MyBoston BACK BAY & BEACON HILL
Collin Bray
BOSTON COLLECTS
CONSIGN TO UPCOMING AUCTIONS IN BOSTON
Friday, June 6th 11am
September, 2025 featuring Americana & Folk Art
Gilt Molded Sheet Copper and Zinc Leaping Stag Weathervane , Late 19th Century. Property from the Private Collection of Bonnie Stedt, Pine Plains, New York Sold for $12,800 , Boston Collects, February 9, 2024
Held in Doyle’s new Boston gallery at The Vendome. The Boston Collects auction will feature a wide range of artwork, furniture, silver, decorative arts and jewelry from collections and estates in the New England area and beyond.
INFORMATION & APPOINTMENTS
Kathryn Craig & Chris Barber Boston@Doyle.com 617-999-8254
290 Dartmouth Street, Boston Opening June 2025
Ancestral Ties American Ancestors debuts a new family history exhibition aimed at increasing access. 14 Mother’s Day at Women’s Lunch Place
A long tradition of selling greeting cards supports freshly made meals at this day shelter and advocacy center.
Photograph by Claire Vail
MAY CELEBRATIONS
“Late evening, on the first of May— The twilit May—the time of love. Meltingly called the turtledove, Where rich and sweet pinewoods lay.”
THE ABOVE LINES are from K.H. Mácha’s poem “May,” considered to be among the most important poems in Czech literature.
Did you know? In the Czech Republic, May is the Month of Love, and on May 1, it’s tradition for couples to kiss beneath a blossoming cherry tree. This romantic custom is said to bring love and vitality, a celebration of spring made famous by Mácha in his iconic poem. Every kid knows this poem by memory, and every year you have to find the blooming trees and be kissed, so parks are full!
In May in the U.S., we celebrate Mother’s Day. I find myself remembering my own mother—a woman of grace, endless creativity and tireless dedication. Though she is no longer here, her love and example shape me still, and I carry her with me in everything I do. In this issue, we invite you to celebrate all women with Women’s Lunch Place—read about the organization’s greeting card fundraising campaign and all the good work it supports.
We also share a behindthe-scenes look at The Family Heritage Experience, a new exhibition by American Ancestors. Located on Newbury Street, it’s a one-of-a-kind installation that can help answer burning questions about your family history. We know you will enjoy our captivating interview with President and CEO Ryan Woods, and would love to hear what you think!
As always, we welcome your ideas for future articles and are grateful for our amazing partners and advertisers. Without their support, we couldn’t bring you this publication every month, so if you stop by their businesses, be sure to tell them MyBoston sent you! With gratitude,
Renata Coker Publisher, MyBoston
www.mybostonmag.com @mybostonmag
Publisher Renata Coker
Renata.Coker@mybostonmag.com
Editor Celina Colby editor@mybostonmag.com
Contributing
Writer
Yelena Nicolle Salvador
Lead Photographer
Ben Flythe
Creative Director
Kijoo Kim
Advisory Board
Collin Bray
Robert Dimmick
Leigh Harrington
Lisa Mulman
Sharin Schober
David Sharff
Cindy Sullivan
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman
Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
VP, Group Publisher, Regional
Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy
Maria Regan
VP, Director of Digital Media
Nigel Edelshain
Art Director
Rosemary O´Connell
Associate Editor
Sophia Carlisle
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer
Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager
Fern Meshulam
Circulation Manager
Kathy Wenzler
Advertising Production Associate
Griff Dowden
60 years ago, with my mom, Jaroslava, in the Czech Republic.
Community CALENDAR
Enjoy the beautiful month of May with these art openings, author talks, neighborhood cleanups and other community events happening in Back Bay and Beacon Hill.
EVENTS
May 1
Julia Malye: Writing Across Histories and Languages
Join author and translator Julia Malye as she discusses her new book “Pelican Girls,” an epic tale touching both French and American history. The talk will be followed by a Q&A, a book signing and a social hour with wine. French Library, 53 Marlborough St., 617-912-0400.
May 1-31
Swan Boats at the Boston Public Garden
It’s hard to beat the classic Boston experience of riding a swan boat around the lagoon at the Boston Public Garden. And it’s only $4.75 a ride. Boston Public Garden, 4 Charles St., 617-522-1966.
May 2
SoWa First Friday
On the first Friday of every month, the artist studios at SoWa stay open late and open to the public so you can peruse artist studios and meet the makers themselves. The SoWa Vintage Market is also open during this time. SoWa, 450 Harrison Ave., 857-378-4449.
