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16 Best Catering Expos to Attend in 2025

Cory Masters
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Cory Masters
Cory Masters

Cory Masters is a dynamic professional with 10+ years of experience working across hotel and hospitality management, accounting, financial management, office management, and operations. She's passionate about elevating other professionals in the community, using her 4 years as an Assistant Hotel Manager at Four Seasons to share the lessons she's learned about managing guest interactions, reservations, hotel staff, hotel services, hotel management systems, and more.

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Looking to boost your catering expertise? Explore the top 2025 expos, connect with industry leaders, and tackle the challenges you face in catering and event planning.

Catering expos best events

As a hotel manager, you’re juggling countless responsibilities—maintaining top-tier service, managing costs, staying on top of trends, and constantly training your team to deliver unforgettable experiences. I get how overwhelming it can be to find time for professional development, let alone choose the right events that truly make a difference.

That’s exactly why I’ve put together this guide. With years of experience navigating the catering and hospitality landscape, I know firsthand how valuable the right expo can be. These events aren’t just about new gadgets or gourmet samples—they’re powerful opportunities to learn from industry leaders, discover innovative solutions, and build connections that could transform your operations.

In this article, I’ll walk you through the top catering expos of 2025. Whether you're looking to sharpen your team’s skills, get ahead of emerging food trends, or network with fellow professionals who “get it,” there’s an event here that’ll help move your business forward.

Best Catering Expos in 2025 Shortlist

Here's a shortlist of the best catering expos I think are worth attending in 2025:

  1. National Restaurant Association Show 2025 - Chicago, IL (May 17-20, 2025)
  2. Foodservice Australia 2025 - Melbourne, Australia (May 18-20, 2025)
  3. Aged Care Catering Summit - Melbourne, Australia (May 20, 2025)
  4. Hawaii Hotel & Restaurant Show - Honolulu, HI (June 18-19, 2025)
  5. The SFA Summer Fancy Food Show - New York City, NY (June 29-July 1, 2025)
  6. IFT First Annual Event & Expo - Chicago, IL (July 13-16, 2025)
  7. LRA Showcase 2025 - TBA (August 2-3, 2025)
  8. California Restaurant Show - Anaheim, CA (August 3-5, 2025)
  9. Fine Food Australia - Sydney, Australia (September 8-11, 2025)
  10. America’s Food & Beverage Show & Conference - Miami Beach, FL (September 10-12, 2025)
  11. Hospitality Tech Expo - London, UK (September 30-October 1, 2025)
  12. Street Food Business Expo - London, UK (September 30-October 1, 2025)
  13. The NGA Show - Las Vegas, NV (February 1-3, 2026)
  14. RC Show 2025 - Toronto, Canada (March 8-10, 2026)
  15. Seafood Expo North America - Boston, MA (March 15-17, 2026)
  16. Hotel, Restaurant & Catering - London, UK (March 30 - April 1, 2026)

Best Catering Expos of 2025

Below are my summaries of the best catering expos on my shortlist. My reviews look at each event’s dates, location, pricing, and unique offerings.

1. National Restaurant Association Show 2025 - Chicago, IL (May 17-20, 2025)

Attendees of the National Restaurant Association Show 2024 

Overview: 

The National Restaurant Association Show is the largest annual event for food service professionals in the Western Hemisphere. It offers a platform for industry leaders to connect through educational sessions, product showcases, and valuable networking opportunities.

Why you should attend: 

This in-person event will feature On-Floor Programming and Culinary & Beverage Demos, offering live demonstrations and expert insights from chefs and mixologists. You can explore an expo and an education program with over 45 operator-led sessions covering culinary trends, supply chain innovation, workforce recruitment and retention, and more. Key themes at the show will include sustainability practices, menu innovation, emerging food service technologies, and strategies for enhancing the customer experience.

2. Foodservice Australia 2025 - Melbourne, Australia (May 18-20, 2025)

An exhibition at the Foodservice Australia 2024 

Overview: 

Foodservice Australia is a conference to discover the latest products, services, and innovations shaping the sector. It is ideal for chefs, cafe owners, catering managers, and suppliers to stay ahead of the food and beverage industry, connect with peers, and explore exhibitions. 

