James Beard Foundation Taste America: Nashville
In the Field
James Beard Foundation Taste America: Nashville
The Nashville tasting will be hosted by TasteTwenty chef Mathew Meeker of Fancypants, selected for the Foundation’s 2026-2027 TasteTwenty class—an annual “ones to watch” list recognizing talent whose exceptional cooking, creative vision, and leadership are helping shape the future of American dining. Joining chef Meeker will be an impressive lineup of the talent behind Nashville’s most exciting independent restaurants, with more than 10 food and beverage stations featuring signature bites, beverages, and exclusive sponsor activations.
Presenting the Taste America Nashville lineup (with more to be announced):
TasteTwenty chef Mathew Meeker of Fancypants
Josh Cook and Ana Aguilar, Tantísimo
Nick Guidry of Deacon’s New South
Hal Holden-Bache of James Beard Award Semifinalist® Lockeland Table
Kamal Kalokoh of Riddim N’ Spice
Bill Laviolette of Shotgun Willie’s BBQ
James Beard Award Semifinalist® Vivek Surti of James Beard Award Semifinalist® Tailor
Presented by American Express and Resy, Taste America celebrates the chefs and local independent restaurants at the heart of our communities and culture—featuring one-of-a-kind evenings of exceptional food and drink in 20 U.S. cities from coast to coast. Premier tickets ($255) include a start time of 6 p.m., and general tickets ($150) include a start time of 7 p.m.
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