and be sure to check out our Packages – we have two of these authors coming for our “Evening with An Author Series”!
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Every Note Played


by Lisa Genova
The main characters, Richard, a world-famous pianist who develops ALS, and Karina, his ex-wife and caregiver, are about as far from perfect as two humans can be. At times, neither is overly likable–they certainly both have their faults. This is an eye-opening account of ALS and how it affects both the patient and caregiver.

We will be hosting Lisa on her “Every Note Played” book tour on March 27th – tickets here.

If you liked her book “Still Alice” you’ll love this!

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My Ex-Life


by Stephen McCauley
A hilarious account of a middle-age gay man, David Hedges, who has made a nice life for himself in San Francisco. Introduce ex-wife, Julie Fiske, who lives in a seaside village outside of Boston. Julie and David broke up years ago for obvious reasons, but they’ve remained – vaguely – in touch. His book is about love and friendship and what relationships can look like when you truly love someone.

If you liked Tara Westover’s “Educated: A Memoir” you’ll love this!

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Lost Roses


by Martha Hall Kelly
The million-copy bestseller “Lilac Girls” introduced the real-life heroine Caroline Ferriday. Now “Lost Roses”, set a generation earlier and also inspired by true events, features Caroline’s mother, Eliza, and follows three equally indomitable women from St. Petersburg to Paris under the shadow of World War I.

We will be hosting Martha on her “Lost Roses” book tour in May – tickets here.

If you liked her novel “Lilac Girls” you’ll love this!

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A Dog’s Purpose


by W Bruce Cameron
A humorous and touching tale of the life(s) of a dog, written from the dog’s perspective. It’s an accurate recollection of the love and belonging you feel with a dog. It preys on every emotion, tapping into any animal lovers heart and resonating – be sure to have a box of tissues nearby!

If you liked John Grogan’s “Marley & Me” you’ll love this!

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Nine Perfect Strangers


by Liane Moriarty
I have to be honest here, I’m a big Liane fan but thought this book didn’t hold up to her other blockbusters – “Big Little Lies” and “The Husband’s Secret”. I was initially intrigued about the nine characters gathered at a remote health resort, but found myself getting bored with the progress. It was definitely worth reading – there are some funny moments and I stuck it out till the end – just not one of my favorites!

If you liked Celeste Ng’s “Little Fires Everywhere” you’ll like this!

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I hope these suggestions encourage you to grab a book, relax and let the story take you to another place! If you have any book suggestions, please feel free to send me an email at [email protected].

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PS – be sure to follow The Lenox Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for announcements on our next Author Event.

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