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MyBoston JANUARY 2026

BACK BAY & BEACON HILL

A CUT ABOVE

STILISTI SALON CELEBRATES 20 YEARS

BEST EATERIES FOR HEALTHIER DINING OUT

5 Fabulous Bostonians on

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Celebrating 20 Years on Newbury Street. Founded by Marisa Marino—an industry veteran and mentor—Stilisti is more than a salon. It’s a space where artistry meets professionalism, and where stylists are trained to bring out the best in every client, strand by strand for 20 years. We’re proud to give back to the community that inspires us, including hosting annual cut-a-thons to benefit Boston Children’s Hospital and supporting causes close to our hearts. Whether you’re visiting for a transformative color, precision cut, or personalized styling, you’ll find yourself in expert hands.

Experience the difference at Stilisti Custom Color Treatments Bridal and Event Hair and Makeup 116 Newbury Street, 2nd Floor

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617-262-2234

Precision Haircuts Hair Repair and Scalp Treatments |

stilistiboston.com

instagram @stilistisalon

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CONTENTS JANUARY 2026

F E ATUR E S

Just a Number

Five fabulous Back Bay older adults share their wisdom and insights about life, love, and aging well. 16

A Cut Above

Stilisti Salon is in its 20th year on Newbury Street. Its founder and owner, Marisa Marino, remains as committed to her staff and principles as ever.

CO LUM N S

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6 16

PUBLISHER’S NOTE Welcome to 2026!

LOCAL PULSE Community Calendar

LOCAL TASTES Cobblestones

5 BEST Clean Cravings

LOCAL SOCIAL Community Gatherings

MY SUNDAY Markus Lindner

ASK THE EXPERT The Value of Massage

COV E R Standing, from left: Peter Sidel, Jane Timken. Sitting, from left: Barbara Sidel, Anette Miller, Anne Swanson Photograph: Oleg Bolotov Styling: Tara West Wardrobe: Peserico Boston Hair: Ali Reynhart, Stilisti Salon Makeup: Taynara Paiva, Stilisti Salon Photographed at The Newbury Boston. December 2025 cover hair and makeup: Dehab Nazmy, Stilisti Salon

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Handcrafted MASUNAGA Frames with Premium Japanese Acetate, Solid Titanium and .925 Sterling Silver

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

MyBoston BACK BAY & BEACON HILL

Publisher Renata Coker Renata.Coker@mybostonmag.com Editor and Photographer Claire Vail editor@mybostonmag.com Writers Krystal Clarke Cindy Sullivan Lead Photographer Oleg Bolotov Advisory Board Collin Bray Robert Dimmick Leigh Harrington Lisa Mulman Sharin Schober David Sharff Cindy Sullivan WAINSCOT MEDIA

Photography by Claire Vail Styling by Tara West Wardrobe by Mr. Sid Custom Jewelry by Cynthia Britt Hair and Makeup by Niambi Strickland, Stilisti Salon Photographed at The French Library

Chairman Carroll V. Dowden

WELCOME TO 2026!

VP, Content Strategy Maria Regan

HAPPY NEW YEAR, and welcome to our January issue! We’re kicking off 2026 with a feature that warms the spirit about five fabulous Back Bay octogenarians. These extraordinary neighbors share the kind of grounded wisdom that only life can teach. Their message stays with you: Show up for your life, stay connected, and keep helping others. It’s a reminder of what truly holds a community together. We’re also shining a light on Marisa Marino of Stilisti Salon, who celebrates two decades on Newbury Street this season— her team is involved every month in our cover photo shoot/production. And before you dive in, we have one more exciting invitation: Vote for your Cover of the Year on our newly redesigned website. We’re proud to be one of the few local magazines that styles, photographs, and creates every cover in-house, featuring neighborhood personalities, everyday heroes and the vibrant leaders who shape Back Bay and Beacon Hill. Cast your vote,

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President and CEO Mark Dowden SVP, Group Publisher Thomas Flannery

and you may join us later this year at a special event where we’ll reveal the winning cover. Be sure to explore our refreshed website at www.mybostonmag.com and follow us on Instagram for daily snapshots, behind the scenes moments, and your daily dose of Back Bay and Beacon Hill. As always, thank you to our advertisers— your support makes every issue possible! There is so much more ahead, and we can’t wait to share it with you. See you in the neighborhood! With gratitude,

VP, Director of Digital Media Nigel Edelshain Creative Director Kijoo Kim 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

Renata Coker

Publisher, MyBoston www.mybostonmag.com @mybostonmag

MyBoston magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Boston, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2026 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

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VOTE FOR

COVER OF THE YEAR! Check out our brand-new website, www.mybostonmag.com, and cast your vote now for the best cover of 2025! After you vote, enter your email address for a chance to win tickets to our Cover of the Year celebration in March.

To become an advertising partner, contact the publisher, Renata.Coker@mybostonmag.com.

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LO CAL P ULSE

Community CALENDAR

Embrace the new year by expanding your horizons. Check out these exhibitions, author talks, concerts and other events happening in Back Bay, Beacon Hill and beyond.

viewing of the Black Glass Madonna four centuries after it was made. Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, 25 Evans Way.

January 7-18

Bach Institute at Emmanuel Church: Bach’s Parody Works Explore Bach’s approach to his compositions through multiple free events at Emmanuel Church. Musicians offer interpretations of how Bach recycles material across different works to interesting and surprising effect. Hear Bach’s music and learn more about this remarkable composer’s technique. All events are free and open to the public. 15 Newbury St. 617-536-3356. Ice skating at Boston Common’s Frog Pond runs through mid-March.

