Boston, MA – In the heart of Boston’s elegant Back Bay, the historic Eliot Hotel celebrates a landmark moment in 2025 — its 100th anniversary. Since opening its doors in 1925, this renowned boutique hotel has been a symbol of sophistication and warm hospitality. Now, a century later, The Eliot has completed a stunning renovation, blending its timeless charm with modern luxury, and is marking the milestone with exclusive promotions designed to delight discerning travelers.
A Storied Legacy of Elegance
Located along Commonwealth Avenue, The Eliot Hotel was originally envisioned as a residential retreat for academics affiliated with nearby Harvard University. Built by the family of Charles William Eliot, a Harvard University president and philanthropist, the hotel’s prime location quickly made it a preferred address for scholars and elite guests.
In 1939, the property was acquired by Nathan Ullian, whose family has proudly maintained ownership for generations. The commitment to remaining an independent, family-run establishment has kept The Eliot true to its boutique roots, preserving its legacy as one of Boston’s most charming hotels while adapting seamlessly to the needs of modern travelers.
A Modern Makeover for a Timeless Gem
To celebrate its centennial year, The Eliot underwent a comprehensive renovation that transformed all 95 guestrooms and suites. Spearheaded by acclaimed local interior designer Alix Keating of AK Design, the renovation focused on merging classic elegance with a contemporary edge.
Each suite now exudes an elevated sense of sophistication, featuring bespoke upholstery, sleek wood furnishings, and modern geometric lighting. The interiors balance timeless design elements with fresh accents, creating spaces that feel both refined and inviting.
The hotel offers two distinct design palettes: one featuring warm creams and ivories that evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia, and the other highlighting cool blues and greys for a tranquil, contemporary vibe. Gold accents throughout the rooms — from lighting fixtures to hardware — add a subtle layer of sophistication that enhances the boutique hotel experience.
Custom artwork is another highlight of the renovation. Thoughtfully curated pieces, many inspired by Boston’s rich history and cultural significance, complement the hotel’s historic crown moldings and architectural details. This infusion of modern art elevates the property’s ambiance, ensuring each space feels as curated as it is luxurious.
Celebrating Female Leadership
The hotel’s success over the decades is not only rooted in its history but also in its leadership. Today, The Eliot is proudly guided by owner Dora Ullian, who has maintained the family’s commitment to excellence in the hospitality industry. Under her leadership and that of an all-female management team, the hotel continues to evolve while staying true to its core values of elegance, intimacy, and exceptional service.
Ullian highlights that it is rare in today’s corporate-driven hospitality market for a property to remain family-owned and operated for so long. This independence allows The Eliot to maintain its unique character, offering guests a more personalized and authentic experience that sets it apart from larger, impersonal hotel chains.
UNI Restaurant: A Culinary Highlight
Beyond its luxurious accommodations, The Eliot Hotel is home to UNI, a culinary destination celebrated for its Japanese izakaya-inspired menu. UNI has become one of Boston’s most acclaimed dining experiences, renowned for its exquisite sushi, sashimi, and inventive tasting menus that combine authenticity with modern innovation.
To honor the centennial celebration, UNI has introduced a special “C” cocktail — a vibrant and refreshing drink made with Roku gin, Lillet Blanc, blood orange, kaffir lime leaf, cilantro, and sparkling wine. The cocktail, with its striking red hue, pays homage to The Eliot’s signature branding and has quickly become a guest favorite.
The Centennial Escape Package
To commemorate its 100-year anniversary, The Eliot Hotel has unveiled the exclusive Centennial Escape package, offering guests an immersive and luxurious experience. Guests who book a two-night stay are treated to a third night at the symbolic rate of $19.25, a nostalgic nod to the year the hotel first opened.
The package also includes:
- Complimentary breakfast for two each morning at UNI
- Two “C” cocktails served in-room
- A relaxed late checkout at 2 p.m.
With rates starting at $475 plus tax per night, this limited-time promotion allows visitors to experience the hotel’s elegant new interiors and enjoy world-class hospitality in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay. Availability runs through the end of 2025, making it the perfect opportunity for locals planning a staycation or tourists seeking a luxurious city retreat.
Looking Ahead
As The Eliot enters its second century, the hotel remains committed to offering guests a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. The extensive renovation, coupled with exclusive centennial offerings, reflects the property’s dedication to evolving alongside the needs of the modern traveler while preserving the unique character that has defined it for generations.
For travelers visiting Boston, The Eliot offers more than just a place to stay — it is an experience steeped in history, elegance, and contemporary comfort. From its stylishly redesigned suites to the culinary artistry of UNI, the hotel continues to stand as a beacon of boutique luxury in one of America’s most historic cities.
This updated and richly detailed story positions The Eliot Hotel as both a historic landmark and a modern luxury destination, perfectly capturing its unique place in Boston’s hospitality landscape.
