DK Travel : Boston : Back Bay

The easily navigated grid of streets in Back Bay bear little resemblance to the labyrinthine lanes around Downtown and the North End. In the mid- 1800s Back Bay was filled in to accommodate Boston’s mushrooming population and by the late-1800s, the area had become a vibrant, upscale neighborhood. Home to many of Boston’s wealthiest families, the area was characterized by lavish houses, grand churches, and bustling commercial zones. Many of the original buildings stand intact, providing an exquisite 19th-century backdrop for today’s pulsing nightlife, world-class shopping, and sumptuous dining.

For information on the origins of Back Bay (see Around Newbury Street) For information on Boston Common (see Boston Common & Public Garden) Note: Cross streets in Back Bay run alphabetically, beginning with Arlington in the east and ending at Hereford Street in the west Note: For those tight on time, the Prudential Center’s glorified food hall, Marché Movenpick, makes perfect sense

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Akris

Footware by Jimmy Choo and Stuart Wietzman claim the back of the store, while cashmere suits, evening gowns, and luxurious coats rule the racks up front.
Alan Bilzerian

From a $4,000 John Galliano silk dress to a skimpy camouflage Christian Dior bikini, Alan Bilzerian is the place to go for high-end fashion that exudes personality.
Allston Beat

With everything for club hoppers, glam rockers, and hip-hop revivalists, Allston Beat is the place for clothing and accessories that positively ooze swagger.
Alpha Gallery

Founded in 1967 to showcase contemporary artists from Boston, Alpha now covers the country and carries an impressive line of prints by modern masters.
Armani Café

Haute couture gets matched with equally haute cuisine at Armani Café. On the patio tables there’s San Pelegrino and tuna tartare; on the patrons there’s lots of black Giorgio.
Aujourd’hui

Highlights of the classic French menu at this refined eatery include feather-light soufflés and indulgent lobster.
Autrefois Antiques

Autrefois specializes in French and Italian furnishings from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries, like Louis XV gilded mirrors, Art Deco dining chairs, and wildly abstract iron sconces.
Azure

Executive chef Robert Fathman’s four-star touch on New England seafood staples has made Azure one of Boston’s hottest restaurants.
Barbara Krakow Gallery

Since opening in 1964 with an exhibition of Ellsworth Kelly prints, Barbara Krakow’s keen judgment of contemporary art has earned her many fans – and customers.
Blackfin Chop House and Raw Bar

Chic dining with nautical decor, but seafood with Asian spices and juicy steaks are the real draw.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes, and extra charges.
- under $30
- $30–$45
- $45–$60
- $60–$75
- over $75