January

Ice Skating on Boston Common’s Frog Pond In the winter months, from mid-November to mid-March, members of the community and visitors from all over the world share their enjoyment of the Frog Pond skating rink. Whether you’re a first-time skater or an aspiring Olympian, Frog Pond enables you to take pleasure in the sport of ice skating. Frog Pond offers public ice skating, skate rentals, skate sharpening, the Skating Academy Learn to Skate program, rink rentals, birthday parties, college nights, and even wedding proposal packages.

January

Lyrik: Newbury Woods If you’re looking to extend the magic of the holidays, head to the Lyrik complex at the intersection of Newbury Street and

Massachusetts Avenue for Newbury Woods, an installation that includes 60,000 multicolored lights, a new winter tradition for Boston through the end of February. The tree lights are ever changing and twinkling and will be on-site through February 28. Lyrik, 400 Newbury St.

January 1-19

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum: “Vision of Black Madonnas” This exhibit examines two works that depict Mary, the mother of Jesus, as a Black woman. The first work, the Black Glass Madonna, dates from the 1500s. It was commissioned by Archduke Ferdinand II of Austria to honor his personal devotion to the dark-skinned Madonna of Loreto. The second work, from the 20th century, by Boston artist Allan Rohan Crite, was inspired by his

Black Glass Madonna by the Innsbruck Court Glassworks, 1570-1591

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LO CAL P ULSE Left: “Library Lion,” a musical play for young audiences, opens January 10 at the Boston Center for the Arts. Bottom: A painting from Sylvia Plimack Mangold’s exhibit “Tape, 1975-1985”

Guided by his “world aesthetic,” Tyshawn Sorey’s compositions unfold with deliberate brilliance, erasing boundaries and reshaping 21st-century American music. 8 p.m. at Berklee Performance Center, 136 Massachusetts Ave.

January 17

Krakow Witkin Gallery: Sylvia Plimack Mangold

January 8

January 11

Immerse yourself in the opulence of the Emerson Colonial Theatre, Boston’s oldest continuously operating theatre. This behind-the-scenes tour takes guests through the building’s history, from early musicals to contemporary works, and explores the sumptuous architecture that dates from the year 1900. $25. 660 Washington St. Email InfoColonial@atgentertainment.com for information.

This exhibition talk leads a small group on a tour through the art featured in the Boston Public Library’s exhibition “Revolution! 250 Years of Art and Activism in Boston.” It’s been 250 years since our break with England, and this exhibit invites all to explore our nation’s founding ideals as depicted in these artworks. Ideal for teens and up. From 1 to 2 p.m., 700 Boylston St. Free. Call 617.536.5400 for more information.

Emerson Colonial Theatre: Historical Tour

January 10-25

Boston Center for the Arts: “Library Lion” Younger audiences will enjoy the musical play “Library Lion,” featuring original songs and a main character in the form of a life-size, 10-foot lion puppet created by the Jim Henson Creature Shop, exclusively for this production. The production by Adam Theater company, a non-profit youth theater company, is based on the award-winning, New York Times bestselling book “Library Lion” by Michelle Knudsen. Tickets are available at www.bostontheatrescene.org and performances are held at the Calderwood Pavilion at the Boston Center for the Arts at 527 Tremont St.

Copley Square Library: Together We See More—Exhibition Talk

January 16

Celebrity Series of Boston: Tyshawn Sorey Jazz lovers will want to hear this trio of exceptional musicians, who seamlessly blend jazz, classical, and improvisatory traditions from Europe and Africa to redefine the expressive potential of the drum kit.

American artist Sylvia Plimack Mangold’s exhibit “Tape, 1975-1985” showcases watercolors and etchings inspired by landscapes of the Hudson River Valley, where she lives and works. 10 Newbury St., 617-262-4490.

January 22-25

Boston Symphony Orchestra: An All-John Williams Program Famous film composer John Williams’s music is beloved all over the world. Andris Nelsons will conduct the Boston Symphony Orchestra in a program that presents music from “Schindler’s List”, “Catch Me if You Can,” and “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” as well as his non-screen composition “Tree Song for Violin and Orchestra.” For tickets, call 888-266-1200. Boston Symphony Hall, 301 Massachusetts Ave.

January 23

Havurah on the Hill: How to Read Tarot Cards This Friday night Shabbat experience brings together young professionals for great food and great conversation on the fourth Shabbot of every month. In January, explore Vilna Shul’s gallery show “Torah in the Tarot,” and expressions of Jewish culture found in tarot cards. Enjoy tarot card readings and custom mocktails. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., 18 Phillips St. $22. Call 617.536.5400 for more information.

