Houston food lovers will have an opportunity to sample creations from some of the city’s acclaimed chefs when the James Beard Foundation brings its Taste America culinary series to Thompson Houston on November 12.

Presented by American Express and Resy, the walk-around tasting will celebrate Houston’s independent restaurant community with more than 12 food and beverage stations featuring signature bites, drinks and sponsor experiences. The event is part of Taste America’s 14th year, with culinary gatherings planned in 20 U.S. cities.

Hosting the Houston event are Evelyn Garcia and Henry Lu, chefs behind JŪN and Third Place. Both were named James Beard Award winners and selected for the foundation’s 2026-2027 TasteTwenty class, which recognizes emerging culinary talent whose cooking, creativity and leadership are helping shape the future of American dining.

The evening’s lineup brings together chefs representing a range of Houston restaurants, including several recognized by the James Beard Foundation.

Participating chefs and restaurants include Aaron Bludorn of Bludorn; Tristen Epps-Long of Buboy; Christian Hernandez of Barbacana; Suu Khin of Burmalicious; Hugo Ortega and Paula Gutierrez of Zaranda; Benchawan Jabthong Painter of Street to Kitchen; Felipe Riccio of March Restaurant and Goodnight Hospitality; Adrian Torres of Maximo; Stephanie Velasquez and Nicolas Vera of CASAEMA; Michelle Wallace of B’tween Sandwich Co.; and Rebecca Masson of Fluff Bake Bar.

Thompson Houston Executive Chefs Sierra Rustrum and Jarade Blackmon will also participate.

Guests purchasing Premier Hour tickets will have access to additional culinary experiences, including caviar bumps provided by DR Delicacy and bites prepared by Rustrum and Blackmon.

The event highlights Houston’s independent dining scene and the chefs contributing to its culinary identity. Taste America brings together local culinary talent to showcase the flavors, traditions and creative approaches influencing American dining.

Proceeds from the event directly support the James Beard Foundation’s national impact programming, which works to advance a more sustainable, equitable and thriving future for independent restaurants and the broader food system.

Tickets for the Houston walk-around tasting are on sale now. Additional information, including participating talent and menus as they become available, can be found at jamesbeard.org/tasteamerica.

Event Details

What: James Beard Foundation’s Taste America Houston Walk-Around Tasting

When: November 12, 2026

Where: Thompson Houston

Tickets and information: jamesbeard.org/tasteamerica