Beyond the Barstool: Your Ultimate Guide to the Bar & Restaurant Expo, Las Vegas!

In the dazzling heart of Las Vegas, a city synonymous with hospitality, entertainment, and relentless innovation, lies an event that’s shaking up the industry: the Bar & Restaurant Expo. This isn’t just an ordinary trade show; it’s the premier annual gathering for bar and restaurant owners, operators, and professionals seeking to ignite their businesses, discover cutting-edge trends, and unlock unprecedented levels of success. Imagine a sprawling exhibition floor buzzing with energy, where every pour, every dish, every piece of equipment, and every technological solution designed to elevate the guest experience is on full display. For anyone navigating the complex, dynamic world of bars and restaurants, from the independent craft cocktail lounge to the sprawling multi-unit chain, the Bar & Restaurant Expo is not just a suggestion—it’s an absolute necessity for staying ahead of the curve, finding powerful inspiration, and cultivating unparalleled growth in today’s fiercely competitive market.

The hospitality industry is constantly evolving, driven by shifting consumer preferences, technological advancements, and the relentless pursuit of unique experiences. From the latest in mixology and craft beverages to innovative kitchen automation and guest engagement platforms, the Bar & Restaurant Expo serves as the industry’s compass, guiding attendees towards the solutions that will define tomorrow’s successful establishments. It’s where you can taste the next big drink trend, witness revolutionary bar technology in action, engage with expert-led educational sessions, and build invaluable connections with peers and suppliers from across the globe. If you’re looking to optimize your operations, create unforgettable guest experiences, tackle staffing challenges, or simply immerse yourself in the vibrant global community of bar and restaurant professionals, attending the Bar & Restaurant Expo offers an unmatched opportunity to learn, discover, and thrive.

The Epicenter of Hospitality Innovation: Venue and Time

The Bar & Restaurant Expo has cemented its position as a cornerstone event in the industry, consistently utilizing a world-class venue in a city known for its unparalleled ability to host major conventions.

The Grand Stage: The Venue The Bar & Restaurant Expo is consistently held at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. Specifically, it frequently utilizes the South Hall of the LVCC, known for its vast, modern exhibit spaces and excellent facilities. The address is 3150 Paradise Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89109. The LVCC is one of the largest and most advanced convention centers globally, perfectly equipped to accommodate the Expo’s extensive number of exhibitors, numerous educational stages, and high visitor traffic. Las Vegas itself, with its robust infrastructure, abundant accommodation options, and easy accessibility from Harry Reid International Airport, serves as an ideal and magnetic destination for both domestic and international attendees.

The Annual Catalyst: The Schedule The Bar & Restaurant Expo is an annual event, consistently taking place in mid-to-late March. This strategic timing allows industry professionals to gather after the busy holiday season and before the full swing of spring and summer operations, providing a perfect window for planning, procurement, and professional development for the year ahead.

For 2026, the Bar & Restaurant Expo is scheduled to run from March 23-25, 2026.

The event typically spans three full days, with a meticulously planned schedule designed to maximize learning, discovery, and networking:

• Show Floor Hours: Generally from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM on the first two days, and 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on the final day, allowing ample time to explore the diverse exhibits.
• Conference Program: A comprehensive program of seminars, workshops, and keynote speeches runs throughout the show days, often starting earlier in the mornings (e.g., 8:00 AM) before the exhibit hall opens and continuing into the afternoon. These sessions cover a wide array of critical topics.
• Product Showcases & Demos: Various stages and dedicated areas feature live mixology demos, culinary showcases, product launches, and expert presentations from leading brands.
• Networking Events: Numerous scheduled and informal networking opportunities, including the popular Platinum Party and specific happy hours, are woven into the event, fostering valuable connections.
• Co-located World Tea Expo: Since 2024, the Bar & Restaurant Expo has been co-located with the World Tea Expo, meaning your Bar & Restaurant Expo badge also grants access to the World Tea Expo floor. This provides an additional layer of product discovery, especially given the growing trend of specialty tea in food service.

This extensive and dynamic schedule ensures that every attendee, regardless of their specific role or interest, finds valuable content and connections to propel their business forward.

The Full Service Menu: Key Product and Service Categories

The Bar & Restaurant Expo is a truly comprehensive marketplace, covering every product, service, and technological solution imaginable for the entire bar and restaurant ecosystem. With hundreds of exhibitors, it leaves no stone unturned in catering to the diverse needs of the industry. Key categories typically featured include:

• Beverages (Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic):
  • Spirits & Liqueurs: Whiskey, vodka, gin, rum, tequila, specialty liqueurs, craft spirits, no-alcohol spirits, ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails.
  • Beer & Wine: Craft beer, domestic and international brews, wine varietals, sparkling wines, ciders.
  • Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Specialty coffees, teas (especially with the co-located World Tea Expo), kombuchas, craft sodas, juices, sparkling waters, mocktail ingredients, functional beverages.
  • Mixes & Syrups: Cocktail mixes, flavor syrups, garnishes, bitters.
• Food Products & Ingredients:
  • Gourmet food items, appetizers, desserts, snack foods.
  • Specialty ingredients for culinary innovation.
  • Plant-based and dietary-specific options.
  • Foodservice equipment for preparation and cooking.
• Bar & Kitchen Equipment & Supplies:
  • Bar Equipment: Draft systems, ice machines, blenders, juicers, glass washers, speed rails, bar refrigeration.
  • Kitchen Equipment: Ovens, ranges, fryers, griddles, dishwashers, walk-in coolers, food prep equipment.
  • Smallwares: Glassware, bar tools, cutlery, plates, serving dishes.
  • Furniture & Fixtures: Bar stools, tables, chairs, outdoor patio furniture, lighting, decor.
• Technology & Business Solutions:
  • Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems: Mobile POS, online ordering, payment processing, inventory management, guest management.
  • Restaurant Management Software: Labor scheduling, reservation systems, table management, delivery integration.
  • Kitchen Automation & Robotics: Bartending robots, food prep automation.
  • Digital Signage & Menu Boards.
  • Marketing & Loyalty Programs: Customer relationship management (CRM), social media tools, promotions.
  • Security Systems & Surveillance.
  • Sound & Lighting Systems, Entertainment Solutions.
• Services & Consulting:
  • Franchising opportunities.
  • Financial services, loans, insurance, legal advice.
  • Design and build services for bars and restaurants.
  • Marketing and advertising agencies.
  • Staffing and training solutions, HR management.
  • Music licensing and entertainment booking.
  • Uniforms and apparel.

This incredibly broad range ensures that decision-makers from all segments of the hospitality industry can find precisely what they need to innovate, optimize, and differentiate their establishments.

A Confluence of Hospitality Pros: Visitor and Exhibitor Count

The Bar & Restaurant Expo draws a substantial and highly targeted audience, reflecting its position as the leading event for the on-premise industry.

• Visitor Count: The Show consistently attracts a significant number of industry professionals. In March 2025, the Bar & Restaurant Expo welcomed over 10,000 attendees, who enjoyed access to leading suppliers, networking opportunities, and educational content. The 2023 event saw 11,477 attendees, marking a substantial increase. This large, qualified audience comprises owners, operators, general managers, F&B directors, and decision-makers from bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, and other hospitality venues. Attendees come from across the United States and internationally, seeking solutions and insights.
• Exhibitor Count: The Expo features a vast number of exhibitors, with over 500 brands showcasing their products, services, and solutions in 2025. This includes a mix of established industry giants and innovative emerging brands, all presenting the latest advancements and trends in food, beverage, technology, and design. The co-location with World Tea Expo further expands the number of relevant suppliers.
• Attendee Demographics: The audience is precisely tailored to the hospitality industry, ensuring high-quality interactions:
  • Bar & Nightclub Owners/Operators: Seeking new concepts, spirits, beer, wine, and entertainment solutions.
  • Restaurant Owners/Operators: Looking for innovative food products, kitchen equipment, and front-of-house technology.
  • Hotel & Lodging Professionals: F&B directors, general managers, and purchasing agents for hotel bars, restaurants, and room service.
  • Distributors & Wholesalers: Seeking new products to add to their portfolios.
  • Mixologists & Bartenders: Learning new techniques, discovering trending ingredients, and honing their craft.
  • Chefs & Culinary Directors: Exploring new food products and kitchen innovations.
  • Designers & Consultants: Looking for new furnishings, decor, and operational solutions for clients.
  • Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Individuals planning to open new establishments, gathering critical information and contacts.
  • Media & Influencers: Covering the latest trends and product launches.

The high concentration of decision-makers makes the Bar & Restaurant Expo an incredibly efficient and productive environment for business development and market penetration.

Raise a Glass to Success: Benefits and Perks of Attending

Attending the Bar & Restaurant Expo is an unparalleled strategic investment for anyone serious about excelling in the dynamic hospitality industry, offering a potent blend of resources and opportunities.

• Unrivaled Product & Solution Discovery: Explore the largest collection of new spirits, beers, wines, non-alcoholic beverages, food products, cutting-edge equipment, and revolutionary technology under one roof. See side-by-side comparisons and discover solutions tailored to your specific operational needs.
• Hands-On Immersion: Get up close with equipment, sample new beverages and food items, and experience technology demonstrations firsthand. This tactile engagement is invaluable for making informed purchasing decisions for your bar or restaurant.
• World-Class Education: Access a robust, multi-track conference program featuring expert-led seminars, workshops, and keynotes. Learn about critical topics such as profit growth strategies, operational efficiency, guest experience enhancement, people management, marketing tactics, and beverage program development. Gain actionable insights directly from industry leaders.
• Live Culinary & Mixology Demonstrations: Witness top chefs and award-winning mixologists showcase innovative techniques, new recipes, and creative presentations on various stages. This provides immense inspiration for elevating your menu and bar program.
• Global Networking Opportunities: Connect with thousands of industry peers, leaders, suppliers, and potential partners from across the U.S. and around the world. Forge valuable relationships that can lead to new business opportunities, collaborations, and shared problem-solving.
• Trendspotting Excellence: The Expo is a premier platform for identifying emerging trends in beverages, food, technology, and guest experience. Be among the first to discover the next big thing that will captivate your customers.
• Solutions for Real-World Challenges: The Show is explicitly designed to address the industry’s most pressing issues, from labor shortages and rising costs to evolving consumer demands for unique experiences. Find tangible solutions and practical advice to overcome your biggest hurdles.
• Co-Located Value with World Tea Expo: Your single badge grants you access to the World Tea Expo, allowing you to explore the booming tea market and discover new ways to diversify your beverage offerings and appeal to a broader customer base.
• Exclusive Deals & Discounts: Many exhibitors offer “show-only” pricing or special promotions, providing an opportunity to secure favorable deals on purchases for your business.
• Inspiring Competitions & Experiences: From mixology competitions to speed bartending challenges, the energetic atmosphere provides both entertainment and insights into the skills and innovations driving the industry.

