Auckland's food Oscars

Want a restaurant with great ambience? Head to Euro, Gina's Pizza and Pasta Bar, Rocco or Vivace. A great cocktail? Try Chapel, Sponge Bar, Cibo or Mea Culpa. And food cooked by the best chefs? Simon Wright at the French Cafe, Geoff Scott at Vinnies, Justin Gross at La Zeppa or Roberta Schmulian at Prego.

Well, that's what those in the know reckon. The above are finalists in Restaurant Association's third annual Lewisham Awards, which recognise the best hospitality staff in the industry, from doormen and caterers to baristas and bartenders.

Finalists in other categories include:

Outstanding Wine List - Dida's, Rocco, Soul, Wine Loft

Innovative Chef - Natalia Schamroth, the Engine Room; Steven Ward, O'Connell Street; Shane Yardley, Euro; Sid Sarhawat, George

Outstanding Restaurateur - Chris Rupe, SPQR; Martina Lutz, Wine Chambers; Nicola Richards, Monsoon Poon; Alistair Gribben, Vivace and La Zeppa

Outstanding Hospitality Personality - Luke Dallow, Judith Tabron, Chris Rupe, Krishna Botica.

Winners will be announced at a ceremony at SkyCity on May 28.