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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businesses may need a pivot for various reasons—whether it’s due to shifts in the marketplace, increasing competition, outdated menus, or even the need for a cosmetic refresh.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

WS5 If You Build It, They Will Come: Crafting Concepts and Guest Experiences That Bring Your Vision to Life
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Build or rebrand your venue into a guest experience destination with this hands-on workshop—your yellow brick road to success. Led by Michael Tipps and the Maverick Theory team, you’ll discover how to create a unique concept, optimize your design, and elevate your service to craft unforgettable guest experiences that keep customers coming back.

  • Learn how to create or rebrand your venue concept from scratch.
  • Master the key elements of design that impact guest perception.
  • Dive into the fundamentals of service and hospitality for all staff levels.
  • Control every aspect of your guests’ sensory experience.
  • Ensure your vision is reflected in every touchpoint, from ownership to staff execution.
**SESSION AVAILABLE ONLY WITH DELUXE PASS**
Speakers
avatar for Michael Tipps

Michael Tipps

Founder, Maverick Theory
Michael Tipps has over 30 years of experience working, managing, and consulting in all facets of the hospitality world (throughout all positions, and most venue types including hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and fast service). Michael Tipps’s Career started in Hospitality... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 9:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room #226/227
  Workshop

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

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

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

Panel: Managing Your Beverage Program & Bar Staff
Monday March 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Join industry experts to explore the challenges and best practices of running a successful beverage program while managing your bar staff efficiently.

  • Balance beverage costs and quality to maximize profits.
  • Discover staff management techniques to improve performance.
  • Ensure your beverage program aligns with guest expectations.
  • Reduce waste and streamline inventory management.
  • Keep your team engaged while maintaining operational efficiency.
Moderators
avatar for Chad Michael George

Chad Michael George

Founder, Proof Productions
Chad Michael George is a Denver-based hospitality veteran and the founder of Proof Productions and the Director of Community Development at Bars.com. He is also the President Colorado Bartenders Guild and the Treasurer of EatDenver. Born and raised in St. Louis, he moved to Denver... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Anthony Minutoli

Anthony Minutoli

Beverage Manager, Lake Coeur d'Alene Cruises
With 20 years of corporate restaurant experience, I have built my career around delivering exceptional guest service, driving sales growth, and successfully launching and establishing brands. My expertise extends beyond traditional restaurant operations, as I have also created and... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Charles

Sarah Charles

Food & Beverage Director, the Flatiron Hotel, Indigo Road Hospitality
Sarah Charles came to love classic cocktails working at Weather Up Brooklyn for almost a decade. She worked her way up from server to bartender exploring the breath of the classics and the Milk and Honey compendium. During the pandemic, she took over managing Weather Up, and seized... Read More →
avatar for Fritz Brogan

Fritz Brogan

Co-Founder, Mission Group
Fritz Brogan began his hospitality career as a college bouncer and bartender. He is a graduate of Georgetown University and the Georgetown University Law Center and served on the University's Board of Governors and on the board of Hoyas Unlimited. He is a Trustee of the Federal City... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Room #219/220

2:00pm PDT

Panel: Marketing That Moves the Needle: Q&A with Industry Experts
Monday March 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
In this interactive Q&A session, top marketing experts will share insights on how to create marketing strategies that drive measurable results. Learn how to craft campaigns that resonate with your target audience and increase brand visibility. Get answers to your most pressing marketing questions and walk away with actionable strategies.
Attendees will: 
  • Hear expert advice on developing impactful marketing campaigns.
  • Discover the most effective channels for reaching your target audience.
  • Learn how to measure the ROI of your marketing efforts.
  • Explore innovative ways to engage guests through social media and digital platforms.
  • Gain insights on brand-building strategies that foster long-term loyalty.
Moderators
avatar for David Ciancio

