New York - May 21, 2004

Nine Lives

5 Ninth Restaurant Opens

And now for something completely different.

A new see-and-be-scene in the Meatpacking District.

Yawn all you want, but somebody’s going to be wearing their fingers down speed-dialing the reservation line at 5 Ninth. The converted townhouse is a real looker (wood plank floors, exposed brick walls, high ceilings), and with three tiers designed to fit the needs of every peripatetic trendoid. The bar and spacious outdoor garden are on the ground level, the main dining room is on two, and a reservations-only bar and lounge is on the top floor. As if the Vento vs. Spice Market vs. Soho House (a.k.a. Dodo House) dilemma wasn’t challenge enough.

Partners Vincent Seufert (Rhone) and Joel Michel (Pastis) are angling for a chic local crowd. But we’re betting they don’t have exiled butchers in mind when they say “local.”

The fabulous set aside, foodies will flock to see what chef Zak Pelaccio (of of the beloved but short-lived Chickenbone Cafe) is up to. Innovative twists on soft-shell crabs, ribs, scallops, and squab, it turns out.

Will the fare prove to be more lasting than the crowd?

Oh, you ask such silly questions sometimes.

5 Ninth, 5 Ninth Avenue, between Gansevoort and Little West 12th Streets (212-929-9460).