May 2-4
Panda Fest
Snack on more than 200 varieties of Asian street food at this cultural festival while enjoying live performances and shopping at a marketplace of unique vendors. Boston City Hall Plaza, 1 City Hall Sq., @pandafestboston.
May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Free Fridays at Trinity Organ Concerts
Almost every Friday, Trinity Church hosts a free organ concert at 12:15 p.m. Admission is complimentary, although a donation is encouraged, and different organists are highlighted each week. Trinity Church, 206 Clarendon St., 617-536-0944.
May 3
Neighborhood Association of the Back Bay: Alley Rally
Join your neighbors for a spring cleaning of the Back Bay. Gather at Clarendon Street Playground, work with others to clean your block and share food and friendship. Coordinated with Love Your Block and sponsored by the City of Boston. Clarendon Street Playground, 260 Clarendon St., www.nabbonline.org.
May 3
Samara Joy
Listen to a concert by rising jazz vocalist Samara Joy, a talent who has won two Grammys for her unique and contemporary performance style. Berklee Performance Center, 136 Mass Ave., 617-747-2261.
May 10
Nora Valdez: ESPERANDO/WAITING Artist Reception
View sculptor Nora Valdez’s latest exhibition, “ESPERANDO/WAITING,” and connect with the artist in person about her work. Boston Sculptors Gallery, 486 Harrison Ave., 617-482-7781.
Celebrate Asian culture at Panda Fest with performances, authentic foods and, of course, a giant inflatable panda ready for photos.
Right: See Grammy Award-winning jazz vocalist Samara Joy at the Berklee Performance Center.
Photograph by Ambe J. Williams
Bottom: Every Mother’s Day, families gather at the Boston Public Garden to celebrate “Make Way for Ducklings” by Robert McCloskey.
Photograph courtesy of Friends of the Public Garden
May 10
Boston Philharmonic—Interpretation of Music: Lessons for Life
Listen, watch and revel in the magic as Boston Philharmonic conductor and master educator Benjamin Zander leads a group of young musicians to a new understanding of classic masterpieces. Boston Public Library Central Branch, 700 Boylston St., 617-859-2129.
May 11
Duckling Day
This annual celebration of the classic Boston children’s book “Make Way for Ducklings” by Robert McCloskey falls on Mother’s Day every year. During the family-friendly event, enjoy live music, lawn games and an adorable parade of children dressed as ducklings marching to the Public Garden statue. Boston Public Garden, 165 Tremont St., 617-723-8144.
May 14
The Lonely Hearts Club: A Short Story Social for Seniors
On the second Wednesday of every month, seniors are welcomed at the library for a social hour during which they listen to a short story read aloud and then discuss it. Boston Public Library Central Branch, 700 Boylston St., 617-859-2129.
May 14
Hidden Gardens of Beacon Hill Spring Soirée
Kick off the Hidden Gardens of Beacon Hill event with an exclusive preview of three gardens, plus champagne and live entertainment. Tickets also include a traditional garden tour the following day. King’s Chapel Parish House Garden, 64 Beacon St., www.beaconhillgardenclub.org.
May 15
Hidden Gardens of Beacon Hill Garden Tours
Peek behind closed doors and brick walls for a once-a-year tour of the hidden gardens of Beacon Hill, hosted by the Beacon Hill Garden Club. Throughout Beacon Hill, www.beaconhillgardenclub.org.
May 16-June 22
Hello, Dolly!
Enjoy the beloved tunes and good-humored storyline of the classic theater show “Hello, Dolly!” featuring a cast of local talent. Lyric Stage, 140 Clarendon St., 617-585-5678.
May 18
Esplanade Community Day
Join the neighborhood to celebrate one of Boston’s most cherished greenspaces during Esplanade Community Day. Listen to live music, engage in family-friendly activities and snack on bites from food trucks on-site. Hatch Shell, 47 David G Mugar Way, 617-227-0365.
May 21
“The Art Spy” by Michelle Young Author Talk
Listen to author Michelle Young speak about her riveting new novel “The Art Spy,” about a heroine who infiltrates Nazi leadership to save the cultural legacy of the West. Boston Athenaeum, 101/2 Beacon St., www.bostonathenaeum.org.
Above: Sneak a peek into private greenspaces during the Beacon Hill Garden Club’s Hidden Gardens of Beacon Hill Garden Tours. You may even meet some furry new friends like Louie and Lola.
Photograph by Bob O’Connor
Sweet AND SALTY
Mother-and-son duo Kathy and Ben Sidell perfectly balance sweet and savory flavors at Saltie Girl on Newbury Street.
