Created in 1927 by the great hotelier E.M. Statler as a grand American hotel, it was called a “city within a city”. Today it takes pride in serving Boston as a destination itself, housing under one roof some of Boston's most famous restaurants and lounges, including Todd English's Bonfire Restaurant, McCormick & Schmick's Seafood Restaurant and Smith & Wollensky's Steakhouse located in the Castle at Park Plaza. Enter the hotel's palatial Grand Lobby and you experience the grace and warmth that is its signature whether serving Afternoon Tea in Swan's Café or hosting a convention or gala dinner for 2,000. The hotel was designed for celebrations from its Imperial Ballroom with sparkling crystal chandeliers, gilded balconies and proscenium arch stage accommodating 2,000 to the more intimate setting for 50 in the Old Boston atmosphere of the oak-paneled Hancock Room. The Executive Chef and his staff creatively assist in menus from special requests to kosher catering.