With the 2020 National Restaurant Show being canceled, we’ve taken some time to reflect on our favorite things from NRA weekend over the years. Take a walk down memory lane with us as we reminisce on our favorite things from the past and look forward to making new memories in the future.
1. Kitchen Innovations™ Awards
Defining the gold standard of foodservice equipment innovation, KI Awards have become a special part of Vulcan’s NRA presence. Some might say it wouldn’t be a “normal” show without a spot in the KI Showroom. Vulcan has been honored to receive six KI Awards over the last eight years for cutting-edge equipment such as the Versatile Chef Station, LWE Steamer and the VC5 Convection Oven.
2. The Restaurants
It’s impossible to pick out our favorite Chicago restaurants (there are too many to name!) but we do tend to dine at some staple establishments year after year. Whether it be Bone-in Ribeye from Harry Caray’s or Wagyu beef from Chicago Chop House, the steaks in this city never disappoint. We always try to get a reservation at Girl and the Goat, and Giordano’s or Uno’s for classic Chicago deep dish is a must. But not without a Nutella crepe from Eataly for dessert.
3. The Marriott Lobby Bar
Usually where the night begins and ends, the Marriott Lobby Bar is the hot spot for Vulcan when it comes to networking and gathering at NRA. Whether it’s pre-dinner drinks or a late-night soft pretzel, you’re sure to run into someone you know (even if you don’t want to.)
4. Eating a Chicago Dog from the Vienna Beef Booth
Everyone knows you can eat breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert (twice) on the NRA show floor. Our favorite? A classic Chicago dog from Vienna Beef. And the experience wouldn’t be complete without waiting in the long line that’s wrapped around their booth multiple times. Worth it!
5. Recognizing Our Reps
Every year we gather for our FSO Awards reception. Each Business Unit would acknowledge the top performing rep group for their respective product. Usually, the sales team would have some fun and treat us with a video performance of an old Saturday Night Live sketch. Who can forget Paul Forrest as Frenchy, the French Fry during Weekend Update? Have we pumped you up yet?
6. Industry Award Banquets
Getting dressed up and gathering with our industry peers for an evening of awards is always a highlight of NRA. Foodservice Equipment Reports’ Industry Excellence Awards Celebration is one of our favorites, celebrating the “Young Lions” of the industry, plus Management Excellence award winners and Industry Service honorees. We’ll miss this night, just as much as we’ll miss that feeling of getting a table near the door to make an early exit back to the Marriott Lobby bar.
Until next year!