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Monday, March 24
 

9:00am PDT

WS1 Beyond the Basics: Cultivating a Hospitality Mindset
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
In this advanced workshop, bar and restaurant owners will learn how to elevate their operations by fostering a true hospitality mindset within their teams. Going beyond basic customer service, this session focuses on creating a guest-first culture that drives loyalty, satisfaction, and long-term business success. Learn how to instill a sense of purpose in every interaction, empowering your staff to exceed guest expectations and deliver memorable experiences. This workshop will provide actionable strategies to build a culture that prioritizes genuine hospitality at every touchpoint.
• Develop and communicate core values that emphasize hospitality in every aspect of your business.
• Train staff to anticipate guest needs and personalize service accordingly.
• Implement regular feedback loops to ensure continuous improvement in guest interactions.
• Foster a culture of empathy and empowerment, enabling your team to handle challenging situations gracefully.
• Create recognition programs that reward employees for embodying the hospitality mindset and going above and beyond for guests.

**SESSION AVAILABLE ONLY WITH DELUXE PASS**

Speakers
avatar for Christopher Melly

Christopher Melly

Director of Operations, Fox Restaurant Concepts
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room #219/220
  Workshop

9:00am PDT

WS2 Strategic Restaurant Revitalization: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities for Growth
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
In today’s competitive and fast-changing restaurant landscape, businesses may need a pivot for various reasons—whether it’s due to shifts in the marketplace, increasing competition, outdated menus, or even the need for a cosmetic refresh. Successfully navigating these changes requires a clear and strategic approach. Whether the issue is culinary direction, customer engagement, or operational inefficiencies, this session will help restaurant owners and managers create a clear path to revitalization.

  • Identify Core Challenges: Participants will articulate the specific challenges their restaurant faces, whether it’s menu fatigue, market pressures, or operational inefficiencies, setting the foundation for revitalization
  • Asses how your restaurant’s brand, audience, and market position stack up against competitors, using this information to guide the revitalization process.
  • Learn how to incorporate the correct key partners, to assess or design recommendations for solutions
  • Evaluate your financial resources, define operational processes, and implement testing strategies to ensure the successful execution of your new concept.
  • Develop a clear, actionable plan to re-create the process with your team and revitalize your restaurants.
**SESSION AVAILABLE ONLY WITH DELUXE PASS**
Sponsored by:
Speakers
avatar for Cate Hollowitsch

Cate Hollowitsch

Chief Marketing Officer, Burracho"s Midwest Mex
Cate Hollowitsch is an energetic, results-driven Chief Marketing Officer with more than 30 years of experience and a proven track record in all areas of marketing. As an executive, she also has an extensive background in business acumen, value creation, and strategy for small to medium-sized... Read More →

Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room #221
  Workshop

9:00am PDT

WS4 Mastering Bar & Restaurant Accounting for Operational Success
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
You’ve done the hard work, opened your business, and successfully promoted it and the sales are coming in.  But how do you make it profitable?  This seminar will take a deep dive into basic and advanced restaurant accounting helping to ensure you run a profitable business.  Participants will learn the art of calculating, controlling, recording, and profiting from the numbers that every successful operation needs to know.  The purpose of this seminar will be to familiarize operators not only with the three most important costs affecting an operation (the Prime Numbers: Food Cost, Labor Cost, and Beverage Cost) but also with the entire P & L statement, balance sheets, and budgeting.  All operators know (or should know) the importance of these numbers, yet few understand how to derive them accurately, let alone interpret them and put them to use.  With this knowledge, participants will unlock the profit potential within their operations.  This will be an intensive, hands-on, in-depth seminar in which participants will learn to:
  • Budget the Prime numbers, both for start-ups and established operations, as well as techniques for easily adhering to these budgets
  • Accurately calculate food, beverage, and labor costs (including advance formulae for detecting, budgeting, and pricing for waste)
  • Create, analyze, and interpret a P&L and Balance Sheet
  • Create annual and declining budgets
  • How to define controllable figures
  • Deliver consistent profitability through properly budgeted and managed Prime Numbers
There will be numerous hand-outs from which the attendees can follow along. Interactive Q&A throughout the seminar will be encouraged. Participants will engage in real-time problem-solving and be guided through a step-by-step process in which they will learn the topic easily.
Seminar participants will be fully prepared to utilize the information learned upon leaving the seminar, being able to action their knowledge at their own establishments immediately.

