Insider Tips on Boston Hot Spots
Our staff knows just where to go!
Getting off the beaten path and discovering hidden gems is one of the wonders of travel. But how do you find those special places? Ask a local. Onyx Hotel helps you make the most of your Boston stay by sharing our staff's favorite picks and insider tips.
We asked our intrepid staff: If you had only two days in Boston, what would you do? Take a peek, have some fun and Live Like a Local.
Eat
Chef John Markunas - Local for 28 years
Front Office Manager
• Toro in the South End: A Ken Oringer gem, this tapas restaurant in Boston’s South End will always excite the palate. The bar serves classic-inspired cocktails and an eclectic, all-Spanish wine list.
• One of Boston's several food trucks located all over the city. Try "Bon Me" Vietnamese in City Hall Plaza, serving up hot bowls of meat with noodles, rice, tofu and even edamame!
Drink
John Sarchioni - Local for 26 years
Guest Services Agent
• Johnnie's on the Side: A great place to gather with friends any day of the week, and it’s right across from the Onyx. The Ward 8 drink is my favorite…go see for yourself why this place rocks!
• North Star: Best bar food in Boston. Try the meatball sandwich and the hand cut fries. It's decadent!
Wellness
L. J Sullivan - Local for 18 years
Bellman
• Cambridge-Somerville Boxing Club, Central Square: I train here 4 days out of the week with Dan, the owner and operator. All are welcome!
• Sityodtong in Somerville: Mixed martial arts for all ages and experience levels. The Muay Thai class really gives you a good workout, and you have tons of fun doing it. I have plenty of energy when I'm finished!
Retail Therapy
Lauren Wier - Local for 22 years
Guest Services Manager
• Newbury Street Shops: A great place to eat, drink, shop, and people watch. My favorite afternoon would be sitting at Scoozi with some friends and sangria.
• South End Boutiques: Take a stroll on Columbus Avenue, Harrison Avenue, and Tremont Street to experience Boston’s quaint South End. Motley, Turtle, and Cha Cha Cha are some of my favorite spots.
Play
Lauren Souder - Local for 4 years
Guest Services Manager
• The Beehive: This place is great for groups or a dinner for two! They always have live jazz and Sunday brunch is a must, as well as their signature drink, the Beehive Julep!
• Museum of Fine Arts Boston: From Aphrodite to wood sculptures and ancient embroideries, the MFA is truly a beautiful work of art! Check out the Modernist Photography and Art of the Americas wing.
One of a Kind
Lisa Zielinski - Local for 1.5 years
Senior Staff Accountant
• Prudential Tower: This December, each night they are changing the color of the exterior lights in support of a local non-profit organization! Also, If you are in/or retired from the military you can get into the 360 degree lookout at the top of the tower for free!!
• Bova's or Modern Pastry for delicious cannolis or Italian deserts.
