Deciding where to stay in Boston is the choice that shapes everything else about a city trip, and Back Bay alone offers a dozen versions of luxury at wildly different prices. Mandarin Oriental Boston makes its case before you reach the front desk, with a signature scent in the doorway that lands somewhere between fresh-baked cookies and the center of a rose. Whether that first impression holds up over a full stay is the real question. If you want to know what the rooms, the service, the spa, and the breakfast are actually like, keep reading.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Luxury Boston Hotel Delights the Senses
Mandarin Oriental Boston is a Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond rated luxury hotel in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay. It’s one of the best places to stay in Boston, and I couldn’t resist indulging in their hospitality, if only for one night.
RELATED: Historic Salem, Massachusetts is a quick Day Trip from Boston.
A Welcome Respite at Mandarin Oriental Boston
Mandarin Oriental Boston is one of several distinctive hotels in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. You can find these select luxury hotels, resorts, and residences around the world from Asia and Europe to the Americas.
Each property offers legendary personalized service and world-class accommodations, spas, and dining experiences.
Plus, Boston is a great hub for exploring all Massachusetts has to offer, so be sure to browse my Massachusetts travel articles before your visit.
My stay at Mandarin Oriental Boston was a welcome respite from a busy lifestyle as a “solopreneur” and single mom. Although I’m surrounded by many caring people, it’s not often someone looks after my every whim.
This overnight getaway surpassed my expectations from the moment I stepped through the brass-trimmed turnstile, right through to my hesitant departure. The hotel offers a unique blend of classic New England elegance and Asian-inspired touches that left a lasting impression.
Parking & Luggage Valet
Even before my check-in, I felt 100% supported by the hospitality team at the Mandarin Oriental Boston. Each staff member I met was warm, welcoming, and helpful.
I arrived before 8 AM to attend a nearby writers’ conference, entrusting my car keys to the valet parking attendant. My car is a stick shift, but the capable attendant drove it off with care and confidence, and I knew it was in safe hands.
Next, I relinquished my luggage to Jackie in reception. She promised to keep my bags safe until check-in time and offered to find out about an early check-in after lunch. She called my cell to let me know my room was ready well before the regular 3 PM check-in time.
These may seem like small details, but knowing they were taken care of before my conference allowed me to start my day strong. As the saying goes, “it’s the little things that were the big things.”
I went off to the conference, all the while looking forward to retiring in luxury and comfort at Mandarin Oriental Boston.
If you arrive before check-in, leave your bags at reception and ask them to look into an early room while you’re out for the day. They’ll call your cell when it’s ready. On a quiet day that can mean getting in hours ahead of the 3 PM standard.
Tea & Comfort at Check-In
When I returned, Jackie checked me in at reception. She offered me the most delicious Asian tea served from a glass teapot warmed to just the right temperature by a flickering candle beneath.
Check-in took just a minute or two, but the tea was a small gesture of comfort and hospitality while I waited and admired the tasteful lobby decor.
I learned that the beautiful fragrance that welcomed me is the hotel’s signature scent that changes seasonally. It’s just one of the subtle but comforting sensory experiences guests love at Mandarin Oriental Boston.
Around me, gorgeous orchids and exotic cut flowers filled the lobby, themselves lightly fragrant. Soft music created a peaceful vibe.
These “Moments of Delight” tickled my five senses. At every opportunity, they soothed my racing thoughts, brought me into the present moment, and made me mindful of my surroundings.
As someone who is always on the go, I could feel my pulse slowing within this peaceful environment.
Beautiful Lobby with Security
The lobby of the Mandarin Oriental Boston presents a gracious gathering space for hotel guests. It’s spacious and comfortable. The decor is clean and colorful with a few tasteful nautical accents.
To one side of Reception is a seating area with couches, tables and chairs filled with natural light. A gas fireplace flickers along the wall, together with gentle task lighting, creating a soothing ambiance.
To the other side of Reception, two couches form a more intimate conversation area, flanked by beautiful museum-quality art. A desk and printer share the space for business convenience.
