14 Top Catering Expos in 2026
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 2026. 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 2026 Shortlist
Here's a shortlist of the best catering expos I think are worth attending in 2026:
- The NGA Show - Las Vegas, NV, USA (February 1-3, 2026)
- RC Show 2026 - Toronto, Canada (March 8-10, 2026)
- Seafood Expo North America - Boston, MA, USA (March 15-17, 2026)
- Hotel, Restaurant & Catering - London, UK (March 30 - April 1, 2026)
- National Restaurant Association Show - Chicago, IL, USA (May 16-19, 2026)
- Restaurant & Foodservice Show - Sydney, Australia (May 25-27, 2026)
- Hawaii Hotel & Restaurant Show - Honolulu, HI, USA (June 17-18, 2026)
- SFA Summer Fancy Food Show - New York City, NY, USA (June 28-30, 2026)
- IFT First Annual Event & Expo - Chicago, IL, USA (July 12-15, 2026)
- LRA Showcase 2026 - New Orleans, LA, USA (July 25-26, 2026)
- California Restaurant Show - Anaheim, CA (August 23-25, 2026)
- Fine Food Australia - Melbourne, Australia (August 31-September 3, 2026)
- America's Food & Beverage Show & Conference - Miami Beach, FL, USA (September 14-16, 2026)
- Hospitality Tech Expo - London, UK (September 29-30, 2026)
- Street Food Business Expo - London, UK (September 29-30, 2026)
14 Best Catering Expos of 2026
Below are my summaries of the best catering expos that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a look at each event’s dates, location, pricing, and unique offering.
1. The NGA Show - Las Vegas, NV, USA (February 1-3, 2026)
- Dates: February 1-3, 2026
- Location: MGM Grand Conference Center, Las Vegas, NV
- Pricing: Starts at $575 for members ($845 for non-members)
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn, X
The NGA Show is a key event organized by the National Grocers Association for the independent grocery industry. It offers educational sessions, keynote speakers, and networking opportunities. It is a platform for retailers, wholesalers, and suppliers to connect and share industry insights.
Why attend? The NGA Show focuses on the latest trends and challenges in the grocery industry. You and your team will benefit from workshops tailored to various roles, ample networking opportunities, and access to over 350 exhibits. This event stands out for its comprehensive approach to education and innovation, providing valuable insights to help your business thrive.
2. RC Show 2026 - Toronto, Canada (March 8-10, 2026)
- Dates: March 8-10, 2026
- Location: The International Centre
- Pricing: Starts at $99
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn, X
The RC Show is Canada's premier foodservice and hospitality event. Its organizer is Restaurants Canada and is a key event for industry networking and trends. The show features cutting-edge products and business-building solutions for the foodservice industry. This year's speakers include Janet Zuccarini, Founder & CEO of the Gusto 54 Restaurant Group, and Chockie Tom, Founder of The Cornsilk Road.
Why attend? At the RC Show, you’ll find a dynamic mix of networking, competitions, and exhibitions. It’s a chance to connect with peers, discover the latest foodservice innovations, and gain insights from industry experts. The event's engaging atmosphere and comprehensive offerings make it a must-attend for anyone looking to stay ahead in the hospitality field.
3. Seafood Expo North America - Boston, MA, USA (March 15-17, 2026)
- Dates: March 15-17, 2026
- Location: Thomas M. Menino Convention & Exhibition Center, Boston, MA
- Pricing: $500 (full conference), $85 (exhibit hall only)
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
Seafood Expo North America is a premier event for seafood professionals, offering insights and products from top industry providers. This food expo serves as a key platform for networking and discovering industry trends. Organized by Diversified Communications, it has been a staple expo in the seafood industry for years.
Why attend? At Seafood Expo North America, you’ll experience a comprehensive showcase of seafood products, equipment, and services. The expo offers seminars and panel discussions that address current challenges and innovations in the seafood sector. It's an essential event for anyone involved in seafood sourcing and distribution.
