On Thursday, April 24 from 6 to 9 p.m., Silver Street Studios (2000 Edwards) will host the return of Taste the Nation, a food festival aimed at supporting No Kid Hungry, an initiative to combat childhood hunger by the non-profit organization Share Our Strength.
This annual event, which was put on hold during the pandemic, made its comeback in 2023 and is set to feature dozens of Houston’s best chefs serving small bites, craft cocktails, beer, and wine for a great cause.
Taste the Nation is designed as a fun and stress-free soirée where participants can stroll around booths featuring various culinary delights.
Guests do not need to arrive right at 6 p.m. or feel pressured to stay until 9 p.m. to enjoy everything the event has to offer.
This year’s edition is co-chaired by six prominent Houston food and drink personalities: Evelyn Garcia (Jūn), Dawn Burrell (both “Top Chef” runners-up), Ryan Pera (Coltivare), Leonard Botello IV (Truth BBQ), Rebecca Masson (Fluff Bake Bar), and Alba Huerta (Julep).
Among the participating restaurants are some of the city’s culinary powerhouses, including Belly of the Beast, Ishtia, ChòpnBlọk, BCN Taste and Tradition, Musaafer, and the recently opened Camaraderie.
Rebecca Masson, who has been involved with the Houston Taste of the Nation event since its inception in 2007, has played an active role in raising awareness for No Kid Hungry.
“My first event was with Ryan Pera and Tracy Hartman when we were at [former downtown restaurant] 17.
After that, I kept returning and began to ask the organizers how I could get more involved.
They invited me to their lobby day, and I was eager to help,” Masson shared.
With a spirit of collaboration, she emphasized, “I sometimes like to use my sugar powers for good.”
This year’s event will also feature cooking demonstrations hosted by Masson and Huerta, a new and exciting addition to the festival lineup.
Masson expressed particular enthusiasm for the demonstrations planned for the evening, hinting at some fun surprises for guests.
In 2024, No Kid Hungry awarded nearly $18 million in grants to communities across the country.
The organization not only funds summer and school meal programs but also actively advocates for food accessibility and conducts research on childhood hunger issues.
For those unable to attend Taste the Nation but still wishing to contribute, online donations are encouraged through the organization’s website.
Tickets for the event can be purchased online, with four different pricing options available.
A general admission ticket, which allows access to all chef and beverage stations, is priced at $150.
For $200, an all-access pass provides VIP entry 45 minutes early, along with a special reusable plate.
For a more exclusive experience, a ticket package for $2,500 includes ten all-access tickets, while $7,500 grants access for 15 all-access tickets and a reserved area in a covered lounge.
Rebecca Masson urged potential attendees, saying, “People need to get their tickets, have a good time, and support a good cause.”
With exiting culinary offerings and an opportunity to make a difference, Taste the Nation promises to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
image source from：https://houstonfoodfinder.com/news/big-houston-restaurant-event-taste-the-nation-returns-for-2025/
