Nothing quite matches the feeling you get when you arrive at a snug hotel on a winter’s day. With a gentle flurry of snow drifting through the air and chilly temperatures outside, one of the best ways to savor the perfect winter warmup this season is by the hearth in a hearth suite at The Newbury Boston.
Nestled across from the Public Garden at the intersection of Newbury and Arlington Streets, this lavish hotel could be the ultimate retreat you can book in the city this winter. Stepping out the newly situated front entrance on Tony Newbury Street, you find yourself at the heart, surrounded by numerous designer boutiques, fashion houses, and art galleries. The property also hosts retail establishments such as Tiffany & Company and Zegna, while high-end retailers like Chanel and Burberry are just a stone’s throw from the hotel’s entrance.
The historic property originally opened in 1927 as one of the first Ritz-Carlton hotels in the country. Reintroduced in 2021, The Newbury Boston now features 286 guest rooms, including 90 opulent suites (the largest number in Boston), 16,000 square feet of event spaces, and a breathtaking rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the city.
During the renovation of the property, The Newbury Boston took great care to preserve its fabled history. Retained historical features include original cobalt blue chandeliers, marble columns, and an original banister. Guests now check in at a rosewood desk, adorned with ornate details, including Nero Dorato marble floors, embellishing the lobby.
If you’re in need of a quick warmup after a day of shopping in Back Bay, make sure to explore the cozy library lounge with a hearth reserved exclusively for hotel guests located off the lobby.
When booking a stay in one of their 42 hearth suites, be sure to inform the hotel if you plan to bring your four-legged companion. The pet-friendly hotel extends a warm welcome to furry friends, providing an array of amenities that includes dog beds, bowls, treats, and toys. You can even request specialty dog food and snacks available from Polka Dog Bakery.
The corner hearth suite located at the end of the hallway features a butler’s pantry for entertaining, a spacious wet bar, dining area, living room with hearth, and a separate king bedroom with a luxurious bathroom.
Each suite here is designed to make you feel right at home with its Frette robes and linens and in-room Nespresso Vertuo espresso machines. From handcrafted wood and herringbone accents to marble touches and a spacious foyer, the tranquil suite is just what you need for a peaceful escape from city life.
Start by choosing the type of wood you prefer to have burned in your hearth. Then, contact Guest Services to request a personal Hearth Butler who will assist in laying the fire. Choose from birch wood for a strong and fast-burning heat; oak wood for a two to three-hour burn time; fragrant cherry wood; or maple wood for the quintessential New England fireside experience.
The suite comes with an exclusive “hearth menu” that features all things sweet and savory. Begin with a signature cocktail like the Uncle Pappy’s Manhattan, a Barrel Aged New Fashioned, or a classic Hot Toddy.
For a delightful experience, be sure to try the Campfire cocktail. When your personal butler arrives, they will toast a marshmallow to enjoy alongside the smoky tequila cocktail.
Pair it with some savory snacks like deviled eggs topped with Kaluga caviar, a generous cheese and charcuterie board, or truffle grilled cheese and wild mushroom bisque.
Indulge in sweet treats including a warm apple cider donut and build your own s’mores kit for two.
A stay here would not be complete without experiencing their renowned glass-enclosed rooftop restaurant Contessa.
The northern Italian eatery is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Offering breathtaking views that stretch from the Public Garden over Back Bay, the sun-filled space offers some delightful surprises.
Start with one of their signature cocktails like a Spritz Contessa made with Aperol, Poli Italian gin, blood orange, and prosecco; a seasonal bellini; The Royale made with gin, Aperol, Italicus, Dimmi, and champagne, or opt for a traditional classic martini.
Antipasti includes delicious finds like smoky Meatballs Aldo accompanied by a side of whole grain mustard sauce. Other highlights include squash carpaccio and daily imported burrata. Proceed to a breakfast favorite like the Florentine Benedict topped with prosciutto; Carbonara Scramble with pancetta and black pepper, or Panetonne French Toast.
If you’re in the mood for a lunch entrée, try the Macaroni with Wild Boar; Classic Veal Milanese; or Spicy Lobster Capellini.
Before departing, you can burn off those extra calories in the on-site fitness center on one of their Peloton bikes or other premium equipment. The concierge team can then assist in arranging private tours and other personalized experiences throughout Boston as well as transportation.
The Newbury Boston is located at 1 Newbury Street in Boston.
Image Source: Booking.com
