Sunshine State Sensation: Your Ultimate Guide to the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show, Orlando!

Florida, a global tourism powerhouse and a hub for diverse culinary experiences, plays host to an annual event that is absolutely essential for anyone thriving in its vibrant hospitality sector: the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show. This isn’t just a convention; it’s the premier regional event for the entire foodservice and lodging industry across the Southeast U.S. Imagine stepping into the vast halls of a world-class convention center, filled with the enticing aromas of new dishes, the soft hum of innovative kitchen equipment, and the energetic buzz of industry leaders exchanging ideas and forging crucial connections. This is where you can taste the next big menu trend, explore revolutionary technology for both kitchens and guest rooms, engage in invaluable educational sessions, and network with thousands of peers and suppliers who are shaping the future of hospitality. For restaurant owners, chefs, caterers, hotel operators, bar managers, and aspiring entrepreneurs, the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show is not just an opportunity—it’s an indispensable annual pilgrimage for staying ahead of the curve, finding inspiration, and cultivating unparalleled growth in Florida’s incredibly competitive and dynamic market.

The hospitality industry in Florida is a unique blend of high-volume tourism, sophisticated fine dining, casual local favorites, and a burgeoning lodging sector. This constant evolution demands that professionals stay at the forefront of innovation, from new dietary trends and sustainable practices to advanced guest management systems and creative marketing strategies. The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show serves as the ultimate compass for these shifts, unveiling new products, showcasing cutting-edge solutions, and providing a platform for critical knowledge exchange. It’s where emerging concepts gain traction, and established brands unveil their latest offerings to elevate the guest experience. If you’re looking to optimize your operations, refresh your menu with unique and profitable items, tackle staffing challenges in a tight labor market, understand evolving consumer demands, or simply immerse yourself in the passionate community of Florida’s hospitality professionals, attending this show offers an unmatched opportunity to learn, discover, and propel your establishment to new heights.

The Heart of Sunshine Hospitality: Venue and Time

The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show benefits from its consistent location in Orlando, a city perfectly equipped to host major conventions with ease and efficiency.

The Grand Stage: The Venue The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show is consistently held at the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) in Orlando, Florida, USA. The OCCC is one of the largest and most impressive convention facilities globally, known for its vast exhibit space, modern amenities, and convenient location. Its address is 9899 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819. The sheer scale of the OCCC allows the Expo to feature hundreds of exhibitors, multiple educational theaters, and a variety of special events, all under one roof. Orlando itself, as a world-class tourist destination with abundant hotels, diverse dining, and easy access from Orlando International Airport (MCO), makes it an ideal and highly attractive host city for both domestic and international attendees.

The Autumn Advantage: The Schedule The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show is an annual event, consistently taking place in mid-November. This strategic timing allows industry professionals to gather after the peak summer tourism season but before the busy end-of-year holiday rush, providing an opportune window for planning, procurement, and professional development for the coming year.

For 2025, the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show is scheduled to run from November 11-13, 2025. Education sessions typically begin concurrently with the exhibit hall opening, offering comprehensive learning opportunities from the start.

The event typically spans three full days, with a meticulously planned schedule designed to maximize discovery, education, 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.
• Education Program: A robust, three-day conference program of seminars, workshops, and keynote speeches runs throughout the show. These sessions often start earlier in the mornings (e.g., 8:00 AM) and are carefully scheduled to minimize overlap, maximizing learning opportunities for attendees. The program typically offers over 40 hours of educational content.
• Culinary Innovation Theater: This dedicated stage features live cooking demonstrations by acclaimed chefs, product showcases, and inspiring presentations, offering valuable insights into culinary trends and techniques.
• Competitions and Demonstrations: The show hosts various exciting culinary and perhaps lodging-focused competitions, adding an element of thrill and showcasing top industry talent.
• Networking Events: Numerous formal and informal networking opportunities are integrated into the event, designed to foster connections between attendees, exhibitors, and industry leaders.
• Co-located Events: The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show is consistently co-located with The Pizza Tomorrow Summit. This means a single badge grants you access to both show floors, significantly expanding the range of products, services, and specialized content available. This co-location provides a unique advantage for businesses looking to diversify their offerings or specialize in pizza.

