The Epicenter of Flavor & Innovation: Your Essential Guide to the National Restaurant Association Show 2026!

Imagine a place where every culinary trend, every cutting-edge technology, and every brilliant mind in the foodservice world converges under one roof. Picture an immersive experience where you can taste the future of dining, get hands-on with revolutionary kitchen equipment, and forge connections that could transform your business. This isn’t a dream; it’s the electrifying reality of the National Restaurant Association Show!

Widely recognized as the largest and most influential annual gathering of foodservice professionals in the Western Hemisphere, the National Restaurant Association Show is the ultimate destination for anyone deeply invested in the restaurant, hospitality, and broader foodservice industry. Scheduled for May 16-19, 2026, at the sprawling McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, Illinois, this monumental event transcends a typical trade show. It’s a vibrant marketplace of ideas, a dynamic hub for networking, and an unparalleled educational forum meticulously designed to equip operators, suppliers, and industry leaders with the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to thrive in an ever-evolving market. Whether you’re an independent chef, a chain executive, a distributor, a technology provider, or a budding entrepreneur, the Show is where the entire ecosystem comes together to explore, learn, and grow.

Step onto the colossal exhibit halls at McCormick Place, and you are immediately immersed in an unparalleled showcase of innovation. Spanning an astonishing 717,931 square feet of exhibit space – the equivalent of over 12 football fields – the Show floor is a vibrant tapestry of discovery. You’ll find thousands of leading companies proudly showcasing the latest in food and beverage products, state-of-the-art kitchen equipment, groundbreaking technology solutions, sustainable practices, and essential services. This isn’t just about passive observation; it’s an active, hands-on exploration. Imagine sampling emerging global flavors in the Global Food Expo, witnessing celebrity chefs demonstrate innovative techniques at the Culinary Experience stage, getting hands-on with AI-powered kitchen systems in the Tech Pavilion, or discovering the next big thing in beverages in The Beverage Room. The National Restaurant Association Show offers an unparalleled opportunity to streamline your operations, identify reliable partners, source new products, and gain insights that can directly impact your menu development, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction. It’s where an independent restaurant owner discovers a new point-of-sale system that revolutionizes their ordering process; where a chain executive finds a sustainable packaging solution that aligns with their corporate values; and where a food service manager learns about cutting-edge labor management tools that address staffing challenges. If you’re a professional striving to elevate your culinary offerings, boost profitability, enhance efficiency, or simply connect with the brightest minds and most relevant solutions in the restaurant and foodservice world, attending the National Restaurant Association Show 2026 is not merely an option; it’s an indispensable strategic imperative that directly contributes to your professional growth and the success of your business.

Setting the Table: Venue, Time, and Cost

The National Restaurant Association Show is owned and operated by Informa in partnership with the National Restaurant Association, the leading voice of the restaurant industry.

The 2026 Venue: McCormick Place Convention Center, Chicago, Illinois For its 2026 edition, the National Restaurant Association Show will be held at:

• McCormick Place Convention Center, 2301 S Martin Luther King Dr, Chicago, IL 60616, USA.

McCormick Place is one of the largest and most sophisticated convention centers in the world, making it the perfect host for an event of this magnitude:

• Massive Exhibition Space: Its immense size allows for multiple, expansive halls dedicated to exhibits, accommodating thousands of booths and large equipment displays across various product categories.
• Comprehensive Facilities: Numerous meeting rooms, auditoriums, and dedicated pavilion spaces for a diverse range of educational sessions, keynote presentations, and culinary demonstrations.
• Central Location: Situated on Chicago’s beautiful lakefront, it’s highly accessible from both O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Chicago’s excellent public transportation system (CTA), taxis, rideshare services, and often dedicated shuttle buses during the show, ensure convenient travel.
• Vibrant City: Chicago offers an incredible array of world-class dining, entertainment, cultural attractions, and nightlife, providing attendees with ample opportunities to experience the city’s renowned hospitality scene outside of conference hours.

The Annual Feast: When and For How Long The National Restaurant Association Show is an annual event, consistently serving as the industry’s pinnacle gathering in late spring.

