Mandarin Oriental

For some reason, the word “luxury” in these parts tends to get modified by adjectives like “classic,” “old-world,” and “traditional.” Well, kudos to the Mandarin for showing that edginess and sophistication can go hand in hand. From the moment you enter, floor-to-ceiling art and Asian minimalist design combine to create a sexy, modern vibe. Upstairs, plush rooms feature enviable views of the Back Bay’s townhouses, while downstairs you’ll find three of Boston’s most talked-about dining destinations: L’Espalier, the region’s flagship Sel de la Terre outpost, and Asana.