This extensive and dynamic schedule ensures that every attendee, whether an experienced operator or a budding entrepreneur, finds valuable content and connections to propel their business forward in Florida’s unique market.

The Full-Service Offering: Key Product and Service Categories

The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show offers an incredibly comprehensive range of products, services, and solutions that cater to every facet of operating a successful restaurant, bar, or lodging establishment. With hundreds of exhibitors, it serves as a one-stop shop for industry professionals. Key categories typically featured include:

• Food Products & Ingredients:
  • Fresh produce, meats, poultry, seafood (with a focus on both local Florida sourcing and global flavors).
  • Dairy products, cheeses, eggs.
  • Specialty and gourmet food items, including artisanal, organic, natural, and sustainable products.
  • Baked goods, pastries, desserts.
  • Sauces, condiments, spices, oils, vinegars.
  • Frozen foods, prepared foods, meal kits.
  • Plant-based, gluten-free, allergy-friendly, and other dietary-specific options, reflecting diverse consumer demands.
• Beverages (Alcoholic & Non-Alcoholic):
  • Spirits, craft beer, wine, and non-alcoholic alternatives (e.g., zero-proof spirits, unique mocktails).
  • Specialty coffees, teas, espresso machines, brewing equipment.
  • Soft drinks, juices, craft sodas, sparkling waters, and functional beverages.
  • Mixes, syrups, and garnishes for innovative cocktails and mocktails.
• Kitchen & Bar Equipment:
  • Commercial ovens, ranges, fryers, grills, griddles, specialized pizza ovens (due to co-location).
  • Refrigeration and freezer units (walk-ins, reach-ins, display cases).
  • Dishwashing equipment, sanitation supplies, waste management solutions.
  • Food preparation equipment (slicers, mixers, blenders, food processors).
  • Ice machines, draft beer systems, espresso machines.
  • Ventilation systems.
• Lodging Specific Products & Services:
  • Guest room amenities, linens, bedding, toiletries.
  • Furniture and fixtures for guest rooms and public areas.
  • In-room technology (smart TVs, charging stations).
  • Housekeeping supplies and equipment.
  • Security systems, key card technology.
  • Property management systems (PMS) and booking engines.
• Technology & Business Solutions:
  • Point-of-Sale (POS) systems (mobile POS, online ordering integration, payment processing).
  • Restaurant and hotel management software (labor scheduling, inventory, reservation systems, property management).
  • Online ordering platforms, third-party delivery integration, delivery management software.
  • Customer relationship management (CRM) and loyalty programs.
  • Digital signage, menu boards, guest engagement platforms.
  • Security systems, audio-visual equipment.
• Tableware, Design & Furnishings:
  • Plates, cutlery, glassware, linens, tabletop accessories.
  • Furniture (tables, chairs, bar stools, lobby furniture), lighting, decor.
  • Restaurant and hotel interior design and architecture services.
  • Uniforms and apparel for front and back of house.
• Services & Consulting:
  • Franchising opportunities.
  • Financial services, loans, insurance, legal advice (e.g., liquor licensing).
  • HR, staffing, and training solutions, including food safety certifications (e.g., ServSafe).
  • Marketing, branding, and public relations agencies specific to hospitality.
  • Food safety and compliance programs.
  • Waste management and sustainability solutions.

This incredibly diverse range ensures that any professional in the restaurant, foodservice, or lodging business, from a new startup to a large established chain, can find solutions to improve every aspect of their establishment.

The Sunshine State’s Industry Hub: Visitor and Exhibitor Count

The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show consistently attracts a substantial and highly qualified audience, reflecting its position as the premier event for the region’s dynamic hospitality industry.

