The View Boston observation deck will shut down its on-site restaurant and bar this spring, less than three years after opening. The closures aim to expand space for private events. The move will result in layoffs for nearly 80 employees.
View Boston, an attraction offering panoramic views from the Prudential Tower in Boston, opened in June 2023. It replaced the Skywalk Observatory and the Top of the Hub restaurant, which had closed in 2020 after 54 years of operation. The site includes a wrap-around open-air roof deck and indoor exhibits on Boston's history and landmarks.
The Beacon Bistro on the 50th floor and the Stratus rooftop bar on the 51st floor are set to close on April 21, 2026. Legends Global, the operator of the dining options, cited "business need and restructuring" in a WARN letter to state regulators. The layoffs will impact 41 full-time workers and 38 part-time employees.
A company spokesperson explained the decision in a statement: "In response to growing interest in private events, we are evolving the Observatory experience at View Boston and the restaurants within the Observatory will close on April 21, 2026, to accommodate expanded event space and new offerings." The spokesperson added, "We thank all guests who dined with us over the years and our team members who consistently deliver outstanding service."
The Stratus bar was promoted for its "stunning panoramic views," while the Beacon Bistro offered an "elevated dining experience above the city." Despite the upcoming closures, View Boston continues to sell ticket packages that include drinks at the bar or meals at the bistro.
