The Dish: This week's need-to-know food news

The cockle linguine dish on the menu at SPQR restaurant in Ponsonby. Photo / Babiche Martens.

A MIDDAY AFFAIR

Indulge in a leisurely feast this October at SPQR's Seafood Long Lunch. We could all do with a more formal midday meal every so often, and five courses of fruits de mer alongside delicious wines and beer is no small temptation; 12 noon-3pm, Wednesday, October 15. $150 a person. Ph (09) 360 1710.

MENU PICKS
Our favourite dishes around town . . .

1. Depot's delicious new "Cray Dog" - karengo and sesame crusted crayfish tail with wasabi mayo.

2. "A Japanese Dream" cocktail at The Golden Dawn - sake, plum wine, rosso antico and grapefruit bitters. For when your taste buds just can't suffer through another mojito.

3. The kingfish tostada with herbs, fish sauce vinaigrette and toasted peanuts at Soul Bar & Bistro. Every mouthful is a delightful explosion of fresh flavours and textures.

WATCH THIS SPACE

A wine master in the making, Andy Gladding of The French Cafe has been awarded the title of New Zealand Sommelier of the Year 2014. After a day of blind tastings, decanting red wine over candles and opening Champagne (in the name of technique, not celebration), Gladding triumphed over his competitors, his prize being a trip to Paris and Champagne, the esteemed French wine region. Bravo. foodandwine.co.nz.

- VIVA