BY CELINA COLBY
Top left: The SweetBoy chocolate chip cookies are a favorite dessert at Saltie Girl.
Top right: Saltie Girl serves up a seafood-heavy menu with many New England flavors.
Bottom: Ben and Kathy Sidell work closely to balance the sweet and salty flavors on the Saltie Girl dessert menu.
Photographs courtesy of Saltie Girl
FOR MANY CHILDREN, calls to Mom include a standard set of updates about work, relationships and family members. For Ben Sidell, calls to his restaurateur mother, Kathy Sidell, can quickly turn into a lively debate about the consistency of the perfect meringue.
Ben is an L.A.-based pastry chef and the founder of SweetBoy Bakery, as well as the sweet-tooth mastermind
behind the dessert menu at both the Boston and L.A. locations of Kathy’s restaurant, Saltie Girl. The mother-andson duo work closely to conceptualize the desserts and pair them with the restaurant’s seafood-heavy menu.
It’s no surprise that both Ben and Kathy ended up in the restaurant business; they’re following a long family tradition. Kathy’s father, Jack Sidell, was a banker who invested
in many up-and-coming Boston restaurants and chefs, including Todd English and Jasper White. Her sister, Stephanie Sokolove, opened Stephanie’s on Newbury. Kathy grew up hearing about and tasting all kinds of food and quickly passed that inquisitive palate on to Ben.
“When we’re creating dishes together, I think the dish benefits so much from each of our palates and history, where we come from, the difference in the generations. That’s a unique partnership,” says Kathy. “I think we both get incredible joy from it.”
For Ben, who has an MFA in acting from Harvard, baking was always more of a hobby while he pursued his acting career. But during the pandemic, he began baking chocolate chip cookies to bring a little joy to his friends and others. Someone gifted Busy Philipps a box, and one Instagram post later, Ben had more than 400 orders and a fullblown baking business.
“When it came to naming the business, I wanted to be referential to my mom,” says Ben. “The world needs sweeter boys, and the world continues to need salty girls.”
That sweet-and-salty pairing is a match made in heaven. The Sidells are currently working on the spring dessert menu, but a few old favorites will remain, including the crowd favorite chocolate chip cookies, warmed to order, and the gluten-free pistachio tiramisu.
“It feels so corny, but my mom is such an inspiration to me, and she’s such a mentor,” says Ben. “So to be able to work with her and really dream with her on a daily basis is such a gift.”
“It’s really like a slice of heaven,” agrees Kathy. “There’s nothing better for a mom than watching your child flower.”
Celina Colby has been covering the foodand-beverage scene in Boston for over a decade with bylines in Eater Boston and The Bay State Banner, among others.
Photograph by Anton Grassi
Ancestral Ties
American Ancestors debuts a new family history exhibition aimed at increasing access and equity.
BY CELINA COLBY
RRYAN WOODS, president and CEO of American Ancestors, knows who he is. More than most people, in fact.
As a lifelong history lover, he’s delved into his own ancestry and learned many stories about his lineage.
As the director of a nonprofit genealogy organization, he’s made it his mission to bring that same level of familial connectivity to everyone who walks through the door.
The organization’s latest initiative is the opening of the Family Heritage
Experience, an interactive, familyfriendly exhibition at 97 Newbury Street that delves into family history. Here, visitors can drop an electronic pin on the countries in which their families originated, view one-of-akind art installations commissioned for the exhibition and learn how to answer their burning family history questions.
The exhibition also creates a more welcoming entry point to the facility, which has always been
Photographs by Claire Vail
open to the public but was previously hidden behind an intimidating stone entryway. In April, the two buildings that make up American Ancestors were dedicated, one to philanthropist and preservationist Thomas Bailey Hagen and the other to historian and filmmaker Henry Louis Gates Jr.
“We have a belief that everyone has a story worth telling and worth hearing,” says Woods. “When we can help provide access to information to help people on their family history journeys, we are fulfilling our longstanding mission.”
Woods’ tenure at American Ancestors feels a bit predestined. In his own family research, he discovered he had a relative who worked for the genealogical society in the 1880s. That relative pushed for Massachusetts town records to be made accessible to the public. Now, over a century later, Woods continues that crusade to put knowledge and resources in public hands.
In addition to his work with
American Ancestors, Woods serves as a commissioner of the Special Commission for the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and in many other historical leadership roles around New England.
DIGGING THROUGH HISTORY
American Ancestors approaches genealogy differently than its for-profit competitors Ancestry and MyHeritage. While those companies lean on genetic testing and user-created family trees to generate data, American Ancestors
Opposite page: Ryan Woods is the president and CEO of American Ancestors.
