עברית
Halachot and Customs
Celebrating a Birthday at a Restaurant During the Nine Days
Question
Hello esteemed Rabbi, is it permissible to go to a restaurant to celebrate a birthday for a friend who was born during the Nine Days? (The friends have already planned to go). Thank you
Answer
Greetings,
A person may go alone or with their wife and children to a restaurant during the Nine Days, and it is also permissible for a business meeting. However, in your case, where you are going to the restaurant to celebrate a birthday, this falls under the category of "a meal of rejoicing," which should be avoided during the Nine Days.
Sources: See Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim (Siman 551, Section 8).
Blessings,
Hillel Meirs