• When It Happens: The 2026 National Restaurant Association Show is scheduled for May 16 – 19, 2026.
  • Show hours are typically from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from Saturday to Monday, with a slightly earlier close on Tuesday (9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.).
  • While the main show floor runs these days, there are often pre-show events, specialized forums, and registration hours that may begin a day or two earlier.
• Duration: The core event, encompassing the exhibit halls, educational sessions, and special events, spans four intensive days. This comprehensive timeframe is crucial for attendees to fully explore the vast number of exhibitors, engage with the extensive educational program, and maximize networking opportunities. Many attendees dedicate multiple days to truly experience all the Show has to offer.

Investing in Success: Cost of Participation Attending the National Restaurant Association Show is an invaluable investment for professionals seeking to propel their businesses forward. Pricing varies based on attendee type, membership status, and registration timing.

• For Attendees (Restaurant/Foodservice Professionals):
  • Expo Badge (Exhibit Hall Access): This typically provides access to all exhibit halls. Early bird rates are usually the most cost-effective. As an example from past shows, advance registration could be around $99 – $129 USD, with onsite registration being higher (e.g., $189 – $229 USD).
  • Education Session Access: While some sessions on the show floor stages may be free with an Expo Badge, premium, in-depth operator-led sessions or specialized workshops typically require an additional fee or a higher-tier “Conference Pass.” A Conference Pass, which includes exhibit hall access and all educational sessions, could range from $299 – $499 USD or more depending on early bird status.
  • National Restaurant Association Members: Members often receive complimentary Expo Badges or significant discounts on Conference Passes, underscoring the value of membership.
• For Exhibitors (Suppliers & Solution Providers): Exhibiting at the Show is a premier opportunity to reach thousands of qualified buyers.
  • Booth costs vary widely based on size, location, and whether the exhibitor is a National Restaurant Association member. A standard 10’x10′ booth space can range from approximately $4,000 – $8,000+ USD, with larger and prime locations costing substantially more.
  • These costs usually do not include booth construction, specialized utilities (water, electricity), or additional staffing. Exhibitors typically receive a set number of complimentary badges, with additional badges available for purchase.

Early registration for both attendees and exhibitors is strongly recommended to secure the best rates and access to desired options.

The Global Plate: Key Product and Service Categories on Display

The National Restaurant Association Show’s exhibit halls are meticulously organized into various pavilions and zones, making it easy for attendees to navigate and find relevant solutions across over 900 product categories. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect to find:

• Food & Beverage Products:
  • Taste of the States: Showcasing regional American culinary innovations.
  • Global Food Expo: International flavors, ingredients, and products from around the world (e.g., Bellavita Italian Pavilion, Iberica Spanish Pavilion).
  • Organic & Natural Pavilion: Highlighting clean label, organic, and natural food and beverage options.
  • Plant-Based & Sustainable Foods: The latest in meat alternatives, dairy-free products, and ethically sourced ingredients.
  • Specialty Foods: Gourmet items, artisanal products, and unique culinary ingredients.
  • The Beverage Room: Everything from innovative non-alcoholic drinks and craft beverages to coffee, tea, and bar essentials.
  • Emerging Brands Pavilion: A dedicated space for new and innovative companies making their debut.
• Equipment & Supplies:
  • Kitchen Innovations (KI) Awards Pavilion: Featuring groundbreaking equipment that enhances efficiency, sustainability, and quality.
  • Heavy Equipment: Ovens, ranges, fryers, griddles, refrigeration units, dishwashers – industrial-grade solutions for every kitchen.
  • Smallwares: Utensils, cookware, bakeware, and essential kitchen tools.
  • Tabletop & Dinnerware: Innovative designs in plates, glassware, cutlery, and serving solutions.
  • Storage & Shelving: Solutions for efficient and hygienic food storage.
  • Waste Management: Eco-friendly and efficient solutions for food waste and recycling.
• Technology Solutions:
  • Tech Pavilion: The hub for cutting-edge restaurant technology.
  • Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems: Advanced ordering, payment, and management solutions.
  • Online Ordering & Delivery Platforms: Integrated solutions for off-premises dining.
  • Kitchen Display Systems (KDS) & Inventory Management: Streamlining back-of-house operations.
  • Robotics & Automation: Automated cooking, cleaning, and serving technologies.
  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM) & Loyalty Programs: Tools for guest engagement.
  • Analytics & Business Intelligence: Data-driven insights to optimize operations and profitability.
• Operational Services & Solutions:
  • Cleaning & Sanitation: Products and services for maintaining hygiene standards.
  • Uniforms & Linens: Solutions for front and back-of-house staff.
  • Pest Control: Services for maintaining a safe and sanitary environment.
  • Financial & Legal Services: Solutions for accounting, payroll, and compliance.
  • Marketing & Branding: Strategies and tools to enhance brand visibility.
  • Human Resources & Workforce Solutions: Tools for recruitment, training, and employee management.
  • Franchising Opportunities: Information for those looking to expand their brand.
  • Design & Build: Services for restaurant construction and interior design.