Above: The new public-facing entrance to American Ancestors and the Family Heritage Experience
relies on meticulous record-based research to delve into people’s histories. It has 10 billion searchable records, a staff of highly trained specialists and its own in-house publishing arm. The Newbury Street building also houses the Wyner Family Jewish Heritage Center.
In the past 10 years American Ancestors has worked diligently to make genealogical research accessible to all, starting by changing its name from the New England Historic Genealogical Society to American Ancestors. This change came with a widening of scope from just American history to global histories, with a particular specialization in the United States and Europe.
Genealogical research is especially challenging for Black Americans. Enslaved men, women and children were not included in records and documents in the same way as other Americans, leaving fewer breadcrumbs for their ancestors to follow. In 2023, in an effort to bridge that gap, American Ancestors launched the 10 Million Names project, an initiative dedicated to recovering the names of the estimated 10 million enslaved people in the United States between the 1500s
and 1865. It’s an ambitious project, but one that would be game-changing for genealogical researchers of color.
FINDING YOUR PLACE
Learning about family history isn’t just about having great pieces of trivia at the reunion. Woods says there have been a number of studies at Emory University in Georgia examining the intersection of family history with sociology and psychology. It turns out that understanding where you come from fulfills a basic human need: belonging.
“When young people in particular know more about their family history, they have lower levels of anxiety and higher family cohesion. They perform better in school, and there’s greater resiliency in the face of trauma,” says Woods. It isn’t necessarily the knowledge itself that has that impact. “When you’re in an environment
Visitors interact with the Family Heritage Experience.
where family stories are told, that is highly indicative of a kind of support system which helps to produce these results.”
The Family Heritage Experience is meant to open the door to family history and to those feelings of connectivity. In one area of the exhibit, visitors can choose from a wall of questions like “How can I find more of my living relatives?” and “Was my ancestor accused of being a witch?” Computers nearby scan the QR code on each question and show visitors how and where they can find the answers.
It’s $10 per person to experience the exhibit and $25 for a day pass to the American Ancestors building, which gives you access to all the genealogical
research resources, including online subscriptions to the Ancestry and FamilySearch databases and use of the Brim-DeForest Library.
Woods hopes to help others feel the power and wonder of discovering their roots.
“At its core, I think it brings joy to people,” he says. “It’s also a source of inspiration and education. There are certainly parts of family history research that can be difficult, but by and large we see it as a life-enriching experience for people.”
Celina Colby has been writing about culture, art and community in Boston for more than 10 years for The Bay State Banner, Eater, BrooklineHub and many others.
The Family Heritage Experience features many historical artifacts, as well as artworks commissioned for the exhibition. Here, a placard encourages viewers to look at this painting in a new way.
Mother’s Day at Women’s Lunch Place
A long tradition of selling greeting cards supports freshly made meals at this day shelter and advocacy center.
EEVERY SPRING, a small card with a significant impact begins its journey across Boston and beyond. The Mother’s Day card campaign from Women’s Lunch Place (WLP) is more than a thoughtful gift; it’s a lifeline for women in need.
BY MYBOSTON STAFF
The story starts decades ago, when WLP dreamed of opening its shelter and advocacy center for one additional day: Mother’s Day. Staff wanted to honor their guests with a special meal, particularly for mothers and daughters with nowhere else to celebrate. But with tight resources, the staff needed a way to fund the extra day of service.
BIRTH OF A TRADITION
The organization placed an ad in The Boston Globe that offered a novel idea: purchasing a Mother’s Day card to support the special feast. The
Mother’s Day cards are made using illustrations created by guests of the center. Contributors can purchase cards for their own loved ones, while knowing their purchase supports Women’s Lunch Place. Orders flooded in that first year, and a tradition was born.
Open Monday through Saturday, Women’s Lunch Place still welcomes its guests one Sunday each year on Mother’s Day for a beautiful, multi-course meal––complete with tablecloths, fresh flowers and gift bags packed with self-care products.
“Mother’s Day is a perfect illustration of how our staff restores the dignity of women experiencing homelessness, hunger and poverty,” says Jennifer Hanlon Wigon, CEO of WLP. “Our team takes the time to welcome and get to know each guest, starting with her name. By beginning
Above: The Mother’s Day cards feature an illustration created by one of the Women’s Lunch Place guests.
with a trusting relationship, we work together to overcome barriers to success for women facing the most impossible situations.”
The Mother’s Day cards themselves have taken on even greater meaning. Each card sold now funds a week of healthy, nutritious lunches for one woman—a vital contribution as the center faces unprecedented demand.