• Visitor Count: The Show typically draws thousands of qualified attendees, comprising key decision-makers and professionals actively seeking products, solutions, and knowledge. The 2024 event, for example, welcomed 4,500 visitors, showcasing a highly engaged and focused audience. This large, engaged audience ensures valuable interactions for both exhibitors and attendees. The co-location with The Pizza Tomorrow Summit further expands the visitor base, attracting a diverse range of foodservice operators.
• Exhibitor Count: The Expo features hundreds of exhibiting companies, showcasing their latest products, equipment, ingredients, and services. The 2024 show had 325 exhibitors, a mix of established industry giants and innovative emerging brands, all presenting the latest advancements and trends. The co-location with The Pizza Tomorrow Summit also adds a new pool of suppliers, particularly focused on the booming pizza segment.
• Attendee Demographics: The audience at the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show is precisely targeted and impactful, covering all facets of the industry:
  • Restaurant Owners & Operators: From independent establishments to multi-unit chains, across all service styles (fine dining, casual, quick-service, pizzeria).
  • Hotel, Resort, & Lodging Professionals: Including owners, general managers, F&B directors, purchasing managers, and front office managers.
  • Chefs & Culinary Directors: Seeking new ingredients, equipment, and menu inspiration.
  • Caterers: Looking for new products, logistical solutions, and event management tools.
  • Bar & Nightclub Operators: Exploring new beverage trends, bar equipment, and entertainment solutions.
  • Foodservice Professionals: Including managers and directors from hospitals, educational institutions, corporate dining, amusement parks, and convention centers.
  • Retail Owners: Especially those with in-store cafes or prepared food sections.
  • Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Individuals planning to open new restaurants, hotels, or foodservice concepts.
  • Distributors & Brokers: Scouting new products and forging partnerships.
  • Media & Influencers: Food writers, journalists, and industry analysts covering trends.

The high concentration of decision-makers and the targeted nature of the audience make this event incredibly efficient and productive for business development and market insights.

The Recipe for Success: Benefits and Perks of Attending

Attending the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show is an immersive and strategic investment, offering a wealth of advantages for any professional operating in Florida’s dynamic hospitality sector.

• Extensive Product & Solution Discovery: Explore hundreds of exhibitors showcasing the latest food products, beverages (including specialized coffee/tea, and pizza-related ingredients due to co-location), kitchen and lodging equipment, bar supplies, cutting-edge technology, and innovative services. This is your chance to discover unique offerings and solutions that will make your establishment thrive.
• Direct Supplier Connections: Engage face-to-face with manufacturers, distributors, and service providers. This direct interaction facilitates quality assessment, allows for negotiation, and helps in building invaluable long-term business relationships.
• Premier Trend Spotting: Gain immediate insights into current and emerging trends across the Florida and Southeast U.S. hospitality landscape. This includes a focus on new menu items, beverage innovations, sustainable practices, technological advancements for both restaurants and lodging, and evolving consumer preferences. Stay ahead of the curve.
• World-Class Education Program: Benefit from a robust, three-day schedule of seminars, workshops, and keynote speeches led by industry experts. Topics cover critical areas such as profit growth strategies, operational efficiency, guest experience enhancement, people management, marketing tactics, menu development, and the latest in lodging operations. The program offers over 40 hours of practical, actionable education.
• Live Culinary Demonstrations & Competitions: Witness top chefs and mixologists in action at the Culinary Innovation Theater, showcasing new techniques, ingredients, and presentations. The co-located Pizza Tomorrow Summit also features exciting pizza competitions and demonstrations, offering immense inspiration and entertainment.
• Targeted Networking Opportunities: Connect with thousands of industry peers, leaders, and potential partners specifically from Florida and the broader Southeast. Share challenges, exchange best practices, and build a powerful professional network within your regional market. The show provides dedicated opportunities to connect with a highly-qualified, industry-centric audience.
• Solutions for Operational Challenges: The show is explicitly designed to address the most pressing issues facing the industry, such as labor shortages, rising costs, supply chain disruptions, and adapting to new regulations. Discover tangible solutions and practical advice to overcome these hurdles.
• Added Value from Co-located Events: Your single badge grants access to The Pizza Tomorrow Summit, significantly expanding your product discovery into the highly specialized and booming pizza industry, offering diverse revenue stream opportunities.
• Exclusive Show-Only Deals: Many exhibitors offer special pricing, discounts, or promotions exclusively for show attendees, providing an opportunity for significant cost savings on purchases for your business.
• Inspiration & Innovation: Immerse yourself in an environment buzzing with creativity and innovation, sparking new ideas for your menu, operational efficiencies, guest services, and overall establishment appeal.