**SESSION AVAILABLE ONLY WITH DELUXE PASS**
Speakers
avatar for Kenneth Kneif

Kenneth Kneif

Managing Director, Hospitality Resource Group
Kenneth has accumulated more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, stemming from his passion for cooking as a child. He has operated a successful hospitality and management consulting company, Hospitality Resource Group, for the past 15 years. Kenneth's expertise... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room #231/232
  Workshop

9:00am PDT

WS6 Crafting Your Digital Presence: Strategies for Hospitality Growth
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Unlock the power of digital marketing with actionable insights and strategies tailored to the hospitality industry. This seminar covers the latest trends in branding, social media, and content creation, giving you the tools to elevate your online presence and drive customer engagement.

  • Analyze the current digital marketing landscape and its impact on customer loyalty.
  • Explore influencer partnerships, storytelling, and targeted advertising on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Google Ads.
  • Learn how to craft a compelling brand identity that resonates with your target audience.
  • Create high-quality content and develop a content calendar aligned with your marketing goals.
  • Develop and refine social media strategies through interactive workshops and real-life case studies.
**SESSION AVAILABLE ONLY WITH DELUXE PASS**
Speakers
avatar for Todd Collins

Todd Collins

Chief Strategist, Beamed Media
With over 10 years of online reputation management, branding, and social media marketing, Todd has become a go-to in the restaurant, real estate, and automotive industry on how to strategize for the best results.
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room #233
  Workshop

10:00am PDT

Mastering Hospitality Marketing: Inside Wynn Nightlife’s Playbook
Monday March 24, 2025 10:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Exclusive Add-On Experience During Registration, transportation included
Bus departs 9:30am from Main Entrance, LVCC
Arrives back to LVCC by 12:30pm

Get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at how Wynn Nightlife builds and markets one of the most successful nightlife brands in Las Vegas. Whether you run a bar, restaurant, or hospitality venue, this masterclass will show you how branding, digital marketing, and data-driven strategies can transform your business and help you stand out in a competitive market. 

What You'll Learn: 
  • How to position your brand for success in a crowded market 
  • Insider marketing strategies from one of the most recognized nightlife brands in the world 
  • How to use data to drive customer engagement & loyalty 
  • Behind-the-scenes look at a major campaign launch from concept to execution 
  • Emerging trends & challenges in hospitality marketing 

EXPERIENCE BREAKDOWN 
  • Welcome with Wynn Nightlife visuals & brand history 
  • Complimentary drinks & exclusive Wynn Nightlife gift bag 
Masterclass at Intrigue Nightclub (10:30 AM - 12:00 PM) 
  • The Evolution of Hospitality Marketing – How consumer behavior and digital trends have changed marketing 
  • Branding & Storytelling – How Wynn Nightlife creates a premium experience through strategic marketing 
  • Social Media & Digital Influence – How to leverage influencers, content, and targeted ads for maximum reach 
  • Behind-the-Scenes of a Residency Campaign – Step-by-step breakdown of launching a high-profile entertainment event 
  • Data-Driven Decision Making – How to measure success and optimize your marketing strategies 
  • Q&A with Emilio Gonzales – Interactive discussion to answer your biggest marketing challenges 
Departure (12:00 PM) 
Speakers
avatar for Emilio Gonzales

Emilio Gonzales

Executive Marketing Director, Wynn Nightlife
Monday March 24, 2025 10:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Intrigue Nightclub, Wynn Las Vegas

10:00am PDT

SOLD OUT! Wynn Restaurant Back of House Tour
Monday March 24, 2025 10:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Limited capacity & transportation is provided! Additional registration add-on item and fees apply to attend. Add to any registration pass.

This is a “can’t miss opportunity” for owners and operators to get a behind-the-scenes look at some of Vegas’ most acclaimed venues. Visit several of the world’s leading restaurants inside Wynn during this expansive tour and get an insider’s look at the operations from reservations and seating process, to food and beverage offerings and strategy, to staffing, training and more. You’re sure to leave with insights and inspiration to bring back to your operation!

