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:  

• TasteTwenty Host Chef Mathew Meeker, Fancypants 

• Ana Aguilar and Josh Cook, Tantísimo 

• Kahlil Arnold, Arnold’s Country Kitchen 

• Jessica Benefield and Trey Burnette, Two Ten Jack 

• Nick Guidry, Deacon’s New South/A. Marshall Hospitality 

• Julio Hernandez, Maíz de la Vida 

• Hal Holden-Bache, Lockeland Table 

• Kamal Kalokoh, Riddim N Spice 

• Bill Laviolette, Shotgun Willie’s BBQ 

• Vivek Surti and Adam Hercik, 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.