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LO CAL TA STES

SOUP’S ON

Jen Gallagher, owner of Beacon Hill’s Cobblestones eatery, is serving up a variety of great-tasting, feel-good soups this winter, and they’re available for delivery. BY CLAIRE VAIL

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AT COBBLESTONES, Beacon Hill’s go-to destination for sandwiches, smoothies, and other café-style items, owner Jen Gallagher knows hundreds of her customers by name. Despite the constant bustle, she always finds a few minutes to chat. People talk about their health, their jobs, their children and grandchildren, their pets. She listens, smiles, compliments, reassures, remembers the smallest detail. It’s a daily ritual for locals, stopping to grab lunch and see Jen. Thanks to Gallagher’s recipes, personality, and hard work, Cobblestones has become a neighborhood fixture in just four years since it opened. She’d always wanted to run a café and had years of experience running a catering company, but the right opportunity hadn’t presented itself to open a brick-and-mortar business. After two decades of raising her three children, she took a retail job on the Hill, and loved the vibrant, welcoming community she found there. One day, she walked past the space occupied by the former Café Bella Vita and glimpsed a vacancy sign. She felt fate nudging her

hard. Six months later, she opened Cobblestones. “I realized that if I didn’t try to pursue this dream, I had already failed. If I tried and failed, at least I could say I tried,” says Gallagher. “I know how to hustle, and I’ve built something I’m proud of. It’s a place for the community to gather and have healthy, good food.” Gallagher grew up in a large, close-knit Italian American family in Winchester, Massachusetts, for whom good food was a priority. Her sons are currently serving in the military—the eldest is a staff sergeant in the Marines and the other is a Green Beret in the Army— while her twenty-year-old daughter is in college. Though she didn’t realize it then, the years she spent cooking and caring for them were rigorous training for the business she’s in now. One of her favorite questions to ask people is: “What’s been the best part of your day so far?” “You’d be surprised to hear the responses,” says Gallagher, “but for me, the answer is always the same: the people. I thrive on personal connections, and I love making someone’s day better, even in a small way.” SOUP’S ON! Gallagher has launched a new range of soups just in time for the cold weather, and they’re the buzz

of Beacon Hill. They’re available in the store and can also be delivered directly to residents on demand or via a subscription through the Cobblestones website. The ingredients are fresh and the flavors, according to customers, are outstanding. “Everyone has a favorite,” says Gallagher. “White Bean Chicken Chili is incredibly popular, and of course Chicken Noodle is a bestseller. But honestly, people love them all.” Gallagher’s staff cook the soups according to her own recipes. “They amaze me each day with the volume and consistency they produce,” she says. “It goes to show that when you put that much genuine care into your food, people can taste the difference.” There are generally between eight to 10 soups on offer, including standbys such as Tomato, Clam Chowder, and Lentil. Split Pea has smoky ham chunks and a robust flavor. Butternut Bisque is creamy and delicate, full of the flavors of autumn. Portuguese Kale is the latest addition, with leafy greens and a rich broth. Staff from neighboring businesses stop in to get soups for lunch or takeaway for dinner, describing themselves as addicted or obsessed with a particular kind. We agree with Joan Grady, frequent customer and owner of Beacon Hill interior design store J. Grady Home, who says, “We look forward to making every day a soup day!” JANUARY 2026 / 11

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Just a

Number Five fabulous Back Bay older adults share their wisdom and insights about life, love and aging well. BY CINDY SULLIVAN

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FOR OUR FIRST COVER story of 2026, we brought together five extraordinary Bostonians, all of whom are in their 80s or close to it. Spending time with our fabulous five made one thing clear: Living well as you age doesn’t necessarily mean slowing down. If you stay rooted in what matters, move your body, love the people close to you, and show up for life with purpose, you will be living your best life. I’ve been a personal trainer in Back Bay and Beacon Hill for over a decade, and I’ve been lucky enough to have four of our cover models as clients. I’ve worked alongside them while they’ve experienced personal triumphs and setbacks, new chapters and all the everyday moments in between. They’ve taught me that aging well isn’t about chasing youth or turning back the clock. The best approach, according to them, is to stay engaged, keep busy, exercise your body, mind and your sense of humor, and remain curious about life.

Barbara and Peter Sidel

“We choose each other, every day.”

Peter Sidel plays the piano and shares a laugh with his wife, Barbara. Photograph by Claire Vail

Barbara and Peter Sidel were high school sweethearts. She was 15 and he was 16 when they first connected. Their love song was “Moon River.” But they went separate ways after graduation and wouldn’t reconnect until decades later at a dinner party. They hadn’t seen or talked with each other for nearly 40 years. Several years later, Barbara’s husband passed away and by that time, Peter had divorced. Peter asked Barbara out for a date. She accepted. They married a year later. They are now rarely apart, usually holding hands and often hugging and kissing. They walk in the early hours of the morning for two to three miles. They eat healthy and toast each other with Pellegrino. They describe

themselves as “very lucky.” A retired real estate lawyer, Peter has a calm, grounded presence. He fills his days with hobbies and practices that keep him well: early morning walks, learning the piano, exercising daily, and reflecting on the good things in his life. If you ask him what he loves most, he’ll tell you immediately—his wife, and the ability to give to others. Barbara, who exudes warmth and elegance, has her own advice about living well. For her, material things never brought happiness. It’s health, family, and friends that matter. They are the things that keep her heart and outlook the brightest. She keeps her body moving and her mind stretching, but she has also gifted herself permission to rest, set boundaries, and slow down when needed. And emotionally, she stays connected to the people she loves.