David Ciancio

Co-Founder & CMO, Handcraft Burgers & Brew
Rev is a New York City restaurant owner and knows exactly how hard it is to operate and brand a hospitality business.He is a hospitality marketing consultant, customer and technology evangelist at Branded Strategic Hospitality, with more than 20 years experience in B2B digital marketing... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Corbett

Andrew Corbett

Owner/Partner, WKND Hospitality
Andrew Corbett is an entrepreneur based out of Windsor, Ontario Canada and is a partner in numerous Hospitality Properties in South Western Ontario. Andrew has been in the entertainment business since he was 14 years old and opened his first venue at the age of 22 with his business... Read More →
avatar for Danni Eickenhorst

Danni Eickenhorst

CEO, HuSTL Hospitality
Danni Eickenhorst is the CEO of HuSTL Hospitality and co-owner of Steve's Hot Dogs, Steve's Meltdown, and The Fountain restaurants in St. Louis, Missouri.Danni's background is in non-profit marketing and community outreach work, and for that reason, the focus on community bleeds into... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Room #233
  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

2:00pm PDT

Owner/Operator Masterclass: Scaling for Profit and Making Your Restaurant Work for You
Monday March 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm PDT
Are you truly owning your restaurant or bar? Do you have the systems in place to scale, or are you getting bogged down in daily tasks that don’t move the needle?
In the fast-paced hospitality industry, real success comes from mastering ownership—not just of your business, but of your time, your team, and your future. My Ownership Masterclass is designed to equip you with the actionable tools and mindset needed to take full control and drive your business forward TODAY!
In this game-changing session, you’ll learn how to:
  • Build and Implement Scalable Systems: Develop workflows and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that streamline operations and allow you to focus on strategic growth.
  • Prioritize What Truly Matters: Learn to triage your workload, distinguishing between what you can do and what you should do to maximize impact.
  • Instill Core Values that Drive Performance: Create a values-driven culture that aligns your team with the mission, ensuring every decision and action contributes to your success and how to fix those that do not.
  • Focus on What Moves the Needle: Identify the key activities you need to do, to drive results and delegate or systematize the rest, freeing you up to lead effectively.
This masterclass is your opportunity to step into true ownership, creating a business that thrives because you’ve designed it to. Take control, scale with intention.
Claim Your Spot Now and Start Owning Your Future.
Speakers
avatar for Mike Bausch

Mike Bausch

Owner, Andolini's Worldwide and The Unsliced Restaurant System
Mike Bausch is the owner of Andolini's Pizzeria, a concept of Andolini’s Worldwide, named one of the "Top 10 Pizzerias in America" based solely on reviews by TripAdvisor, CNN, Buzzfeed, and USA Today. Business.org named Andolini's as the "most recommended restaurant" in Tulsa and... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room #231/232
  Master Class

4:00pm PDT

Bar Efficiencies to Boost Profits by 50%
Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
This session dives into creating an efficient, revenue-boosting, and customer-focused bar environment. Attendees will discover how strategic layouts and data-driven decisions can enhance service speed, improve workflow, and elevate guest satisfaction. With practical, actionable steps, the session provides a roadmap for implementing impactful changes that streamline behind-the-bar operations.
Attendees Will:
  • Discover layout strategies to maximize revenue and improve service speed.
  • Learn tips to optimize space and functionality for smoother bar operations.
  • Gain insights on using data to identify high-impact changes.
  • Explore steps for implementing small, manageable improvements that make a difference.
  • Receive practical advice for creating an efficient and guest-centered bar environment.
Speakers
avatar for Hailey Workman

Hailey Workman

Bar Manager, Nightingale Cocktail
Hailey Workman is an accomplished general manager at Nightingale Cocktail in Des Moines, where she has led the team for over a decade. With 18 years of diverse experience in the hospitality industry—including roles in waitressing, bartending, menu creation, and large event management—Hailey... Read More →
Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Room #222

4:00pm PDT

Panel: Concept-Driven Growth: Aligning New Revenue Streams That Fit Your F&B Offerings
Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Expand your business with new revenue streams that complement your existing concept. Learn how to identify and implement growth opportunities that align with your brand and operations.