4. Hotel, Restaurant & Catering - London, UK (March 30 - April 1, 2026)
- Dates: March 30 - April 1, 2026
- Location: ExCeL London, UK
- Pricing: TBA
- Social Media: Facebook
Hotel, Restaurant & Catering (HRC) is a premier B2B event for the hospitality industry, organized by Montgomery Group. It focuses on innovations in food, drink, and kitchen technology. HRC has become a key platform for industry professionals with its seminar programs.
Why attend? HRC offers a chance to explore the latest trends in hospitality. You and your team can engage with industry leaders and planners, discover new products, and attend seminars by experts. This event stands out for its comprehensive showcase of foodservice innovations and valuable networking opportunities in the hotel industry.
5. National Restaurant Association Show - Chicago, IL, USA (May 16-19, 2026)
- Dates: May 16-19, 2026
- Location: McCormick Place Convention Center, Chicago, IL
- Pricing: Starts at $99
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
The National Restaurant Association Show is a special event for the restaurant, foodservice, and hospitality industries. It is organized by the National Restaurant Association and has been a pivotal gathering for industry professionals. The show features over 2,000 exhibitors and more than 70 speakers, providing insights into the latest trends and innovations.
Why attend? At this show, you'll find a diverse range of products and services, from kitchen equipment to food and beverage innovations. It's an ideal venue for networking and learning from industry leaders. The show offers educational sessions and demonstrations, making it a valuable experience for anyone in the foodservice industry.
6. Restaurant & Foodservice Show - Sydney, Australia (May 25-27, 2026)
- Dates: May 25-27, 2026
- Location: ICC Sydney, Australia
- Pricing: TBA
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
The Restaurant & Foodservice Show is a key event for professionals in the food and hospitality sectors. It provides a platform for showcasing new products and services. Organized by Specialised Events, the show is known for its engaging seminars and demonstrations.
One past attendee shared: "This is the best event for boutique suppliers, and the buyers come here looking for you."
Why attend? At this show, you’ll experience a vibrant mix of exhibitions, competitions, and networking events. It’s designed to help you and your team discover the latest trends and innovations in the foodservice industry. The event's interactive sessions and wide array of exhibitors make it a must-visit for industry professionals.
7. Hawaii Hotel & Restaurant Show - Honolulu, HI, USA (June 17-18, 2026)
- Dates: June 17-18, 2026
- Location: Blaisdell Center Exhibition Hall
- Pricing: TBA
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
The Hawaii Hotel & Restaurant Show is a key event for hospitality professionals in Hawaii, focusing on the latest products and services in the industry. Organized by the Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Association and Star Events, it serves as a hub for networking and learning. The show features exhibits and seminars led by industry experts.
Why attend? This show is ideal for anyone looking to connect with the hospitality community in Hawaii. You’ll find a wide range of exhibits and learn about innovative solutions tailored to the Hawaiian market. The event offers an engaging environment for discovering new ideas and building relationships.
8. SFA Summer Fancy Food Show - New York City, NY, USA (June 28-30, 2026)
- Dates: June 28-30, 2026
- Location: Javits Center, New York, NY
- Pricing: Starts at $50 (members), $99 (non-members), various discounts available
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn, X
The SFA Summer Fancy Food Show is a leading event for specialty food and beverage professionals, organized by the Specialty Food Association. It has grown into a major gathering for industry networking and product discovery.
"Summer Fancy Food Show is by far the most relevant time and place in the world for anyone driving or seeking innovation in food and beverage, where opportunity and community converge."
- Tsepo Montsi, Co-Founder, Monatea
Why attend? At this show, you and your team will explore thousands of specialty food and beverage products. The event offers a unique opportunity to connect with distributors and discover the latest trends in the industry. With engaging presentations and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s a must-attend for anyone in the specialty food sector.