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Artist Jane Timken in her studio, surrounded by her works Photograph by Claire Vail

Jane Timken

“Kindness and generosity matter most.” Just a few blocks away from Peter and Barbara in Back Bay, Jane Timken is living a life that proves reinvention is

always possible. Jane has been many things in her lifetime: a Byzantinist, a book publisher, a letterpress printer. After turning 60, she became an artist. Her life is a reminder that creativity doesn’t fade with age. Often, it deepens. A native New Yorker who still

spends time there, Jane finds the intimacy of Back Bay refreshing. She loves the sense of community here. The familiar faces, warm exchanges, a slower walking pace—these things have become a vital part of her wellbeing. She loves to laugh, learn, and stay curious. She continues to evolve, proving that purpose doesn’t retire. When she’s feeling low, helping someone else immediately lifts her spirit. Jane works out three days a week building strength, balance and flexibility with online classes by Beacon Hill Village. She also takes long walks along the Commonwealth Mall, and says the natural beauty helps her stay clear and grounded. Her beloved 11-year-old standard poodle, Aria, is always by her side on her walks. Aria is close to her heart, a loyal companion who provides comfort and joy.

Annette Miller

“Show up every day, even when you don’t feel like it.”

Actress Annette Miller has a vitality that comes from decades of being on stage. Annette has performed on Broadway, off-Broadway, in Boston, in regional theaters, in films and on television. She spent 20 seasons as a leading actor at Shakespeare & Company in Lenox, Massachusetts, where she was a beloved presence both on and off the stage. Annette believes in perseverance. Showing up—even when it’s hard, even when the audience is tough, even when life is demanding—has been her modus operandi, and it has resulted in a life filled with meaning. She brings the same approach to her family, which she says is the most important “role” she’s ever had. Her wellness habits are grounded in movement and connection. She walks the streets of Back Bay often, letting its beauty energize her. Emotionally, she stays deeply connected to her husband, children, and grandchildren. And she continues to immerse herself in the theater and cultural world, both as an artist and an audience member. She is also active in the Jewish community, while cherishing the diversity that Boston brings into her life. What Annette loves most about life is being part of it: engaging, thinking, questioning, solving, comforting. She says, “If I’m still here, there must be a reason. There must be something I have to do.”

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Anne Swanson is deeply involved with the Neighborhood Association of Back Bay. Photograph by Claire Vail

Anne Swanson

“Back Bay is worthy of care and preservation, and so am I.” Anne Swanson, a retired book editor for Houghton Mifflin, has lived in and cared for her neighborhood for the past forty years. When Anne talks about Back Bay, she sounds like she’s describing a longtime friend. She has written a book about the neighborhood’s history and is deeply involved with the Neighborhood Association of

Back Bay, a group that helps maintain its streets. Anne stays healthy by exploring Boston on foot. Ours is a walker’s city, and Anne likes to wend her way through different neighborhoods, discovering new details, meeting new people. These walks nourish her physically, mentally, and spiritually. She appreciates life’s sensual pleasures: good food, good wine, art, architecture, music, and literature. In winter, she is content to sit by the fire with mulled wine and Mozart. Her community here is vast, and she has built hundreds of connections over decades of gatherings, conversations, and shared commitments to the neighborhood’s history and charm. Anne’s favorite part of life is color. “The human eye can perceive a million different shades of color,” she says, and New England gives her a front row seat to nature’s changing palette. It is, as she puts it, one of life’s most affordable luxuries. These five Bostonians have one thing in common: They show up for their lives. They stay curious. They stay connected. They choose joy. And they remind us that aging well isn’t something we hope for. It’s something we practice every day.

Cindy Sullivan is a certified fitness professional specializing in midlife and older adult training. She focuses on strength, balance, and functional movement, and uses evidence-based techniques to help adults stay active, independent, and confident in their daily lives. Annette Miller has performed on and off Broadway, in Boston, in regional theaters, in films and on television. Photograph at left by Claire Vail Photograph above courtesy of Annette Miller

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A Cut Above

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Stilisti Salon is in its 20th year on Newbury Street. Its founder and owner, Marisa Marino, remains as committed to her staff and her principles as ever. BY CLAIRE VAIL

BOSTON’S BACK BAY has more than two dozen hair salons, and Newbury Street is home to half of these, a bounty of brands that range from ultra-high end to humble. As businesses go, hair salons are relatively straightforward to launch: You need a clean, inviting space; mirrors; chairs; and, of

course, talent. The competition is fierce, though, and clients can be fickle. Like restaurants, many salons shutter their doors within a few years of opening. But a few are lucky enough to grow roots. Stilisti Salon has owned the top of Newbury Street for two decades, a testament to owner Marisa Marino’s dedication to her clients and staff. “Our tagline from day one has been ‘luxury and style without the attitude.’ Back when I started, Newbury Street had a certain reputation. At the end of the day, I just wanted a beautiful place to work where I could treat people the way I would want to be treated,” she says. “Now you hear the term ‘quiet luxury’ all the time. That was our goal from the beginning. You don’t have to be loud and have a big ego to deliver high quality.” At Marino’s spacious salon, clients receive plenty of personal attention. The vibe is professional, but warm, and stylists embrace long-term clients as they come in. Staff turnover is low, especially for such a high-pressure industry. INSPIRED BY A MENTOR Marino credits Lisa Eid, a fellow stylist she met early in her career, with inspiring her love of client service. She worked under Eid on Newbury Street as a junior stylist

Left: Marisa Marino, founder and owner of Stilisti Salon on Newbury Street. Opposite page: Marino in a training session with her team.

