Running a thriving restaurant isn’t just about great food—it’s about staying ahead of the curve.
Organizer: National Restaurant AssociationLocation: McCormick Place, Chicago, ILDates: May 17-20, 2025 Admission cost: $135-$950 Hosted by one of the most respected organizations in the industry, the National Restaurant Show is widely regarded as the go-to conference for restaurant professionals. If you were to choose just one event to attend this year, this would be a top contender.
I’ve had the opportunity to attend before, and this conference offers a unique opportunity to explore the latest trends, technologies, and products all under one roof. It’s an excellent setting for networking with industry peers, attending insightful expert-led sessions, and discovering innovative solutions to elevate business operations.
Whether you’re looking to stay ahead in the competitive restaurant industry or simply broaden your knowledge, the National Restaurant Show provides a well-rounded experience for operators and professionals alike.
Pro tip: If you’re going this year, swing by Booth 5565 and meet the Slang.ai team!
Organizer: The Restaurant Finance MonitorLocation: The Bellagio, Las Vegas, NVDates: November 10-12, 2025 Admission cost: TBDNotable speakers: Malcolm Jenkins, 12-Year NFL Veteran Joe Sieve, Chief Restaurant & Development Officer, Papa Johns Lee Maen, Founder & Co-CEO, Innovative Dining Group The Restaurant Finance & Development Conference (RFDC) is a pivotal event for restaurant operators, where attendees can join sessions about financial strategies and development opportunities within the industry. Some topics include funding restaurant growth, managing financial risks, and leveraging the latest industry trends to drive success.
Restaurant operators attending RFDC can connect with financial experts, industry leaders, and potential investors. This helps them make better decisions and move their businesses forward with confidence.
Organizer: FSTECLocation: Gaylord Palms, Kissimmee, FLDates: September 14-16, 2025Admission cost: TBDFor restaurant operators interested in technology and innovation, FSTEC is worth consideration. This event is known for providing learning about the latest technological advancements that can revolutionize restaurant management and customer experience.
Organizer: Restaurant EventsLocation: Javits Center, New York, NYDates: March 23-25, 2025Admission cost: $40–$99The New York Restaurant Show, formerly The International Restaurant & Foodservice Show of New York, offers the latest in food trends and technology and is a one-stop shop for restaurant operators to find everything they need for their business. The show features a wide range of exhibitors, world-class education sessions, and interactive culinary demonstrations, making it a valuable experience for those looking to innovate and grow.
Organizer: Bar & Restaurant ExpoLocation: Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NVDates: March 24-26, 2025 Admission cost: $99-699 Notable speakers: Judy Bennett, Co-owner, American 35 Jason Brooks, Author, Hospitality Coach Adrianne Calvo, Chef, Author, TV Host, Maximum Flavor David Ciancio, Co-Founder & CMO, Handcraft Burgers & Brew The Bar & Restaurant Expo is another essential event that should be on your radar in 2025. Attendees will gain insights from industry experts, explore cutting-edge trends, and network with over 13,000 professionals. The expo offers a chance to learn, sample new food and beverage trends, and find solutions to enhance your bottom line. This massive conference promotes learning and connections among attendees.
Organizer: Informa ConnectLocation: JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort, Phoenix, AZDates: April 13–16, 2025Admission costs: Registration fees are complimentary for those who have received an invitation.RLC is one of the most exclusive events in the restaurant industry. It brings together C-suite executives, thought leaders, and innovators. Held at the luxurious JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort, this invite-only summit combines high-caliber networking with actionable insights on leadership, growth, and emerging market trends.
From solution-focused keynotes to forward-thinking panel discussions, every session is designed to sharpen your strategic edge. You’ll hear perspectives from industry icons, explore challenges facing modern operators, and discover new tools for cultivating a thriving business.
Organizer: Welcome ConferenceLocation: TBDDates: TBDAdmission costs: TBDNotable past speakers: Danny Myer, Founder and Executive Chairman, Union Square Hospitality Group Randy Garutti, CEO (Retired 2024), Shake Shack The Welcome Conference, founded by Will Guidara in 2014, has grown into one of the top events in the hospitality industry. Its mission is to create a space where dining room professionals can connect, exchange ideas, and inspire one another.
