Boston around town - Directory

Black Enterprise, Dec, 2003 by Linda S. Lawson

ACCOMODATIONS

* For "the most discriminating of travelers. Walker suggests the Bostonian classic XV Beacon, This boutique hotel with only 68 rooms is a triple treat, landing on Walker's top bar. restaurant, and hotel lists, "Its a perfect location with the best of everything:' (15 Beacon St.; 617-670-1500)

* Boston Harbor Hotel Guests are met with the scent of freshly cut flowers, Italian marble, and historic art. "You can't find a better view than this place:" (70 Rowes Wharf 617-439-7000)

* The Four Seasons Hotel is within easy access business centers and entertainment venues, offering views of Beacon Hill and the Public Garden. "Its name says it all." (200 Boylston St.; 617-338-4400)

RESTAURANTS

* For surf and turf loverS, Grill 23 & Bar satisfies both cravings. "I take my friends here because they can get t,he best fillet, mignon or really good seafood:' (161 Berkeley St.; 617-542-2255)

* For soul food and live jazz try Bob The Chef's Jazz Cafe. It's a favorite professional's mixer spot on Thursdays after work. [604 Columbus Ave.; 617-536-6204)

* Established in 1875 Locke-Ober is a Boston landmark. It has 11 private rooms and some of the best old-school chowder and lobster bisque (3 Winter Place; 617-542-13,10)

* Via Matta "is your classic high-end Ira an dinner. You can't go wrong" (79 Park Plaza; 617422-0008)

BARS AND CONDUCTING BUSINESS

* Capitol Grill "is an elegant place with great martinis and the best bartenders" (359 Newbury St.; 617-262-8900)

* At the Oak Bar in the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel "everyone does business here It's like drinking at the Waldorf-Astoria," (138 St. James Ave,; 617-267-5300)

* If you're tired of beer and gin and tonic. Walker suggests crossing over to Cam bridge to Beeside Lounge. "It's on everyone's short list for their imagination of drinks:" (92 Hampshire St.; 617-354-0766)

NIGHTLIFE

* Wally's Cafe is one of America's oldest family-operated jazz clubs and has served as a training ground for many of today's most celebrated musicians. (427 Massachusetts Ave.; 617-424-1408)

PARKING

* "Don't do it" Walker warns. Boston is known as one of the most expensive places to park (averaging $30 a clay). St reel pal king is challenging. Boston's a very compact city conducive to either walking or hopping in a cab.

BEST HAIR SALONS

* Olive's Beauty Saloon "The owner, Olive Benson. is known throughout the indus try for her knowledge of hair care, "(565 Columbus Ave.; 617-247-3333)

* At Boston's renowned James Joseph Salon, ask for Shelley. (30 Newbury St.; 617-266-7222)

BEST SHOPPING

* Newbury St. is referred to us Boston's "Rodeo Drive" because it boasts great shopping, art galleries, and coffee houses. "I's great because its not a mall says. Walker. "You can spend Saturddy just walking up and down the street, shopping from Burberry to Banan Republic."