How is Smith & Wollensky Boston – Back Bay - Permanently Closed restaurant rated?

Name: Smith & Wollensky Boston – Back Bay - Permanently Closed
Address: 101 Arlington St. The Castle at Columbus Ave., Boston, MA, United States, 02116
Telephone: (617) 423-1112
Price range: $31 to $50
Rating: 4.1

Smith & Wollensky Boston – Back Bay - Permanently Closed

4.1

2338 Reviews

$31 to $50

Steakhouse

Top Tags:

Eat like royalty in Boston’s most famous castle.

Indulge your senses and sense of history with the unique dining experience of our Boston steakhouse. Located in a historic stone and brick “castle” built in 1891, the structure originally served as the headquarters for the First Corps of Cadets and is listed on the National Historic Register. The first floor gunroom, social hall, and museum floor have been converted to the main dining room. The castle also boasts an impressive collection of private dining rooms, and the fourth floor Battle Room is one of Boston’s most coveted locations for large parties.

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Additional information

Dining style
Casual Elegant
Cuisines
Steakhouse, Steak, Seafood
Hours of operation
Monday through Sunday: Bar 4:00pm-10:00pm Dinner 5:00pm-10:00pm Private Events & Groups can be arranged any time of day.
Phone number
(617) 423-1112
Website
http://www.smithandwollensky.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Dress code
Business Casual
Executive chef
Jason Wagner
Private party facilities
Located in a historic stone and brick “castle” built in 1891, the structure originally served as the headquarters for the First Corps of Cadets.The castle also boasts an impressive collection of private dining rooms, and the fourth floor Battle Room is one of most coveted locations for large events.
Private party contact
Olivia Sacco: (617) 423-1112 ext. 226

Location
101 Arlington St. The Castle at Columbus Ave. Boston, MA 02116
Neighborhood
Back Bay
Cross street
Columbus
Parking details
There are public parking lots and limited street parking nearby.
Public transit
Arlington/Back Bay
Additional
Banquet, Bar Dining, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 2,338 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

