The space, designed by creative director Mike Stears, is divided into three distinct zones, including a bar in the front, main dining room with white brick walls and black banquettes, and a pink-toned back atrium with a skylight, ivy on the walls, and open chef’s counter. The design was informed by French chateaus and the swanky aesthetics of French fashion icons — think Yves Saint Laurent — and is accented by dramatic clusters of handmade crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceilings. With all the pieces in place, Mister French is finally ready to welcome the final, and most pivotal, ingredient: guests. “You can have the best food in the world and if you don’t have the right ambiance and energy, nobody’s coming,” says Burke. “Energy will drive this place.”