South Australian foodies have a rare chance to mix it with some of the nation’s leading food and wine experts at this year’s 2005 Premier’s Food Awards.

The awards ceremony will celebrate South Australia’s food industry leaders, as well as showcase some of the best produce to be found in the state.

The winners of My Restaurant Rules, John and Justine Hall, of The Greedy Goose are among the celebrities attending.

Food lovers have the chance to join the ceremony, and enjoy the four course meal, specially prepared by Adelaide Convention Centre food and beverage manager Sujoy Dey.

Mr Dey said the menu "brought the very best of South Australian produce together".

"It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase the array of food we produce here. I’ve designed the menu to reflect the true diversity, quality and taste of South Australia," he said.

The menu includes Coffin Bay oysters, Kangaroo Island haloumi, Port Lincoln tuna, Adelaide Hills berries, Mt Compass veal, Barossa Valley chickens – all complemented by superb South Australian wine.

Mr Dey, together with executive chef Steven Tze Khaw, began selecting and tasting produce in June, to ensure that both quality and quantity would be first-class on the night.

"We have done a lot of research in preparing for the awards, because we have to have a high level of quality to serve such a function," he said.

Fifteen companies and three individuals from across South Australia have been selected as finalists for the prestigious awards. One business will also have the honour being named as the first inductee into the Coles and Bilo South Australian Food Industry Hall of Fame.

South Australia’s food and wine exports are worth $3.25 billion a year – which amounts to more than half the State’s total exports. The awards recognise and reward the food industry’s achievements and its continuous drive for excellence.

The finalists range from organic dairy and pasta producers, abalone and lobster farmers, to cheese makers and companies that service the food industry.

The awards ceremony will be held at the Adelaide Convention Centre, on Saturday, November 26. Tickets are still available.