4.1

4.1 based on all time ratings

4.2Food
4.2Service
4.1Ambience
3.8Value

Noise • Moderate

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t
thealliance86
New England
8 reviews
5.0
8 reviews
Reviewed on May 7, 2019
overall5foodserviceambience
unbelievable food. The best steak I have ever had. Everyone else at the table echoed that sentiment.
BW
BarryW
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 30, 2018
overall5food3service5ambience5
Amy was amazing as always! Are steaks were cooked perfect! Amy helped us select a fanatastic wine to accompany our meal. So sad to see this location close. However, Amy told us she would be working at the Wharf location and we hope to see her there.
J
Julian
London
5 reviews
2.0
5 reviews
Dined on August 28, 2018
overall2food3service1ambience2
The restaurant and staff were tired and in need of a revamp. Overall impression was that the restaurant is well passed its sell by date. We have been to the chain a few times in different locations and this one was disappointing Other steak restaurants are a lot better. service was mediocre apart from when they presented the bill which was very quickly done.
OT
OpenTable Diner
Tampa
7 reviews
vip
2.0
7 reviews
Dined on August 27, 2018
overall2food3service2ambience2
Not great. Bartender seemed in experienced and the manager flirted with two women next to us the entire time. B/C squad for sure. Would not go back. NYC way better.
SM
SamM
New York Area
4 reviews
4.0
4 reviews
Dined on August 25, 2018
overall4food4service5ambience5
Sad this location is closing. My wife had our first date there so we went back for one last visit. Very cool building. Food was very good (though my rib eye seemed a bit small). Our server, Amy, was terrific. Personable, knowledgeable and fun. She was five stars for sure.
J
Jason
New England
8 reviews
4.0
8 reviews
Dined on August 25, 2018
overall4food3service4ambience5
We ordered the jumbo shrimp as we do every time, but unfortunately they were extremely over cooked.
LM
LindaM
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 18, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
What an amazing place. We were running a little late and unfortunately lost! I called Melissa who happened to be working the front and not only did she put my mind at ease that our table would be held but also got me to the parking garage I was attempting to reach. We received such a warm welcome when we arrive almost 30 minutes late and were told not to hurry. Our server Dean was fantastic and friendly. Melissa called a cab for us so we wouldn't be late for the show at the Opera House. The food was nothing short of AMAZING. So sad that the Back Bay location is closing - it is gorgeous! Get there before August 31 and you won't be disappointed. Thank you for such a great dinning experience
AK
AmaraK
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on August 18, 2018
overall5food5service4ambience5
My husband came because we had a gift card and was his birthday. We came for an early dinner so it was not very busy. Our waiter Josh was very friendly and made us laugh. The waiters were a little over bearing, multiple people asked how we were doing which was nice but a bit too much- I imagine it's just because it was not busy yet. The food was amazing, cooked perfectly! They even gave us a slice if cheesecake and a card signed by the waitestaff which was a nice extra touch!
SV
SebastienV
1 review
2.0
1 review
Dined on August 18, 2018
overall2food4service1ambience1
Food was good and service very poor. Price wasn’t adequate...
D
Dchris
New York Area
11 reviews
vip
5.0
11 reviews
Dined on August 17, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience4
Great steak. Wanted to check it out before it closes this location.
CT
CarlaT
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on August 1, 2018
overall4food5service5ambience5
Locale consigliato da amici.Ambiente classico ,inglese,bello il bar accogliente atmosfera. Scelta di vini . Carne ottima scelta ,ma anche pesce. Posizionato in un bel quartiere.
OT
OpenTable Diner
Caribbean
7 reviews
vip
5.0
7 reviews
Dined on July 29, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
We had so much fun with our kids tonight. The whole ambiance there was really special and like no other. The kids really loved the dinner -and dessert. Amy was our server and was so helpful And kind and super knowledgeable about the menu. Get the chocolate cake and you can bring leftovers home for days! Amazing.
RG
RoyG
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on July 29, 2018
overall5food5service4ambience5
Excellent steak! Wonderful atmosphere and attention.
GA
GeorgeA
New England
5 reviews
vip
3.0
5 reviews
Dined on July 28, 2018
overall3food2service4ambience4
I have visited multiple locations of this chain over the past few years. The last time I was in Vegas I had a great meal, but I think that location is closing or relocating. I found the staff at this Boston location to be friendly and professional, but the food was sub-par for what I have experienced with their chain competition and even their other locations. My daughter and I had the Chateaubriand for two and my wife had the fillet. The preparation on both was terrible, they ruined 2 otherwise decent pieces of meat. I go to Davio's every week, Strega every other week, and will not be back to S&W. After a day of shopping on Newbury Street it was a real disappointment.
LT
LarryT
New England
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on July 28, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
Overall our experience was what we expected, the atmosphere was fantastic it’s too bad you're moving. Our server Amy was very pleasant and professional, we hope to see her in the Seaport next time we visit! Great job!
BB
BrianB
1 review
2.0
1 review
Dined on July 27, 2018
overall2food1service4ambience2
Took my son on a recent trip to Boston looking for high end dining experience. Waitress was wonderful but very disappointed in the food. Ordered the Porterhouse, creamed spinach and two appetizers. Appetizers were tasty but overpriced for the amount we received and were the best part of the meal. For being a steakhouse, the porterhouse was tasteless, side vegetables old and sparse with creamed spinach resembling bland baby food. Restaurant was almost empty our entire time there which should have been a tip off.
OT
OpenTable Diner
New England
27 reviews
vip
5.0
27 reviews
Dined on July 26, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
The experience was enchanting. The surrounding deco is beautiful. Food perfectly made.
DH
DrHDM
Orange County
33 reviews
vip
2.0
33 reviews
Dined on July 25, 2018
overall2food3service4ambience2
I expected more from this steak house, especially since it had such great reviews on Open Table. The food and cocktails were "OK" at best. It wasn't the worst I've ever had, but definitely not a place that I would return to. I have had fine dining at steak houses across the country, and this place doesn't come close to hitting the mark.
KD
KateD
1 review
4.0
1 review
Dined on July 21, 2018
overall4food4service5ambience5
My husband and I ate here on a long weekend away to Boston. The service here was top notch, as we had an evening cruise to catch that was only going to allow about an hour or so to eat and I had let them know this that day when they called to confirm our reservation. The staff was kind enough to allow us to sit about 10minutes earlier than our reserved time, were very prompt with our food and drink but did not rush us. The atmosphere is very cool, being that it was previously a castle and the interior old wood craftsmanship and style was still there while also feeling updated and clean. The food was very tasty, steak cooked perfectly and was very tender, but it is pretty expensive which is the only reason I docked a few points on the “value” criteria. Overall a very pleasant experience.
JH
JohnHeath143
New England
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on July 20, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
