Memorable lunch for 800 set | Hawkes Bay News | Local News in Hawkes Bay

Think about this.

You've got eight people arriving for lunch - and they'll all have diverse tastes, of course - so what can you whip up to please them all?

A little bit of a dilemma, but try getting a grasp on catering for 800 eager-to-eat lunchtime diners.

"It's a great challenge," leading chef Jenny Parton of Dish said yesterday as the final touches were made to the menu for the Pask Great Long Lunch being staged on March 4.

"It's been a lot of work and a real team thing," she said, paying tribute to her crew.

"Everyone has had some input and I think it's going to go down well."

At the end of the day, she added with a smile, the most telling comment about the diverse and imaginative fare sent out to the great 200-metre-long table came from the dishes they were served upon.

"We check the plates when they come back - that's the true indicator of how things are going."

For such an event, which began 12 years ago and draws diners and fine wine enthusiasts from all over the country, it was important to provide memorable dishes - with a point of difference.

"There are a lot of different styles in there."

Ms Parton said the entree had been the most challenging to crack as, being the opening dish, it would be the one with the maximum taste impact.

"We've gone a little bit out on a limb with it this year, but I think it will suit the mood."

As the final touches were made yesterday, CJ Pask's winemaker, Russell Wiggins, arrived bearing the four wines designated as the best match for the courses and the afternoon in general.

"They will fit the bill well," he said, adding that the catering number worked out at about four bottles for every six people.

There will be some 40 staff in the two kitchens (including food students from EIT), about 50 waiting staff and 16 dishwashers - who Ms Parton hopes will not have too much to remove from the nearly 2500 dishes.

Napier Inner City Marketing's Meg Rodel said some tickets were still available for the Pask Great Long Lunch, where the entertainment would be provided by band Stolen Records. Tickets are $100 per person which includes three courses and complimentary wine - with additional bottles available for sale on the day. For tickets call Napier Inner City Marketing - 834 3917.