Ahead and beside the reception desk, an elegant glass and limestone staircase rises to the second floor. It shows guests to elegant function and meeting space, including a 4,200-square-foot Oriental Ballroom.
Daily Refreshments
During my stay, the hotel served fresh coffee, juices, and muffins in the lobby each morning, followed by fresh-baked cookies, coffee, and other snacks in the afternoon.
You might also consider dining at Ramsay’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay, the hotel’s casually refined restaurant. It’s just steps from the lobby and offers breakfast, lunch or brunch, and dinner. The menu features Gordon Ramsay classics, along with globally inspired dishes and twists on local favorites.
Added Security as a Solo Traveler
Jackie gave me my room key and showed me to the elevator, offering a tour of my room. I gladly accepted and recommend this for anyone staying at Mandarin Oriental Boston.
It’s worth noting that you’ll wave your room key in front of the elevator’s security panel to begin the ascent. I liked the added measure of security, particularly because I was traveling alone. This includes the stairwells and other areas throughout the hotel restricted to registered hotel guests.
Mandarin Oriental Boston offers accommodations ranging from Deluxe and Premier rooms to Junior, Residential, Back Bay Corner, Presidential, and Royal suites. My room was on the fourth floor, overlooking Boylston Street in the heart of Back Bay.
Room Tour of Mandarin Oriental Back Bay
I immediately recognized that this upscale room was a peaceful sanctuary. It is clean and airy with a modern decor and an Art Deco influence. To call this classic luxury a “room” is an understatement.
It reads more like a swanky urban apartment, outfitted with a:
- Private entry hall
- Spacious living area with television
- Fully stocked courtesy bar and kitchenette with cappuccino maker
- Well-supplied, comfortable working area
- Large marble-filled bathroom with both soaking tub and shower
- Sumptuous sleeping space with a walk-in closet and private safe
Of course, everything is immaculate. The carpeting underfoot is spotless, the bedding is crisp and pure white, and a terry cotton robe with slippers awaited me.
Extra amenities such as an umbrella in the closet demonstrate the lengths to which Mandarin Oriental Boston’s hospitality reached.
Natural light streams in through the large wall of windows overlooking Boylston Street. Situated in Boston’s Back Bay, this luxury hotel is also just a block from exclusive Newbury Street shopping, Prudential Center Shops, and Copley Square.
A Chic Living Space With Comforts of Home
It didn’t take me long to settle into this incredible room at the Mandarin Oriental as though it were home.
Just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, a three-tiered tray of the most delectable chocolates arrived as a welcome gift and note from Sophie in Management. (Thank you!)
Relaxing on the comfortable, curved couch with ample task lighting, I enjoyed a handful of my gourmet chocolates and a fresh-made cappuccino.
Yes, I thought. I could definitely get used to living this way.
Technology & In-Room Entertainment
I explored the room a little more.
In the living area, a large flat-screen television set on a large chest of drawers displays a personalized welcome slide show. The remote control is in its own leather box.
I found the room technology especially fascinating. With just the swipe of a finger, you can dim all the room lighting, or let the staff know you’d prefer privacy or room service.
I scrolled through the television listings and discovered that one channel conveniently shows arrivals and departures from Logan International Airport.
My favorite offering on the TV was a tranquil soundtrack that looped a Mandarin Oriental signature video, called, “Moments of Delight.” It truly captured the essence of the Mandarin Oriental experience and I let the ambient music play as I puttered around the room.
I was also pleased to browse the selection of magazines spread out for me, including the Boston Common, AFAR, and the Mandarin Oriental’s magazine, MO.
RELATED: Before you go to Boston, check out our seasonal packing guides for New England. Packing Tips for Fall in New England | Packing for New England Winter Getaways
Everything You Could Ever Ask in an Office Space
Opposite the couch is a work area with a comfortable chair and desk. This is so convenient because as a travel blogger, I often mix business and pleasure. It makes it all the easier to set up my laptop and connect to free and secure in-room Wi-Fi in an ample space.
Small bonuses that go a long way here are the extra plugs, coaxial cables, and high-speed connections.
Another is the shelving unit alongside the desk stocked with office supplies. You’ll find paper clips, highlighters, pens, tape, and most anything else you might need to get your work done.
