The James Beard Foundation® has announced its 2026-27 TasteTwenty class, recognizing 20 culinary leaders from across the country as part of the James Beard Foundation’s Taste America® culinary tour. Among this year’s honorees are standout chefs from Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and Southern California, giving Southwest food lovers plenty to celebrate.

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Arizona, New Mexico, Texas and California chefs named to James Beard TasteTwenty class

Now in its 14th year, the TasteTwenty program serves as the foundation’s annual “ones to watch” list, highlighting chefs whose work extends beyond exceptional cooking to include community leadership, sustainability efforts and contributions to the future of the restaurant industry. The chefs will also headline events in their hometowns as part of the James Beard Foundation’s Taste America culinary tour, which begins this fall and continues through March 2027.

Arizona chef selected for TasteTwenty

Phoenix chef LT Smith of Chilte was named to the 2026-27 TasteTwenty class, representing Arizona on the national stage. Smith will also host the Phoenix Taste America dinner scheduled for March 2027 as part of the nationwide culinary series.

Chilte has earned national attention for its creative approach to Mexican and Indigenous-inspired cuisine, helping elevate Phoenix’s growing reputation as one of the country’s most exciting food cities.

New Mexico’s Marc Quiñones earns recognition

Santa Fe chef Marc Quiñones of La Fonda on the Plaza also earned a coveted spot in this year’s TasteTwenty class. Quiñones will host a Taste America dinner in Santa Fe in November 2026, showcasing the flavors and traditions that have helped make New Mexico’s culinary scene nationally respected.

Texas chefs join the 2026-27 class

Texas was well represented in this year’s TasteTwenty announcement.

Houston chefs Evelyn Garcia and Henry Lu of JŪN were selected for the class and will host the Houston tasting event in October 2026. Meanwhile, Dallas chef Misti Norris of Far Out earned recognition and will host the Dallas dinner event in March 2027.

The selections highlight the continued growth and influence of Texas dining destinations, which continue to attract national attention for innovation and culinary diversity.

Southern California represented by Los Angeles chefs

Representing Southern California are Anna Sonenshein and Niki Vahle of Little Fish Melrose Hill in Los Angeles. The duo will host a Taste America tasting event in October 2026, bringing their celebrated culinary perspective to the national series.

Their inclusion reinforces Los Angeles’ status as one of the country’s most dynamic dining destinations.

What to know about Taste America 2026-27

Food lovers interested in experiencing the chefs firsthand will have several opportunities throughout the Southwest and beyond.

Key dates currently announced in the Southwest include:

• Houston tasting: October 2026

• Los Angeles tasting: October 2026

• Santa Fe dinner: November 2026

• Dallas dinner: March 2027

• Phoenix dinner: March 2027

According to the James Beard Foundation, proceeds from Taste America events support programs that promote a more sustainable, equitable and thriving independent restaurant industry. Additional event details and ticket information will be released throughout the tour.

To learn more, visit here.