Boston Spotlight: Contessa Boston

Contessa Boston, perched atop The Newbury Boston hotel, is a celebrated grand trattoria that brings the glamour and elegance of Northern Italy to the heart of Boston’s Back Bay.

It is one of the city’s premier dining destinations, known for its opulent design, stunning rooftop views, and acclaimed Northern Italian cuisine.

Here is a comprehensive overview of Contessa Boston:

What Makes Contessa Unique

Contessa’s uniqueness stems from its blend of breathtaking ambiance, high-caliber cuisine, and prestigious location:

• Rooftop Setting and Views: Located on the rooftop of The Newbury Boston, the restaurant offers sweeping, panoramic views of the Boston Public Garden and the Back Bay skyline. The space is a glass-enclosed, four-season venue designed to feel like a “garden in the sky.”
• Design and Ambiance: Designed by Ken Fulk, the decor is inspired by old-world European resorts and Northern Italian estates, featuring Art Deco and mid-century modern detailing, marble, velvet, and lush greenery. It creates an atmosphere that is at once upscale, romantic, and highly sought-after.
• The Major Food Group Pedigree: Contessa is a concept from the internationally acclaimed Major Food Group (MFG), founded by Jeff Zalaznick, Chef Mario Carbone, and Chef Rich Torrisi. MFG is known for delivering celebrated and innovative culinary experiences, and Contessa is described by its founders as a unique concept tailored for Boston, not a duplicate of their other successful brands.

History

Contessa Boston debuted in 2021, conceived specifically for The Newbury Boston hotel. The hotel itself, formerly the iconic Old Ritz-Carlton, has a rich heritage, and Contessa’s stylish décor pays homage to this glamorous past, adorning the property like a “crown jewel.” It quickly cemented its reputation as one of the hardest reservations to get in the city, establishing itself as a top destination for luxurious dining.

Highlight Menu Items

The menu is a sophisticated ode to Northern Italian cuisine, offering “classic grand trattoria cuisine” with high-end ingredients. Highly praised dishes include:

Customer Feedback

Contessa is widely celebrated by customers for its unforgettable atmosphere and standout dishes.

• Ambiance and View: Reviews consistently highlight the “breathtaking” rooftop views of the Boston Public Garden and the elegant, sophisticated ambiance. Patrons describe the atmosphere as trendy, romantic, and upscale, making it perfect for special occasions or a glamorous night out.
• Food Quality and Service: The cuisine is often described as “delicious” and “exceptional.” One reviewer stated it was “Absolutely worth the wait to get in. The view/ambiance is almost as good as the food. Thank you Contessa for filling a void in Boston of an upscale dining experience paired with accessible, delicious food!” Another mentioned that the service is “impeccable,” with staff being attentive and knowledgeable.
• Reservations: Due to its popularity, multiple customers advise that securing a reservation in advance is strongly recommended.

Significant Events

While the restaurant itself does not have a long, storied history, its opening in 2021 was a significant event for the Boston dining scene, as it marked the arrival of an upscale, high-profile venue by the acclaimed Major Food Group. It quickly became a “place to see and be seen,” with its debut at The Newbury Boston being a key part of the hotel’s highly anticipated post-renovation launch.

Contessa also offers a sophisticated private dining experience in The Wine Room, overlooking Boston Common, which can host seated meals for up to 22 guests, and full buyouts can accommodate up to 200 for a standing cocktail reception. These private spaces regularly host significant events, from intimate celebrations to corporate functions.

Contact Information

Hours of Operation