It’s a magical mollusc, a beautiful bivalve, salty snack that is lauded as an aphrodisiac. There’s no doubt that oysters, once a peasant food, are now among the ultimate delicacies for foodies.

They’ve long been linked to amour – Aphrodite , the Greek goddess of love was born from the sea in an oyster shell. Her son, Eros, was the god of love; and Casanova, the legendary 18th century lothario, was said to eat 50 for breakfast.

If oysters are your passion, Opus in Cornwall Street, one of our favourite restaurants in Brum, is the place to dine – it sells more oysters than any other restaurant in the city and serves only Carlingford rock oysters. These outstanding oysters are cultivated in the waters of County Lough in Ireland and are renowned for their sweet, rich and nutty flavours.

Every Friday and Saturday from April 21 and throughout the summer, Opus is tempting diners with a pearl of an offer: a complimentary dozen Carlingford rock oysters with every bottle of Champagne purchased. Order a half bottle of Champagne and you’ll receive a half dozen of Carlingford rock oysters. The offer is available for tables up to 16 diners.

For details, visit www.opusrestaurant.co.uk or telephone 0121 200 2323.