THE NINES

When growing up, Bangor was a regular destination for me, days out with the parents and trips away with the summer scheme though it’s seldom I go now and I ask myself why?

TBH i’ve honestly no excuse, it is so easily accessible by car or train if you fancy a tipple, so on that note it’s off to Bangor we go.

As a self professed foodie I am never one to refuse some grub and after seeing all the pics online and reading the menu I was super excited to try the food ‘The Nines’ in Bangor had to offer.

In April a new team opened the restaurant under the direction of Head Chef Mateusz Ostradecki “Mateausz brings a wealth of knowledge & experience developed alongside some of Northern Ireland’s most notable Chefs of the past decade”

“Our philosophy is simple, to create hugely memorable dining experiences through fresh innovative ideas using the highest quality local suppliers and ingredients.

We arrived in the middle of lunch, my first impression was ‘WOW’ . I loved the decor, the place was so spacious, it was so great to see a 19th century building brought into the 21st century with such care. The restaurant was so busy which in honesty I wasn’t expecting as it was mid week, this already speaks volumes, being so well supported they are clearly doing of me, is not that adventurous, she ordered the homemade burger. I did sneak a bite (obvs for review purposes lol), it was so good, the meat was so juicy, i loved the smoked cheese and their own relish. It came in a Brioche bun and also had crispy lettuce, pickles and a portion of fries. something locals love. Our server who was so friendly sat us and took a drink order while we drooled through the menu. As we were driving we declined having a cocktail which i’m still regretting as they looked fantastic - next time! It was teas and coffees today.

With the Chef called Mateausz it was to no surprise that the menu was not your standard offering, everything had a well thought out twist or marriage with tradition.

I really struggled on deciding what to eat though the adventurer in me settled on the Racher Eggs. “Lebanese Flatbread, refried beans, monterey jack cheese, pico de gallo, fried eggs and Nduja Sausage. The dish usually comes with avocado though i’m not a fan and asked for it to be left off.

Some other things on the Brunch/ Lunch menu that really appealed to me were the Protein and Fish Bowl, Tempura Cod and Cheeky Eggs - it is Ras El Hanout fried Chicken, toasted brioche, poached egg, lettuce and chipotle aioli. Think I’ll have to make a few more visits.

Our venue out over lunch was a lovely treat, both as a change of scenery and to the taste buds as I can honestly say I have never had a dish like it anywhere local, highly recommended.

Johnny the manager came to introduce himself once we were seated. It was lovely to put a face to voice/email, I have worked with Johnny and his family for many years though with modern technology it is only now we meet in person, thanks for taking the time to say hello.

This was so delicious and right up my street, had a real mexican/spanish feel to it, the sausage gave it a nice kick, the bread was thin & crispy and the eggs were cooked to perfection. Cannot fault it.

Pauline, my guest being the opposite

Thanks so much for the invite Johnny, Mateausz and the team for looking after us, I cannot fault a thing, food, service, atmosphere everything was perfect.

You really need to visit The Nines

Review by Daniel May

You can find their menus, more info and book on their website theninesbangor.com or on Facebook.

The Nines 10-12 Seacliff Road, Bangor Tel. 02891 27 0696.