Excelsior
Boston, MA 02116
Phone: (617) 426-7878
- Price:
- $$$$
- Cross Street:
- Arlington Street
- Best of Citysearch:
- Aphrodisiac Restaurant 2008, Special Occasion Dining 2007, Bar Menu 2006
- Hours:
- Sun-Thu 4:30pm-12am, Fri-Sat 4:30pm-2am
Editorial Review for Excelsior – by Eric Grossman
The Scene
Excelsior's spacious second-floor dining room, with its attractive views of the Public Garden, is one of Boston's most romantic. Gourmet drinks (basil mojito, frozen grape martini) and snacks (lamb pizza, wood-roasted shrimp cocktail) help attract a mature, moneyed crowd to the stylish ground-floor lounge. Oenophiles rave about the epic selection of international varietals, all of which are strikingly housed in a climate-controlled, three-story glass tower. An impeccably attired waitstaff provides exemplary, attentive service.
The Food
From the first bite (the city's most impressive bread basket) to the last (intricate desserts like a Meyer lemon souffle cake with wild blueberry jam), diners enjoy an exciting--and pricey--culinary ride. Chef Eric Brennan's can't-miss starters include roasted veal sweetbreads, served with rock shrimp and deep-fried quail egg, and a sinfully rich lobster stew. Typical of generously portioned entrees is a carved Long Island duck breast that's served with an outrageous, chevre-smoked duck confit salad.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Save MoneyBudget-constricted foodies should stop into the lounge to try Excelsior's signature lobster pizza, made using celebrity chef Lydia Shire's original recipe.
Know Before You GoThe lobster pizza is a favorite of a certain well-paid Red Sox slugger. Excelsior also attracts dignitaries and other big names, many of them guests at neighboring Four Seasons.
ParkingBest bet: $14 for the valet. Because of the restaurant's proximity to the theater district, spaces are rare.
User Reviews for Excelsior
04/17/2008 Posted by Sox68
Worst example of rude staff that I have ever seen, anywhere. The attitude among employees and patrons at this popular spot made me appologize to my girlfriend and her friends for taking them there. Boston has many places that treat their customers well, so avoid Excelsior if you would like to enjoy your evening. On a side note, get ready to hear the words "We are accomodating _____" after asking any question.
Pros: Decent martinis, good wine selection.
Cons: Everything else
03/30/2008 Posted by oct78
I have been to Excelsior up stairs over a dozen times and every meal was impeccable as well as the service. Last night i was with some friends on a Saturday night expecting some high end sophisticated professionals. WAS I WRONG! was filled with complete white, uneducated trash...guys with shaved heads who looked like they just got out of prison and lookin to start a fight...the service and staff were very sweet..but i def. will not come to the downstairs bar again on a weekend night!! quite sad! they were alll drinking bottled miller lite's..blah blah blah....i hope you guys see this review!
Pros: food,service,staff
Cons: downstairs bar/clientele
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful
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