9. IFT First Annual Event & Expo - Chicago, IL, USA (July 12-15, 2026)
- Dates: July 12-15, 2026
- Location: McCormick Place Convention Center, Chicago, IL
- Pricing: TBA
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT)'s First Annual Event & Expo is a premier gathering for food technology professionals. It serves as a hub for innovation and collaboration in the food industry. The event features expert speakers, including scientists and industry leaders, offering insights into the latest research.
Why attend? At this expo, you’ll connect with peers and explore cutting-edge food technology. The event offers a unique opportunity to learn from experts and discover innovative solutions. It’s ideal for anyone looking to advance their knowledge and network within the food technology sector.
10. LRA Showcase 2026 - New Orleans, LA, USA (July 25-26, 2026)
- Dates: July 25-26, 2026
- Location: New Orleans, LA, USA
- Pricing: TBA
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
The LRA Showcase 2026 is an essential event for professionals in the restaurant and hospitality industry, organized by the Louisiana Restaurant Association. It provides a platform for networking and exploring new products and services.
Why attend? At the LRA Showcase 2026, you and your team can connect with peers and discover innovative solutions tailored to the hospitality industry. The event offers a unique opportunity to learn from experts and gain insights that can enhance your operations. It's a must-attend for those looking to stay competitive in the market.
11. California Restaurant Show - Anaheim, CA, USA (August 23-25, 2026)
- Dates: August 23-25, 2026
- Location: Anaheim Convention Center, CA
- Pricing: TBA
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
The California Restaurant Show is a vital event for restaurant and foodservice professionals, providing a platform to explore new products and innovations. It features live culinary demonstrations, competitions, and awards ceremonies.
Why attend? At this show, you’ll find a diverse range of exhibitors showcasing the latest in foodservice technology and culinary trends. It's an excellent opportunity for you and your team to network. The event's focus on innovation and practical solutions makes it a standout experience.
12. Fine Food Australia - Melbourne, Australia (August 31 - September 3, 2026)
- Dates: August 31 - September 3, 2026
- Location: Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC)
- Pricing: TBA
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
Fine Food Australia is a major trade fair for the food and hospitality industries, organized by Diversified Communications. It is key platform for discovering new products and services in the food sector. The show features a wide range of exhibitors and educational sessions with industry experts.
Why attend? At Fine Food Australia, you’ll explore the latest innovations in food and hospitality. It's an ideal venue for connecting with suppliers and learning about emerging trends. You and your team will benefit from interactive demonstrations and networking opportunities in a dynamic setting.
13. America's Food & Beverage Show & Conference - Miami Beach, FL, USA (September 14-16, 2026)
- Dates: September 14-16, 2026
- Location: Miami Beach Convention Center
- Pricing: TBA
America's Food & Beverage Show & Conference is a significant event for food and beverage professionals, organized by the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture. It aims to connect suppliers with buyers from the Americas and beyond. The show will host over 900 exhibitors and 3 Michelin Star chefs.
Why attend? At this conference, you and your team will explore a diverse range of food and beverage products. The event offers networking opportunities and insights into market trends. It's an essential venue for discovering new products and building business relationships in the food and beverage industry.
14. Hospitality Tech Expo - London, UK (September 29-30, 2026)
- Dates: September 29-30, 2026
- Location: Excel London, UK
- Pricing: TBA
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn
Hospitality Tech Expo is a leading event dedicated to technological advancements in the hospitality sector. Organized to bring together industry professionals, it focuses on innovative solutions that enhance guest experiences. The expo features over 500 exhibitors and over 200 seminars, creating plenty of opportunities for you to connect, learn, and experience.
Why attend? At Hospitality Tech Expo, you’ll discover cutting-edge technology designed to elevate your hospitality services. Engage with experts and explore new tools that can transform your operations. This event provides a unique platform for networking and learning about the future of hospitality technology.
What’s Next?
Make sure you join our newsletter for more industry events and resources for hotel managers!
