Mark the Date and Get Inspired: The National Restaurant Association Show Is Coming

Staying inspired and mentally engaged in any profession can be challenging at times. In the restaurant industry, a business known for its high level of stress and sometimes sleepless nights, it can be easy to forget the inspiring moments that led down the path to becoming a restauranteur, manager, or operator. 

Inspiration reminds us of the possibilities. It transforms apathy into motivation and drudgery into anticipation. Like many innovative undertakings, an inspired restaurant takes us to another realm, whether in taste, appearance, or perception. It’s important for everyone in this challenging industry to set some time aside to explore what’s transforming the industry on a seemingly daily basis, from technology to social entertainment. 

The opportunity to get inspired is fast approaching. If you’re a professional in the restaurant, food service, or hospitality industry and you have not yet attended the National Restaurant Association Show, you may want to consider the grand event this year. Taking place from May 20-23, 2023, in Chicago, it’s the largest annual gathering of your peers and leaders in the industry. 

Let’s see what this year offers. 

Workshops from Experts

While many of you may attend the Show to make those all-important contacts, others appreciate the actionable information—the little tidbits of wisdom that can help streamline operations, payments, service, and more. 

This year, you’ll find workshops and sessions offering the ideal amount of information for your needs and attention level. Some of the workshops, open to operators only, include Menu Optimization, Branding, and Digital Media, and How to Set Your Beverage Program Apart from the Crowd.

Other educational opportunities include marketing strategies, the off-premise landscape, maximizing ROI and increasing operational efficiencies, the power of technology, and effective strategies for creating a stronger workforce.

Staying Up on the Trends

Insights on the latest menu trends and technology can help your restaurant stay relevant in today’s rapidly changing world. At this year’s Show, you can learn about the latest equipment designed for increasing automation and reducing labor woes.

Are you seeking inspiration from some of the top contenders in the industry? A few of the keynote speakers are Danny Meyer, the founder and executive chairman of Union Square Hospitality Group, and Pinky Cole, the founder, and CEO of Slutty Vegan. You’ll also experience culinary and beverage demos by some of the best in the business, including Brain Duffy, Rick Bayless, and Sean Sherman. Get inspired and enhance your beverage program while being entertained by the top mixologists.

Exhibitors and Suppliers

Over 1,800 exhibiting companies offer products from over 900 categories on a trade show floor bigger than 10 football fields. This provides a great source of inspiration, from food and beverage to technology, equipment, tableware, and everything in between. 

A few featured exhibitors include Alchemeat, Australis Aquaculture, Deliverect, Digital Restaurant Association, La Tourangelle, Lightspeed Commerce, Organic Mixology, and many more.

Networking Connections

While many connections are made on the show floor, you’ll also find opportunities designed just for getting to know your fellow restaurant and bar operators. These include the Young Professional Party and Industry Night Out, an event featuring Project Beverage. Here, you’ll explore experiential cocktails geared to boost sales, enhance guest satisfaction, and create Instagram-worthy beverages.

FAQS

How much does the National Restaurant Association Show cost?

For those planning early, the National Restaurant Association Show costs $110 if you register before April 3. After that time, the cost increases to $160.

Who attends the Show?

Foodservice professionals looking to improve their operations, increase their success and enhance their customer base attend the Show. Keep in mind that no one under 16 is allowed on the Show floor. 

Do I need to be a member of the National Restaurant Association? 

No, but you do need to be affiliated with the restaurant, food service, or lodging industry. This Show is for trade only and is not open to the public. It requires a business card or tax ID to register.