L’Espalier 
L’Espalier
30 Gloucester St Boston MA 02115
Tel: (617) 262-3023
Hours:
Monday through Sunday Dinner: 5:30pm to 10:00pm and Tea: Saturdays 2pm until 3pm
Listed in: Romantic Restaurant, French
Neighborhood: Back Bay
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In the heart of fashionable Back Bay, in an 1880 townhouse on the corner of Newbury and Gloucester Street, one block from the Hynes Convention Center, Prudential Center and Copley Place. Walking distance to Symphony Hall, Berklee Performance Center and major colleges and universities. Sophisticated and modern New England-French cuisine, with an emphasis on artisanal and New England ingredients. Dinner options: Three course Prix Fixe Menu $75.00, Seven course Degustation Tasting Menu $94.00, Seven course Degustation Vegetable Menu $75.00, and Chef’s Tasting Menu $175.00
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Exceptional food quality and attention to detail is topped by their incredible service - unobtrusive, attentive, smooth.
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The ultimate in high end food and the atmosphere and service is phenomenal. Set in an old townhouse, there are several small rooms rather than a large loud room. Sit in the room in the front near the fireplace.
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The most romantic dining experience I've had - even when it is not with the most romantic guy! Now that's romantic.
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Simply the best in every way.
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Exceptional service,creative menu,rich and romantic ambiance crafted in separate rooms resulting in murmurs of voices that never rise to a disturbing level
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outside of europe, you rarely find this kind of old world charm and elegance. the service and food are outstanding.
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The food is always inspiring, the ambiance sets a romantic mood and the waitstaff, from the Maitre'd to the Sommelier to the water server are always so attentive, friendly and courteous without crossing the line of being patronizing. I first dined at L'Espalier in 1978, when they were on Boylston St; but the McClellens have taken the restaurant to the highest heights of fine cuisine and dining.
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While expensive, the food is superb, the wine list is excellent, and the setting and service are above reproach. My only regret is that the cost keeps me from going back more often.
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Beautiful intimate room, lighting, decor...civility, no loud music so conversation is easy, perfect pacing, attentive but non-intrusive staff, and most importantly, a menu that showcases the world's most sensuous flavors. Every bite maintains the impact of its first taste sensation...the palate never numbs to the vibrancy of the ingredients used...the chef creates gastronomic magic using simple but of the highest quality elements. While I'm eating, my sense is that Frank McClelland respects food, never does anything fancy for fancy's sake, but always to cultivate each ingredient's fullest potential...I will always treasure my experience at L'Espalier.
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The service is impeccable and not over bearing, the entire staff is extremely pleasant and helpful. The food was marvelous with the combination of textures and flavors. The atmosphere lends itself to be an extremely romantic restaurant. One of the very top restaurants I have ever been to in the US, Canada and Europe!
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You just can't get better than L'Espalier in ambiance, service, and attention to detail. The evening is perfect the moment you walk in the front door.
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The food. The service. The atmosphere. They have it all!
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L'Espalier's old world atmosphere, out-of-this-world food and people that wait on you according to your every whim pleasantly as if you are entitled to it make this an unforgettably romantic dining experience!
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A few years ago we had the most elegant and special Christmas holiday dinner with close friends. It was unforgettable - the food was spectacular, and the service superb. We were never rushed. We tell everyone it is "THE" best restaurant in Boston.
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Warm. classic environment paired with excellent service and tantalizing imaginative foods that awaken your tasting make for an exquisite evening
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When I walk into this restaurant, I am treated as the most important VIP in the world!
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L'Espalier is best because of its elegant and romantic atmosphere, beautiful presentation, attention to detail, superb food, fun and informative wine tasting and cheese tasting evenings.
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The service is wonderful and so helpful. The staff makes me feel like a princess.
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superb food exemplary service and always that personal touch!
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Absolutely incredible food and service. Need I say more?
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The atmosphere, food, wine, and service(particularly the service!) are all the very best. Our favorite place for birthdays, anniversaries, valentine's day, and other special occasions. Simply the greatest.
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In addition to the splendid menu, L'Espalier offers a marvelous dining atmosphere. The staff are most knowledgeable and helpful, without exuding pretense or pomposity. Truly a fine dining experience!
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The wines, service, food, flowers, and atmosphere of L'Espalier make for great romance.
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Lovely, gorgeous. wonderful service, wonderful food. It's out fav restaurant to go to when in Boston.
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L'Espalier is a rare treat from the moment you step through the unassuming front entrance on a side street off Newbury you are treated like royalty. You enter in a world of soft colors and rich fabrics with beautiful flowers. There are no bad tables and guests are encouraged to savor every moment along with every bite. From appetizers to entrees and dessert, don't forget the cheese, every bite is unique yet not so creative it is weird. The portions are just right to allow one to clean the plate, but not feel stuffed. The staff are helpful and never snobby. It is my absolutely favorite place to dine on a special occasion with my husband. It feels like a magical date every time - I love L'Espalier!
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The service is in the best tradition of a great European restaurant but in a distinctly Boston/Back Bay environment. They make you feel you are having an extaordinary, one of a kind experience!
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We have been to L'Espalier many times, and the food and wine pairings have always been wonderful. L'Espalier has the most consistently high quality of any restaurant I know.
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Impeccable service, delightful atmosphere, relaxed and friendly staff. And Erik rules.
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Excellance is the word that comes to mind. The food, the wines, the surroundings, the waitstaff, the dish and glassware, the everything! I Love this restaurant! My favourite place.
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We have been going to L'espalier for years - the absolute best food and service in the city and we've tried them all- we've had parties there and they are excellent- the staff works with you to make it a perfect evening it makes no difference if you are a party of two or twenty two- everything is done to perfection-
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There is no comparison. L'Espalier is the real deal, time after time.
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L'Espalier has the best food in Boston, combined with delightful ambiance.
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Of all the great restaurants in Boston, this is tops for a special occasion with your partner. A truly romantic night and superb meal