The Department of Tourism and the Island's culinary community will join forces again to sponsor a culinary competition.

In a repeat of last year, the winning team -- consisting of the best chefs, pastry chef and bartender -- will go to Puerto Rico for the taste of the Caribbean cook-off.

The contest, in its fifth year, has drawn international attention from the industry and consumer food and wine press. Staged by the Caribbean Culinary Federation, the showdown is sanctioned and judged by the American Culinary Federation.

"We are excited about being involved in this year's event with the private sector,'' Minister of Tourism David Dodwell told The Royal Gazette .

"The event has already brought significant prestige to Bermuda and helped raise the profile of the hospitality career path here at home,'' he added.

The local contest is in its second year and interim committee chairman, Edward Bottone, feels that the spirit of the competition has had the effect of raising the profile of the culinary profession in the community.

"To encourage and interest more young adults to consider cooking as a career path is what this is all about. Last year's Bermuda team made everyone sit up and take notice, walking off with silver medals and top honours to the junior team,'' he said.

The competition is open to all cooking and bartending professionals. Space is limited to 30 chefs, 15 pastry chefs and 20 bartenders. Competitors will be selected after competing locally and will form a team of five -- with one alternate -- who will represent Bermuda in Puerto Rico.

The junior team competition is open to culinary students and apprentices.

Winners will comprise of a team of four and one alternate.

Competitors are given a mystery basket of ingredients, and will be required in a specified time, to create a three-course meal. Their efforts will be judged according to the same exacting standards that they will face in the Caribbean competition, from creativity and taste to presentation and hygiene.