Tour will cover
  1. Delilah
  2. Wing Lei
  3. Mizumi
Bus Schedule:
9:30am - Bus departs from Las Vegas Convention Center to Wynn
10:00am-12:00pm –Wynn Restaurant Tour
12:15pm - Bus arrives back at Las Vegas Convention Center
Monday March 24, 2025 10:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Wynn Las Vegas

11:00am PDT

Mixology Training I: Break Away from the Mainstream Cocktail Trends, Go for Iconic!
Monday March 24, 2025 11:00am - 1:00pm PDT
Limited capacity & transportation is provided! Additional registration add-on item and fees apply to attend. Add to any registration pass.

In recent years, many bars have embraced trends such as high-end glassware, craft ice, homemade ingredients, and elaborate garnishes. However, some of the world's most iconic bars have achieved lasting success without adhering to these mainstream practices. This masterclass will explore how to establish your own timeless trends, ensuring your bar remains distinctive and memorable for years to come.

Key Takeaways:
  1. Understand the limitations of following mainstream cocktail trends.
  2. Discover strategies to develop unique and enduring bar concepts.
  3. Learn from case studies of iconic bars that have set their own standards.
Bus Schedule:
10:30am - Bus departs from Las Vegas Convention Center to Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits
11:00am-1:00pm –Mixology Training
1:30pm - Bus arrives back at Las Vegas Convention Center

Speakers
avatar for Livio Lauro

Livio Lauro

Director of Mixology and Spirits Education, Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits of Nevada
Livio Lauro is a renowned figure in the beverage industry, currently serving as the Director of Mixology and Spirits Education at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits of Nevada. With over two decades of experience, Livio has been instrumental in shaping modern mixology trends and educating... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 11:00am - 1:00pm PDT
Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits

1:00pm PDT

"Good Ideas" that Cost You Money
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Not all promotions lead to profit—some can cost you more than they bring in. Using real-life examples like Red Lobster’s “Endless Shrimp” promotion, this session will help you design food and cocktail events that resonate with guests while avoiding financial pitfalls.
In this session:
  • Identify the common pitfalls in promotions that cost time and money.
  • Use case studies to understand the risks of poorly planned events.
  • Learn how to create effective promotions that connect with your audience.
  • Project and manage budgets for events and promotions.
  • Engage with brands for sponsorship opportunities and boost your marketing efforts.
Speakers
avatar for Jacob Trevino

Jacob Trevino

Owner/CEO, Gorilla Cinema Presents
Jacob Trevino, Founder and CEO of Gorilla Cinema Presents has specialized in bar consulting and developing cocktail programs for the past 18 years. He is the owner and managing operator of The Overlook Lodge (ranked by Playboy Magazine and USA Today as one of the top bars in the United... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room #233
  Conference Session

1:00pm PDT

Empowering Culinary Talent from the Grassroots
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
This session delves into the key challenges chefs encounter at the grassroots level and provides practical strategies for building a solid foundation for lasting success. Drawing from real-life experiences and case studies, attendees will gain valuable insights into mentorship, resourcefulness, and balancing culinary and business skills.
Participants will address:
  • Overcoming common grassroots challenges faced by chefs
  • The role of mentorship in career growth and development
  • Tips for being resourceful in a demanding industry
  • Strategies for maintaining work-life balance
  • The importance of mastering both culinary and business skills for long-term success
Sponsored by:
Speakers
avatar for Kayla Robison

Kayla Robison

Chef Owner/Operator, Commander N Beef LLC.

Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room #221
  Conference Session

1:00pm PDT

Integrated Brand Experiences
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Speakers
avatar for Christopher Sayegh

Christopher Sayegh

CEO, The Herbal Chef / Sayegh Hospitality
Chris Sayegh is the Founder and CEO of The Herbal Chef™ and Sayegh Hospitality which has become known as the worlds leading Plant Medicine Hospitality platform.  Sayegh was a passionate science and biology student of UC Santa Cruz  who turned to the chemistry of food plant medicine... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room #226/227