A TOTAL LIFESAVER
“Women’s Lunch Place is a total lifesaver,” says Eileen, a guest who became homeless after her home caught fire. “I don’t know what I would do without this place, because they serve very, very healthy, balanced, well-prepared meals. Very tasteful, very creative in their cuisine. If I had to feed myself, I would only have $9 for breakfast, lunch and dinner.”
For the past five years, WLP has broken its annual record for meals served. The organization is on pace to break the record yet again with over 150,000 meals prepared by the end of this year. This prolonged surge reflects rising homelessness in Boston, which has increased by 67%, according to the research center at the Boston Foundation, alongside persistent food insecurity, grocery inflation
and stagnating wages.
The card’s impact goes beyond the plate. For women on limited incomes, the choice is often between food, rent or other life necessities. When a guest’s hunger is met, she can pursue long-term goals through WLP’s advocacy and health-care services—whether that’s securing housing, enrolling in workforce development, securing benefits or addressing mental health by meeting with the center’s full-time therapist.
HOW TO LEND SUPPORT
Each year, hundreds of potential supporters learn about WLP’s mission by receiving a card, and tens of thousands of meals are funded. It’s a campaign that provides critical nutrition, uplifts the spirit and strengthens our community.
Cards can be purchased at www. mothersdaycards.org or in person at Blackstone’s of Beacon Hill. To deepen your impact, consider volunteering, becoming a corporate partner or making a gift to support women in need. Learn more at www.womenslunchplace.org.
Women’s Lunch Place staff members and guests gather every Mother’s Day for a feast worthy of the celebratory day. Photographs by Nancy Schieffelin
WHAT SHE WORE
Fashion historian Elizabeth Weisblatt manages a massive collection of antique garments in Beacon Hill.
FASHION HISTORIAN Elizabeth
Weisblatt spends her days in the midst of a collection of more than 7,000 pieces of clothing and accessories spanning three centuries. Items range from a child’s set of mittens dating back to 1706 to a professional suit from the mid-2000s. As the Collections Manager and Curator of the Society of Colonial Dames of Massachusetts, she organizes, documents and cares for an incredible collection of objects that reveals vital stories from women’s history.
The collection is housed in the historic William Hickling Prescott House at 55 Beacon Street, and part of Weisblatt’s mission is to increase accessibility to the home and the garments. MyBoston chatted with Weisblatt about her work.
Above: Elizabeth Weisblatt is the Collections Manager and Curator of the Society of Colonial Dames of Massachusetts.
Why is it so important to have this collection of historical garments?
It’s a great and accessible way to teach history, particularly women’s history, that often gets overlooked. There’s nothing more connectable to a human—you pick out your clothes every day. And taking into account where they’re coming from, what their opportunities to have them are, were they remade? It tells the story of a very different life that’s been going on in Boston and New England.
Where do the objects in the collection come from?
There’s a handful of things that are purchased, but, by and large, things are donated with their histories by the Dames. We are bursting with objects at this point. For the first time there’s been a pause on collecting so we can assess what we have and figure out if there are duplicates or items that other institutions could take better care of.
How can garments tell a story about the life a woman led?
The collection, for the most part, represents the upper 5% of Boston society. But during the Great Depression, a lot of their circumstances changed. They’re no longer wearing wellknown dressmakers, or there’s no dressmaker at all; it’s very much handmade at home. It’s a lot of
theory work, but it’s fascinating to see that dip for some families and how that shows up.
Even for prominent, well-known families that have the money, they’re reusing the fabric from their grandmother’s dress because it’s fashionable now. We have a dress where the fabric is 1740 and the trim and dress pattern are probably 1850s. So, it’s thrift but it’s also fashion, and it’s cyclical.
What common misconception would you correct about historical fashion?
People were always multiple sizes. For the number of women that were tiny, there were also quite a lot of women who were tall. The thing is, if the dress is so small you can’t remake it into something else, it’s going to survive, whereas something that has a more extensive amount of fabric is easier to remake. It’s survival bias. But people have been every size since the beginning of time.
How can people visit the William Hickling Prescott House?
We are now open First Fridays from March to October. We’ve been working toward making it a regular event, so we’re very excited to be able to do First Fridays. We’re in the process of hiring an executive director as well, so we’re hoping to get into the routine of having an exhibit of clothing at least every other year.
The collection includes more than 7,000 objects dating from 1706 to the mid-2000s.
OUTDOOR PATIOS
Enjoy the great outdoors—and a delicious meal—at these well-appointed patios around Back Bay and Beacon Hill.
