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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Priscilla of Boston

Boston’s bridal gown queen has been helping to make weddings unforgettable for 50 years. Should you require a fitting, it is recommended that you call ahead.
Prudential Center

Although difficult to imagine, the Prudential Tower’s 52 stories seem dwarfed by the huge swathe of street-level shops and restaurants that comprise the Prudential Center. With its indoor shopping mall, food court, supermarket, cluster of residential towers, and massive convention center, the Prudential Center is like a self-contained city within a city. For a jaw-dropping view of Boston, visit the Skywalk on the tower’s 50th level (see Prudential Skywalk), or the Top of the Hub Lounge (see Top of the Hub Lounge) two floors above.
Rattlesnake Bar

Rattlesnake’s roof deck hosts one of Boston’s most boisterous after-work crowds. Dress is always casual, and people are always mingling.
Robert Klein

Everybody who’s anybody in the world of photography vies for wall space at Robert Klein. Past coups include shows by Annie Liebovitz and Herb Ritts.
Second Time Around

Before blowing your budget on that Chanel handbag, take a peek at Second Time Around, where used designer clothing and accessories get a second lease on life. Think head-to-toe Versace for a mere $100.
Shreve, Crump & Low

The country’s oldest retail jeweler has seen its diamonds grace the fingers of some of modern history’s most famous – and fortunate – figures. Shreve’s sterling silver is also highly coveted.
Sonsie

With windows that open up onto the street, Sonsie sets the alfresco standard at this end of Newbury. The fashionable clientele enjoy light Italocentric cuisine upstairs, and devilish cocktails in the basement Red Room.
Stephanie’s on Newbury

Enjoying one of the most generous portions of Newbury sidewalk, this American bistro packs the tables for the likes of duck and porcini risotto.
Tapéo

Experience a sultry Barcelona night: Newbury’s most romantic alfresco nighttime scene combines intensely flavorful tapas and an extensive Spanish wine list.
Teuscher Chocolates of Switzerland

Relishing a Teuscher truffle ranks among life’s greatest pleasures. Perhaps no other chocolatier in the world gets the alchemy quite so right.

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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