Boston - March 11, 2008

On the Waterfront

606 Congress Opens

Staying in a big chain hotel usually means getting stuck with a meal that couldn’t qualify as astronaut fare.

But you’ll pack up those pathetic impressions at 606 Congress. Inside the new Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel, it’s worth booking an overnight stay or (more likely) the cab fare you’ll spend to get to that side of the harbor.

Super chef Michael Schlow consulted with in-house chef Toby Hill (The Fireplace, Spire) to create an American menu that showcases local foods in a range of tapas-size dishes. Maine crab and crushed potato chips marry in a tart, scallops sit alongside wild mushrooms, and a spicy pear chutney plays up Vermont Shepherd cheese.

There’s plenty of leg room in the lounge, a bar with views into the kitchen, and vaulted ceilings throughout.

You might say it’s over the moon.

606 Congress, inside the Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel, 606 Congress Street, Waterfront (617-476-5606 or marriott.com).