I couldn't think of a more romantic way to start a date than by forcefully touching knees with your significant other under a particularly small table, which was possibly taken off a sidewalk café in Paris — only difference here to the Parisian café would be that the view from your sidewalk table is that of Camps Bay beach!

My first impression of The Grand Café is that of a beach bar slash Parisian hangout slash Havana local.

Situated in a double-story re-renovated house (after its short stint as a sister bar to Opium), Grand Café seems like it's kind of half finished, which is probably why I found it so intriguing.

It's like the grand version of Madame Zingara minus the acrobats of course — a throw together of tastes and ideas, crimson red roses, a grand piano, antique candlesticks and angels posted onto unpainted walls.

In a way it's a venue open to an anything-can-happen vibe and creates a canvas of possibilities for your evening…

Stiff drink my dear?

Sitting downstairs and outside — away from the unclaimed walls of the inner restaurant — we spotted a celeb or two at the table behind us, and of course felt special ourselves, with our newly claimed spot on prime Camps' Bay property.

To complete the picture: cocktails. With names like Ginger Rogers, Brazil 66 and Plantation, I felt like I had just travelled the world with one swift glance of the menu.

At an average of 40 bucks a pop you're bound to extend yourself, but then the price is comparable to any other popular beachfront spot — especially this time of year.

My Plantation was rather refreshing — the basil growing from a mix of Tanqueray, Contreau, grapefruit and lime juice, while my partner Richard's colonial Grand Pimms was hefty enough to put out a small seal.

Consequently our 6.30pm cocktails extended till after dark as we appreciated the view in a dreamy kind of end-of-week bliss.

Starters, which again had me second guessing as to what The Grand Café is trying to achieve with its interesting mix of flares and flavours, are also not cheap. But if it's Friday and you're willing to splurge a little, the Avocado Ritz (R70) is a must and is big enough to share: a whole creamy avocado with a touch of soft prawns and a light pink sauce. Yum!

In addition we shared the Beef Carpaccio (R70) which was topped with rocket and parmesan shavings, succulent and tender; it's also a good choice.

Other starters on Grand's select menu are Oysters, Caviar, Cold Crayfish with Mayonnaise (R180), Shrimp Tempura (R70), Calamari (R65), and for the veggies — Mixed Grilled Vegetable Crostini (R35).

Next: Time for some wine. Unfortunately here you're not going to get away with a by-the-glass option, unless you're drinking the house wine, bottled especially for Grand Café, it's rather good — both the red and white — and a safe option when it comes to your bank balance.

No silent whisperings here

In between meals I took a stroll upstairs and was surprised at the jovial atmosphere. Oversized velvet red chairs and solid lengthy tables added a hint of grandeur amidst the convivial drinking and chatting. I suddenly felt as though I had walked into mild mad hatter's tea party — no stiff upper lips and silent whisperings here. A seriously fun place for a special occasion.

The service — although dressed to the ninth — isn't sticky either, and our waiter certainly added to that come-hangout-with-us feel.

The list of mains is rather nominal, with the choices being seafood, beef and one chicken dish. Oh, and if you're looking for a salad there is a choice of three: Caprese, Caesar and Waldorf, priced from R55 to R85.

I had to try the Sugar Salmon (R140) just for the novelty, which doesn't really come with anything, so you're forced to order a side of frites, seasonal vegetables, creamed spinach or salad. Add R25.

The salmon was done to perfection — seared delicately on the outside and left juicy pink on the inside, then tossed with sugar and soya.

Richard tried the Grand Crayfish Pasta (R200), but spent a good half an hour trying to de-shell his meal, which wasn't amusing after a while. Served with spaghetti, it was pretty average for the price.

I ordered the Affogato (ice cream with espresso) for dessert — a superb choice since it's also light and refreshing — and necessary after a few glasses of wine. There is also Pavlova and Ice Cream and Chocolate Sauce which both go for R28, as well as a Daily Selection of Desserts (SQ).

If you're on the lookout for a cocktail spot, need a venue for a special occasion, or just want to spoil your other half, The Grand Café is a brilliant choice as it has the perfect balance of smart and casual going with a touch of creative flair to keep you guessing.

The Grand Café, 35 Victoria Road, Camps Bay, contact them on +27 21 438 4253 or visit www.thegrand.co.za. Booking is recommended for dinner and a good spot.