  • Identify new revenue streams that fit your concept.
  • Expand without compromising your brand identity.
  • Use market research to guide growth decisions.
  • Align new offerings with guest preferences.
  • Leverage partnerships to create innovative revenue opportunities.
Moderators
avatar for Adam Hegsted

Adam Hegsted

Owner, Eat Good Group
Adam Hegsted (born January 18, 1980) is an American chef, TV host, and restaurateur.[1] He is the chef/owner of Eat Good Group, which operates restaurants, eateries, and kitchens that include Francaise, De Espana, Gilded Unicorn, Yards Bruncheon, baba Spokane, Republic Kitchen + Taphouse... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Phil Kafarakis

Phil Kafarakis

President & CEO, IFMA The Food Away from Home Association
Phil Kafarakis is a global food industry executive with more than 40 years of leadership experience in food manufacturing, as well as managing non-profit food industry associations. Currently, Phil serves as President & CEO of IFMA The Food Away from Home Association, a U.S. trade... Read More →
avatar for Daniel Eddy

Daniel Eddy

Owner operator, Winner
Daniel Eddy, the owner and operator of WINNER, has built a remarkable career rooted in hisdiverse culinary upbringing and passion for community-focused dining. Born in New York Cityand raised in Nicaragua and East Harlem, Eddy's early experiences with traditional Nicaraguancuisine... Read More →
avatar for Natassia Lacerda

Natassia Lacerda

Director Of Operations And Business Development, Creme de la Creme Enterprises
Tassia is an accomplished mobile bar owner with over 25 years of experience in the food and beverage industry. Known for her engaging presence as a TV personality on the hit show “Bar Rescue,” she has built a reputation for assisting with the transformation of  struggling bars... Read More →
avatar for Eric Anderson

Eric Anderson

Director of New Business Development, Bailey Design & Entertainment
As Director of New Business Development at Bailey Design & Entertainment, Eric utilizes his 20+ years of expertise as a Technical/Electrical Engineer and team leader in various industries to focus on the development, design, and execution of immersive entertainment projects that captivate... Read More →

Monday March 24, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Room #231/232
  Conference Session

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
 
Tuesday, March 25
 

1:00pm PDT

Changing The Mindset – How the Modern Guest is Influencing Change
Tuesday March 25, 2025 1:00pm - 1:25pm PDT
Speakers
avatar for Scot Turner

Scot Turner

Founder & Managing Director, Auden Hospitality
Scot Turner has lived and breathed hospitality his entire career. From luxury hotels to independent restaurants, his drive to challenge convention has powered projects in 14 countries, working with iconic brands and chefs such as Dorchester Collection, Alain Ducasse, and China Grill... Read More →
Tuesday March 25, 2025 1:00pm - 1:25pm PDT
Spotlight Stage, Expo Floor

2:00pm PDT

Thriving Through Change: Industry Insights for Bar, Restaurant, and F&B Owners
Tuesday March 25, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Join top industry leaders as they explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of food and beverage operations. This panel will offer actionable insights on tackling labor shortages, managing costs, adapting to shifting consumer demands, and leveraging technology to enhance guest experiences. Walk away with strategies to navigate today’s hurdles and position your business for long-term success.
Attendees will gain: 
  • Proven methods for retaining top talent and building a resilient workforce.
  • Strategies to manage rising costs without compromising quality or guest experience.
  • Insights into shifting consumer preferences and how to adapt effectively.
  • Best practices for collaborating with suppliers to drive mutual success.
  • How to integrate technology to optimize operations and improve guest engagement.