There’s even a lovely branded calendar on the desk.
I felt as at ease working in my room as I did in my own home office.
Well-Stocked Kitchenette/Counter Space
I treated myself to a cappuccino made from a selection of pods beside the in-room cappuccino machine. This kitchenette counter space also provides an ice bucket, and within the cabinet, wine glasses, silverware, dishes, and other barware. The drawers reveal a selection of snacks.
Here also is a small refrigerator, fully stocked with beverages and alcohol, including champagne, wine, and what you might call the “good stuff.”
Expansive Marble Bathroom
The oversized bathroom in my room at the Mandarin Oriental Boston features gorgeous polished marble throughout. The toilet is situated out of sight for added privacy. Marble floors and tiles, an expansive marble-topped counter, the deep soaking tub and glass-wrapped walk-in shower with a rain head are all immaculate.
I especially loved that with a single swipe of my finger, I could dim the space using the signature lighting to create the perfect ambiance and enjoy a restorative bath.
This sparkling tub is oversized and deep. I loaded it with shower gel and watched it fill, mesmerized by the waterfall. After a soothing soak, I slid into the white terrycloth robe and branded slippers.
I especially love the bath care products, which lather with the lightest of green tea scents. The towels are plentiful and fluffy. Extra toiletries, including a sewing kit, cotton swabs, a shower cap, and a shoe mitt, are all packaged neatly in a leather box.
You’ll even find a scale tucked into the bathroom.
Relaxing Sleeping Space
I slept soundly through the night between soft sheets of the king-sized bed, insulated from the world.
Both the state-of-the-art fitness center and the holistic Five-Star awarded spa were on the same floor, but I never heard a sound.
Double doors open to a walk-in closet stocked with plenty of hangers, drawers, overhead space, and an iron/ironing board. You’ll find a full-size umbrella should you encounter a rainy day during your visit and a bag for laundry service. Here also is a combination security safe in the drawer. A built-in bench makes for easy dressing.
Turn Down Service
If you’ve never experienced a turndown service, it is the ultimate in luxury. On request, an attendant rearranges bed pillows, turns down the blankets, closes the shades, dims the lights, and puts on soothing music. She even put slippers by my bed. I could easily get used to this level of service.
Lamps on the nightstands are tied into the master lighting system, also within easy reach. Plenty of outlets offer convenience for phone chargers and other equipment. Here is also an alarm clock.
My Breakfast at Bar Boulud
Note: Bar Boulud has since closed. Today, you can enjoy breakfast at Ramsay’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay, which now occupies the restaurant space at Mandarin Oriental Boston.
At the time of my stay, I enjoyed breakfast at the renowned Bar Boulud, an upscale French bistro and wine bar from celebrity chef Daniel Boulud. It was just down the hall from Mandarin Oriental Boston’s lobby with an entrance on Boylston Street.
I sipped excellent coffee and read The Boston Globe, then selected offerings from the European-style buffet while my main course was made to order.
Ronny, my host, recommended the Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict with a side of sweet Brioche French toast. Both were expertly prepared and tasted incredible.
In fact, the food and table service at Bar Boulud were among the best I’ve ever had.
Luxury Wellness Spa at Mandarin Oriental
If you have time to spare, you might want to schedule some pampering at the Spa for an exceptional experience.
From the moment you step through the spa’s glass doors, you’ll find serenity in the soothing sounds of a waterfall fountain, glowing crystals, delicate aromatherapy, and upscale elegance.
The spa offers a range of signature massages, facials, body treatments, and mindfulness sessions.
You can extend the experience beyond your treatment with time in the Vitality Pool, Crystal Steam Room, and Relaxation Lounge. Couples can also book side-by-side treatments in a private spa suite.
Book your spa treatment, then show up 45 minutes early. The Crystal Steam Room, Vitality Pool, and Relaxation Lounge are only open to you before your treatment, not after, so arriving on the dot means paying for the treatment and skipping the part that makes it an afternoon.
Whether you stop in for a treatment or make an afternoon of it, you’re sure to step out of the Spa at Mandarin Oriental feeling pampered.
