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The team behind the Mulberry Project makes the most of this intimate space—surreptitiously disguised by "R&L Restaurant" from the outside—with a well-choreographed dance by French and Francophile waiters and mixologists (and if you’re lucky, a live painting exhibition will be on view in the front window). Melt-in-your-mouth ribs pepper the menu, but this place is really all about the drinks. The apothecary-like assemblage of cocktail ingredients (homemade syrups, seasonal fruits, jars of fresh herbs) and liquors here can prove intimidating, but the staff is all about mixing up something original suited to your tastes. A short cocktail list of favorites like a cool cucumber Pimm’s Punch or bitter West Side Cowboy is also on hand for reassurance (or inspiration). — Sophie Hays