“When it comes to French food in this town, there’s a mode for every mood, whether you’re looking for a bistro-standard croque-monsieur or a meticulously plated, multicourse extravaganza. Deuxave’s wunderkind chef, Christopher Coombs, cherry-picks from both styles, deftly weaving what could be contradictory impulses—hearty (upgraded) French onion soup; the swoosh-heavy, haute-cuisine-styled “Duo of Pork & First of the Season Apricots” —into an improbably cohesive menu.”

“Back Bay has many fancy, pricey restaurants suitable for romance and special occasions, but few are as lovely as this jewel in the crown of chef Chris Coombs and partner Brian Piccini’s budding empire. Coombs works luxurious ingredients in traditional French and New American idioms, rendering them in gorgeous, painterly platings, complemented by swoony desserts and a fabulous wine list. With its tranquil palette-of-grays room and beautiful fireplace, expect to witness discreet proposals of marriage (and business). ”