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after graduating Blaine hair school in 1991. Marino was awed by Eid’s easy rapport with people. “She never met a stranger. The way she spoke to people, I thought she’d known them a decade. After they’d leave, she’d tell me, ‘That was a first timer.’” Impressed by Marino’s ambition and talent, Eid advised her to enroll in the Vidal Sasson academy—the temple of precision haircutting—in Los Angeles for advanced training. There, she honed her skills under Sasson’s strict geometric guidelines. Marino graduated in 1992, and came back to Newbury Street, where she

continued to work alongside Eid, now on equal footing. In 2000, she began renting a chair at 10 Newbury and happily worked there for the next six years, building her client base and perfecting her craft. An appreciation for quality seems to run in Marino’s blood. “My mother was an accomplished seamstress. When we bought clothes, she’d examine the stitching and the fabric. You don’t have to buy Chanel, but you can look closely at items to see how they were made. She taught us that by example.” Marino is Portuguese by birth, and grew up in Angola, which was

a Portuguese colony for over 400 years until it gained independence in 1975. Multiple family connections in the United States paved the way for the Marinos’ family to emigrate, and they moved to Stoughton, Massachusetts, where Marino went to high school. Marino remains deeply connected to her Portuguese roots and returns to the Azores every summer for a month with her family. THE LEAP TO OWNERSHIP In 2006, Marino felt it was time to make a move. “I asked my husband, ‘Do you want a stay-at-home-wife,

Stylists celebrate ten years’ service with custom necklaces to mark the occasion.

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Left: Marino with her mentor and friend Lisa Eid at Marino’s wedding Below: Marino at age 5 with her mother and brother in Santa Maria Azores

or a wife who owns a salon?’ And he said, ‘I don’t think I want you to stay at home,’” she recalls with a laugh. “I never wanted to own a salon,” she continues, “but you find yourself in a position where you need to do it. I wanted to train a new generation of stylists. Also, I had personally received a lot of bad hair cuts. I didn’t want other people to have to have that experience.” Marino found her current space on the fourth of July weekend in 2006 and opened in November the same year. She was determined to create a supportive business in which young stylists could get the training they needed. She even permits trainees to experiment on her own hair. “I teach stylists to look for weight. Where does the weight fall—at the brow, cheek, jawline? What do you leave behind so there’s movement? What’s the balance of shadow and light when you apply color?”

TAKING CARE OF HER TEAM Newbury Street rents have only become more expensive over the years, and boutique salons often struggle alongside established chains. According to Marino, 70 percent of stylists are independent contractors. Part of the reason for this, she says, is that big salons don’t always invest in training. In contrast, Stylisti offers weekly trainings and sends stylists to hands-on classes and hair shows in New York, Milan, and similar locations. Marino offers her staff health insurance and retirement plans, and stylists who have been

with the salon for 10 years receive a custom necklace with a version of the salon’s logo. “Making the maximum amount of money possible isn’t what inspires me,” says Marino. “I love the personal interaction. I love watching young stylists grow. Watching them have a real career that allows them to buy homes and go on vacations, raise their families and educate their children. It’s not just about hair.” Clair Vail writes about food, art and culture for MyBoston.

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5 B E ST

Clean Cravings It’s the new year—another opportunity to make healthier food choices, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. We’ve selected some of our favorite spots and dishes that will leave you full without weighing you down.

The Eggplant Hummus bowl at The Hummus Shop

BY KRYSTAL CLARKE

TRIDENT BOOKSELLERS & CAFÉ 338 Newbury St. You may know this long-standing cafe as a comfort breakfast joint for the college crowd, but Trident actually crushes the healthy lunch game. Think smoothies, protein shakes and real “I swear I’m turning my life around” salad bowls. The Vegan Cashew Chili is hearty without being heavy, packed with vegetables and warming spices that make you feel like you’re doing something right. And then there’s The Original Trident Bowl: roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potato, chickpeas and beets. It’s basically a reset button in bowl form. Trident loves to throw out surprise soups, veggie bowls, and seasonal clean-eating moments, which feels like a friendly reminder to keep it clean.

MOTHER JUICE

The Original Trident Bowl packs a healthy punch of flavors.

291 Newbury St. Mother Juice is no longer just smoothies for people who “might start Pilates.” Sure, they’ve got juice detoxes, but the real magic is in the grab-and-go heroes that make you feel like you’re doing something

20 / MyBoston BACK BAY & BEACON HILL

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The Tasty roll at Douzo Sushi

right in the middle of your chaotic day. The Amazeballs are a gateway drug: tiny protein bombs that make you feel instantly smug—basically dessert doing its best impression of healthy food. The Health Bomb is a full wellness routine in a cup: oats, chia and flax soaked in coconut milk, topped with fruit, granola, hemp hearts and coconut flakes. One bite and you’re like, “OK… maybe I do have my life together.” And the hot oatmeals are warm, cozy and surprisingly filling.

THE PARAMOUNT 44 Charles St. The Paramount is that rare Beacon Hill spot where you can get a salad that doesn’t feel like punishment. Finally, a Big Salad Elaine would approve of. It has been a Beacon Hill institution since 1937—your lunch spot has roots. And yes, the breakfast crowd is feral, but once the morning madness fades, the lunch crowd swoops in. There’s a reason that line never disappears. The Quinoa Protein Salad, which features goat cheese, candied pecans and the glorious beetroot, all tossed in a white balsamic lemon vinaigrette, is the one to order. If you want me to switch from “I’ll have fries with that” to “I’ll have a side of ambition,” give me beets. And because it’s The Paramount, you never really know what you’ll find on the specials board: soups, bowls, little seasonal cameos. Blink and you’ve missed something good.

