View Boston to shutter observatory restaurants, cut 79 jobs

Local News

View Boston is ending restaurant service at its three-story observatory atop the Prudential Center, shifting toward hosting more private events.

Visitors at “The View” on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Tower are reflected in the tall glass as they watch the harvest moonrise over Boston. Stan Grossfeld

View Boston, the three-story observatory atop the Prudential Center, is shutting down its restaurants and laying off 71 workers as it pivots toward a “strong and increasing demand” for private events.

In a letter to the state, Legends Attractions, the owner of View Boston, said, “due to business need and restructuring,” the company will lay off some of its employees by April 22. The layoffs will affect 41 full-time employees and 38 part-time workers.

After a $182 million renovation, the observatory opened in June 2023 on the 52nd floor of the Prudential Center. The space includes a restaurant, an open-air viewing area, a cocktail bar, and a virtual tour guide.

Beforehand, it was home to the Pru Skywalk Observatory and Top of the Hub restaurant, both of which closed permanently shortly after the start of the pandemic.

But the managers at Legends Global are shifting the experience again.

In a statement to Boston.com, a spokesperson said that in response to a “growing interest in private events,” the Beacon and Stratus rooftop bar and restaurant will close on April 21. The closures will accommodate expanded event space and new offerings.

“We thank all guests who dined with us over the years and our team members who consistently deliver outstanding service,” the statement said. “We will ensure a smooth transition and remain committed to providing an exceptional experience for every guest at View Boston.”

The spokesperson said that they will announce the new offerings and guest experiences in the coming months.

Headquartered in New York, Legends Global runs live events, venues and brands, with a network of over 450 venues worldwide, including the DCU Center in Worcester.

The real estate investment firm BXP (formerly Boston Properties) owns the Prudential Tower and the surrounding 23-acre Prudential Center complex.

A BXP spokesperson said in a statement, “While the restaurants were successful, there is a strong and increasing demand for private event venues in Boston, presenting an opportunity to drive greater long-term value.”

Beth Treffeisen is a general assignment reporter for Boston.com, focusing on local news, crime, and business in the New England region.

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