A smoky live fire focus is at the core of the DNA of Ember, as the wood-burning BBQ in the open-plan kitchen illustrates. In fact, as soon as you cross the threshold of this splendid 17C castle, your tastebuds are taken by storm by the enticing aromas. The interior is as minimalist as the menu. Zino Jacobs is a fan of local produce and his cooking embodies a zero waste ethos. Jacobs wholeheartedly conveys his culinary vision via unusual dishes presented in a set menu. The food is carefully crafted and steeped in fresh, acidic notes. Examples include charred whole pumpkin, which is then mashed and enhanced by a shiitake-based XO sauce; melt-in-the-mouth Brasvar pork undergoes the same treatment with a punchy gravy that is offset by crushed hazelnuts, smoked bacon and grilled almonds. Truly fascinating!