Late Checkout
Check out at Mandarin Oriental Boston isn’t until 12 pm, which allows plenty of time for sleeping in and enjoying creature comforts, or for getting some work done before leaving for a lunch meeting.
After my delicious breakfast at Bar Boulud, I asked the front desk for a late checkout and they extended my stay a little longer. I wanted to savor this experience as long as possible!
Mandarin Oriental was happy to keep my suitcase and car for me after check-out while my conference wrapped up.
The 5-Star Service Difference
If you’ve never stayed at a 5-star luxury hotel, let me sum up what all the fuss is about:
- Outstanding service: Beyond excellent quality throughout the hotel and attention to detail in every regard, five-star service means providing an exceptional level of care to each guest.
- Friendly interaction: Every person you meet goes “over and above” to anticipate your every need, sometimes before you even realize the need yourself.
- Generosity: Thoughtful extras make guests feel cared for, from an umbrella on a rainy day to fresh slippers before bed. Mandarin Oriental Boston even offered a plush lobster toy for its youngest guests.
Mandarin Oriental Boston was all this and more. The staff welcomed me as though into their own homes; it was that genuine.
How to Book Your Room
To experience this kind of 5-Star Luxury for yourself or with loved ones, book a night or more in Boston at Mandarin Oriental:
Mandarin Oriental Boston
776 Boylston Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02199
United States of America
Reservations: +1 (617) 535 8888
Email: MOBOS-RESERVATIONS@MOHG.COM
Be sure to inquire about seasonal spa specials and packages when planning your visit.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Boston
Such kindness extended to my departure. Jackie wheeled my suitcase to the door, and Foti, the Doorman, held the door and offered bottled water while I waited the few minutes for my car to arrive.
And when the car arrived? You guessed it. It was already cool with the air-conditioning running.
In the end, it was as though I had become some very special and important person overnight. And it was true, I had. I’d become a guest of the Mandarin Oriental Boston. It gave me just the support and rejuvenation I was looking for.
No doubt you will find it there, too.
Because there’s nothing better than experiencing the difference in a 5-star property like this one.
FAQs
Is there parking at Mandarin Oriental Boston?
Mandarin Oriental Boston offers on-site valet parking, and accessible self-parking is available too. Fees apply to both options. The hotel doesn’t publish fixed rates because they change, so call ahead to confirm the current charge and availability. Valet is the easier choice if you’re arriving during a busy stretch on Boylston Street.
Can non-hotel guests book The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Boston?
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Boston welcomes both hotel guests and outside guests for treatments, though the Fitness Center stays reserved for hotel guests and residents. The minimum age is 18. Arrive 45 minutes early, because the heat and water facilities are only available before your treatment, not after.
What restaurant is inside Mandarin Oriental Boston?
Ramsay’s Kitchen by Gordon Ramsay is the restaurant inside Mandarin Oriental Boston, and it’s the chef’s first Boston restaurant. The menu puts a modern turn on New England classics alongside globally inspired dishes. It occupies the Boylston Street space that Bar Boulud held until it closed.
How far is Mandarin Oriental Boston from Logan Airport?
Mandarin Oriental Boston sits about 15 to 20 minutes by car from Boston Logan International Airport, traffic depending. You can take a taxi or arrange a private transfer ahead of time, and the concierge team will book transport in either direction if you ask.
Next Steps
For more on where to stay in Boston and what to do nearby, read these articles next:
- Are These Luxury Features of a 5 Star Hotel Worth It?
- Boston Harbor Sail at Sunset: What You Need to Know Before You Go
- Boston to Salem Day Trip: 13 Thrilling Attractions Beyond Halloween
- How to Make the Most of Old Sturbridge Village (Three Visits In)
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This article reflects a hosted stay at Mandarin Oriental Boston, including breakfast at Bar Boulud. Special thanks to Regan Communications and Mandarin Oriental Boston for arranging the experience. As always, all opinions expressed are my own. For more information, please see my Disclosure
I like the helpful information you provide in your articles. I will bookmark your blog and check again here regularly.
