Captains of industry and government leaders wrapped up the annual World Economic Forum yesterday in Davos, Switzerland — a place for the uber-wealthy and powerful to see, be seen and conduct business behind closed doors.
But just because Davos is done for the year doesn’t mean the high rollers have to slum it in Boston. With its Ivy League university, world-class hospitals and world-renowned arts and culture, Greater Boston has plenty of its own private clubs, exclusive events and highbrow haunts for Boston Brahmins to not only socialize but, perhaps, conduct a little backroom business on the side, too.
Metro thought it would be fun to peruse a few places you’ll never lay your own eyes on — elite establishments closer to home but no closer to your price range.
Just remember, if you have to ask “how much?” you probably can’t afford it.
The Country Club (founded 1882): The Brookline club is one of the oldest in the nation and one of five United States Golf Association charter clubs. It has hosted several major tournaments, including the 1999 Ryder Cub and the 1913 U.S. Open, which was famously won by an amateur and former caddie at the club, Francis Ouimet.
Menton (founded 2010): Anyone walking down Congress Street can peer into Menton’s kitchen. But that’s all most people will see, as Barbara Lynch’s restaurant is one of the priciest around. Pronounced “Mehn-TOHN,” the restaurant’s tasting menus range from $85 to $145.
Equinox and The Sports Club/LA (founded 2007 and 2001): Boston is still known for its power breakfasts at places such as Bristol Lounge in the Four Seasons hotel but more and more powerbrokers spend mornings at luxury gyms such as Equinox in the Back Bay. The Sports Club/LA in the Ritz Carlton costs between $700 and $2,000 to join and $145 to $280 monthly.
The Somerset Club (founded 1826): This private social club is one of the only remaining testaments of Beacon Hill’s old money high society. When the club turned 150 in 2002, President Samuel Thorne told the Beacon Hill Times “not a hell of a lot,” had changed since the club’s founding. Nevertheless, women and minorities gained access in 1988.
EMC² Club at Fenway Park (founded 2006): Located behind home plate, the indoor/outdoor luxury box with two bars, a restaurant and lounge is easily one of the best seats in Fenway Park. With the glassed-in 406 Club removed in 2006 even the VIPs can feel like they are part of Red Sox Nation.
The Harvard Club (founded 1905): Memberships are only open to Harvard alumni, faculty and legacies. “I suspect there might be some business discussions taking place off [the squash] court there,” said public relations and marketing guru Jan Saragoni. But another member, Charles F. Cornish, said while networking opportunities exist, hardcore wheeling and dealing is frowned upon.
