Mandarin Oriental, Boston

12/17/08

Doesn't measure up to Mandarin NYC!

by runnrnell at Citysearch

I recently stayed for a few days at the Mandarin Oriental, after receiving a card in the mail for a 3rd night free. What wasn't mentioned on the card was that I needed to book a "superior" room to recieve this deal. It was about $300 more than the regular room, so if I had known in advance what the room would look like I wouldn't have done this.

I've stayed at the Mandarin in NYC before and its the most breath-takingly beautiful views I've ever seen, and the ambience/decor of the hotel matches. I've stayed at many of the highest rated hotels in NY, and this is hands down my favorite.

Unfortunately, the Boston one doesn't even compare. The hotel is brand new, but it looks like they cut major corners. The furniture and carpeting honestly does remind me of a Mariott. Oh, and if we want to speak about my "superior" room with "splendid views of the back bay", let me just say my windows looked across the street to Crate & Barrel & a few random restaurants. These buildings blocked any chance of a view that I had. I fear to imagine what the rooms on the other side of the hall must have faced, as the manager really pushed this particular room on us, specifically highlighting the view. Other things: the room is smaller- don't expect the floor to ceiling windows, no slippers provided, robe was skimpy, hallway lighting obnoxiously bright. Lobby unimpressive.

We had cocktails twice at the lounge, and we did enjoy the scene. We went on Friday night and they had a bouncer, He wasn't letting anyone in, but once we said we were staying there we were let right in. It was nice, but not worth waiting in line for it your not staying there! The concierge was very helpful- gave excellent recommendations. He also promised us the house car for dinner and we ended up being late as the car didn't show up in time, so we had to find a cab and were late.

All in all, I believe Boston must have better offerings for a hotel, and next time I will try something different.

• Pros: great location, nice bar
• Cons: rooms do not measure up to price/reputation

12/03/08

amazing cocktails

by kurukulla at Citysearch

i've been to the m bar numerous times since they opened and i plan to keep going back. the cocktail list is amazing--one of the most extensive i've seen in the city-- and every drink i've had has been perfectly made... i've brought a bunch of out of town guests there and they all had great experiences also. yes, the bar is crowded if you go on a saturday night-- i still had great service on the weekends, but if you want a more chill atmosphere, go on a weeknight.

• Pros: drink list
• Cons: crowded

12/03/08

MBar

by AnnaM11 at Citysearch

On, the contrary. I had a wonderful evening at the MBar and Lounge last Saturday. The bar was packed, there must have been a hundered people in there easy. Service we recieved was not slow, especially for a saturday night. The bar was really happening, there was a person every two feet, i give these cocktail servers credit to be able to weave through everyone with a tray full of drinks, i think i even saw one get elbowed accidently. Specifically, what impressed me was that, although it was so packed, and time is precious, the servers and bartenders still brought all of the drinks (shakers and glasses) and poured them at the table- great personal service. All in all, i will be back there is saturday for more drinks!

• Pros: personal service
• Cons: needs to be bigger