Over the years, it’s evolved into America’s premier hospitality symposium, with over 100 diverse speakers—from Fortune 500 CEOs to celebrated restaurateurs and even FBI hostage negotiators. What sets the conference apart is its belief that hospitality is a craft that can be refined, a muscle that can be strengthened.
Organizer: Hospitality TechnologyLocation: Caesars Forum, Las Vegas, NVDates: March 10–12, 2025Admission costs: $695–$1,850MURTEC celebrates its 30th year as a premier event for multi-unit restaurant operators embracing tech-driven growth. This year, it moves to Caesars Forum in Las Vegas (March 10–12, 2025) to spotlight tools that elevate efficiency, guest satisfaction, and profitability.
Hosted by Hospitality Technology, MURTEC combines product demos, strategy sessions, and networking to sharpen your competitive edge. Whether seeking the latest POS solutions or AI-driven analytics, this conference delivers actionable insights to power your restaurant’s success.
Organizer: Food & WineLocation: Aspen, CODates: June 20–22, 2025Admission costs: TBDThe Food & Wine Classic in Aspen combines a luxurious alpine setting with hands-on culinary exploration. From expertly led tastings to educational panels, it’s a gastronomic retreat that inspires restaurateurs and epicureans alike.
Attendees can immerse themselves in cooking demos, sample world-class fare, and connect with industry influencers. Hosted by Food & Wine, this high-profile gathering offers fresh ideas to elevate menus and enhance guest experiences.
Organizer: Restaurants CanadaLocation: Enercare Centre, Toronto, ON, CADates: April 7-9, 2025Admission cost: $69-$894As the first on this list outside the U.S., the Restaurants Canada Show is Canada's leading hospitality and foodservice event. Also known as the RC Show, this event showcases the latest products and technologies and hosts discussions about emerging trends and business strategies. With informative sessions, an exhibit hall, and networking with industry leaders, it’s a high-value event for restaurateurs based in Canada.
Organizer: Restaurant EventsLocation: Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, CADates: August 3-5, 2025Admission cost: TBDThe California Restaurant Show, formerly the Western Foodservice & Hospitality Expo, is a staple hospitality conference in southern California. You can expect diverse programming and valuable lessons from leading figures. This event promotes making connections and uncovering trends to innovate your business strategy.
Organizer: Restaurant Franchising & InnovationLocation: Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort & Spa at Grande Dunes, Myrtle Beach, SC Dates: March 11-13, 2025 Admission cost: $1,095-$2,045 Notable past speakers: Tabassum Zalotrawalam, SVP, Chief Development Officer, McDonald's Carolyne Canady, Chief Development Officer, Dave’s Hot Chicken John Lucas, VP of Brand & Franchise Development, Farmer Boys An ideal event for those interested in franchising, the Restaurant Franchising & Innovation Summit offers attendees a place to learn about cutting-edge strategies and technologies that can help grow franchise businesses.
You can expect to hear from top executives in the industry, some of whom represent brands like McDonald’s, Dave’s Hot Chicken, Farmer Boys, and many more. This is an excellent place for networking, learning, and finding new ways to innovate in franchising.
Organizer: James Beard FoundationLocation: Chicago, ILDates: June 14–16, 2025Admission costs: TBDThe James Beard Awards spotlight groundbreaking chefs, restaurateurs, and innovators shaping America’s culinary scene. Held in Chicago and organized by the James Beard Foundation, this prestigious gathering goes beyond an awards ceremony to offer educational workshops and interactive seminars.
Attendees can expand their networks, swap ideas with fellow visionaries, and gain valuable insights into emerging food trends. Whether you aspire to push culinary boundaries or simply admire excellence, this event offers a ton.
Organizer: Restaurant EventsLocation: Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, FLDates: November 2–4, 2025Admission costs: $0-$657The Florida Restaurant Show provides an in-depth look at regional trends in the southeastern U.S. market. Attendees can engage with expert-led panels, experience live demos, and expand their professional networks. With admission options ranging from free to premium, this conference makes a compelling case for restaurateurs seeking growth in the region.
