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On the Radar: Latest Trends & Updates
Here, you'll find timely updates, industry insights, and exciting announcements about our association and the vibrant restaurant community we serve. Stay informed about upcoming events, important initiatives, and key developments that impact our industry. We’re thrilled to keep you connected and engaged with the latest happenings in the world of hospitality.
Latest News The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) is proud to partner with New Orleans & Company to welcome two of the world’s most prestigious culinary competitions-the Bocuse d’Or Americas and the Pastry World Cup Americas-to New Orleans as part of the 2026 LRA Showcase. On Saturday, July 25, attendees can experience the Pastry World Cup…
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Latest News The restaurant industry has never stood still. From online ordering and mobile payments to kitchen automation and digital marketing, operators have continually adapted to meet changing consumer expectations. Today, artificial intelligence is driving the next evolution-and it’s happening faster than many realize. That’s why the Louisiana Restaurant Association is excited to welcome internationally…
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Latest News The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) will welcome thousands of restaurant and hospitality professionals from across Louisiana and the Gulf South to the 73rd Annual LRA Showcase, July 25-26, 2026, in Hall I of the New Orleans Morial Convention Center. Designed exclusively for industry professionals, the LRA Showcase features hundreds of exhibiting companies showcasing…
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Latest News Louisiana’s restaurant industry continues to earn national acclaim, with 28 LRA member restaurants receiving honors in Wine Spectator’s 2026 Restaurant Awards. The annual awards recognize restaurants that demonstrate excellence in wine service, thoughtful wine programs and pairings that enhance the guest dining experience. Now in its 45th year, the Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards…
Latest News Act 172 of the 2026 Regular Session (HB 725) enacted La. R.S. 3:4749.4, requiring retailers to maintain records of seafood purchases for at least six months and authorizing civil penalties for failing to maintain those records or for knowingly creating or submitting false or fraudulent purchase records. The Act applies only to “retailers”…
Latest News Chef Kris Allen of Pamplona Tapas Bar & Restaurant in Lafayette was crowned the 2026 King of Louisiana Seafood after capturing the title at the 19th Annual Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off. Allen earned top honors with his crab-stuffed flounder, a dish that showcased the quality, versatility and flavor of Louisiana seafood. Following his win,…
Latest News For decades, NFL Sunday Ticket has been a game-day staple for sports bars, restaurants, and hospitality venues across the country. Many operators have built their Sunday business around giving fans a place to watch every out-of-market NFL game, all from a single platform. That long-standing model is about to change. Beginning with the…
Latest News From THC policies and seasonal economic insights to child labor compliance, restaurant leaders are entering summer with new prospects and new undertenancies. The National Restaurant Association is hosting a three-part webinar series to provide timely insights, practical strategies, and clear guidance on the issues shaping the industry today and tomorrow. Understanding Hemp-Derived THC…
Latest News When Jeremiah Thomas first stepped into a high school culinary classroom at Istrouma High School in Baton Rouge, he discovered more than a passion for cooking-he found a pathway to a career. Today, the Louisiana ProStart alumnus is pursuing that dream at the New Orleans Culinary & Hospitality Institute (NOCHI), where he recently…
Latest News Where Louisiana Meets the World | July 25-26 | New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center The countdown is on – attendee registration is officially open for the 2026 LRA Showcase, Louisiana’s premier hospitality industry trade show and networking event. Taking place Saturday, July 25 and Sunday, July 26 from 10 a.m. –…
Latest News The Louisiana Restaurant Association Education Foundation (LRAEF) is proud to celebrate Chalmette High School’s outstanding achievement at the 2026 National ProStart Invitational (NPSI) in Baltimore, where the school’s ProStart Management Team earned 2nd Place in the nation. Competing against the top ProStart programs from across the country, Louisiana’s students showcased exceptional talent, professionalism,…
Latest News From workforce policy and global supply chain volatility to talent development, today’s restaurant leaders are navigating a rapidly shifting landscape. The National Restaurant Association is hosting a three-part webinar series this spring to provide timely insights, practical strategies, and clear guidance on the issues shaping the industry today-and tomorrow. The Restaurant Industry’s Immigration…
Latest News The Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off (LASCO) is calling on Louisiana Restaurant Association member chefs to take their place on one of the state’s most prestigious culinary stages. Set for June 26, 2026, at the Pontchartrain Center in Kenner, this high-energy competition brings together 12 of Louisiana’s top chefs for a live, fast-paced seafood showdown.…