Why you should attend: 

This conference will feature over 450 exhibitors showcasing the latest in food, beverages, and equipment to see the current market offerings. It will also hold the Chef of the Year competition, the Café School for free workshops to help café owners expand their menus and boost profitability, and the ACF Restaurant Challenge, where teams prepare gourmet meals in a live kitchen. Expected key topics in the event are industry trends, business improvement strategies, and foodservice innovations. 

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3. Aged Care Catering Summit - Melbourne, Australia (May 20, 2025)

A panel discussion at the Aged Care Catering Summit 

Overview: 

The Aged Care Summit at Foodservice Australia is a dedicated event for professionals in aged care, including chefs, catering managers, dietitians, and facility operators. It focuses on the challenges and opportunities in aged care foodservice and the importance of creating nutritious, appetizing, and compliant meals for residents. 

Why you should attend: 

This summit will explore innovative strategies for preparing meals for the elderly. You can engage in discussion on menu design, kitchen technology, consumer trends, and regulatory updates, all aimed at improving the dining experience for seniors. Notable speakers from previous summits included Jessica Zilujko from the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission; renowned chef Luke Mangan; and dietitian Julie Dundon from Nutrition Professionals Australia. 

4. Hawaii Hotel & Restaurant Show - Honolulu, HI (June 18-19, 2025)

An exhibitor at the Hawaii Hotel & Restaurant Show 

Overview: 

The conference is a hub for discovering products, services, and innovations in Hawaii and beyond’s hospitality and hotel industry. It includes exhibits, cutting-edge technology, solutions, trends, and local goods that reflect Hawaii’s unique culture. 

Why you should attend: 

This conference will feature the Tech Pavilion & New Products Showcase for the latest technology developments and products that help increase productivity, as well as workshops that focus on engaging businesses in sustainable practices. Discussion topics include consumer trends, menu design, kitchen technology, and strategies to meet regulatory requirements while managing tight budgets. Additionally, the VIP Vendor Reception will provide networking opportunities with key decision-makers in a casual setting. 

5. The SFA Summer Fancy Food Show - New York City, NY (June 29-July 1, 2025)

A panel discussion at The SFA Summer Fancy Food Show 2024

Overview: 

The SFA Summer Fancy Food Show is a must-attend event for industry professionals, including retailers, restaurateurs, chefs, distributors, and importers exploring the latest specialty food and beverage trends. It is North America’s largest food industry event with educational sessions, tastings, and networking opportunities. 

Why you should attend: 

This event provides a curated showcase of high-quality, artisan products across over 40 categories. It will include exclusive seminars and panels that give competitive insights into market trends, as well as networking opportunities to connect with peers, thought leaders, and potential partners. Expected topics to be discussed include emerging food trends, innovative product development, and strategies for business growth.

6. IFT First Annual Event & Expo - Chicago, IL (July 13-16, 2025)

A speaker at the IFT First Annual Event & Expo 2024

Overview:

The expo is a leading global conference for professionals in the food science industry, bringing together researchers, innovators, food technologists, and industry leaders. It focuses on exploring the latest advancements in food technology, sustainability, and innovation to transform the global food system. 

Why you should attend: 

The expo will hold the Startup Pavilion, where emerging businesses showcase advanced products and service providers, and the Braindate sessions for one-on-one or small group discussions on topics ranging from research advancements to industry trends. The conference will feature various sessions, including keynotes and featured presentations, focusing on how collaboration and innovation can redefine the food system and stay at the forefront of food science and technology developments. 

7. LRA Showcase 2025 - TBA (August 2-3, 2025)

A presenter at the LRA Showcase 2024 

Overview: 

The LRA Showcase is a must-attend event for restaurant, hospitality, and foodservice industry professionals. It features exhibitors showcasing advanced technology, innovative food and beverage options, essential equipment, and networking opportunities with industry leaders.

