The Ninth, Fitzrovia

What…/ It's hard to believe, but The Ninth sees long-established and hugely respected chef Jun Tanaka open his first solo venture. Who…/ Jun Tanaka is the owner-chef.  You're bound to have seen him on loads of TV shows, as well as roaming around with his Street Kitchen food truck. On the Menu…/ The menu provides French-Mediterranean sharing plates that combine traditional fine-dining techniques with an informal style that's more in keeping with current food trends. Bar snacks are a must, with Duck Scotch Eggs and Oxtail Croquettes whetting the appetite for the rest of the meal. Move onto Rabbit confit lasagne with mustard béchamel and Ossobuco & bone marrow tortellini for hearty starters, or perhaps something lighter from the ‘Raw & Cured' section such as the Flamed mackerel, dill, cucumber and capers. Big plates keep things interesting yet familiar, with dishes such as Whole roast sea bream, with lemon, miso and smoked aubergine; and Lamb en croute with Jerusalem artichoke puree.  It's no surprise to see the dessert menu focus on classics, including Caramelised lemon tart and Pain Perdu. The Venue…/ Spread over two floors, The Ninth is designed to create a neighbourhood restaurant feel – the kind you'd be just as happy dropping by for a quick bite at the bar as you would a proper evening meal.  Expect muted leather banquettes, exposed brick walls and rustic yet stylish metal touches for the décor. We went and here's why you should go…/ Low on pomp but big on flavour, The Ninth provides the perfect balance of memorable yet approachable dishes in a venue that creates an intimate and inviting atmosphere. How much…/ Around £35/head Wine: around £8/glass Where…/ The Ninth, 22 Charlotte Street, London W1T 2NB www.theninthlondon.com