This comprehensive array ensures that every segment of the foodservice industry, from fine dining to quick service, finds relevant and transformative solutions.

The Culinary Convergence: Visitor and Exhibitor Count

The National Restaurant Association Show is a true titan in the trade show world, consistently attracting a massive and highly influential audience, alongside thousands of leading solution providers.

• Visitor Count: The Show draws an impressive number of attendees from around the globe. The 2025 Show attracted over 53,000 foodservice professionals from 110 countries. This diverse and influential audience includes:
  • Restaurant Owners & Operators (independent & chain)
  • Chefs & Culinary Directors
  • Food & Beverage Managers
  • Distributors & Wholesalers
  • Caterers & Event Planners
  • Hotel & Hospitality Executives
  • Non-Commercial Foodservice (healthcare, education, corporate dining)
  • Retail Foodservice Buyers
  • Developers & Investors
  • Media & Industry Analysts This concentrated gathering of decision-makers and influencers creates an unparalleled environment for business development and market insights.
• Exhibitor Count: The Show floor is home to an incredible number of exhibiting companies. The 2025 Show featured over 2,300 total exhibiting companies, with over 800 of those being first-time exhibitors, bringing fresh solutions to the market. Among them were also over 600 international exhibitors from 44 countries, offering a truly global perspective. Exhibitors include:
  • Major food and beverage manufacturers.
  • Leading kitchen equipment brands.
  • Innovative technology companies.
  • Sustainable packaging and supply providers.
  • Service providers (e.g., POS systems, marketing, consulting).
  • Specialty ingredient suppliers. This vast number of exhibitors ensures that attendees can compare solutions side-by-side and find exactly what they need to innovate and grow.

Beyond the Booths: Benefits of Attending

Attending the National Restaurant Association Show offers a comprehensive array of benefits that extend far beyond simply walking the exhibit floor:

• Unparalleled Product Discovery: Get hands-on with thousands of new products, equipment, and technologies before they hit the broader market. Sample new ingredients, test drive advanced machinery, and find direct solutions to your operational challenges.
• Cutting-Edge Education: Access a robust program of over 70 operator-led sessions, workshops, and expert panels. Learn about the latest trends in menu development, sustainability, labor management, digital transformation, consumer behavior, and more.
• Live Culinary & Beverage Demos: Witness celebrated chefs and master mixologists in action, sharing techniques, recipes, and insights on the hottest culinary and beverage trends.
• Strategic Networking: Connect with tens of thousands of peers, industry leaders, and potential partners. Build invaluable relationships with restaurateurs, distributors, suppliers, and innovators from across the globe. Attend exclusive networking events like “Industry Night Out.”
• Competitive Advantage: Stay ahead of the curve by understanding emerging market trends, new regulations, and what your competitors are doing. Identify opportunities for innovation and differentiation.
• Problem-Solving Power: Bring your biggest operational challenges – whether it’s labor shortages, rising costs, or supply chain issues – and find tangible solutions and expert advice from exhibitors and educational sessions.
• Professional Development: Enhance your skills, expand your knowledge, and gain certifications that boost your career and contribute directly to your business’s success.
• Inspiration & Insights: Immerse yourself in the energy and creativity of the foodservice industry. Get inspired by success stories, discover new culinary ideas, and leave with a renewed passion for your business.
• Awards & Recognition: Celebrate excellence in the industry through programs like the Kitchen Innovations (KI) Awards and FABI Awards, highlighting truly groundbreaking products and technologies.

