CHICAGO — Victoria Day aside, this weekend is more than a Canadian holiday, as it also marks the 2011 National Restaurant Association (NRA) Restaurant, Hotel-Motel show, which celebrates the foodservice and hospitality sectors.
The show, which will run from May 21 to 24 at Chicago’s McCormick Place, will feature exhibitors, the World Culinary Showcase, a keynote presentation by General Colin Powell, a Menu Masters award ceremony, an annual Gold and Silver Plate celebration, special pavilions and seminars.
Notable chefs participating in the World Culinary Showcase include Rick Bayless, owner and chef of the Frontera Grill and Topolobampo; Tiffani Faison, former Top Chef contestant; and Marcus Samuelsson, chef and owner of NYC’s Red Rooster and guest chef for the first Obama administration state dinner.In the meeting rooms speakers will lead seminars on everything from the local-food movement to organic produce, nutrition, ethnic-inspired breakfast items and artisan cheese.
Meanwhile, back on the showroom floor attendees can take advantage of the first global tradeshow-based group buying service — The NRA Show Daily Deals program. “Attendees will receive outstanding deals on products and services that will reduce operating costs in addition to providing opportunities to try new products and brands that may have previously been outside their price range,” said Mary Pat Heftman, executive vice-president, convention, National Restaurant Association.
For a full list of exhibitors, events and seminars, click here.