BY YELENA NICOLLE SALVADOR
SPRING IN BOSTON means more color, more sounds and more signs of life around the city. Now that patio season has arrived, you’ll hear the chatter of people and the clinking of glasses and silverware as you stroll along the streets. Whether you’re dining alone, with friends or with family, you’ll love embracing blue skies and 7 p.m. sunsets with a great meal. Taste your way through the city al fresco style at these five local establishments with outdoor dining options in Beacon Hill and Back Bay.
SONSIE
Sonsie, an iconic spot right on Newbury Street, will put you at the center of all
the city’s action. You can grab a frontrow seat next to the floor-to-ceiling French doors that are left open during the warmer months—a prime peoplewatching spot. While enjoying a classic eggs Benedict, a brick-oven pizza or even a seasonal item with international flair, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a European sidewalk café.
PEREGRINE
Tucked away in The Whitney Hotel in Beacon Hill is Peregrine, a restaurant serving Mediterranean- and Italianinspired dishes that hail from the shores of Sardinia to the coasts of Corsica. While the stylish interior makes for an elevated dining experience, step outside
Cheers to summer cocktails and tasty appetizers enjoyed outdoors.
at the Prudential Center transforms its outdoor space into an
Coast-inspired patio during summer months.
Above:
Left: Porto
Amalfi
onto the back courtyard, complete with fire pits and a mini garden, where you can sip wine that is perfectly paired with your pasta and small plates.
PORTO
On the less-traveled streets of Back Bay, right behind the Pru, you’ll find the lively patio of Porto. This establishment serves coastal Italian dishes and handmade pasta. To match the menu, you can enjoy a beach-like outdoor dining experience with warm string lights, bright-colored flowers, and comfortable cushioned seating options. Transport yourself to the Amalfi Coast with an inventive cocktail in hand at this restaurant.
BISTRO DU MIDI
Located right across from the Public Garden, the famous Bistro du Midi is a beloved restaurant that serves French cuisine with a touch of New England. Treat yourself to its special seasonal tasting menu or try one of its seafood entrées while enjoying views of the garden in bloom. With its romantic ambiance and charming patio, this spot makes for the perfect refined dining experience.
CASA ROMERO
This hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant has an unassuming exterior—you’ve probably walked right by it without even noticing. But once you spot Casa Romero’s beautifully tiled door, you’ll enter a festive and vibrant “speakeasy” that serves up flavorful margaritas and classic Mexican cuisine amid colorful murals. Step farther into the restaurant and you’ll find its patio, which also boasts a hidden quality. As you enjoy an enchilada plate or some churros, you’ll be enveloped in the cozy atmosphere and surrounded by brownstones, flowers and a vivid orange-pink fence.
Yelena Nicolle Salvador is a lover of words who enjoys fostering community connection through food, art and culture.
Top left: The courtyard patio at The Whitney Photograph by James Baigrie
Top right: Classic Mexican cuisine at Casa Romero Photograph by Humberto Ortega
Above: Sidewalk dining at Bistro du Midi
Photograph by Dave Desroches
Left: Indulge in oysters, caviar and crisp white wines as patio dining season begins.
ROCHAMBEAU
Bonjour, patio season.
There’s no better place to enjoy the art of outdoor dining than Rochambeau. Rosé in hand, steak frites on the table, and the vibrant energy of Boylston Street all around you—this is your Parisian escape in the heart of Back Bay.
FINE DINING GUIDE
BACK BAY SOCIAL
Patio season is officially on at Back Bay Social.
Sunshine, cold drinks, and great company—what more could you ask for?
Our Boylston Street patio is the perfect spot for after-work cocktails, weekend brunch, or spontaneous happy hours. Grab a seat, sip something refreshing, and soak in the city buzz.
SONSIE
Your favorite Newbury Street spot just got even better—Sonsie is now open for lunch Monday - Friday! Step out and indulge in midday perfection. Whether you’re meeting clients, catching up with friends, or taking a solo moment to unwind, Sonsie’s lunch delivers fresh flavors, sidewalk café charm, and signature style.
Seasonal dishes, brick oven pizzas, and handcrafted cocktails await.
event: bostonsbestevents.com/venues/sonsie
LUNCHING
FOR EQUITY
buildOn in Boston, a nonprofit dedicated to uniting people through service and education to ignite a more equitable future, kicked off Women’s History Month with its first-ever International Women’s Day Luncheon. The event, hosted by Ernst & Young, convened 120+ attendees from 25 organizations. Panelists from Boston Public Schools, NBC10 Boston and Sweet Teez Bakery shared insights on education, mentorship and leadership. The event highlighted buildOn’s commitment to supporting female leaders and building global gender equity. Learn more at www.buildon.org/boston.