1:00pm PDT

People Want to Work—Just Not for You: Strategies to Revitalize Your Workplace
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
In today's hospitality industry, the old ways of recruiting and leading teams aren't enough. This session will equip you with strategies to attract top talent, foster loyalty, and become the kind of leader people want to work for. Learn how to move beyond outdated practices and create a culture that retains the best of the best.
Participants will: 
  • Discover nearly free methods that have kept teams fully staffed for over a decade.
  • Learn how to inspire team members to stay long-term and build a lasting bond with your brand.
  • Identify personal triggers and learn techniques to prevent small issues from disrupting your leadership.
  • Uncover the key traits that will make you a leader employees want to follow, driving success and engagement.
Speakers
avatar for Robbie Jester

Robbie Jester

Chef/Owner, InJest Events
A lifelong restaurant brat, Chef Robbie Jester has held every position in restaurants front and back of the house. From catering and restaurants to meal prep and fine dining Chef Robbie has experience in many genres and formats of hospitality. He brings all of that experience to the... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room #219/220

1:00pm PDT

Pour Smarter, Not Harder: Tech Solutions to Smooth Out the Rush
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Let’s be real—tech is supposed to help, not slow you down. One technology expert went behind the stick to better understand exactly how bar tech impacts the day-to-day operation. The result? It’s clear that the right tech partner understands what it’s like to work a busy shift and what it takes to help you run a smoother operation.

In this session, you’ll hear from the owners and operators on how working with a tech partner who truly gets the day-to-day grind can help you run a smoother operation. Learn how cutting down on clicks and speeding up order times can make a world of difference for your team and your guests. We’ll walk you through real ways technology can solve the everyday challenges your bar faces, so you can get back to what matters most: boosting your bottom line while building community.
Speakers
avatar for John Henson

John Henson

General Manager, Crown & Anchor Pub
As a born and raised Austinite, John Henson has seen the landscape of the dining and entertainment scene grow up around him.  A 17 year veteran of restaurant management, he started years before within the inner workings of the industry, performing as a busser, host, runner, expo... Read More →
avatar for Zach Lyall

Zach Lyall

Founder, Legacy Lane Hospitality
After 15 years as a Director and Producer, the Covid pandemic made me rethink my priorities and pursue a new path in hospitality. With a mix of naivete and a lot of borrowed money from the bank, my friend Riley Montz and I set out to save our beloved hometown bar in El Segundo from... Read More →
avatar for Bryan Solar

Bryan Solar

Chief Product Officer, SpotOn
Bryan Solar is SpotOn’s Chief Product Officer, leading the charge on innovation and strategy. Bryan started his career in strategy consulting, before leaving to launch a non-profit to help struggling small businesses. After attending business school, Bryan co-founded a real-time... Read More →

Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room #231/232

1:00pm PDT

SOLD OUT! TAO Las Vegas Back of House Tour
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Limited capacity & transportation is provided! Additional registration add-on item and fees apply to attend. Add to any registration pass.

Add this exclusive behind-the-scenes tour to your Bar & Restaurant Expo experience for an insider look at Tao's four venues: Tao Restaurant, Tao Lounge, Tao Nightclub, and Tao Beach Dayclub. Explore the unique ambiance of each space and learn how they deliver exceptional guest experiences—from fine dining and training processes to high-energy nightlife and dayclub operations. Roundtrip transportation is included.

Bus Schedule:
12:30pm - Bus departs from South Hall Las Vegas Convention Center to Tao
1:00pm-3:00pm Tao Tour
3:15pm - Bus returns to South Hall Las Vegas Convention Center

Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Tao Las Vegas

1:00pm PDT

SOLD OUT! Wynn Nightlife Tour
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Limited capacity & transportation is provided! Additional registration add-on item and fees apply to attend. Add to any registration pass.

Experience Wynn nightlife like no one has before. Stroll behind the velvet ropes of Las Vegas most celebrated venues within the impressive Wynn and Encore Properties and see Encore Beach Club, and XS Nightclub.

Wynn and Encore can boast the most celebrated nightlife and day life experiences in Las Vegas. These unique clubs feature the hottest entertainment, cutting edge technology and the most luxurious spaces that have put our resort on the map as the ultimate party destination. World-renowned performers, celebrities, and party-goers alike clamor to be part of the action at XS and Encore Beach Club. Intrigue adds an air of mystery, seduction and the unexpected featuring a 14,000-square-foot space that makes the most of indoor and outdoor revelry with attractive waterside scenery.