THE HUMMUS SHOP 37a Charles St. The Hummus Shop on Charles Street is one of those places you wander into thinking you’ll grab something quick and clean. It’s casual, bright, low-key adorable; the kind of spot where you convince yourself you’re eating healthy without giving up on life.

Then your eyes meet the Eggplant Hummus Bowl. Smoky, silky, wholesome and a little dangerous. Creamy hummus, roasted eggplant, fresh herbs, crunchy veggies, warm grains, spicy schug (that’s hot sauce from Yemen) and garlic sauce. It’s the eggplant hug you didn’t know you needed. Wink, wink, nod, nod. And those homemade spicy pickles? They slap harder than they should. Easy, ladies. You eat it and instantly feel like a well-traveled, cultured person who “just loves vegetables.”

DOUZO SUSHI 131 Dartmouth St. Sushi is the unofficial cuisine of people who want to “eat light” without sacrificing flavor or the opportunity to post something flaming. And this Back Bay sushi spot gets it. It’s sleek, polished, and will make you feel put-together for ordering something wrapped in nori, though I hate to break it to you: Your wellness path is not paved in rice. The beauty of sashimi is this: It’s protein and omega-3s, baby. Pair that with a plate of vegetables and clean carbs, and you’re fooling even the strictest of nutritionistas. Think tuna tataki, ceviche, veggie-packed stirfry (hold the sauce), and kushi yaki

A Health Bomb from Mother Juice

that make you feel virtuous. On a splurge day, the poke bowls and bento specials make a great grab-and-go without feeling heavy. Krystal Clarke is a Michelin-trained chef and founder of FoodSaucy, a private chef service known for bringing bold, globetraveled flavors to intimate dinners, retreats and high-touch events across Boston. JANUARY 2026 | 21

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CITY OR SUBURBS, YOUR WATERFRONT OASIS AWAITS

LARA SHUQOM Principal of The Collective 678.549.5357 | lara@compass.com

FOR SALE

3 0 0 P I E R 4 B O U L E VA R D

480 PLEASANT STREET

25 CHANNEL CENTER

RESIDENCE 7G

T H E T R E E H O U S E AT WA L E S P O N D

RESIDENCE 807

MARSHFIELD – $3,650,000

F O RT P O I N T – $ 1 , 2 2 9, 0 0 0

SEAPORT – $6, 850,000

C O M PA S S . C O M

Compass-Shuqom_SP_MBB_0126.indd MBB_RE Revised_0126.indd 22 All Pages

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

12/10/25 1:22 PM

MBB_

REAL ESTATE REPORT

NOVEMBER HOME SALES Back Bay and Beacon Hill Area

Bed

Bath

List Price

Sale Price

Sale Price % of List Price

DOM

50 Brimmer Street

Beacon Hill

2F 3H

$3,950,000.00

100.00%

71 Revere Street

Back Bay

3F 1H

$3,750,000.00

100.00%

142

410 Beacon Street

Back Bay

6F 2H

$14,950,000.00

$12,000,000.00

80.27%

636 Beacon Street U:605

Back Bay

1F 0H

$579,000.00

100.00%

113 Commonwealth Ave. U:1

Back Bay

$575,000.00

$549,000.00

95.48%

10 Bowdoin Street, U:516

Beacon Hill

$1,799,000.00

$1,657,500.00

92.13%

776 Boylston Street, U:E10A

Back Bay

2F 1H

$10,900,000.00

$9,500,000.00

87.16%

212

15 Follen Street, U:2

Back Bay

$945,000.00

98.44%

110 Stuart Street, U:16C&D

Back Bay

$2,799,000.00

$2,350,000.00

83.96%

370

140 Mount Vernon Street, U:1

Beacon Hill

1F 1H

$1,649,900.00

$1,600,000.00

96.98%

118 Commonwealth Avenue, U:5

Back Bay

$2,525,000.00

99.02%

416 Commonwealth Avenue, U:311

Back Bay

$795,000.00

100.00%

232 Beacon Street, U:8

Back Bay

$2,810,000.00

100.54%

25 Follen Street, U:2F

Back Bay

$499,900.00

$510,000.00

102.02%

282 Newbury Street, U:12

Back Bay

$995,000.00

$949,000.00

95.38%

148 Commonwealth Avenue, U:301

Back Bay

$2,495,500.00

$2,512,500.00

100.70%

19 Brimmer Street, U:4

Beacon Hill

$2,100,000.00

$2,050,000.00

97.62%

175 St. Botolph Street, U:1

Back Bay

1F 1H

$915,000.00

100.00%

1 Dalton Street, U:4503

Back Bay

2F 1H

$3,650,000.00

$3,450,000.00

94.52%

255 Beacon Street, U:1

Back Bay

$799,000.00

100.00%

Address

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 11/1/25-11/30/25.

