Asoka is lit! In fact, it is so candlelit that an inexperienced observer may be tempted to call the fire department. I am secretly regretting 90% of my 5-star ratings for atmosphere because they should really be reserved for places like Asoka. Their VIBE (yes, in capitals) is splattered with sexy lines, moody lighting, and lively Acid Jazz all they way from the steps on Kloof Street to the back wall of the toilet.

If you are booking a table for a romantic evening with your partner, Table 20 under the 180-year-old olive tree is the way to go. You'll sit close enough to each other to have a conversation when the joint gets busy, and if you are tall, you'll fit under the table. (If you are taller than 6ft, the ottomans by the fireplace are not for you.)

As you would expect from the setting, the service is top notch. Hosts, waiters and runners, and even the smiling bouncer at the door, are all easy-going, friendly, and professional. (Thanks for the great service, Jo)

When it comes to drinking and eating, the only thing in the bar more impressive than the actual shelves holding the bottles, are the cocktails.

The tapas-style dishes coming from the kitchen were beautifully presented (I think). It was slightly too dark to see the colours and textures of the actual food, but it was clearly expertly plated. Overall, the food was good, but not mind-blowing. We shared seven different dishes, curious to see how Aisan Fusion is interpreted at Asoka. From a flavour perspective, it did not quite hit the mark, as you would hope considering the price point. Don't misunderstand me on this one... EVERY dish was packed with flavour, but almost overpoweringly towards a single note. The Duck Spring Rolls are deeply salty, for instance, and the accompanying reduction is not quite sweet enough to balance it out. Adding a unique complimentary contrast to each plate will go a long way to making the taste profiles pop (like shiso leaf with the ostrich).

This is a longer than usual review, because Asoka is a place I instantly loved. I'll go back to soak up the atmosphere, and I will happily recommend it to anyone looking to spend their evening in style.

If you are specifically visiting Cape Town for a culinary tour, I would lean towards Belly of the Beast and Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia for menu dégastation, and for tapas-style plates, Bistro Sixteen82 at Steenberg Wine Estate.