Thanks, I appreciate that!
This looks amazing! And it’s not my first time to visit your site. I check daily to hear your suggestions!
Awww…thanks, Kevin!
I love a little luxury every now and again when my budget allows, and this looks like it. What a great looking hotel.
It was so worth it for me, Emma! No doubt you’ll love it too. 😀
Great review!! I am more of a budget traveler but I would love to have a weekend gateway in this marvelous hotel. The room you stayed in looks amazing. I have checked in many luxurious hotels but none provided teas as a welcome drink, not even India I guess.
Thanks, Dan. I’m glad it gave you a sense of how marvelous Mandarin Oriental Boston is. The welcoming tea is just a small indication of the level of hospitality you can expect!
I’ve stayed in the Mandarin Oriental in Hong Kong and it was absolutely amazing so I can see why you’re recommending it. I’m sure the one in Boston is just as good. That tier of chocolates looks amazing, that would be enough to encourage me to go back again and again as well. I never really understood the hotel turn-down service. My bed gets turned down enough so I don’t think I ever need that!
So then you know what I’m talking about with Mandarin Oriental (anywhere). Boston is outstanding.
Honestly, it was hard not to eat that tier of chocolates by myself…no one was watching or would have known! (I brought much of it home to my son, who–thankfully–made short work of what remained.) LOL Re: turn down service. Give it a try sometime. You won’t be disappointed!
The Mandarin Oriental in Boston looks like a wonderful place to stay in both for business and pleasure. There are so many things that I loved about this hotel right from the Asian Tea to the turndown service. And how wonderful to have an office space in the room with just the right things to get your job done. I, too, would not mind getting used to a life with these luxuries.
Soumya, it truly was an amazing taste of what a life of luxury might be like. I’m in!
The Mandarin Oriental sounds like a fantastic place to stay in Boston! How lovely that you received tea when you arrived. The rooms look spacious and comfortable, and it is neat that the office space is so well stocked. It’s good to know that you felt safe as a solo traveler too. I will keep this in mind for our next trip to Boston!
I felt very safe at Mandarin Oriental in Boston as a solo traveler! I think you’ll be very happy if you decide to stay during your next trip, Leah. I know I was thrilled with everything.
Beautiful hotel! I especially love the extra little things, like tea and other things they had for guests in the lobby. Many times the little things will make the hotel stand out from other similar places. Although, this place also looks unique.
Mandarin Oriental is both beautiful and unique, Paula. I agree, those little things really do go a long way! They make the stay all the more memorable.
I loved your beautiful stay at Mandarin Oriental Boston. It is good that you were welcomed by Asian tea as a welcome drink while checking-in. I am a great tea lover too, especially this type, so the welcome alone has won me over for this property. I have not seen such well-arranged office spaces in big hotels, but in this hotel, the desk is fully stocked with office supplies. Wow!
I loved it, too, Yukti! Mandarin Oriental goes over-and-above, for sure.
I’m pretty sure I could live in this hotel. It looks nicer than literally any place I’ve ever stayed (since I mostly couch-hop or sleep in hostels to be honest) and I’d probably pass out at the chance to stay here. The staff you mentioned from outside to inside sound like world class customer service representatives and that’s so important while traveling. It can totally make or break a stay no matter the price tag! The snacks, drinks, and food sound delicious here. Crossing my fingers to get to Boston now! Thanks!
You’re in luck! The Mandarin Oriental also offers residences. 😉 As gorgeous as it is, as you said, it’s the world-class staff that makes this hotel like no other, Amanda. I hope you get a chance to experience it soon. (Come to Boston!)
It’s those special touches that make a place so memorable and worth it. I love the extra security that you received as a solo traveler. I’m always appreciative for those gestures, as I tend to travel solo 99% of the time. I’m kind of obsessed with Daniel Boloud, so I would love to stay at the Mandarin if just to have easy access to Bar Boulud on the regular!
Oh, Rachelle…my breakfast was to-die-for delicious. I’d say your obsession with Daniel Boulud is well-founded. Easy access to Bar Boulud is one of many great reasons to stay at Mandarin Oriental Boston!