Moderators
avatar for Ming-Tai Huh

Ming-Tai Huh

Head of Food and Beverage, Square
Ming-Tai Huh is a James Beard–nominated restaurant owner and technology executive – he currently serves as the Head of Food and Beverage for Square, and he is also a Partner at Cambridge Street Hospitality Group with six restaurant concepts (and more) located in Greater Boston... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Alisa Reynolds

Alisa Reynolds

Executive Chef/Owner, My Two Cents LA
A Los Angeles native who began her professional career as a visual merchandiserdesigner for Saks Fifth Avenue Beverly Hills,moving into T.V. and film production, working from wardrobe to postproduction on several television shows and films. Not yet satisfied Alisa decided to devote... Read More →
avatar for Andrew Chun

Andrew Chun

Managing Partner, Sidecar Hospitality
Andrew is a managing partner for San Francisco based Sidecar Hospitality. Sidecar owns and manages several concepts, including Pacific Cocktail Haven, Press Club, and Schroeder's. Pacific Cocktail Haven was named as a James Beard Finalist for Outstanding Bar in 2024. Sidecar's latest... Read More →
avatar for Rob Grimes

Rob Grimes

CEO, IFBTA
Robert (“Rob”) Grimes is the Founder & CEO of the IFBTA (the Food and Beverage Technology Association), a non-profit professional association promoting and advancing technology and innovation for the global food and beverage industries.Prior to establishing the IFBTA, Rob founded... Read More →
Tuesday March 25, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Room #224/225
  Conference Session

2:45pm PDT

Chef Masterclass: Menu Engineering: Back of House Insights for Crafting Profitable Dishes
Tuesday March 25, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm PDT
Details Coming Soon!

Speakers
avatar for Adrianne Calvo

Adrianne Calvo

Chef/ Author/ Restaurateur/ TV Host, Maximum Flavor
Chef Adrianne Calvo is an award-winning Miami based restaurateur, cookbook author,Emmy-nominated YouTube show host and podcaster known for her signature “Maximum Flavor” style. Her highly-acclaimed restaurants, Chef Adrianne’s Vineyard Restaurant and Bar andCracked by Chef Adrianne... Read More →
Tuesday March 25, 2025 2:45pm - 4:15pm PDT
Room #233
  Master Class

4:00pm PDT

Panel: Preparing for Franchising: Is Your Concept Ready to Scale?
Tuesday March 25, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Learn the essential steps to position your business for franchising success. This session covers financial planning, startup requirements, and proven strategies for scaling while attracting your first franchisees.
Participants will: 
  • Understand how to define and communicate your market positioning to stand out.
  • Assess the financial viability of your concept and set realistic goals.
  • Learn the actual costs and considerations for launching a franchise company.
  • Explore strategies for scaling your franchise while maintaining operational excellence.
  • Discover effective methods to recruit and onboard your first franchisees.
 
Moderators
avatar for Jonathan Weathington

Jonathan Weathington

CEO, Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar
Jonathan serves as the CEO of Shuckin Shack Oyster Bar, a fresh seafood and cold beer concept out of Wilmington, NC, which has expanded to include locations in six states. He’s been featured on the cover of FSR Magazine, appeared on Good Morning America, quoted and featured in numerous... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Carl Comeaux

Carl Comeaux

CEO, Crust Pizza Co.
Carl Comeaux is the CEO of Crust Pizza Co., a fast-growing limited-service pizza chain that has redefined the local pizzeria experience. Known for its inviting interior designinspired by classic Chicago elements, Crust Pizza locations feature old Chicago brick,light wood accents... Read More →
avatar for Lauren Coulter

Lauren Coulter

Owner, Integrator and Chief Biscuit Eater, Biscuit Belly
Lauren Coulter began her career as a pharmacist before discovering her passion for the restaurant industry. After graduating pharmacy school, Lauren and her husband, Chad Coulter, launched Louisville’s first “paint and sip” businesses, blending creativity with community engagement.In... Read More →

Tuesday March 25, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm PDT
Room #224/225
  Conference Session
 
Wednesday, March 26
 

12:30pm PDT

Beyond the Bank: Crowdfunding Lightning Round
Wednesday March 26, 2025 12:30pm - 12:55pm PDT
Raising capital in hospitality is changing fast—are you keeping up? In this fast-paced, no-fluff session, I’ll break down how Gin & Luck has raised $12M+ through Reg CF, Reg D, and two Reg A offerings, unlocking non-traditional funding to fuel expansion without giving up control.

