The story of Shokugeki no Souma was never a intricate part to enjoying the series imo. That being said this season makes it seem rather silly, and draws you out of the experience just with its ridiculousness. The first half of the show focuses on the moon festival, which wasn't bad. However the second half we are introduced to a new villain who begins to change the show completely.
Unlike other shounen shows there is no violence, no death, no real physical ramifications for the characters. The first season toyed with the idea that losing meant the end of your cooking career but otherwise the world works like it does today. This villain somehow gains far more control over things than seems reasonable with the knowledge that no real harm, physical, or financial would come to the students or teachers. Cant really describe it without spoilers but this is easily the worst part of this season and really felt unnecessary.
The art also took a hit in general. Characters and scenes poorly done, and easily noticeable to someone who typically doesn't notice these things. The first season was beautiful. This season however was watchable but disappointing.
The characters remain mostly the same. Everyone is enjoyable and has grown a bit. We are also introduced to a new set of characters who are the new bad guys of the show, and are exceptional chefs.
Overall I enjoyed this season. Maybe it sounds weird after rating the story and art poorly, but it didn't hit what the show was at its core. The story though stupid and unnecessary successfully gives us new challenges and reasons to be invested in the cooking again. This season was truly action packed. The people who didn't like the slow pacing during the autumn selections will probably have a better time watching this season. I enjoyed the slower more intricate pacing of season 1, but I still really enjoyed watching this season as well. Fan service has also been toned down. There were maybe three episodes with it, but unlike the first season it felt out of place and silly.
I'm still looking forward to the next season. I do hope they take the time to make the art extraordinary like they did in the past.
TLDR: Stupid story, and lower quality art. However just as enjoyable as the rest of the series. No reason to not watch it if you have seen the previous seasons. If you haven't then I still highly recommend the show in general.
