The remodeled, revamped Nine|05 is a stark contrast to the old restaurant that occupied the space. I can appreciate the aesthetics of a building that is more house than restaurant, but it is refreshing to see that Nine|05 now looks like it is complete, instead of the "sort of, not quite" look that characterized Fate.
The soba noodles were delicious -- I am a big cashew fan, so I was excited to try the combination of cabbage, radish and cashews with classic soba. The seasoning was strong, but well tempered. The fried heirloom tomatoes were also delicious, with a savory aioli and basil that made them almost feel like the start of a sort of deconstructed Asian caprese.
The wine selection is decent -- we had a bottle of the Brazin Old Vine Zin, a Lodi wine with a heavy dose of cherry.
The service was good, and the front patio is great for a casual hangout with friends. Nine|05 ranks right up there with Gallo Blanco as a great place to eat and drink, and wait for people to show up. The pricing is on the high side, though. Seared scallops or Hoisin Short Rib will put you back $26.