Massachusetts Chef Named To James Beard List Of 20 'Chefs To Watch'

MASSACHUSETTS — Erin Miller of Urban Hearth in Cambridge has been named one of the James Beard Foundation’s 2026-27 TasteTwenty chefs, a national group of culinary professionals recognized as “ones to watch” in the independent restaurant industry.

The 20 chefs will headline events in their hometowns as part of the foundation’s Taste America culinary tour, which begins Sept. 16 in New Orleans and continues in cities across the country through March 2027.

The foundation said the chefs were selected not only for culinary talent but also for their work beyond the kitchen, including efforts such as supporting sustainable agriculture, investing in restaurant teams, elevating quality ingredients and advocating for a stronger food system.

Miller was recognized alongside chefs from cities including Houston, New York, Detroit, Washington, Philadelphia, Chicago, San Francisco, Seattle, Atlanta, Miami, Phoenix, Los Angeles and New Orleans.

The James Beard Foundation, a New York-based nonprofit named for the late chef and food writer James Beard, is one of the country’s most influential culinary organizations. Best known for the James Beard Awards, the foundation also promotes a more equitable, sustainable and resilient independent restaurant industry — work that has made its recognition a major marker of achievement in the food world.

Urban Hearth has built its reputation as a Michelin-recommended restaurant since it opened in 2016. Miller harnessed her craft at the French Culinary Institute in New York and worked at numerous acclaimed eateries. This latest nomination joins a list of recognitions she has received throughout her career.

The national Taste America series is scheduled to begin in September.

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