Above: From left, buildOn in Boston board members Ted Bruntrager, Allan Hackney, Loredana Vieil, Sarah Byrne, Karen Vachon and Adam Tager
Right: Audience members listen as the panelists tell their stories.
Photographs courtesy of buildOn in Boston
Left: From left, moderator Hannah Donnelly, NBC10 Boston journalist and producer; Lesley Miller, Chief of Teaching and Learning at Boston Public Schools; Lindsay Hanson, CMO and Global Head of Behavioral Insurance at John Hancock; and Teresa Maynard, owner of Sweet Teez Bakery
Below: Teresa Maynard
BEAUTY BRUNCH
SPOTLIGHT ON FEMALE CHEFS
On March 6, The Langham, Boston held the fourth annual Women’s Day Dinner to celebrate Women’s History Month and support Women’s Lunch Place, a daytime shelter and advocacy center for women experiencing hunger, homelessness and poverty.
The dinner featured a four-course meal prepared by a selection of celebrated female culinary talent, including Chef Tiffani Faison of Big Heart Hospitality, Chef Inna Khitrik of Women’s Lunch Place, Chef Kerry Levesque of The Langham, Boston and Chef Sarah Wade of Stillwater and Sloane’s.
The Center for Classic Beauty in Back Bay hosted a memorable Beauty Brunch, where elegance and excitement came together. Guests enjoyed a refreshing mimosa bar while mingling and learning about the latest beauty trends.
Dr. Anna Petropoulos offered personalized consultations and shared expert insights into cosmetic treatments and skin care.
The event featured raffles with exclusive prizes, adding extra fun to the day. Attendees also received special savings on premium services and products, making it accessible to indulge in their beauty journey. It was a wonderful afternoon of beauty, connection and relaxation, all guided by Dr. Petropoulos’ expertise.
Top: Guests at the Women’s Day Dinner enjoyed craft cocktails and unique dishes by four local female chefs. Proceeds from the event supported Women’s Lunch Place.
Left: From left, Francisco Valle and Sarah Wade of Stillwater and Sloane’s; Tiffani Faison of Big Heart Hospitality; Kerry Levesque of The Langham, Boston; and Inna Khitrik of Women’s Lunch Place
Photographs courtesy of The Langham, Boston
Guests at the Beauty Brunch at the Center for Classic Beauty in Back Bay enjoyed refreshments while learning about the latest beauty trends from Dr. Petropoulos. Photographs courtesy of the Center for Classic Beauty
SHARIN SCHOBER
A Back Bay resident, artist and mom walks us through her typical Sunday in the neighborhood.
SUNDAYS IN BACK BAY are a perfect blend of creativity, family time and neighborhood charm. As an artist and mom of two young children, my mornings begin with a bike ride through the heart of this historic neighborhood. We cruise past the stately brownstones while playing “I spy” and soaking in the beauty around us. The streets of Back Bay, with their mix of modern vibrancy and classic architecture, are a constant source of inspiration for my work.
My studio, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Boston Public Garden, serves as a peaceful retreat where I create contemporary acrylic and mixed
media pieces, often infused with elements of photography. The neighborhood itself finds its way into my art, with sketches of New England buildings and the quiet elegance of Back Bay’s streets. I have the privilege of working with art collectors, interior designers and hotels, and each piece feels like a love letter to the place I call home.
After a morning of family fun, we often stroll along the Charles River to Commonwealth Avenue, where playgrounds seem to pop up at every turn. The Boston Public Garden feels like our backyard—a place where we can sled in winter and picnic in summer. We enjoy visiting the Boston Public Library, whether browsing the children’s section, listening to a concert in the courtyard or simply taking in the stunning architecture. And we always find time to stop by one of the cozy coffee shops or bookstores, like Trident Booksellers & Café, to refuel and unwind.
Back Bay is more than just a place to live—it’s where my family and I thrive and where the pulse of the neighborhood flows through every brushstroke and family outing. It’s the heart of Boston, and it inspires me every day, as both an artist and a mom.
Sharin Schober is a contemporary artist who works and lives in historic Back Bay. Say hello when you see her strolling around the neighborhood getting inspiration for her next pieces! Find her online @sharin.schober.art and www.sharinschober-art.com.
Top left: Artist Sharin Schober gets inspired by her neighborhood at every turn.
Bottom left: Sharin and her family enjoying the outdoors on a Sunday morning.
Top right: Sharin sketching Back Bay buildings.
Bottom right: Sipping coffee at a local café is a favorite Sunday pastime.
