NOTE: No official statement, confirmation, or press release from the restaurant’s management team has been released yet.

Trying to keep up with the ever-evolving Miami culinary scene can feel like a full-time job. Oh wait, it is a full-time job! Between surprise pop-ups, restaurant openings (and the dreaded closures), chef shuffles, and major accolades, staying in the know takes more than just a passing interest—it takes passion. That’s where The Whet Palette comes in, keeping a close eye on South Florida’s fine dining scene so you don’t have to.

Fresh off the heels of retaining its prestigious one Michelin star at the 2025 Michelin Guide Florida ceremony, Tambourine Room by Tristan Brandt faced what could have been a destabilizing moment: the departure of the much-talented Chef Timo Steubing. For a restaurant known for its intimate setting and razor-sharp precision, the loss of a key figure in such a tight-knit team had the potential to send ripples through its future.

But in true Miami fashion, there’s a plot twist—and a powerful one.

Effective June 10th, Chef Logan McNeil, formerly of the celebrated and equally Michelin-starred Stubborn Seed, is said to become the new chef de cuisine at Tambourine Room. Known for his disciplined technique, creativity, and deep understanding of Miami’s fine dining pulse, McNeil brings a new chapter of energy and finesse to the already high-achieving restaurant.

Chef Logan reflects, “I’ve been at Stubborn for three years and ten months (nearly four years). I came in as a limited experience line cook at 19 years old. Here, I learned how to create dishes with purpose and intention. Through Chef Jeremy’s unique cooking style, I found something I truly identify with, and from that I was able to develop my own style of cooking. But most importantly, I learned how to be a leader and a mentor. When I first walked in the doors of Stubborn I never imagined that just a few years down the road I would be leading the team to retaining the Michelin star, earning the Green Star and so many other commendable achievements. All I can say is it has been an honor and a privilege to be in a position of influence and to be able to inspire those around me. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity I was given there. Thank you Jeremy, and thank you Stubborn Seed.“

This move signals continuity and a bold evolution for the North Beach gem. With McNeil at the helm, expect new flavors, refined artistry, and a refreshed culinary narrative that keeps Miami on the global food map. Chef Logan adds, “Having proven myself over the years at Stubborn, I’m now ready to see how my skills match up with the ever-growing culinary scene here in South Florida. I’ve found my style and my confidence in the kitchen; now I’m eager to see what I’m capable of. Entering into Tambourine Room I feel I have a blank canvas to do just that. I am very grateful for the opportunity and will give it my all to ensure I do it justice.”

There is no official word yet on McNeil’s replacement at Stubborn Seed or Chef Steubing’s next move. But he did mention, “I wish Logan and the team all the best! Miami won’t be getting rid of me any time soon, even if I’ll be a little “quieter“ for the time being.” The suspense is killing us, Chef Timo!

Stubborn’s Chef Jeremy Ford’s impactful statement on Chef Logan best puts his next chapter info perspective, “Logan arrived to our kitchen at just about 20 years old and from day one blocked out all of the noise and focused on his craft and perfecting every part of it.

Within six months, we were looking at him for a management position. Some would say he is very young. Can he handle it? He had many points and moments where he was thrown into situations that he had to learn and adapt to while never losing focus of the product and the guests that he served every night. Logan learned our flavor profile under Chef Kyle and myself and put his own twist to everything he made. Chef Kyle then left the restaurant and Logan took over as the Executive Chef at about 22 years old,

I have worked with a lot of great chefs over the years, but I’ve never seen someone learn and progress as fast as Logan. He will forever be truly one of a kind and it was an honor for us to be a part of his journey… He will be a 3 star chef one day, mark my words.” Amen to that!

Stay tuned for additional exclusive insights and updates.

Keep those forks fancy, your palates whet, and your wine glasses full! 

Cheers!