Why you should attend: 

The conference will feature dynamic speakers discussing trending topics and providing valuable insights into industry advancements. The showcase will include the Four Roses Bourbon Smash Competition and networking opportunities to discover innovative solutions and foster relationships contributing to business growth. Additionally, the exhibition will consist of suppliers and distributors with products and services that enhance business operations. 

8. California Restaurant Show - Anaheim, CA (August 3-5, 2025)

The California Pizza Challenge at the California Restaurant Show 

Overview: 

The California Restaurant Show is an annual trade show and conference that unites industry leaders, innovators, and suppliers to highlight the latest trends, products, and strategies in the food service industry. It offers valuable insights and a platform for exploring new business opportunities.

Why you should attend: 

The event will explore the latest menu trends, advanced design and decor innovations, and business-focused educational sessions. It will feature the Pizza Tomorrow Summit Pavilion, dedicated to all aspects of the pizza market, and the Culinary Innovation Theater, showcasing live culinary demonstrations and competitions that provide practical insights into current techniques and industry trends. The education program will offer relevant, actionable content presented by experienced industry professionals.

9. Fine Food Australia - Sydney, Australia (September 8-11, 2025)

A demo stage at the Fine Food Australia 

Overview: 

Fine Food Australia is an extensive showcase of local and international exhibitors from gourmet ingredients to advanced kitchen equipment. This leading trade fair has been a key part of the food industry for over 40 years, drawing professionals across Australasia and beyond. 

Why you should attend: 

The conference will host multiple activities, including the Talking Trends stage, where experts discuss key industry trends, advances, and innovations in the behavior and developments influencing the sector, and The Source Kitchen, where the origin of ingredients is highlighted for sustainability and traceability.  It will also feature live cooking demonstrations, competitions, and networking opportunities for connecting with peers. Keynote speakers from previous events have included renowned chefs and industry experts who share their knowledge and experiences. 

10. America’s Food & Beverage Show & Conference - Miami Beach, FL (September 10-12, 2025)

A demo stage at the America’s Food & Beverage Show & Conference 2024 

Overview: 

The Americas Food & Beverage Show is a must-attend event for professionals across the food and beverage industry, including importers, exporters, distributors, retailers, and suppliers. It is an event for exploring new products, trends and connecting with key players in the industry. 

Why you should attend: 

The show and conference will connect you with over 10,000 attendees and over 800 exhibitors from 93 countries. It will hold seminars and workshops on the latest trends, consumer behaviors, and regulatory updates, as well as one-on-one meetings to foster direct business connections. The event will also feature live food demonstrations by chefs and experts, showcasing innovative products and culinary techniques. Additionally, it will cover various topics like advancements in food packaging and economic outlooks within the industry. 

11. Hospitality Tech Expo - London, UK (September 30-October 1, 2025)

A presenter at the Hospitality Tech Expo 2024

Overview: 

The Hospitality Tech Expo is Europe’s premier event for technologies driving profitability in the hospitality sector. The expo is for professionals across the hospitality industry, including hoteliers, restaurateurs, and technology providers, aiming to explore and adopt innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and guest experiences. 

Why you should attend: 

This expo will have interactive discussions where industry leaders share insights and debate current trends and future directions. The conference will cover topics such as sustainability in hospitality operations, leveraging data analytics for improved customer service, and implementing AI and automation to enhance efficiency. Last year’s conference included Tommy Giraux, Head of Systems at Honest Burgers, who shared insights on integration technology in restaurant operations, and William Connors, IT Director at Noble Restaurants Ltd, who discussed the role of IT in enhancing customer experiences. 

12. Street Food Business Expo - London, UK (September 30-October 1, 2025)

A presenter at the Street Food Business Expo 

Overview: 

The Street Food Business Expo is an event dedicated to advancing the street food industry and is for street food vendors, caterers, and industry professionals. It explores innovations, sustainable practices, mobile catering solutions, and advanced technology and packaging. 