DECEMBER 2025 | 23 JANUARY 2026 / 23

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LO CAL S O C IAL

Runway Fashion Fundraiser ON NOVEMBER 6, the first ever Fashioning Stronger Communities Fashion Show was hosted by Simon Malls, KB Fashion Productions, and The Lenny Zakim Fund (LZF) to benefit LZF’s work with grassroots organizations across Eastern Massachusetts. Held in the Center Court of Copley Place, models hit the runway showing the fall fashions of Hugo Boss, Zadig & Voltaire, Talbots, Queenia, Wolford, and Bogosplit. Glenn Jones of NBC10 hosted the evening, which featured professional models, LZF supporters, and local celebrities, including MyBoston publisher Renata Coker, on the runway. Photographs by Claire Vail

Top: Shannon Fairweather Middle: Ophelia Ba Kon Bottom: Backstage with Dr. Stacy Coen

Right: A group of guests posing for a shot

Top: Marlena Garcia Middle: Cristy Cashman Bottom:Renata Coker

Camille Jones of NBC10 and guests

24 / MyBoston BACK BAY & BEACON HILL

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Left: The room’s décor had a dramatic deco theme. Right: Melissa Gilliam (Boston University president), Ishan Johnson (BLO), Alicia Cooney (Beacon Hill resident and gala co-chair)

The Opera Gala 2025 BOSTON LYRIC OPERA’S The Opera Gala 2025 was a bold, joy-filled night where celebrations met spectacular music, all in support of opera’s next generation. There were tributes to Boston Pops Conductor Keith Lockhart and Lee Pelton, President of The Boston Foundation, and live fundraising to support BLO’s community and education programming, the Jane & Steven Akin Emerging Artists Initiative. Guests enjoyed “Ride of the Valkyries!”—a brand-new operatic revue featuring powerhouse performances by Lise Lindström, Morris Robinson, members of the Jane & Steven Akin Emerging Artists Initiative, and members of the BLO Orchestra led by BLO Music Director David Angus.

Top: A performer from Ten31 Productions and a gala guest. Middle: Jillian McGrath and Janika LeMaitre Left: Svetlana Evdokimova and Willa Bodman Photographs by Claire Vail

Left: Renata Coker, styled by Matsu, and Claire Vail of MyBoston magazine Top left: Bradley Vernatter, Lee Pelton, State Senator Nick Collins Top right: “Ride of the Valkyries!” Director James Blaszko and star Lise Lindstrom Bottom left: Performance of “Ride of the Valkyries!” Bottom right: Keith Lockhart and City Councilor Sharon Durkan Photographs by Nile Scott Studios

JANUARY 2026 / 25

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LO CAL S O C IAL

Garlands and Greens ON NOVEMBER 19, the Beacon Hill Civic Association and host Tom Kershaw celebrated the 30th Annual Garlands and Greens party, held each year to raise over $15,000 for decorating Beacon Hill’s iconic 1,100 gas lamps for the holidays. At the sumptuous Hampshire House, guests enjoyed live jazz, drinks, and hors d’oeuvres, dancing the night away in support of keeping the Hill festive.

Top left: Peter Saradjian, Mimi Sun, Matt Saradjian, Mary Beth Kelley Top right: Wendy Oleksiak, Renata Coker Above: Patricia Tully, Executive Director, and Colin Zick, President, the Beacon Hill Civic Association

Left: Rebecca Patchen, Claudia Boyan, Amy Sbrolla, Melanie Bertani, Patricia Tully, Darci O’Brien, Michelle Lavers, Stephanie Dutkiewicz Above middle: Wendy and Stephen Oleksiak Above right: Elisabeth Fretz, with her tickets ready, chats with Maeve Markey Right: AJ Rubin and his band Photographs by Marianne Salza

26 / MyBoston BACK BAY & BEACON HILL

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Newbury Street’s Only Japanese Chef-Owned Sushi Bar F r e s h f i s h f l o w n d i r e c t l y f r o m To k y o F i s h M a r k e t .

Sushi by Bosso Ramen Tavern 163 Newbury St, Boston

www.bossoramentavern.com

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Meet Annie Youssoufian – Broker & Owner

Located in the heart of Back Bay. @buybackbay | Where I live, work, and play! 18 Fairfield Street annie@bosbrown.com bosbrown.com (609) 933-5280 Boston Brownstones Realty, PLLC is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity Laws.

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9/30/25 12:01 PM 12/11/25 1:40 PM

Since 1985

(800) 375-PAWN

Gold Buyers Since 1985 GOLD AT HISTORIC HIGHS!!



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

12/10/25 1:25 PM

Wishing you a Happy New Year! A new year is a perfect time for a few simple upgrades. Since 1982, Blackstone’s of Beacon Hill has been a friendly neighborhood stop for kitchen, home, and gifts—premium cookware, fine cutlery, and everyday essentials for cooking and entertaining. We’re truly grateful to serve our community, near and far. 40 Charles Street Boston, MA

617-227-4646 blackstonesboston.com

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12/10/25 11:02 AM

A GREAT MASSAGE, L.L.C. Your local, independent massage studio

Luxurious. Customizable.

Organic.

Visit your neighborhood Naturepedic to shop luxury organic mattresses and bedding, and experience the organic difference.

