I met an old friend at The 9th for a pre-Christmas catch up sans toddler. I would recommend leaving the toddlers at home for this one. The 9th is quite romancey. Maybe slightly too romancey for dinner with a friend. Candle lit with waitstaff who are almost unnoticeable in their service. It is perfect for a date. I can’t entirely describe the decor because honestly it was too dark. There was a bar. The tables are marble. The waitstaff are suited and booted.

The menu consists of sharing plates and reads incredibly well. It’s one of those sort of luxurious menus which make vegetable seem more luscious than you can ever achieve at home. Everything was caramelised and delicious.

There are a few outdoor tables so in theory you could wangle a buggy in during the summer but space is tight and it’s just not the right vibe for kids. Sorry I said vibe. Sometimes it’s about the vibe.

What’s good? The oxtail croquettes, all the pasta, the scallop risotto, the beetroot tatin. Decent wine list too.

Kid friendly? Do yourself a favour and have night off.

✗baby change facilities

✗highchairs available

✓cool with breastfeeding

✗loads of other parents

✓space for buggies – maybe one at a push

✗children’s menu

✗toys/play area

Rating ?