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“The Monster” and Elegance TooBy Denise A. ManningNow that the Boston Red Sox have, at long last, become World Champions again, hoards of long suffering fans will be headed to Fenway Park to pay homage to their heroes. Tickets will be hard to find, but once you have them, consider making the pilgrimage unforgettable with a stay at The Hotel Commonwealth.
The Hotel Commonwealth, barely two years old, is the
anchor the square needed to encourage redevelopment. Designed to blend with the
eclectic architecture of Commonwealth Avenue, one could easily walk by the hotel
and think this building had been there for decades. Walking into the hush of the
elegant lobby, decorated in rich hues of yellow and red, is fabulous. The warm
reception by the friendly and efficient front desk staff makes one feel truly
welcomed. Of the 150 available rooms, there are two excellent options.
If watching baseball doesn’t appeal, The Hotel Commonwealth’s location lends itself to numerous other things. The Museum of Fine Arts is a brief walk as is The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Symphony Hall is even closer. If you would rather not walk, the subway entrance is a few steps from the front door of the hotel. Boston’s extraordinary variety of opportunities await. Great Bay Restaurant
As I walked through the door, my attention was immediately drawn to the slightly rounded, deep orange ceiling. The lights running down the center are reminiscent of the bones of a fish, and the hanging sculpture at the end of the room shimmers like scales. The effect is striking. Although the bar and most of the tables are located in the same area, masterful use of color delineates the two. The other seating is set amidst a glorious palette of oranges, blues, and greens.
Although the delicately seasoned “Bigeye Tuna Tartare” was outstanding, the “Spicy Beef Salad” was equally as tasty. I thoroughly enjoyed the more exotic “Red Curry and Coconut Soup” but was awed by the updated presentation of the “Clam Chowder.” The “Wild Striped Bass” was enhanced with mussels, artichokes and a saffron cream sauce while the “Grilled Prime New York Steak” was finished with mushrooms and large crumbles of blue cheese. Each course, better than the last, was complimented by the careful choice of wine, from an extensive cellar, by the Sommelier. Without a hint of condescension, he imparted his extensive knowledge and expertise about the wonderful harmonies possible between food and wine. With a glass of Muscatel in hand, I was ready to face dessert. Pastry Chef, Karen Gondoly, is an artist of consummate skill. She transforms old favorites like butterscotch pudding into an almost religious experience. The “Chocolate Peanut Butter Beignet,” served with a vanilla yogurt sorbet and peanut anglais, were a heavenly finish to a perfect meal. Although Great Bay is probably not the best choice if dining with children, it is a comfortable destination for a variety of people with differing tastes. By offering ingenious combinations of the freshest possible meats and seafood along with inspired sauces and great wines, every guest at Great Bay will take pleasure in an unforgettable repast. For more information: |
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Visitors and residents of Boston no doubt recall a time
when Kenmore Square was in dire need of revitalization. In the last fifteen
years, renewed popularity of urban Boston living resulted in the rejuvenation of
many areas. Kenmore Square is no exception.
The
“Fenway Rooms” have a prime view of historical Fenway Park and the “Green
Monster,” while the slightly larger “Commonwealth Rooms” face Commonwealth
Avenue. All are comfortable and spacious with enough room for a small meeting or
a small family. Each is equipped with all a business traveler needs, but the
lavish extras make this hotel special. The luxurious Italian bed linens, plush Turkish cotton towels, L’Occitane
bath amenities, and large screen televisions make you feel like a guest at a
spa. If you wish spa services, the concierge will be glad to help you set up any
number of in-room treatments. One of the most impressive details about this
charming boutique hotel is its soundproofing. I didn’t hear a single noise from
the street during my entire stay.
Other hotel services include valet parking, room service,
turn down service, daily laundry service, an exercise salon, and an extensive
DVD lending library. The lobby connects to a series of delightful shops
including The Wine Gallery, and Nantucket Natural Oils. I spent a
full half hour perusing the exquisite pieces at Persona Jewelry.
Although I usually prefer to explore a city in search of
new and interesting places to dine, I decided, based upon tips from gourmet
friends, to try the restaurant affiliated with the hotel. After a busy
afternoon, it was wonderful to meander down to this very popular and
sophisticated restaurant located just off the main hotel entrance.
I was overwhelmed by the offerings at Great Bay.
Sensing my difficulty, in making menu selections, my attentive waitress
suggested I opt for the tasting menu. So, I sampled my way through six
delectable courses. Like the descriptions on the menu, I cannot begin to do
justice to the fare. Under the careful guidance of executive chefs Jeremy Sewall
and Michael Schlow, Great Bay is known for its creative sushi and
seafood, yet meat eaters need not feel short-changed. Extraordinary chicken,
beef, and pork alternatives help round out the menu making it “accessible” to
everyone.