We’ll dive into equity crowdfunding, private placements, and developer-backed deals, showing how these tools can work together to build a capital stack that maximizes growth while minimizing risk. Whether you’re looking to open your next location, expand a multi-unit operation, or future-proof your funding strategy, this session will give you real-world insights, practical takeaways, and a roadmap to raising the right capital—on your terms.
Speakers
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 →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 12:30pm - 12:55pm PDT
Spotlight Stage, Expo Floor

1:00pm PDT

Fusing Marketing, Charity, and Competition in the Hospitality Industry
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Learn how to create an engaging industry night that boosts sales during slow months, fosters community support, and adds excitement with friendly competition. This session will guide you in setting up a successful event that unites hospitality workers and gives back to the hospitality community while building lasting relationships with local businesses and suppliers.
Participants will learn:
  • How to organize a competition that attracts hospitality professionals and builds camaraderie.
  • Effective strategies for marketing the event on social media to maximize attendance.
  • Techniques to engage the community and ensure long-term participation.
  • How to partner with suppliers and local businesses for sponsorship and support.
  • Key steps to manage high volumes and optimize your venue for a seamless, successful event.

Moderators
avatar for Michael Elefante

Michael Elefante

Co-Creator, Tucson Knife Fight
Chef Michael Elefante is a Tucson native who grew up in the kitchen helping his father and grandfather make pasta, pizza and sauce. In order to gain more experience in the culinary world, Chef Elefante joined the culinary team at The Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain in 2010. He moved up... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Rico Hominda

Rico Hominda

Videographer, Tuscon Knife Fight
My name is Rico and I'm a freelance graphic designer, photographer and videographer from Tucson, Arizona. I also co-host a morning radio show on KFMA and work as a door bouncer on the weekends. I've befriended and worked with Gary and Michael for a couple of years now and it's wonderful... Read More →
avatar for Gary Hickey

Gary Hickey

Co-founder, Tucson Knife Fight
Tucson knife fight is a local community cooking contest that raises funds for food service employees. But also injects over $80,000 in local revenue every year.
avatar for Michael R Lopez

Michael R Lopez

DJ/Producer, Master Mixx Pro Dj's AZ / Knife Fight Tucson AZ
Michael Lopez has been on the decks longer than most people can remember.  Playing along side of some of the best in and on Radio Stations, Clubs, and Venues from San Diego to Miami, Dj Michael Bignut Lopez has played and seen it all. A well respected DJ in the 520 and 619, Michael... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room #226/227
  Conference Session

1:00pm PDT

Hospitality Heroes: Engaging Your Front of House for Outstanding Guest Experiences
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
This session highlights the vital role front-of-house staff play in crafting memorable guest experiences. Gain actionable strategies to energize and empower your team, ensuring they deliver exceptional service that transforms first-time visitors into loyal patrons.
Participants will know how to: 
  • Empower staff to make on-the-spot decisions that enhance guest experiences.
  • Build a culture of recognition that celebrates outstanding service and teamwork.
  • Enhance training focusing on soft skills like empathy and conflict resolution.
  • Personalize guest interactions by remembering preferences and special occasions.
  • Foster a feedback-driven environment to encourage continuous improvement.