Organizer: Southern Smoke FoundationLocation: Houston, TXDates: TBDAdmission costs: TBDThe Southern Smoke Festival unites food, drink, and philanthropy, offering an immersive culinary experience in the heart of Houston. Organized by the Southern Smoke Foundation, it supports restaurant workers and local communities in tangible ways. Attendees can indulge in expertly crafted dishes, connect with top chefs, and share in the spirit of giving.
Organizer: Texas Restaurant AssociationLocation: George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston, TXDates: July 20–21, 2025Admission costs: Free-$395The Texas Restaurant Show, organized by the Texas Restaurant Association, delivers a deep dive into the state’s most forward-thinking dining concepts. Held at Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center, it offers insights and resources to fuel restaurant growth. This conference is a prime opportunity to elevate your business in the Lone Star State.
Organizer: FABLocation: Charleston, SCDates: June 8–10, 2025Admission costs: TBDFAB Workshop fosters a supportive environment for women in hospitality and features sessions led by inspiring speakers and tailored networking opportunities. Attendees can glean practical insights, share experiences, and form meaningful connections that drive innovation. Organized by FAB, it stands out as a crucial gathering for both emerging and established leaders seeking community and growth.
Organizer: Oregon Restaurant & Lodging AssociationLocation: Portland Expo Center, Portland, ORDates: April 13-14, 2025 Admission cost: TBD The Northwest Food Show features the latest in food, beverage, technology, and operations. It's an excellent venue for discovering emerging products and trends that can positively impact your business. The show also offers interactive presentations and networking opportunities with industry peers and suppliers, making it a valuable experience for anyone looking to improve and innovate in the restaurant industry.
Organizer: Food and Beverage OntarioLocation: Steam Whistle, Toronto, ON, CanadaDates: May 28, 2025 Admission cost: $425-$700Food & Beverage Ontario brings together leaders and innovators from the province’s thriving food sector. Hosted by Food and Beverage Ontario, it highlights collaboration among producers, suppliers, and operators seeking fresh insights and strategies. Attendees gather at Steam Whistle in Toronto for emerging trends, regulatory updates, and technological breakthroughs.
Organizer: TBDLocation: Downtown Los Angeles, CADates: April 10–11, 2025Admission costs: $210-$995Curbivore is a dynamic gathering that unites restaurants, retailers, technologists, and policymakers to explore the crossroads of transportation, urban planning, small business, and commerce. Featuring speakers from industry leaders such as DoorDash, Uber, and EveryTable, the event offers valuable insights into how food delivery, mobility, and logistics are transforming the foodservice landscape.
Organizer: Food On DemandLocation: The Bellagio, Las Vegas, NVDates: May 5–7, 2025Admission costs: $395 Notable past speakers: Jim Bitticks, President & COO, Dave's Hot Chicken Ruth Isenstadt, Head of US Restaurants, Doordash This conference focuses on the latest trends in mobile ordering, delivery, ghost kitchens, and AI solutions for foodservice businesses. It offers networking and strategies to help restaurants increase efficiency and boost sales through off-premise and delivery-focused solutions.
Organizer: National Restaurant AssociationLocation: Louisville, KYDates: July 8–10, 2025Admission costs: TBDNotable past speakers: Michelle Korsmo, President and CEO, National Restaurant Association James Fripp, Chief Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Officer, Yum! Brands The Table, hosted by the National Restaurant Association, focuses on resilience and future-focused strategies for restaurant operators. Offering specialized sessions across various roles, it delivers timely insights designed to propel businesses toward sustainable growth and success.
Supercharge your restaurant business in 2025 With 2024 in the books, the coming year is ripe with fresh opportunities. Attending suitable events, conferences, or trade shows can be super valuable to help you reach your goals.
To determine which events make the most sense, think critically about areas of your business you want to improve. For example, let’s say you want to dive into franchising, in which case you’ll want to attend a conference for this group of professionals.
Whatever you choose, great insights and connections with other professionals can have immensely positive effects.
Want to learn how AI technology can increase efficiency and improve the guest experience? Book a quick 10-minute demo to learn more about Slang.ai.
