At FoodALot, we are committed to the National Restaurant Association Show since 2015. Every year we attend and have even exhibited couple of times. It is the best conference ever, for the restaurant owners, equipment suppliers, service providers and anybody who is in the restaurant and hospitality industry. This year it is very special, since this is the 100th National Restaurant Association Show.

The objective of this blog is to inspire you to attend the show and provide you with some key show information.

The National Restaurant Association Show

Every year, this show starts on the Saturday, before the Memorial day weekend and runs for the next 4 days, at the McCormick Place, Chicago. McCormic Place is a prestigious convention center located in the heart of Chicago. The national Restaurant Association Show is a big event with 4000 plus exhibitors and more than 40,000 attendees.

Parking

If you are driving, set your destination address to the McCormick Place, lot C. Parking tickets can be purchased in advanced or you can buy at the gate.

Inside McCormick Place

You first check-in, collect your badges, get a lanyard and hang the badge around your neck. There is a cloak-room, where you can handover your coats and luggage, if you have any.

There are 3 major sections, North Hall Exhibits, South Hall Exhibits and Lakeside Center Exhibits. Food court is located around the North and South Hall. Most of the culinary shows happen in the Lakeside Center hall.

Plan all the shows you want to attend first and then you can visit the exhibitors in the remaining time.

Where to Stay?

If you don’t have a car, it will best to stay within McCormick Place or nearby hotels that offers a shuttle service. If you can drive, we would recommend staying near the Chicago Midway Airport.