Your Orlando Oasis: Nearby Hotels and Convenient Accommodation

Orlando, as a premier global destination, offers an extensive array of hotel options to suit every budget and preference, with many conveniently located near the Orange County Convention Center (OCCC).

• Within Walking Distance / OCCC Campus: Several large hotels are directly connected to or within a very short walk of the OCCC, offering unparalleled convenience:
  • Hyatt Regency Orlando: Directly connected to the OCCC.
  • Hilton Orlando: Also directly connected via a pedestrian bridge.
  • Rosen Centre Hotel: Directly adjacent to the OCCC.
  • Rosen Plaza Hotel: Also directly adjacent.
• International Drive Area: This bustling tourist corridor, where the OCCC is located, is packed with hundreds of hotels ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, all within a short walk, rideshare, or I-RIDE Trolley trip from the Convention Center. Popular choices include:
  • Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Orlando at SeaWorld
  • Homewood Suites by Hilton Orlando-International Drive Convention Center
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando International Drive Convention Center
  • And numerous other branded hotels like Marriott, IHG, and Wyndham properties.
• Official Housing Partner: The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show often partners with an official housing provider. Booking through this official channel is highly recommended as it typically offers discounted rates, flexible cancellation policies, and reliable service, ensuring a hassle-free booking experience. Always check the official show website for any preferred hotel blocks or booking recommendations.
• Resort & Theme Park Access: Many hotels in Orlando also offer shuttle services to popular theme parks like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort, which can be an added perk for those extending their stay.

Given the popularity of Orlando as a convention and tourist hub, and the significant attendance at the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show, it is highly advisable to book your accommodation as early as possible – ideally immediately after confirming your attendance – to secure your preferred location and rate.

The Investment in Excellence: Understanding the Cost to Attend

Attending the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show is a valuable investment for professionals in the foodservice and lodging industries, providing access to essential resources for business growth and competitiveness. While specific pricing for 2025 will be officially released closer to the event, based on previous years’ pricing and typical industry trade show costs, here’s what you can generally expect:

• Exhibit Hall Only Pass: This basic pass, granting access to the exhibit hall and general show floor activities (like live demos and competitions), typically ranges from $50 – $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 access to the co-located Pizza Tomorrow Summit. Early bird rates for this package usually range from $250 – $400+ USD. Prices for standard and on-site registration will be higher.
• Team Bundle Package: The show often offers a “Team Bundle” package for groups of 6 or more from the same organization, providing significant savings. This encourages entire management teams to attend and benefit.
• Restaurant Management Workshop: A brand-new, next-level hospitality management training workshop may be offered as a separate add-on, with an additional fee.
• Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Members: Members of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) often receive benefits such as complimentary Expo Only badges or discounts on conference packages. Membership in the FRLA is highly valuable for Florida-based businesses.
• Non-Exhibiting Manufacturer/Supplier (NONEX) Policy: For companies that are typically suppliers to the industry but choose not to exhibit, there is usually a significantly higher registration fee (often several hundreds of dollars) to access the show floor. This policy is in place to encourage 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 Orlando. For the unparalleled opportunity to discover new products, connect with suppliers, gain vital education, and stay ahead of the curve in Florida’s rapidly evolving foodservice and lodging market, the return on this investment is considered substantial and often critical for operational excellence and sustained profitability.

Elevate Your Enterprise: Your Journey to Florida Hospitality Excellence Begins Here!

The Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show is more than just an event; it’s the dynamic engine propelling innovation across Florida’s vibrant hospitality landscape. It’s a powerful and inspiring convergence of ideas, cutting-edge products, and invaluable expertise that sets the tone for success. It’s where the latest culinary trends are unveiled, where groundbreaking technology reshapes both kitchen and guest experiences, and where vital connections are forged that propel businesses forward. Whether you are a seasoned restaurant or hotel owner seeking to refine your craft, 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 Florida’s restaurants and lodging. Don’t just operate; innovate, connect, and thrive!

To learn more about the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Show and to plan your attendance, visit: floridarestaurantshow.com