Vivant 2

While a chorus of Bonsoir, bienvenue! still sounds the moment you walk through the door at Vivant 2, these days, it's underscored by a bop-filled soundtrack and service with a smile that make a seat at the open kitchen's wrap-around bar feel more inviting than austere. Chef Rob Mendoza is a champion of delicate, plant-focused fare, his luscious, creative moles drape anything and everything from broccoli to Bresse hen. Elsewhere, he effortlessly blends international ingredients with French terroir: House-made potato flatbread is spread thickly with tahini and blanketed with swiss chard; tuna is served with a Korean gochujang-spiked tomato broth. This restaurant is a great option for vegetarians and is open on Monday nights. A curated list of natural and sustainable wines seals the deal.