Meet The 2025 Chefs
TASTE OF SUMMER IV...The Long Table Dining Experience.
Every year we have to elevate the experience for our guests. This year we are featuring not 1, not 2, not 3 not 4 but 5 local chefs/cooks who are doing amazing things with food and allowing them to share their love and passion for food with you.
This culinary experience will be one to enjoy...
We are happy to announce the featured Chefs for A Taste Of Summer- The Long Table Dining Experience...
Senior Chef James Dickey
Co-Founder of A Taste of Summer, owner of Simple Eats LLC, and author of "Simple Eats: A Salt To Taste Cookbook", James has embodied culinary creativity with his delectable dishes and sought-after "Lunch Box Wednesday" pop-ups.
Chef Beon
He is the Owner and Head Chef of BEON'D YOUR EXPECTATIONS & BEONS_PIZZA'S. Event-goers will have the opportunity to taste food by one of Baltimore's most creative chefs.
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Chef Erica Watkins
Chef Erica Watkins of Miss Erica's Kitchen, was born and raised in the heart of Baltimore County, Chef Erica has always been surrounded by the rich culinary traditions of her community. From a young age, she found joy in the kitchen, experimenting with flavors and recipes that would one day define her signature style. At Miss Erica’s Kitchen, Chef Erica combines her nurturing spirit with her culinary expertise, creating meals that are not only delicious but also filled with heart and soul. Come and experience the warmth and flavor of Chef Erica's kitchen, where every dish tells a story.
Pit Master Erik Johnson
Meet Pit Master Erik Johnson – the flame behind the flavor. With a deep-rooted passion for Southern barbecue and years of mastering the art of slow-smoked perfection, Erik Johnson brings bold taste, technique, and tradition to every plate. Known for his signature rubs, tender cuts, and melt-in-your-mouth brisket, Erik’s craft is more than cooking—it’s storytelling through smoke. As the culinary force behind his namesake brand, he’s committed to preserving Black barbecue culture while serving unforgettable flavor experiences that bring people together.
VIP Oyster Chef , Kiara Young
Chef Kiara Young, A.K.A Chef Kyeez born and raised in Baltimore, MD is currently engaged in a deep pursuit of Pastry Arts, bread making and simply enjoying the process. Chef Kyeez got her start in 2017, leaning into the flow of Pop-ups and small party catering to express her joy of feeding people in her community. Chef Kyeez has developed a small business concept that she is perfecting coined Comfortably Induging, for now, she can be found at Crust by Mack, where she is the Lead Baker and Chef, and where she is growing through this amazingly divine path.