Black Box Masterpieces

This international culinary competition endorsed by WACS (World Association of Chefs Societies), has gained tremendous popularity and prestige among chefs around the world. The competition provides the opportunity for chefs to think outside the "box".

Each event targets eight to16 teams who may represent five star hotels, restaurants, hotel /catering schools, clubs or airline catering. On day one, teams are given a mystery black box of high quality sponsored ingredients and one hour to develop a four course menu. They take the box away with them to prepare their menu entries for competition judging and subsequently for guests at a gala dinner the next day.

On day two, approximately two hundred guests including trade, foodservice buyers, chefs and media come together in a gala dinner where they are treated to a menu of the prepared dishes using the ingredients from the black box.

A panel of international chefs judges the menus prior to the dinner. All teams receive a certificate of participation. Gold, Silver and Bronze level certificates are awarded based on the standards achieved by the team, and the top three winning teams receive Gold, Silver and Bronze medals and cash awards. Special awards are given for Best Main Course and Best Table Display. The winning team is invited to participate in the MLA Black Box Global Final event.