Arrival/Check-In: In July I attended the annual Global Business Travel Association convention in Boston and stayed at The Lenox Hotel. From the moment my colleagues and I arrived we received a warm, attentive welcome from the doorman and were escorted into the lobby — a handsome, inviting space with coffered ceilings, colonial-style chandeliers, ornate décor and comfortable seating. The hotel, built in 1900, clearly honors its history while its location and the stylish City Bar and City Table restaurant provide a contemporary, lively atmosphere.
Guest Quarters: My guestroom was on the smaller side but well-appointed and comfortable. The décor — detailed carpeting, classic furniture and plush bedding — references the property’s heritage without feeling dated. The room included a large TV, a king-sized pillow-top bed, a mini-fridge with complimentary water and a roomy desk with multiple charging ports. The bathroom featured Italian marble and was supplied with all-natural Beekman 1802 bath products.
Services/Amenities: The Lenox staff consistently exceeded expectations, helping with everything from replacing room keys to providing directions to nearby restaurants and hailing cabs. The hotel offers 24/7 room service, a 24-hour business center, fast complimentary Wi-Fi and morning coffee and tea in the lobby provided by independent roaster Share Coffee. I didn’t have time to use the 24-hour fitness center or the bike rental, but given the hotel’s prime Back Bay location, cycling around the neighborhood would be an excellent option. I enjoyed a cocktail at the lobby City Bar one evening and had breakfast each morning at City Table. For lunch and dinner, Sólás serves classic Irish dishes in a cozy pub setting.
Top Takeaways:
◆ Order the soft pretzels with IPA Cheddar dipping sauce at City Table — they’re excellent.
◆ The lobby has a distinctive, pleasant scent created by an essential oil blend diffused through the vents.
◆ Peter Medeiros, the head doorman, offers exceptional service and helpful local recommendations.
◆ Use the hotel’s Moment’s Notice service for travel essentials like toothbrushes, pain relievers and Band-Aids as well as late-night snacks and bath salts. A full list of complimentary items is available in each guestroom.
The Lenox Hotel
61 Exeter St. at Boylston
Boston, MA 02116
tel 617 536 5300
lenoxhotel.com