Naturepedic Boston Organic Mattress Gallery

Come Experience the Organic Difference

Deep Tissue Sports Recovery Swedish Scraping Therapy Dry Brushing

252 Newbury St, First Floor, Boston, MA 02116 857-957-0151 | Open Sat-Wed: 10 AM-6 PM, Thurs-Fri: 11 AM-7 PM

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Gift Certificates Available

262 Beacon Street, 6th Floor (617) 752-2846  @agreatmassagellc

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11/6/25 1:41 9:53PM AM 12/11/25

MY SU N DAY

Markus

LINDNER A native of Germany, Markus Lindner has lived and worked in London, Paris, and Geneva. These days, he enjoys spending Sundays in Back Bay and Beacon Hill with his wife and two young daughters. BY MARKUS LINDNER

I’M AN EARLY RISER, so I’m usually the first one up in the family. I like to start the day mindfully—perhaps with a bit of yoga, or simply by diving into the Sunday newspapers. Once the house starts to stir, I prepare breakfast for everyone. My girls’ favorite dish is crêpes, so that’s what I typically make for gathering around the table. Later in the morning, it’s time for

coffee with our dear regular guests and friends at the hotel. We sit together in the lobby, catching up and sharing stories—of recent travels, funny encounters, and life in general. For me, this is one of the most rewarding parts of working in hospitality: the sense of connection and community that grows over time. If the Red Sox are playing, you’ll often find us at Fenway Park. I think I’ve finally begun to fully understand the game—and I love the electric atmosphere of the ballpark. My family and I never tire of cheering for the Sox. Now that the baseball season is over, we often take a stroll through Back Bay, along Newbury Street, and through the Prudential Center. Shopping isn’t

exactly my area of expertise, but I can rarely resist stopping at Topdrawer, where I’m always tempted by their beautifully designed accessories. For a little indulgence, we usually end up at Eataly for some hot chocolate. My daughters insist that it’s the best in town. And for my own sweet tooth, I can’t help but stop by Läderach. It always reminds me of our time in Switzerland, and, truth be told, I’m completely addicted to their chocolate. Music is another passion of mine, and I’m a regular at the BSO and other classical concerts around Boston. After being uplifted by the music, we return home for a cozy, home-cooked dinner—the perfect ending to a Sunday well spent.

Markus Lindner is the general manager of Back Bay’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel and a 20-year veteran of the hospitality industry. 30 / MyBoston BACK BAY & BEACON HILL

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From Lens to Final Cut. Photography & Cinematography by Oleg Bolotov Commercial | Branding | Events | Editorial 15 years of crafting cinematic visuals with professional post-production. Explore the full portfolio: olegbolotov.com 310-661-0367 | hello@olegbolotov.com

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12/4/25 10:43 AM

Let your Home be my Stage

EVERYONE HAS A STORY TO TELL.

Let us help you tell yours.

Claire Vail

CWCamden

Writers

Quality histories and memoirs since 1997

508-934-9773

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www.dkhomestaging.com

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Camden • ME Marblehead • MA

CamdenWriters.com 207•542•9392 camdenwriters@gmail.com

8/7/25 1:42 9:43PM AM 12/11/25

ASK T H E E X PERT

HIGH

Touch

We sat down with Laura Slade, owner of A Great Massage, LLC, to learn how massage can help athletes, desk jockeys, and others. BY MYBOSTON STAFF How often should I get a massage? It really depends on why you need a massage. For general wellness, stress management and to check in with your body, once a month is a good guideline. If you have a particularly stressful job, twice a month can really help with stress management. If you have just started an exercise program, or are in an intense training program, once-a-week massages can promote faster recovery and keep you on track with your fitness goals.

What’s the best massage for people who sit all day? A deep tissue massage is best for targeting chronic muscle tension in areas like the neck and shoulders. It can be helpful to warm up the tight areas first by stretching the superficial fascia with tools like my warm, gently vibrating scraper, which I include as a free add on to any massage.

Can massage really help you recover after exercising? Yes, massage can help with exercise recovery by increasing blood flow to muscles, which delivers oxygen and nutrients while helping to flush out metabolic waste. This process can help to speed up muscle fiber healing after intense workouts. Something to keep in mind with marathon training season starting! What is a common issue you see doing massage in Boston? I definitely see tight calves and sore feet all the time. Boston is a walking city, and it’s also covered in cobblestones, especially around Back Bay. Trigger point therapy and stretching can help these muscles recover from all the walking Bostonians do and improve flexibility and range of motion in the foot and calf muscles. What is your favorite treatment that you offer? I love the Swedish massage with dry brushing and moisturizing body butter. I like it much better than a body scrub, which cost hundreds of dollars, takes an hour or more, and doesn’t include a massage at all! With dry brushing and body butter added to your treatment, you still get a great massage, but you also get a full body skin treatment with a gentle, non-chemical exfoliation and moisturizer. Laura Slade is a 2018 graduate of The Massage School and has worked in highend fitness clubs and luxury hotels in and around Boston. She owns and operates A Great Massage, LLC, an independent massage studio at 262 Beacon St. Follow her on Instagram @aGreatMassageLLC.

32 / MyBoston BACK BAY & BEACON HILL

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RESOLUTION 1: SELL THE HOUSE. RESOLUTION 2: CALL PETER HILL. Meet Peter Hill, a highly experienced agent who has the kind of personality that might remind you of that big guy with a sleigh everybody talks so much about this time of year. With a friendly personality, an impressive list of resources, off-the-chart client service, and a vastknowledge of both Beacon Hill and Back Bay, Peter is a realtor who always gets the job done, and makes it enjoyable, too. What’s more is that he’s part of the MGS Group Real Estate family, 12 of the most successful agents in Boston, who support him around the clock. So, if you’re ready to make a move, Peter’s the perfect gift. And you can call him at (508) 353-9721.

Call (or text!) Peter at (508) 353-9721, or email him at peter@mgsgrouprealestate.com. B EYO N D B RO K E R AG E

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