For any professional committed to the dynamic and challenging world of restaurants and foodservice, the National Restaurant Association Show is not just an event; it’s an indispensable annual pilgrimage that fuels growth, fosters innovation, and ensures future success.

Your Chicago Culinary Retreat: Nearby Hotels for the Show 2026

Chicago offers an abundance of hotel options, particularly in its vibrant downtown (the Loop) and surrounding neighborhoods, making it very convenient for attendees of the National Restaurant Association Show at McCormick Place. Due to the immense size and popularity of the Show, it is highly recommended to book accommodation well in advance. The Show typically partners with an official housing bureau (like onPeak) to provide discounted rates for attendees.

For the National Restaurant Association Show 2026 at McCormick Place, attendees will find numerous excellent hotel choices:

• Directly Connected/Adjacent to McCormick Place:
  • Hyatt Regency McCormick Place: Offers unparalleled convenience, directly connected to the Convention Center via an enclosed walkway. This is often a primary host hotel.
  • Marriott Marquis Chicago: Also located very close to McCormick Place, often serving as a key hotel for attendees.
• Within a Short Walk/Shuttle Ride (Near South Side):
  • There are growing hotel options in the immediate vicinity of McCormick Place on the Near South Side, offering a closer commute compared to the main Loop.
• Easy Access from Downtown Chicago (The Loop):
  • The Chicago Loop, just a short distance north of McCormick Place, boasts a vast array of hotels across all price points, from luxury to budget-friendly. It offers excellent connectivity to the Convention Center via public transport (CTA Green Line to Cermak-McCormick Place station), taxis, or rideshare services. Popular options include:
    • Hilton Chicago
    • Palmer House Hilton
    • Hyatt Regency Chicago
    • JW Marriott Chicago
    • The Blackstone, Autograph Collection
    • Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago
    • Many other major hotel brands (e.g., Marriott, Hilton, IHG properties).
• North Michigan Avenue (“Magnificent Mile”): A bustling area further north, known for upscale shopping and dining, still accessible to McCormick Place via public transport or a reasonable taxi/rideshare.

General Booking Advice for the Show 2026:

• Use the Official Housing Partner: Always book your hotel through the National Restaurant Association Show’s official housing partner (check their website). This ensures you get negotiated rates, flexible booking policies, and peace of mind against unauthorized third-party hotel solicitations. Be wary of “housing pirates” who may contact you, as they are often scams.
• Book Early: Given the Show’s massive attendance, desirable hotels, especially those within the official block and close to McCormick Place, sell out quickly. Secure your accommodation as far in advance as possible to ensure your preferred choice and rate.
• Consider Transportation: Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) are major airports with extensive connections. From the airports, you can use airport shuttles, taxis, rideshare services, or the CTA “L” train system to reach downtown Chicago. Once downtown, the CTA Green Line provides direct access to McCormick Place.
• Explore Chicago: Plan some extra time to enjoy Chicago’s world-renowned attractions, including its stunning architecture, vibrant arts scene, world-class museums (Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum), Millennium Park (home of “The Bean”), Navy Pier, and, of course, its legendary culinary landscape (deep-dish pizza is a must!).

By strategically planning your accommodation through official channels, you ensure a comfortable and efficient experience at the National Restaurant Association Show, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the invaluable opportunities for learning, networking, and product discovery that this essential event provides for the global restaurant industry.

Ready to Serve Up Success? Plan Your Visit!

The National Restaurant Association Show is the definitive event for anyone serious about the future of the restaurant and foodservice industry. It’s where inspiration meets innovation, where challenges find solutions, and where the pulse of the global culinary world truly beats. Don’t miss this unparalleled opportunity to connect, learn, and propel your business forward.

To learn more about the National Restaurant Association Show 2026, including detailed program information, speaker lineups, exhibitor lists, registration options, and to plan your essential visit, please go to the official website:

www.nationalrestaurantshow.com