Your Las Vegas Retreat: Nearby Hotels and Convenient Accommodation

Las Vegas, as a premier convention destination, offers an extensive array of hotel options to suit every budget and preference. The Bar & Restaurant Expo’s location at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) ensures convenient access from numerous hotels.

• On-Site / Connected Hotels: The LVCC is exceptionally well-served by hotels, many within walking distance or directly connected. The Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino is adjacent to the LVCC and boasts its own monorail station. The Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World is a luxurious, newer option directly connected to the LVCC via a pedestrian bridge, providing seamless access to the West Hall (and often the South Hall where the Expo is).
• Monorail Access: The Las Vegas Monorail system provides convenient transportation along the famous Las Vegas Strip, with a dedicated station at the LVCC. This means you have access to a vast selection of hotels along the Strip, including popular resorts like MGM Grand, Horseshoe Las Vegas, Flamingo, Harrah’s, The LINQ Hotel + Experience, The Venetian Resort, Wynn/Encore, and many more. Choosing a monorail-accessible hotel minimizes travel time and cost.
• Official Housing Partner: The Bar & Restaurant Expo typically partners with an official housing provider (e.g., OnPeak). Booking through this official channel is highly recommended as it usually offers discounted rates, favorable cancellation policies, and often a “book now, pay later” option, ensuring a hassle-free booking experience.
• Off-Strip Options: While the Strip offers endless entertainment, numerous comfortable and often more budget-friendly hotels are available just off-Strip or downtown. These may require a short taxi, rideshare, or bus ride to the Convention Center.

Given the popularity of Las Vegas as a convention hub, and the significant attendance at the Bar & Restaurant Expo, it is strongly advised to book your accommodation as early as possible – ideally immediately after confirming your attendance – to secure your preferred hotel and rate.

The Investment in Excellence: Understanding the Cost to Attend

Attending the Bar & Restaurant Expo is a strategic investment in the future of any bar or restaurant business. While specific pricing can vary slightly year-to-year and depending on registration timing, here’s a general overview:

• Expo Only Pass: This basic pass, granting access to the exhibit hall and general show floor events (like demos), typically starts around $99 USD for early bird registration. Prices will increase for standard and on-site registration.
• Conference Package / All-Access Pass: This comprehensive pass includes access to the exhibit hall, all education sessions, keynote speakers, and sometimes additional workshops or exclusive networking events. Early bird rates for this package usually range from $250 – $400+ USD. Prices for standard and on-site registration will be higher.
• Specialized Workshops/Events: Some highly specialized workshops or pre-show summits may have an additional fee beyond the All-Access pass.
• Questex Hotel & Restaurant Member Benefits: If you are a subscriber or member of certain Questex (the event organizer) publications or programs, you may be eligible for discounts or complimentary passes.
• Non-Exhibiting Manufacturer/Supplier (NONEX) Policy: For companies that are typically suppliers to the industry but choose not to exhibit, there is a significantly higher registration fee (often several hundreds of dollars) to access the show floor. This policy encourages companies to exhibit if they are primarily looking to sell products or services.

These fees generally cover access to the show itself. Attendees should also budget for personal travel (flights/trains), accommodation, and dining expenses in Las Vegas. For the unparalleled access to innovation, education, and networking with key decision-makers across the entire hospitality industry, the return on this investment is considered substantial and often critical for staying competitive and achieving sustained success.

Elevate Your Establishment: Your Journey to Bar & Restaurant Mastery Begins Here!

The Bar & Restaurant Expo is more than just a gathering; it’s the dynamic heartbeat of the hospitality industry, a vibrant and inspiring convergence of ideas, cutting-edge products, and invaluable expertise. It’s where the latest beverage innovations are uncorked, where revolutionary technology transforms operations, and where vital connections are forged that propel businesses forward. Whether you are a seasoned operator seeking to optimize profitability, an emerging entrepreneur ready to launch your dream concept, or a supplier looking to connect with the best in the business, attending this Show is an essential experience that will ignite your passion, broaden your knowledge, and empower you to lead in the exciting, ever-evolving world of bars and restaurants. Don’t just operate; innovate, connect, and dominate!

To learn more about the Bar & Restaurant Expo and to plan your attendance, visit: barandrestaurantexpo.com