Bar & Restaurant Expo 2025

Will Guidara, the renowned restaurateur, author, and co-producer of FX’s hit series The Bear, has redefined what it means to deliver exceptional hospitality. As the former co-owner of Eleven Madison Park, Guidara’s more-is-more philosophy turned the restaurant into a three-Michelin-starred, World’s Best Restaurant winner. His groundbreaking approach—centered on creating a deep sense of belonging— also became a major influence on The Bear’s portrayal of hospitality.

In this keynote, Guidara shares his journey from running one of the world’s top restaurants to shaping one of television’s most celebrated depictions of the industry. He’ll dive into the lessons from his book, Unreasonable Hospitality, and offer actionable insights on team culture, guest experience, and scaling hospitality with heart. Whether you’re looking to elevate your business, empower your team, or create unforgettable moments, this session delivers exclusive wisdom from an industry visionary who has influenced both real-life and on-screen hospitality.

Sponsored By: Blaze

Industry Excellence Awards
Recognizing the best of the best in hospitality, the Bar & Restaurant Expo Industry Excellence Awards honor outstanding individuals and venues that are making a significant impact on the industry. This is your chance to nominate those who embody excellence and innovation.

Award Categories
Individual Awards

1. Bartender of the Year
2. Chef of the Year
3. Community Leadership Award
4. Industry Impact

Venue Awards

1. NEW! Design of the Year
2. Bar of the Year
3. Restaurant of the Year
4. Best Hospitality Training Program
5. Best Cocktail Program

Supplier Awards
These prestigious awards aim to honor industry trailblazers who have redefined the bar and restaurant landscape with their exceptional products and solution

Categories

1. Best Alcoholic Beverage
2. Best Food Product/Producer
3. Best Non-Alcoholic Product or Mixer
4. Best Entertainment Product
5. Best Equipment, Tool, or Bar Supply
6. Best Technology Product
7. Best Décor or Furniture Product

Join industry experts Art Sutley Phil Wills, Mia Mastroianni and a special celebrity guest for an engaging and dynamic session on the power of empowerment in the hospitality industry. This panel will explore how to empower your staff, management, and ownership to foster growth, success, and a positive work culture—both inside and outside the four walls of your business. In this interactive session, our panelists will share real-life experiences, industry insights, and
actionable strategies to help you:
• Empower your staff by creating a supportive, inclusive environment where they can
    thrive both personally and professionally.
• Inspire management with leadership tools that encourage self-growth, emotional
   intelligence, and effective conflict resolution.
• Strengthen ownership by cultivating an empowering culture that drives business success
   and personal growth for leaders.
Expect to walk away with practical tips and fresh ideas to implement in your business, as well as
the opportunity to engage directly with our panelists during a Q&A session. Whether you're an
owner, manager, or part of the front-line team, this session is designed to help you elevate your
role and your business to the next level.
Don’t miss out! Come ready with your burning questions and get the tools you need to
empower yourself and your team.