Bus Schedule:
12:30pm - Bus departs from Las Vegas Convention Center to Wynn
1:00pm-4:00pm –Wynn Nightlife Tour
4:15pm - Bus arrives back at Las Vegas Convention Center

Tour will cover
  • Wynn Nightlife including Intrigue, XS, Encore Beach Club
  • How lines work and VIP entrances
  • Security
  • DJ/ Lighting booths
  • How we staff each venue
  • Capacity
  • Special Events and how they are operated in each venue
  • VIP Tables/Rooms
  • Marketing and Promotions
  • Uniqueness of each venue
  • Gaming in venues
  • Q&A
Monday March 24, 2025 1:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Wynn Las Vegas

2:00pm PDT

Creating a Welcoming Atmosphere: The Impact of Ambience and Design on Guest Experience
Monday March 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Transform your venue into a destination by mastering the art of ambience. Learn how design, lighting, and sound can create a welcoming atmosphere that enhances guest experience and increases revenue.

  • Optimize design elements to set the right mood.
  • Use lighting and music to influence guest behavior.
  • Create an ambiance that drives repeat business.
  • Incorporate décor that aligns with your brand.
  • Maximize comfort and guest satisfaction with thoughtful design choices.
Speakers
avatar for Howard Weiss

Howard Weiss

Senior Vice President of Entertainment & Sponsorships, Vai Global Development - Vai Resort
Howard S. Weiss is an experienced Entertainment & Hospitality Executive. Howard iscurrently the Senior Vice President of Entertainment & Sponsorships @ VAI Resort inGlendale Arizona20 + year professional skilled in Entertainment Bookings, Ticketing, Promotions,Marketing, Nightlife... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Room #226/227
  Conference Session

2:00pm PDT

Scalable Menu Strategies: Designing Menus for Growth and Consistency Across Multiple Locations
Monday March 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Learn how to craft a menu that not only delights customers but can also be scaled easily as your business expands. Consistency and creativity go hand-in-hand in this strategic session.

  • Design menus that work across multiple locations.
  • Ensure consistency in taste, presentation, and delivery.
  • Scale recipes and kitchen processes for growth.
  • Keep your brand identity intact while expanding.
  • Use data to inform menu adjustments and innovations.
Speakers
avatar for Travis Tober

Travis Tober

Owner, Nickel City/Murray's Tavern/Old Pal
Longtime bartender and accomplished mixologist, Travis Tober has 25+ years of experience at top restaurants and innovative cocktail bars across the country, working at nearly every position in the beverage industry. He has spent years creating and consulting on national beverage programs... Read More →

Monday March 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Room #221
  Conference Session

2:30pm PDT

Mixology Training II: Pre-batching Is a Godsend!
Monday March 24, 2025 2:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Limited capacity & transportation is provided! Additional registration add-on item and fees apply to attend. Add to any registration pass.

Pre-batching cocktails was once viewed with skepticism but has now become an invaluable technique for busy bars. It ensures consistency in flavor and presentation, allowing bartenders to engage more with guests. This masterclass will delve into various pre-batching methods and help you identify the most suitable approach for your establishment, ultimately saving time and reducing costs.

Key Takeaways:
  1. Explore the evolution of pre-batching in the bar industry.
  2. Learn different pre-batching techniques and their applications.
  3. Assess the benefits of pre-batching in terms of efficiency and guest satisfaction.
Bus Schedule:
2:00pm - Bus departs from Las Vegas Convention Center to Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits
2:30pm-4:30pm –Mixology Training
5:00pm - Bus arrives back at Las Vegas Convention Center

Speakers
avatar for Livio Lauro

Livio Lauro

Director of Mixology and Spirits Education, Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits of Nevada
Livio Lauro is a renowned figure in the beverage industry, currently serving as the Director of Mixology and Spirits Education at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits of Nevada. With over two decades of experience, Livio has been instrumental in shaping modern mixology trends and educating... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 2:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Southern Glazers Wine & Spirits

