L'Espalier
Boston, MA 02115
Phone: (617) 262-3023
- Price:
- $$$$
- Cross Street:
- Newbury Street
- Best of Citysearch:
- Fine Dining 2006
- Hours:
- Sun-Fri 5:30pm-10pm , Sat 2pm-3pm, 5:30pm-10pm
Editorial Review for L'Espalier – by Eric Grossman
The Scene
Well-dressed bankers, brokers and people who worry about inheritance taxes fill L'Espalier's stately dining rooms to enjoy Chef Frank McClelland's intricate menus. Adoring couples celebrate engagements and anniversaries amid stunning set pieces of late Victoriana. The staff is graceful and exceptionally adept when helping patrons navigate one of Boston's most impressive wine lists.
The Food
McClelland's subtle variations on classic French technique have earned him national acclaim, and serious-minded diners opt for his seven-course seasonal degustation menu (standard or vegetarian) or sumptuous, eleven-course "Chef's Tasting Journey." A dish of butter-poached Maine lobster with braised house-smoked bacon and candied savoy cabbage demonstrates the kitchen's elegant handling of upscale ingredients. Fresh escargots, paired with Niman Ranch ham and heirloom greens, are served with duck fat-fried potatoes, while wild Scottish venison is grilled and served with white truffle gratin. Palate-cleansing desserts include a sorbet made from yuzu and Meyer lemon.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
When to GoContact the restaurant to learn about its weekly "Wine Monday" and monthly "Cheese Tuesday" schedules. Both novices and experts enjoy the events, which focus on a particular season, region or varietal.
Know Before You GoEveryone at a table must agree on either a la carte or degustation menus, but tasting-menu diners are free to substitute courses from the standard menu.
ParkingWith area parking scarce, the majority of patrons use the restaurant's valet service ($15).
The ExtrasHeirloom Tomato Wednesdays will be held on August 16 and September 13 at 7pm. For $60 per person, diners will enjoy a four-course meal with wine pairings.
User Reviews for L'Espalier
04/08/2008 Posted by lmyerburg
Hands down best restaurant I've been to in Boston. Every single detail was absolutely perfect. From the staff to the food to the ambiance, I have only wonderful and delicious memories here. The first time we went was the night my fiance proposed. The staff was waiting for us and brought us to this delightful little table by the window. There is such an understated elegance there! While I consider myself a foodie-in-training, I have to admit that I don't know a whole lot about wine. Still, both the waiter and the sommelier were so caring and considerate and not at all snobby or pretentious. And though I was almost too excited from the proposal to eat, we had a magical night there. The second time we went there was when my parents came to visit from Miami. As true foodies, I wanted them to experience L'Espalier and truly enjoy all it has to offer. They were beside themselves! Our meal there just might have been the best they have ever had. The food was unbelievable. And, once again, the staff was superb. Not realizing that they would be going to such an elegant restaurant, my parents did not pack proper clothing but we called and asked and they were very welcoming and accomidating. It was a night that we will always remember and often talk about. I believe that there are few places like L'Espalier. Yes, it's very expensive but if you want to celebrate a special night, you will not be disappointed here. The absolute best! I'm sad that they are moving into a big hotel chain. Granted, it's a nice hotel, but there is something to be said for the ambiance of the current location. It feels like eating at home. Are you sure, L'Espalier???
Pros: Just about everything...
Cons: The move to Mandarin Oriental???
09/19/2007 Posted by kakraig
I had long heard good things about L'Espalier but had yet to go there, in part because I do not love French food. We started with cocktails, which were excellent -- I had the French Kiss Martini. We then ordered the vegetarian tasting menu with wine pairings. Each course was fantastic, as were the wine pairings. My husband is a meat eater, so I was surprised that he enjoyed it as much as he did. The service was excellent as well. This was definitely one of the best meals I've eaten.
Pros: Great food, great service
Cons: Pricy (but worth it)
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