Why you should attend: 

The expo will host various activities, including the Sustainability Trail for discovering eco-friendly solutions for street food, panel debates, and networking opportunities to connect you with over 100 progressive suppliers and thousands of professionals for partnerships and collaborations. The conference will discuss sustainable practices, technology, innovative packaging solutions, and strategies to scale the street food business. Last year’s keynote speakers include Darren Simpson, Founder of Nanny Bills; Vimal Arumugan of Baked Bird; and Mark Laurie, Director of Stakeholders at NCASS. 

13. The NGA Show - Las Vegas, NV (February 1-3, 2026)

Networking at The NGA Show 

Overview: 

The NGA Show 2025 is an event for professionals in the independent grocery industry. It brings together grocery retailers, wholesalers, industry executives, manufacturers, and suppliers to explore the latest innovations and strategies in food retail. 

Why you should attend: 

This conference will have educational sessions, workshops, and roundtable discussions covering e-commerce, operational efficiency, sustainability, and customer experience. Its expo center will feature over 350 exhibitors with products and solutions ranging from fresh produce and technology to consumer packaged goods and dairy. Keynote speakers include Leon Zhang, Co-Founder and CEO at BetterBasket; Caroline Catoe, President of ECRS; and Bobby Turner, President of Busch's Fresh Foods Market. 

14. RC Show 2025 - Toronto, Canada (March 8-10, 2026)

The trade show at the Restaurant Canada Show 2024 

Overview: 

The Restaurants Canada Show is a premier gathering for restaurateurs, chefs, suppliers, and restaurant owners to discover the latest innovations, trends, and solutions driving the hospitality industry. The event features a dynamic blend of exhibits, live demos, competitions, and inspiring keynote presentations from top industry experts.

Why you should attend: 

The event will feature thrilling competitions in pizza making, latte art, cocktails, and morning culinary innovation, along with an interactive hub offering workshops, live demos, and innovative products that set new industry benchmarks. You can also enjoy an exclusive after-hours networking event. Conference stages will address key industry topics, including sustainability in food service, emerging technologies, adapting to evolving consumer preferences, and trends like plant-based cuisine and health-focused menu development.

15. Seafood Expo North America - Boston, MA (March 15-17, 2026)

A keynote session at the Seafood Expo North America 2024 

Overview: 

The Seafood Expo North America 2025 is an event for seafood professionals, including seafood buyers, suppliers, distributors, and industry leaders across the globe. It is a platform to explore the latest products, services, innovations, and resources to help businesses thrive in a competitive market. 

Why you should attend: 

This food expo will hold over 30 educational sessions led by top seafood industry experts, covering aquaculture, consumer trends, food safety and compliance, seafood business and marketing, and sustainability. It will also have activities to enhance the attendee experience, such as The Wave Makers’ Zone, a hub with events like chef demos and seafood tastings. Notable speakers include Dr. Nomi Prins, a macro-economist and geopolitical financial expert to deliver the keynote address on economic, energy, and trade policies impacting the seafood industry in 2025. 

16. Hotel, Restaurant & Catering - London, UK (March 30 - April 1, 2026)

An exhibitor at the Hotel, Restaurant & Catering 2024

Overview: 

The Hotel, Restaurant & Catering (HRC) 2025 is the UK’s leading trade show for the hospitality and foodservice sectors. It is for chefs, restaurateurs, hoteliers, and hospitality business owners to explore the latest innovations in food and drink, kitchen equipment, and interior design. 

Why you should attend: 

This special event will feature live culinary demonstrations, where chefs showcase new techniques and trends, and the International Salon Culinaire, a competition that highlights the skills of emerging and established chefs. The seminar program features discussions on topics such as hospitality trends, the impact of artificial intelligence on the hotel industry, and strategies for addressing workforce development. There will also be over 1,500 suppliers showcasing the latest advancements in food and drink and dedicated sections to explore foodservice, hospitality tech, and professional kitchen. 

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Cory Masters
By Cory Masters

Cory Masters is a dynamic professional with 10+ years of experience working across hotel and hospitality management, accounting, financial management, office management, and operations. She's passionate about elevating other professionals in the community, using her 4 years as an Assistant Hotel Manager at Four Seasons to share the lessons she's learned about managing guest interactions, reservations, hotel staff, hotel services, hotel management systems, and more.

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