America's most talented sushi chefs are being sought to compete for cash, prizes and prestige in SushiMasters, presented by the California Rice Commission, the premier competition and culinary celebration entering its fourth year. Qualified professional chefs that are selected will square off live on stage in professionally judged regional competitions, kicking off this April in Washington, D.C. A second competition will be held in Miami, and the final regional is being planned for a major California city in late spring. Victorious chefs will compete in the SushiMasters Finals in Los Angeles this fall.

Chefs will compete in two categories: the Morikomi plate and Signature Roll. Overall winners will take home the 2009 SushiMaster Best of Show honors for their region and will earn spots to the finals competition. Chefs participating in the finals will compete for up to $5,000 in award money, trophies and the opportunity to showcase their restaurants and winning entries.

The deadline for entry for all regional competitions is March 6. For entry information, go to www.sushimasters.com/competition.htm.