Raffles Boston

In short… Raffles Boston is the brand’s first hotel in North America, and it feels like a natural fit. It brings together Raffles’s Southeast Asian heritage balanced with New England elegance in a way that feels composed and considered.

The surroundings… We arrived by train from New York, stepping off at Back Bay Station, which is conveniently right next door to the hotel. The location couldn’t be better, with the historic Trinity Church, Boston Public Library, and the brownstones along Commonwealth Avenue all within walking distance. The Public Garden is just a few blocks away, as are the buzzy shopping areas of Newbury Street, Copley and the Prudential Center. From the hotel’s upper floors, the city stretches out in every direction—360-degree views span from the South End to Fenway and up along the Charles River. It’s a perspective not usually associated with Boston, but one that’s unforgettable once you see it. 

The vibe… Deep green accents nod to Boston’s Emerald Necklace, a chain of parks and waterways designed by Frederick Law Olmsted that weaves through the city. Hand-applied plaster and soft lighting create a sense of continuity throughout. Dramatic floral arrangements, designed by the creative director behind the Hôtel de Crillon and Eden Roc, anchor the larger spaces and add a theatrical element. Guest areas feel calm and private, while the hospitality spaces—which are open to the public—hum with a quiet energy, shaped by a dynamic, well-dressed crowd.

The rooms… Feel more like thoughtfully designed apartments than hotel rooms. Floor-to-ceiling windows wrapped around our room, offering sweeping views, but it didn’t feel stark or cold. Herringbone wood floors, layered artwork, and architectural molding brought in texture and warmth. The kitchenette was stocked with local touches, like Tuck Shop’s cranberry chocolate and a bottle of Boston-distilled gin. In the bathroom, a deep, sculptural soaking tub and a bath salt bar—made with sea salt, lavender, citrus, and eucalyptus—were irresistible after miles of walking each day. 

The wellness… The Guerlain Spa on the fourth floor could easily be mistaken for a private members’ club, with its expansive, low-lit spaces. A 20-meter indoor lap pool and a Technogym fitness studio are both framed by high ceilings and full-length glass. 

I tend to judge wellness spaces by their steam rooms, and this one ranks among the best I have experienced—on par with top Swiss spas I’ve visited. You don’t need an elaborate treatment to leave feeling recalibrated. It’s the kind of setup you’d imagine if your apartment came with the amenities of a tower on Billionaires’ Row.

The food & drink… The crown jewel of the dining options is Amar, opened by George Mendes, whose cooking at Aldea in New York earned a Michelin star and a loyal following. While Mendes is no longer at the helm, his influence is felt in a menu that draws on his Portuguese roots while feeling grounded in New England. Bread came with cultured butter from Animal Farm Creamery in Vermont—described by the New York Times as the most luxurious butter in America and served at only a handful of restaurants, such as Per Se and The French Laundry. Our waiter, a sharp and generous old-school Bostonian, gave the room real character, and the tableside martini cart added just the right amount of ceremony. We had Alaskan king crab with browned butter and yuzu sabayon, lobster rice, and braised short rib with Périgord truffle—every dish was fantastic.

Extra tip goes to… Rey Moraga, Director of Guest Experiences, who brings the Raffles legacy of exceptional service to Boston. Known for its butler service, the brand’s high-touch approach can sometimes feel formal, but here it’s translated with warmth and ease. Rey brings a sense of choreography to the guest experience, anticipating needs without drawing attention to the gesture. That included a thoughtful welcome for our dog, with Santa Maria Novella pet products, a Red Sox jersey, and lobster-shaped treats. The care was detailed, generous, and never performative. Every moment felt personal and considered.

Be sure to… Order the Boston Sling at the Long Bar, their take on the Singaporean original. This version is made with cranberry and house-distilled gin.

Parting words… Raffles Boston answers the question of how a legacy brand known for its formality and service translates in an American context. It does so with restraint, warmth, and a strong sense of place. Rather than imposing its identity, the hotel feels embraced by the city— attuned to its surroundings rather than apart from it. 

Date of stay… March 2025