About this expo
The NRA Show, held annually at McCormick Place in Chicago, United States, is recognized as the most influential foodservice event in the Western Hemisphere. It is a must-attend gathering for professionals across the restaurant and foodservice industry, showcasing the latest innovations and trends. The event runs from May 22, 2027, to May 25, 2027, and is open exclusively to professionals.
Exhibitors at the Show present products and services across over 900 categories, including Food & Beverage, Technology, Equipment, and Adult Beverage. Specialty pavilions like the Organic & Natural Pavilion, TECH Pavilion, Global Food Expo, A Taste of the States, and The Beverage Room highlight specific areas. The target audience includes a broad spectrum of foodservice and hospitality operators, such as independent and chain restaurants, non-commercial foodservice, retail foodservice, grocery, and lodging. Attendees often hold decision-making roles, with 77% of Show attendees being decision makers (2027 exhibitor page context) and nearly 50% purchasing more than $5,000,000 per year (2027 exhibitor page context).
The event provides significant value for exhibitors by offering exposure to a relevant audience and establishing legitimacy within the industry. Exhibitors also gain year-round visibility through the "Year-round Marketplace" and the official online platform and mobile app, Show To Go. Attendees benefit from comprehensive education sessions, networking opportunities, and on-floor programming, including Culinary Demos and a Keynote, making it a vital resource for industry advancement.
Highlights
5 items- AUMA listed
- Held annually at McCormick Place, Chicago
- More than 2,000 exhibitors (expected 2027)
- More than 55,000 foodservice professionals (2026)
- Features concurrent events like FABI Awards and Kitchen Innovation Awards
FAQ
5 questionsWhen and where does it take place?+
The NRA Show is held annually from May 22, 2027, to May 25, 2027, at McCormick Place in Chicago, United States.
Who organizes it?+
The event is owned and operated by Informa in partnership with the National Restaurant Association. The organizer is the National Restaurant Association.
What industries and products are covered?+
The Show covers over 900 product categories, with core exhibit sectors including Food & Beverage, Technology, Equipment, and Adult Beverage. Specialty pavilions like the Organic & Natural Pavilion and Global Food Expo are also featured.
How can I attend or exhibit?+
The NRA Show is open to professionals from across the foodservice and hospitality industry, including restaurant operators, chefs, and executives. Exhibitors gain exposure to thousands of foodservice industry professionals and decision makers, with 77% of attendees being decision makers (2027 exhibitor page context).
What are the practical participation details?+
Registration for the 2027 National Restaurant Show is available. The Expo badge costs $250, and an Expo + Education Add-On is available for an additional $450. Education Session Proposals for 2026 were due by September 18, 2026.