Rasa

Overview

In a world where celebrity endorsements are everything (and in a city where anything Lord of the Rings-related is everything), Rasa proudly shows off its high endorsement: pictures of Elijah Woods and hobbit cohort greeting the casual patron at the door.

Thankfully the little restaurant/wunderkammer of travel gadgets (including hanging bicycles, didgeridoos and African drums), isn't just about flailing around its credentials. A BYO favourite for groups of ten or less, Rasa is known for its Malaysian curries - goat, chicken, seafood, vegetable, lamb or beef. We particularly like the very filling Masala curry ($14) - which consists of mixed vegetables cooked in a dhal based curry of lentils, fenugreek and spiced tomato.

Besides its rank as a great BYO destination, Rasa also makes a great first date spot, making people more attractive and more interesting. How may you ask? With a little help from some low lighting and a plethora of props hanging from the walls. The underlit room makes everyone just that tad little bit more attractive, and the travel gadgets provide endless conversation starters. When you find yourself trapped within an awkward post-topic beat, just start talking about that random bicycle on the wall to your left. Conversation tapering off again? Let's talk about the drum hanging overhead and your love of music. Tapering off again? Wistfully stare at one of the exotic pieces of decor and start talking about your travels. It'll statistically give you an 18% chance at getting a second date. You can thank us later.*

*Concrete Playground will take full credit for all relationships that bloom as a result of a Rasa first date. Send in your thanks to wellington@concreteplayground.co.nz. But please, for the love of all things good, just remember to pack a few post-curry breath mints.