Another thought about this contest. As an artist, I would have loved to have viewed all the bento submissions. I love to compare my work against other artists, and perhaps glean a few good ideas for making bentos in the future. If we cannot see all the submissions, then that makes it not really worth the time to submit a bento, especially if we do not understand, or agree with the taste of the judges.

There were several other problems with this contest. The main problem was the decision to extend the deadline by days. This decision was not fair to everyone who met the deadline, especially if winners were chosen from the group of people who did not bother to meet the first deadline. Picking winners from a pool of entries that did not adhere to the set rules, horizontal format, one extra ingredient, etc. makes a mockery of the contest, and was extremely unprofessional of the judges.

I’m disappointed, too. And I don’t know if I’m going to participate anymore…

Will there be honorable mentions?
However, since none of the finalst followed the rules I’m not going to vote!
This years Chef Bento was a great disappointment.
I’m hopinhg for next year.

and furthermore, “Condiments (spices, salt, peper, seasoning) and other ingredients needed for cooking (butter, oil) are allowed as soon as they’re not visible.” I don’t think this was adhered to, either.

I’m disappointed, a lot of these have extra ingredients, busy backgrounds and are vertical, not horizontal. what’s the point of having rules if they aren’t going to be enforced? next time have clearer rules, please.