The TasteTwenty cohort is chosen for exceptional culinary skill and meaningful contributions beyond the kitchen, exemplifying the Foundation's "Good Food for Good®" principle. These chefs are recognized as leaders championing positive change through team investment, sustainable practices, or food system advocacy. Chef Fuentes, already a James Beard Award Semifinalist®, joins a distinguished group representing 20 cities across the nation in the upcoming Taste America® series, presented by Capital One.
Being named to the TasteTwenty places Chef Fuentes alongside nationally recognized talent and celebrated alumni like 2025 TIME 100 honoree Nok Suntaranon (formerly of Kalaya in Philly), Serigne Mbaye, and Ana Castro.
"These chefs represent the future of American dining—combining culinary excellence with positive leadership that drives our industry forward," said Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation.
As Philadelphia's TasteTwenty representative, Chef Fuentes will host a Taste America event in the city in March 2026 (details forthcoming) and participate in the national kickoff event in Los Angeles this July. This recognition shines a national spotlight on Chef Fuentes and BOLO and the vibrancy and talent within Philadelphia's dynamic food scene.
