L'Espalier's original space is in its final days.
photo: Courtesy of L'Espalier
Chef Frank McClelland’s renowned L’Espalier, long situated in a Back Bay townhouse, has confirmed that it will open on Monday, September 15th, in its new home on the second floor of the Mandarin Oriental. Expect some of the restaurant’s signature vintage touches, such as the wrought-iron gates that adorn the present space, plus sleek modern accents like floor-to-ceiling windows. And since most of the familiar staff will be making the move, you’ll feel right at home (774 Boylston St.).
Diners sensing that tinge of nostalgia for the intimate dining room's current setting should book a seat for the last supper at that location on Saturday, August 30th. The evening starts with an optional champagne and hors d’oeuvres preview of the new space (5:30–6:30 PM; 774 Boylston St.) before a multicourse feast takes place at the original with a menu featuring McClelland's favorite dishes from throughout the decades (7 PM; $285 per person, includes wine; 30 Gloucester St.; 617-262-3023).