
Running parallel to Newbury Street, Boylston Street offers a dynamic urban experience, blending commercial, cultural, and recreational spaces. Landmarks such as the Prudential Center and Copley Square anchor the street, providing a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The street's ene
Annual foot traffic
500,000 people/year
Daily vehicle traffic
15,000 vehicles/day
Population
25,000 people within
Day time population
35,000 people within
Household income (median)
$75,000.00 annually
Age (average)
> 35 years old within
1000 SF
Suitable for retail, restaurant, office
1500 SF
Suitable for retail, restaurant, office
2000 SF
Suitable for retail, restaurant, office

Market Analysis: Cactus Club Cafe’s U.S. Flagship & the Back Bay "Social Anchor" Trend
The opening of Cactus Club Cafe at 500 Boylston Street is more than a single restaurant debut—it is a $10M+ bet on the "Premium Casual" migration from Canada into the U.S. retail landscape.
1. The Brand Profile With over 30 locations across Canada, Cactus Club is an established powerhouse. This 9,500 sq. ft. Boston site is their first U.S. location, signaling a strategic shift toward high-density "A-list" American markets (Houston and Miami are slated next). Unlike their suburban Canadian footprints, this is a pure "Urban Flagship" play.
2. The Dealmakers The deal was executed within Oxford Properties’ iconic Philip Johnson-designed tower. The project was a collaborative effort with CM&B (Construction Management) and Jeffrey Beers International.
"Back Bay is a vibrant neighborhood that aligns perfectly with our vision for modern dining — timeless, social and stylish." — Andrew Latchford, President of Cactus Club Cafe.
3. Micro-Location & Co-Tenancy The site occupies a prime corner at 500 Boylston, positioned immediately adjacent to the new Trader Joe’s (which opened a massive 11,000 sq. ft. space in May 2024) and SoulCycle. This places Cactus Club at the center of a "High-Frequency" loop where grocery and wellness traffic feed into evening dining.
4. Neighborhood Context: The Boylston Re-Skin This opening is a key sign of the "activation" trend at 500 Boylston/222 Berkeley. Oxford Properties recently completed a major project to remove the granite columns that historically separated the building's courtyard from the sidewalk, specifically to attract high-volume retail. While nearby "celebrity" concepts like Guy Fieri’s Kitchen recently shuttered, the influx of high-credit, stable operators like Trader Joe’s and Cactus Club suggests a move toward "Daily Needs + Destination Dining" as the new Boylston Street anchor model.
For more information on Boylston Street, contact Brandmarch’s Local Expert, Jono Lapat.
https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/cactus-club-cafe-boston

LEGO just opened their new U.S. headquarters in Boston off Boylston Street at the intersection of Boylston & Mass. Ave.

Dave’s Hot Chicken expands in Boston with third location

Caffe Nero to open in former Starbucks space on Boston's Boylston Street








Market Positioning & Leasing Trends
Boylston Street is a sought-after location for a variety of retailers, from national chains to local enterprises. Recent developments, such as the renovation of 581 Boylston Street, which features a new retail facade and modern office spaces, indicate a trend towards revitalization and increased investment. Rental rates are competitive, reflecting the street's high visibility and accessibility.
Who Shops & Visits Here? (Demographics & Foot Traffic)
The street attracts a diverse crowd, including professionals, tourists, and students. Its proximity to major attractions and office buildings ensures steady foot traffic during both weekdays and weekends. Ev
With ongoing developments and a focus on enhancing the retail environment, Boylston Street is expected to attract new tenants and increase consumer engagement. The emphasis on mixed-use spaces and modern amenities aligns with current urban retail trends, positioning the street for sustained growth.