4th EditionFirst European edition
Where the World Crowns Its Sushi Master
What is ITAMAE?
ITAMAE (from the Japanese 板前, “in front of the cutting board”)
ITAMAE Balfegó is the professional sushi championship that seeks to recognize the best sushi chef in Europe.
A celebration of Japanese cuisine based on technique, precision, creativity, and respect for the ingredients, with Balfegó bluefin tuna taking center stage.
TechnologyTechniqueGijutsu
CorrectAccuracySeikaku
CreationCreativitySōzō
RespectRespectKeii
The 4th edition
The first European edition
For the first time, ITAMAE is opening its call for entries to the best active sushi chefs from across Europe.
Ten finalists will compete to become Europe's best sushi chef before a top-tier international panel of judges.
Discover the ITAMAE Universe- IV
- Edition
- 10
- Finalists
- 7
- Jury
Image · Balfegó Facilities · 21:9
The headquarters
A stage that lives up to expectations
September 28, 2026L’Ametlla de Mar · Tarragona
The first European edition of ITAMAE will take place at Balfegó’s newly opened facilities, the most advanced facility dedicated to bluefin tuna.
A unique venue that brings together innovation, technology, and excellence centered around an exceptional product, and which will serve as the setting for this gathering of Europe’s top sushi chefs.
Previous editions
Awards ceremony 
Before the jury 
Taiko at the gala
Judges and Finalists
Europe's sushi talent, gathered at ITAMAE
Seven international experts make up the judging panel, and ten sushi chefs are traveling from different parts of Europe to compete for the title of Europe’s best sushi chef. Find out who they are and where in Europe they’re coming from to compete at ITAMAE.
Emanuele Bombardier
Endo Kazutoshi
Hideki Matsuhisa
Masashi Suzuki
Nguyen van Giang
Yoshikazu Yanome
Adrián Figueroa Barciela
Bishnu Gharti
Chi Tam Phan
Eduard Dimant
Eduardo Fabricio Rodrigues Peixoto
Heung Chul Han
Jaume Marambio Cortés
Meidan Siboni
Numan Seckin
Paolo Cini
Watch the championship live
Don't miss a single moment of the competition
Experience the fourth edition of ITAMAE Balfegó up close and enjoy a unique day with some of Europe's best sushi chefs.
September 28, 2026 · L'Ametlla de Mar
Discover the event
Everything That Will Happen at ITAMAE
A day dedicated to sushi, gastronomy, and excellence, featuring a competition, workshops, and other experiences.
14:00 h The competition
Two challenges before the jury: sashimi and nigiri skills, and a creative maki dish featuring Balfegó bluefin tuna.
14:00 – 20:00 h Workshops
Technical sessions focusing on the product and Japanese culinary culture, which will take place during the competition.
Starting at 20:00 h Gala and awards ceremony
Announcement of Europe's Best Sushi Chef and presentation of the ITAMAE Balfegó Trophy.
With the support of
Sponsors and Partners
ITAMAE Balfegó is made possible by the brands that share our commitment to quality in both our products and our craft.
