The red awnings of this 1922 Renaissance Revival landmark (the former Federal Reserve Building) lead to a gleaming lobby of honeyed gold, deep red, and creamy marble, a stark contrast to the ubiquitous gray suits of Financial District types who gather here. Crystal chandeliers light the hallways, and jewel-tone fabrics swath guest rooms—it's not daring, but it works. While the place is all business during the week (except for the luncheon crowd at Café Fleuri), families and couples drop in on weekends for the dramatically lower room rates and specialty packages. The hotel is racheting up its cool factor with the new Bond restaurant and bar, which has become a hot spot. Plus, Café Fleuri is the site of an all-chocolate buffet Saturday afternoon (September-June) and a wonderful jazz brunch on Sunday. Use a public parking lot, where rates are cheaper on weekends. Pros: fabulous Sunday brunch, cool bar, good discounts on weekends. Cons: it's a bit of a hike to Newbury Street and Boston museums, pricey during the week, expensive valet parking.
Reviewed by opaldog from Massachusetts on 11/17/09
We stayed here for a weekend. It was a special birthday gift from our children. We also participated in the Chocolate Buffet, something not to be missed. The rooms were very nicely decorated; the amenities were nice. We also had the breakfast buffet. It was a special weekend at a special place.
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