3:00pm PDT

2025 Drink Trends to Boost Revenue and Enhance Guest Experience
Monday March 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm PDT
Trends without data are just noise, but data-backed insights drive real results. In this session, Adam Teeter, CEO of VinePair, will share proprietary trend data that reveals what’s hot in the drinks world. Learn which cocktails to feature, where to focus in wine and beer, and how to stand out from the competition.
  • Identify the key drink trends that actually matter.
  • Discover high-impact drinks and categories to add to your menu now.
  • Plan for seasonal spikes in drink preferences.
  • Understand data-driven insights for optimizing your beverage offerings.
  • Gain a competitive edge with exclusive trend insights from the industry’s top publication.
Speakers
avatar for Adam Teeter

Adam Teeter

CEO, VinePair
Adam Teeter is the co-founder and CEO of VinePair. Together with his CoFounder Josh Malin, they have grown VinePair into the most read, watched and listened to media outlet focused on the world of drinks and drinks culture in America. He is also co-host of the publication's flagship... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm PDT
Room #222
  Conference Session

3:00pm PDT

Engage and Energize Your Multigenerational Team: From Boomers to Gen Z
Monday March 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm PDT
Successfully manage and motivate a diverse workforce by understanding different generations' communication and training needs. This session will help you create harmony and high performance across your team.
Session participants will learn how to:
  • Tailor communication styles to suit different generations.
  • Implement training programs that engage all age groups.
  • Foster collaboration and reduce generational tension.
  • Motivate and energize employees across the board.
  • Develop leadership skills that bridge generational gaps.
Speakers
avatar for Jen Jackson

Jen Jackson

Enterprise Beverage Manager, Thompson Restaurants
Jen Jackson is an accomplished beverage manager with extensive experience in the food and beverage industry, specializing in bar management and restaurant creation. With over 25 years in the beverage industry, Jen has developed a deep understanding of beverage selection, customer... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm PDT
Room #219/220

3:00pm PDT

Levelling Up With Google
Monday March 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm PDT
Join Chief Marketing Strategist and Coach Maria Elena Duron for a hands-on session that equips business owners with actionable strategies to enhance their online visibility and attract more customers. Learn how to optimize your search rankings, leverage free tools from Google, and thrive in the digital landscape.
Attendees will:
  • Master the basics of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) to boost online presence.
  • Learn how to use Google Search Console and Google Analytics to improve search rankings and streamline visibility.
  • Discover how a properly optimized Google Business Profile can generate 7x more clicks.
  • Explore free features in Google Merchant Center and Google Ads to maximize online reach.
  • Gain practical tips to implement these tools effectively for long-term digital success.





Speakers
avatar for Maria Elena Duron

Maria Elena Duron

Business Growth with Google Coach, K.L.I. Brand
In the fast-paced world of bars and restaurants, being found online isn’t just a bonus—it’s how you keep you getting found fast by customers and your business thriving. Maria Elena knows exactly how to make that happen. With years of experience helping over 12,400 small businesses... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm PDT
Room #233
  Conference Session

3:00pm PDT

Owners & Chefs: Who Owns the Kitchen?
Monday March 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm PDT
The age old question which came first the chicken or the egg.. or in this case... the owner or the chef..
Immerse yourself in a classroom like no other, chef Brian Duffy, the "Kitchen Muse'' is here to discuss the current issues that are plaguing our industry & we're not talking about food cost or labor cost, it's the chef's domain..
  • Understand the balance between an owner's business requirements and a chef's creative domain.
  • Highlight the need for chefs to excel not only in culinary arts but also in finance, organization, costing, inventory, and labor management.
  • Engage in a raw and direct conversation about setting expectations for chefs and kitchen managers.
  • Learn strategies to bridge the gap between creativity and business acumen in the kitchen.
Sponsored by: 
Speakers
avatar for Brian Duffy

Brian Duffy

Owner, Duffified Experience Group

Monday March 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm PDT
Room #221
  Conference Session

3:00pm PDT

Unleashing Epic Experiences: Engaging Employees, Social Media, and Interactive Guest Magic for Bars and Restaurants
Monday March 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm PDT
Learn how to turn negative guest experiences into positive outcomes with expert service recovery strategies. This session will teach you how to handle complaints in a way that builds loyalty and enhances your reputation.