Photographs by Sharin Schober
Brought to you by Lara Shuqom, Principal of The Collective
The accuracy of the statistical data in this table is not guaranteed by MyBoston magazine. The listings broadly represent the local real estate market rather than the listings of any single agent or agency. MLSP in condo and single-family sales in Beacon Hill and Back Bay from 3.1.25-3.31.25.
INVISALIGN EXPLAINED
A local expert answers questions about Invisalign, a teeth-aligning system that barely shows and works as well as traditional braces.
WITH DANIEL BLEY, DDS
AS BOSTONIANS WORK to look their best for the coming summer months, Daniel Bley, DDS, owner of Center Plaza Dental, a distinguished multi-specialty practice located at Government Center, shares his expert advice about the ever-popular Invisalign dental treatment.
What is Invisalign and what problems can it help rectify?
Invisalign is the original, market leading, clear aligner system that helps straighten teeth without the use of traditional metal braces. It can be used to treat a variety of dental concerns, such as crooked teeth, crowding, gaps or spaces between teeth, and bite issues like overbites, underbites or crossbites.
How can working with an experienced dentist impact the Invisalign process? Working with our experienced dentists, who utilize advanced digital technology, helps ensure that your
Invisalign treatment is not only precise, but also personalized for the best possible outcome, resulting in a more efficient and effective process.
When should a patient consider Invisalign?
If you have already had orthodontics but your teeth are beginning to shift or move around, Invisalign is a great way to return those teeth to where they belong. If you are experiencing issues like crowded teeth, gaps or bite problems, it might be the right time to consider Invisalign. I’d recommend scheduling a consultation so we can discuss whether Invisalign is the best solution for your unique needs. Almost uniformly, patients say they wish they would have done Invisalign sooner because it is so easy, and the results are so good!
How is Invisalign different from traditional braces? Invisalign differs from traditional
braces in that it uses a series of clear, removable aligners instead of metal brackets and wires. These aligners are custom made to fit your teeth and gradually shift them into place. Unlike braces, you take the aligners out when you eat, drink or brush your teeth, which makes them more convenient and comfortable. Plus, they’re nearly invisible, so most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.
What misconceptions about Invisalign would you like to correct?
One misconception I often hear is that Invisalign only works for minor adjustments. In fact, it’s effective for a wide range of dental issues. Another misconception is that the treatment takes longer than traditional braces, but in many cases, Invisalign can actually straighten teeth more quickly, especially if you’re diligent about wearing the aligners as directed.
Daniel Bley, DDS, has been a Back Bay resident for over 15 years and is the owner of Center Plaza Dental, located at 2 Center Plaza, Suite 100, in Boston. When not in the office, Dr. Bley enjoys hiking, biking and skiing. To book an appointment, visit www.CenterPlazaDental.com or call 617-227-8536.
Make Way for Ducklings
EVERY YEAR ON MOTHER’S DAY, families flock (pun intended) to the Boston Common for a community celebration of the beloved children’s book “Make Way for Ducklings” by Robert McCloskey. The celebration includes lawn games, a magic show, family-friendly activity booths and live music from the Parkman Bandstand. The afternoon ends with a group parade retracing Mrs. Mallard’s steps from the Boston Common to the Boston Public Garden. Pictured above, a young boy dressed as the policeman from the story leads the parade.
Have a great image for Photo Op? Submit your high-resolution shot to editor@mybostonmag.com.
Hundreds of Bostonians march from the Boston Common to the Boston Public Garden during the Duckling Day celebration.
Photograph courtesy of Friends of the Public Garden
PETER’S NOT A MOM, BUT WHEN IT COMES TO REAL ESTATE, HE SURE ACTS LIKE ONE.
Happy Mother’s Day to all you moms out there! If you’re about to take a real estate journey, you want to go with someone who’s reliable, trustworthy, listens carefully and always puts you first. Yup, kind of like that woman who carried you for nine months (not to mention went through labor). And that’s Peter. Intelligent, savvy and friendly, Peter knows the market inside and out. And as a local guy, he can tell you the best schools, town pools and veterinarians in every town from Boston to the burbs. And as part of MGS Group Real Estate, known for it’s next-level personal service, outstanding team of collaborative agents, and impressive list of vetted connections and resources, Peter makes buying and selling, a successful and enjoyable experience from beginning to end. So, if you, or for instance, your mom, is searching for a real estate agent who’d win Mother of the Year if he were indeed a mom, look no further than Peter Hill.
You can call him at 508-353-9721. And if he’s not there, just like a mom, he’ll call you right back.