InspiringKitchen.com National Restaurant Show Archives

Jun 08

2022 National Restaurant Show Trends and Innovations

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Chicago, Foods, Restaurants, Trade Show, Trends | 6 Comments

The National Restaurant Show took over Chicago’s McCormick Place last week showcasing the latest restaurant innovations. This four-day event that brings together over 60,000 food service professionals came back to life after the pandemic as it introduced us to the latest trends in the industry. What do you think of the 2022 National Restaurant Association trends?

Exhibitors and attendees alike were happy to be seeing colleagues once again and talking shop. There was definitely an energy throughout the halls to get back to business as we knew it. This is a very big show which means lots to see and explore.… Read more

Jul 30

Eli’s Cheesecake: A Sweet Story of Dessert and Generosity

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Chicago, Culinary Event, Desserts | No Comments

When people talk about what food Chicago is famous for, the first thing mentioned is “deep dish pizza”. Well, another Chicago food tradition (and a personal favorite) actually started back in 1966 with the opening of Eli’s the Place for Steak. Chicago style cheesecake was introduced to diners at the restaurant in the late 1970’s as the signature dessert.

Eli’s Cheesecake: A little history

Long time restaurateur, Eli Schulman, had successfully created two previous dining venues before opening Eli’s the Place for Steak just off the Magnificent Mile. He had a celebrity following from legends Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis, Jr.… Read more

May 28

17 Finds from the 2019 National Restaurant Show

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Chicago, Foods, Restaurants, Trade Show | No Comments

eli's cheesecake from the National Restaurant Show

2019 is the 100 year anniversary of the National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show. Record attendance with more than 65,500 exhibitors, restaurant operators, retail foodservice professionals, equipment dealers, food distributors and many others. This massive show takes over three halls at McCormick Place in Chicago. Given the demand, in 2020, their will be a fourth exhibit hall!

17 Finds from the 2019 National Restaurant Show

Chicago’s own, Eli’s Cheesecake, created a 1,200 pound cheesecake that was cut during the opening ceremony. Chef Rick Bayless and LT. Governor, Juliana Stratton were present.

Chef Rick Bayless, LT Governor Juliana Stratton

As I walked the show, my goal was to find new products, cooking tips, tabletop ideas and overall trends.… Read more

Jul 07

National Restaurant Association Show 2016 Trend Report

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Foods, Restaurants, Trade Show | 18 Comments

When you bring together a vast group of restaurant, hospitality and foodservice people, you will undoubtedly see a passion for the industry and the opportunity to learn something. This experience took place recently at the 2016 National Restaurant and BAR (Beverage Alcohol for Restaurants) show held at McCormick Place in Chicago.

nra bar show trends report

The NRA Show increased in size from last year without question from an exhibitor and registrant perspective. There were more than 67.000 registrants from around the world in attendance. While this show is not designed for consumers to attend, the outcome of what is learned and shared at this show plays a role in what we encounter when visiting restaurants and utilizing food service locations.… Read more

Jun 22

Sustainable Atlantic Sapphire Salmon

Posted by Inspiring Kitchen | Foods, Recipe, Recipes, Restaurants | 26 Comments

Did you make a resolution to eat healthy this year? So many of us try to make smart decisions when it comes to food choices but it can get so confusing. We know that salmon is good for us but heard that it is being overfished and thus potentially declining in availability.

Inspiring Kitchen Atlantic Salmon

For that reason alone, I was intrigued to learn about a brand of salmon that is producing a delicious, nutritious and sustainable salmon. We know a number of things about salmon in general. Being low in calories and saturated fats while also containing high levels of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is considered extremely nutritious.… Read more