  • Master techniques for addressing guest complaints.
  • Turn unhappy customers into loyal patrons.
  • Implement service recovery protocols that work.
  • Train staff to handle difficult situations professionally.
  • Use feedback to improve operations and guest satisfaction.
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Behm-Lazzarini

Jennifer Behm-Lazzarini

Chef/Owner, Red Fin 2.0 + The Lucky Rabitt Culinary Creations
Jennifer Behm-Lazzarini brings a culinary edge that bar and nightclub owners will find invaluable. A celebrated chef and TEDx alumni speaker, Jennifer’s journey through entrepreneurship and the culinary arts has equipped her with a battle-hardened recipe for success in fast-paced... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 3:00pm - 3:45pm PDT
Room #226/227

4:00pm PDT

Flavor Trends Panel
Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Explore the latest flavor trends shaping the bar and restaurant industry with expert insights from a panel of industry leaders. Learn how to stay ahead of the curve and incorporate these trends into your menu.

  • Discover trending flavors that attract customers.
  • Learn how to incorporate new flavors into your menu.
  • Balance innovation with guest preferences.
  • Understand consumer demand for bold and unique tastes.
  • Work with suppliers to source trendy ingredients.
Sponsored by:
Moderators
avatar for Brian Duffy

Brian Duffy

Owner, Duffified Experience Group
Speakers
avatar for Nick Liberato

Nick Liberato

The Borscht Belt Delicatessen, Owner/Chef
avatar for Thomas Leo

Thomas Leo

Senior Manager Culinary Engagement and Strategy, Kraft Heinz Company
A highly accomplished and visionary Chef, Thomas Leo is recognized for leveraging a deep understanding of the marketplace and competitor landscape to drive significant increases in both revenue and operational efficiency. With a career marked by a unique blend of culinary expertise... Read More →
avatar for Tori Lubecki

Tori Lubecki

Vegan Chef
avatar for Aaron Fish

Aaron Fish

Executive Chef, Eat Good Group
Originally from Sonoma County, CA, Aaron Fish moved to the Pacific Northwest in 2008 and never looked back. As the Chef of Eat Good Group, he collaborates with Spiceology on content and recipe development, helps plan and operate Crave NW!, and has appeared on Food Network. A dedicated... Read More →

Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Room #221

4:00pm PDT

Panel: Cultivating a Legacy Mindset: Strategies for Engaging Gen Z in Hospitality
Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
In the face of rapid change in the hospitality industry, maintaining a legacy mindset is crucial for long-term success. This panel features experienced operators discussing how to define and communicate your unique core values, instill them during onboarding, and leverage them to foster customer loyalty. Additionally, we will explore the influence of artificial intelligence, immersive learning technologies, and Generation Z on the future of hospitality, providing actionable strategies for attracting and retaining top talent.
Participants will: 
  • Learn how to identify and articulate the unique values that differentiate your business.
  • Discover methods to instill these values in your team from the very beginning.
  • Understand how a legacy mindset can cultivate long-term customer relationships.
  • Explore how AI and immersive learning can enhance training and operations.
  • Gain strategies for attracting and retaining top talent from the emerging workforce.

Moderators
avatar for Meaghan Dorman

Meaghan Dorman

Bar Director/Partner, Raines Law Room & Dear Irving
Meaghan Dorman is currently the Bar Director & partner of New York City’s Raines Law Room (2009), Raines Law Room at the William (2014), Dear Irving (2014) and Dear Irving on Hudson (2019).  The bars have become essential cocktail stops in NYC, and received recognition from World’s... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Colleen Mcleod Garner

Colleen Mcleod Garner

Advisory Board Member, Cecilia.AI
Colleen is a futurist and industry innovator specializing in driving future-forward initiatives across thefood, beverages, and hospitality sectors. She serves as an Advisory Board Member for Cecilia.ai, the World'sfirst interactive robotic bartender, where she explores innovative... Read More →
avatar for David Kaplan

David Kaplan

CEO, Gin & Luck
In the summer of 2006, at 24 years old, David opened Death & Company, a cocktail bar in the East Village of Manhattan. In the years that followed, David, along with Alex Day, founded Proprietors LLC, a hospitality consulting and management company which has opened over 50 bars and... Read More →
avatar for Beth Hussey

Beth Hussey

Founder / Restaurateur, Shifty and Hazel's
Beth Hussey, a 35-year veteran of the restaurant industry, is a passionate advocate for cultivating a legacy mindset through innovative workforce development. She founded Shifty in 2020, a subscription-as-a-service mobile application designed to revolutionize how the service industry... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Room #219/220

