Seven 'Samurai' chefs sought for Japanese tour

The Seven Samurai Chefs Tour of Japan – worth over £5,000 - will see candidates visit Tokyo, Toba and Kyoto and learn the art of making sushi, sashimi and tempura.

One finalist will also win the chance to collaborate with Japan’s only five-star airline – ANA – to create a meal for its Business Class passengers.

Ufi Ibrahim, chief executive of the British Hospitality Association said: “We’re committed to nurturing and growing the best of British culinary talent.

“This competition is part of that commitment and offers a unique chance for up-and-coming chefs to expand their knowledge and skills in one of the world’s greatest culinary arts.

“The UK has a growing affinity with Japan and Japanese culture and we’re delighted to collaborate with All Nippon Airways, whose award-winning catering team has established a reputation for some of the best in-flight dining around.”

The competition is open to UK chefs with at least two years’ experience in a hotel or restaurant at chef de partie or sous chef level.

Entrants are required to submit a photograph of their signature dish and 100 words on why the Seven Samurai Tour would make a difference to their career. An endorsement from a head chef or supervisor will be required to outline the applicant’s potential to embrace and incorporate Japanese culinary techniques and cuisine into their work.

Judges will include Nobu head chef Hideki Maeda, D&D London managing director David Loewi, and Ufi Ibrahim.

They seven winning ‘Samurai chefs’ will be announced in early December with the tour beginning in January 2016.