The Beacon Hill restaurant space that once hosted Barbara Lynch’s iconic eatery, No. 9 Park, is set to make its return as a new fine-dining destination named Nine, helmed by restaurateur Allan Rodriguez, known for El Centro and Sabina Mezcaleria.
Scheduled to open on Friday, August 15, Nine will offer guests a choice of three menus: a seasonal tasting menu, an à la carte menu, and a bar menu. Reservations can be made online for dining from August 20 and onwards, marking a fresh chapter for the location.
Chef de cuisine Andrew Simonich, who has a history with the former restaurant, has promised both returning favorite dishes and exciting new additions to the menu. As he describes it, “Walking in the doors, you always knew you’d be getting that classic French and Italian cuisine.”
Simonich aims to build upon these foundations by incorporating broader Mediterranean influences. He began his culinary journey at the location during the bustling holiday season of December 2019 and has since established his expertise, culminating in his role at No. 9 Park until its closure in October 2024.
Despite the bittersweet ending of No. 9 Park, Simonich is looking forward to the new venture, noting that while there are high expectations from loyal patrons, the essence of the classic dishes like steak tartare and duck will remain at the forefront.
A key highlight will be the restaurant’s fresh pasta program, which Simonich holds dear, showcasing dishes such as uni spaghetti with squid ink oil and chicken tortellini featuring mushroom ragu.
Additionally, new items have been added to the à la carte and bar menus, including a burger made with a foie gras-infused bun. Simonich explains that some diners prefer a quicker bite, particularly before a performance. For a more indulgent experience, a seasonal, ever-evolving tasting menu is also available, priced at $180.
Fans of the original establishment will notice a transformation in Nine’s ambiance, courtesy of new designs from Lorenzo Lorniali and Federica Di Biase of Adige Design. The renovation has uncovered the original brick arches inside, significantly enhancing the lighting in the dining space.
No. 9 Park was a cornerstone of Boston’s dining landscape, earning national acclaim since its inception in 1998, including a James Beard award for Outstanding Wine Program in 2012.
However, the restaurant was shuttered, along with all other establishments in Lynch’s portfolio, at the end of 2024 amid a challenging leadership period that included toxic workplace investigations reported by major media outlets. Lynch has publicly denied all allegations against her.
As the restaurant scene continues to evolve, Nine aims to honor the legacy of its predecessor while introducing its unique flair, welcoming both longtime fans and a new generation of diners.
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