Sponsored by:
Moderators
avatar for Nesha Arbano

Nesha Arbano

Event Producer, Duke and Van Deusen
Nesha Abarno is a dynamic leader in the hospitality and event industries with over 20 years of experience. Renowned for managing top-tier restaurants and producing high-stakes events, she has expertly helmed iconic venues like La Esquina and Beauty & Essex NYC, both celebrated for... Read More →
Speakers
avatar for Jess Rowland

Jess Rowland

Service and Hospitality Expert, The Restaurant Launch
With over 45,000 hours of server training experience, Jess Rowland is a true leader in the restaurant and hospitality industry. Over the past 26 years as a Regional Trainer for Hillstone, Jess played a key role in reinventing their 47-year-old service manual, creating one of the best... Read More →
avatar for Christopher McFadden

Christopher McFadden

Founder & Hospitality Career Coach, The McFadden Group
Christopher brings over 25 years of experience in restaurant management and sommelier roles, primarily on Canada’s West Coast, giving him a deep and confident understanding of the hospitality industry's needs.  In 2022, he returned to his hometown of Burlington, Ontario, with his... Read More →

Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room #221

1:00pm PDT

The Pricing Paradox: Balancing Cost Control and Revenue Growth in Bars and Restaurants
Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Striking the right balance between managing costs and driving revenue is one of the most challenging aspects of running a successful bar or restaurant. This session dives into actionable strategies for pricing menus effectively, maintaining profitability, and staying competitive in an ever-evolving market. Gain the tools to optimize pricing while enhancing guest satisfaction and loyalty.
Participants will:
  • Learn how menu pricing influences customer perception and drives purchasing decisions.
  • Explore tactics for managing food, beverage, and labor costs while maintaining high standards.
  • Discover how to strategically price and structure menus to increase profitability and guide guest choices.
  • Leverage industry data and consumer behavior insights to stay ahead of pricing shifts.
  • Design promotions that align with your pricing strategy and attract repeat business.
Sponsored by:
Speakers
avatar for Alexander Fletcher

Alexander Fletcher

Owner, Shaken and Stirred Hospitality
Alex Fletcher is the owner of Shaken And Stirred Hospitality and formerly served as the national beverage director and head of sustainability for Hospitality Alliance. With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality sector, Alex has focused on positivity, sustainability, creativity... Read More →

Wednesday March 26, 2025 1:00pm - 1:45pm PDT
Room #224/225

2:00pm PDT

Local Market Leadership: Strategies for Building a Strong Community Presence
Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Become a local leader by building meaningful connections with your community. This session will help you develop strategies to strengthen your brand’s presence and foster loyalty in your local market.

Learn how to engage with your community to build lasting relationships.
Discover strategies for supporting and collaborating with local businesses.
Position your venue as a cornerstone of your neighborhood.
Utilize local events and partnerships to enhance visibility.
Build a loyal customer base through authentic community involvement.
Speakers
avatar for Michelle Corigliano

Michelle Corigliano

Executive Director, Salt Lake Area Restaurant Association
Michele has worked with independent restaurant and bar owners for over 8 years, growing the Salt Lake Area Restaurant Association from 35 members to over 400.Michele prioritizes relationships with all municipal and state agencies to advocate for SLARA’s members and lobbies for positive... Read More →
avatar for Adam Orman

Adam Orman

Co-Owner, L’Oca d’Oro & Bambino
Adam Orman’s culinary career spans over two decades, starting in front-of-house in New York and San Francisco and evolving into a seasoned restaurateur in Austin. His early work at Cafe at Rockefeller Center and collaborations with influential owners at An American Place, Jojo... Read More →
avatar for Kristen Rauch

Kristen Rauch

Executive Director, EatDenver
Kristen Rauch is the Executive Director of EatDenver, a nonprofit membership organization that connects and empowers the Denver region’s independent food and beverage community through education, collaboration, marketing, and advocacy. After receiving a dual bachelor’s degree... Read More →
Wednesday March 26, 2025 2:00pm - 2:45pm PDT
Room #226/227
 

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