Taste America: Austin

Austin is one of ten stops on the James Beard Foundation's foodie tour that celebrates some of the city's best culinary talent. The event kicks off with Smoke Session, hosted by pitmaster Aaron Franklin and featuring some of Austin's most buzz-worthy restaurants: Franklin BBQ, Holy Roller, Soursop, Salt & Time, The Brewer’s Table and LeRoy & Lewis. Friday's A Night of Culinary Stars includes a one-night-only benefit dinner prepared by Ludo Lefevbre (Trois Familia, Petit Trois, Trois Mec and Ludo Bird in Los Angeles) along with Tyson Cole (Uchi) and pastry chef Laura Sawicki (Launderette)—truly an evening that won't be replicated in Austin any time soon. Tickets are pricey but the frugal set can still have fun: the tour includes free chef appearances, cooking demonstrations, book signings and artisanal tastings at Sur La Table on Saturday.