4:00pm PDT

Sip, Serve, Impress: Mastering Memorable Beverage Rituals
Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Discover how thoughtful pouring and serving rituals can transform a guest's experience and elevate your beverage program. From iconic traditions like the Guinness pour to creative pairings like soda with nuts or a Tajín-rimmed Dos Equis, this session will showcase how these rituals leave lasting impressions. Gain practical insights to implement these techniques and create unforgettable moments for your customers.
Key Takeaways:
  • Understand the impact of unique serving rituals on customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Learn best practices for executing iconic beverage rituals, such as proper Guinness pouring or Corona with lime.
  • Explore creative serving ideas like pairing beverages with complementary snacks or unique glassware.
  • Discover how serving rituals can align with and enhance your brand identity.
  • Gain actionable tips to train staff and seamlessly incorporate these practices into your operation.
Moderators
avatar for Peter Camps

Peter Camps

Sr. Mgr. Quality & Education - Brewmaster, Heineken USA
Peter Camps, born and raised in Diest, Belgium where he grew up in the family furniture business.In 1987, he made a leap of faith when he decided to build a career in the beer business and started his apprenticeship at the brewery “De Kluis” in Hoegaarden.After an extensive training... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for James Lombardino

James Lombardino

Beverage Hospitality Consultant, Hogwash
James Lombardino is a seasoned professional with over a decade of cocktail experience spanning various bar settings. From East Village neighborhood hangouts to high-volume underground bars and fine dining restaurants, James has excelled in diverse environments.James's journey includes... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Room #226/227

4:00pm PDT

The Luxury Mindset: Understanding How Iconic Brands Drive Max Profits
Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
What would compel a prospective customer to go out of their way to try your food, or even pay a premium to dine with you? Imagine doubling your prices and still having people line up to order. Too many restaurants remain undifferentiated in a crowded "commodity" market, but by drawing inspiration from iconic brands like Hermès, Bentley, and Krug, you can create a product that people truly crave. This session will show you how to cultivate a brand that builds raving fans and sets your restaurant apart.
Key Takeaways:
  • Identify what makes your brand unique and worth a premium price.
  • Learn how to create experiences that customers actively seek out and prioritize.
  • Discover how luxury brands cultivate desire and loyalty among customers.
  • Develop strategies to transform your offerings from commodities to craveable experiences.
  • Build a loyal customer base by applying principles from the world’s most exclusive brands.
Speakers
avatar for Chip Klose

Chip Klose

Restaurant Coach, Restaurant Strategy
Chip Klose is the host of the Restaurant Strategy podcast, author of The Restaurant Marketing Mindset, and founder of the P3 Mastermind. He has an MBA in Food Marketing from Saint Joseph’s University and over 25 years of operational experience. His mission is to help independent... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Room #233

6:00pm PDT

Welcome Kickoff Party - Open to All!
Monday March 24, 2025 6:00pm - 8:30pm PDT
Dive into Bar & Restaurant Expo with a splash at the Welcome Kickoff Party at The Pool at SAHARA Las Vegas! Join your fellow attendees for an evening of fun, networking, and great vibes in a stunning poolside setting. Best of all, this party is included with all passes—don’t miss out on starting the event with a bang!

Bring your I.D. and show your badge or registration email confirmation at the door.

Monday March 24, 2025 6:00pm - 8:30pm PDT
The Pool at Sahara 2535 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109

9:00pm PDT

Industry Afterparty I at XS Nightclub
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00pm - 11:00pm PDT
Join fellow bar and restaurant professionals for an unforgettable night of networking at the iconic XS Nightclub! Mix, mingle, and make connections with industry leaders and peers in a lively, upscale setting. Don't miss out on the ultimate after-hours experience—where deals are made, and the drinks keep flowing.

Includes free admission and complimentary beverages provided by our sponsors.

Helpful Tips:

Private Bar & Restaurant Expo Hours: 9pm-11pm
Bring your I.D. and show your badge or registration email confirmation at the door.
For XS Nightclub dress code, click here.

Monday March 24, 2025 9:00pm - 11:00pm PDT
XS Nightclub, Wynn Las Vegas 3131 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas, NV 89109
 

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