Was awesome from the moment we walked in to the moment we left! Service top notch, steak can’t be beat and had to be rolled out because had to finish everything and defiantly worth licking the plate clean lol
E
Emil
Los Angeles
45 reviews
vip
3.0
45 reviews
Dined on July 3, 2018
overall3food3service4ambience4
Definitely an overpriced steakhouse that is not worth it. If you want a better steak at more reasonable costs go to Flemings or even Mastro’s where price may be up there but you will get a much better steak. The place and service were good but my bone in $75 or so New York steak was as tough as a shoe leather. Totally disappointing for a very high end steakhouse. The place was awesome as it is a converted castle and service was excellent. I just wish to steak would have been better. That will be it for me for Smith and Wollensky.
ND
NancyD
New England
22 reviews
5.0
22 reviews
Dined on July 1, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
Say Goodbye to this wonderful restaurant at this particular beautiful location. It has always been one of our favorites. The service from the bartender was perfect and the meals were the best ever. We will miss you.
f
floridafoodie
Atlanta
68 reviews
vip
5.0
68 reviews
Dined on June 30, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
The food was great - seriously great steaks and potatoes, yummy appetizers (scallops especially), and flawless service from Amy and her team with Sherryl. Perfect timing with each course and all questions answered. Thank you for a great night!
LJ
LJBN
Las Vegas
12 reviews
vip
5.0
12 reviews
Dined on June 30, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
We love Smith and Wollensky and always look for one when we travel. Great experience. Great meal as always.
JM
JMC1
New England
145 reviews
vip
5.0
145 reviews
Dined on June 30, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
Smith and Wollensky at the Castle, Boston, Ma is always a wonderful experience! I have never been disappointed! Amy and Sherryl were our servers, and not only were they friendly and welcoming, but did a superb job! The food is always delicious and served in a timely manner. I would highly recommend Smith and Wollensky along with Amy and Sherryl to anyone.
HS
HeatherS
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on June 29, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
We had a lovely dinner experience. Our server Amy was wonderful, we came for our an anniversary and were treated to a HUGE peice of cake. Our dinners were Perfect and the filet/lobster special my husband got was awesome. Thank you for a great night out
MS
MichaelS
New England
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on June 28, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
What a time we had here! Food was exceptional, and Paul our waiter was excellent. One of the best steaks I've had hands down.
CC
CameronC
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on June 25, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
Excellent food with every dish we had. Server was superb. Highly recommend.
LB
LindsayB
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on June 22, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
We had a great meal. Our waitress Sheryl was awesome. She took excellent care of us. Food was prompt and delicious and she made sure to note the special occasion we had come for. I would definitely come again. Thanks again Sheryl!
J
Julie
Naples
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on June 21, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
BEST steaks we have ever had!! I cleaned my entire plate which I never do!! Loved the castle theme & King did an excellent job. He took great care of us during our visit!! A+++
DW
DianneW
New England
6 reviews
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on June 17, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
We always have the best meal and the best service at Smith & Wollensky. We are sorry to see this location closing, but are looking forward to trying both the Waterfront and Wellesley locations. We came to celebrate my son's 18th birthday & high school graduation, as well as Father's Day. I included that on the OT reservation. The hostess greeted us, acknowledging all 3 occasions and asked what my son was doing next. The waitress (Amy, who was fabulous) did the same. At the end of the meal, she brought us a huge slab of chocolate cake with a candle for my son, and a birthday card, signed by all the staff. I've been using OT for years, and I always indicate the occasion if there is one. This is honestly the first time any restaurant paid attention to that and said or did anything about it. This was very impressive. As I said earlier, Amy was fantastic. She was chatty & friendly, but not too much. She was attentive, but didn't hover. She was great. We all loved her.
OT
OpenTable Diner
New England
15 reviews
5.0
15 reviews
Dined on June 17, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
Service was exceptional. Food was better than awesome!! Warm welcoming by Chris was appreciated. This was an unforgettable dining experience. I have been to Smith and Wollensky on 3rd Ave in NYC. They are excellent. The experience at the Castle was better than excellent! Will return again👍✅😎
CC
CamCFO
New England
31 reviews
vip
5.0
31 reviews
Dined on June 16, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
We heard the Back Bay (Park Plaza Castle) location was closing at the end of the month and we wanted to visit one last time. The food was very good as usual - we regularly get a ribeye and a NY Strip steak. It is hard to top their preparation of either; both steaks are extremely tender and flavorful. The House label Meritage is a perfect complement to the meat. A starter of beef bacon is delicious and a family favorite. Our server was Sheryl who we like so much we specifically request her each time we make a reservation. However, all service providers are top notch and is impeccable. We'll sincerely miss the Castle location - it has a special feeling - but are already planning our next visit to the Seaport location on Congress Street. The food, service and ambiance there are as good as at the Castle.
VM
VirginiaM
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on June 16, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
My family celebrated Fathers Day and it was perfect!!
EC
EricC
New England
4 reviews
3.0
4 reviews
Dined on June 15, 2018
overall3food2service4ambience4
It's a shame they are closing, but it was obvious to me that the have begun to let things slide. For $276, it should be an outstanding experience. The steak was nicely prepared and tasted wonderful, but a significant amount of it was fat and grizzle. Some of the other patrons should have been asked to quiet down.
k
khalidf
1 review
1.0
1 review
Dined on June 15, 2018
overall1food1service1ambience4
It was our 20 years anniversary, unfortunately very disappointing experience. Service very poor, not engage us with us at all as this is our first time at the restaurant. The food was horrible and smelly. I know the place is closing , that does not mean you shouldn’t care. We paid a lot of money that we did not touch.
J
Jimbony
New England
21 reviews
vip
5.0
21 reviews
Dined on June 10, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience3
First time for us at Smith & Wollensky and what a great meal will definitely go back again...
P
Private
New England
44 reviews
vip
5.0
44 reviews
Dined on June 10, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
Great food, great service, GREAT ambiance - we’re really going to miss this location.
OT
OpenTable Diner
New England
5 reviews
5.0
5 reviews
Dined on June 9, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
Waiter Paul was outstanding. Perfectly timed courses, no rush, good recommendations.
WW
WilliamW
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on June 9, 2018
overall5food5service5ambience5
We had an excellent dinner! Steak for 2 was unbelievable!! Our waitress Sherryl was so kind and friendly...We hope to be back soon...

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Smith & Wollensky Boston – Back Bay - Permanently Closed is rated 4.1 stars by 2338 OpenTable diners.