Industry Icon Headlines Independent Operator Event Danny Meyer, founder of Union Square Hospitality Group and Shake Shack, will keynote the 2027 Bar & Restaurant Expo on March 22–24 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Registration is now open for the event, produced by Forge (formerly Questex). The expo is the industry's only show focused specifically on independent on-premise operators. This year's theme is "Get Inspired," with an emphasis on practical solutions and education for independent bar and restaurant owners navigating operational challenges.

Meyer's Track Record Meyer opened Union Square Cafe in New York City in 1985 at age 27 and built Union Square Hospitality Group into a multi-concept operator including Gramercy Tavern, The Modern, and Ci Siamo. Under his leadership, USHG founded Shake Shack, which went public in 2015. The group is known for its Enlightened Hospitality philosophy, which prioritizes employees as the foundation for quality service. Meyer's keynote follows the September 29 release of his book What Could Possibly Go Right?, which examines leadership and culture across his four decades in hospitality. The work follows his earlier bestseller Setting the Table. "I've been in this industry for more than 40 years, and I'm still learning," Meyer said. "So much of my perspective has come from other people in hospitality, from exchanging ideas, talking about what worked and what didn't, and being open about the challenges we all face. I'm looking forward to being at Bar & Restaurant Expo and sharing some of those experiences with operators who are doing this every day."

Expanded Programming for 2027 The 2027 event expands peer-to-peer learning and hands-on programming.

The show floor will feature five dedicated pavilions: Food & Beverage; Equipment, Furniture & Build-Out; Services, Supplies & Solutions; Technology & Innovation; and Entertainment & Experience. New initiatives include: - F&B Solutions Center (presented by Middleby): Showcases equipment for menu expansion, kitchen optimization, and labor/energy cost reduction.
- Restaurant of the Future (presented by Shift4): Interactive demonstrations of emerging technologies for guest experience and operational efficiency.
- The Game Room (presented by OneSource Amusements): Educational programming with interactive games to help operators engage guests.
- NewNowNext Stage: Fast-paced, 15-minute demonstrations of new products and solutions.
- BREx Stage: TEDx-style talks from chefs, restaurateurs, mixologists, and industry leaders.
- Emerging Leaders Program: A new mentorship and networking initiative for students 21+ and young professionals.

Consumer Behavior Context Forge research found that 53% of consumers cite treating themselves as a top reason for dining or drinking out, while 45% prioritize socializing. Food quality, price, and service remain key decision factors, with 42% saying promotions influence their venue choice.

Why It Matters

For independent operators facing labor shortages, rising costs, and shifting consumer preferences, the expo provides direct access to solutions, peer networks, and industry insights. Meyer's participation underscores the value of operator-focused learning and the ongoing relevance of hospitality leadership principles in a challenging market.

For more insights and trends in the food and beverage sector, check out more articles in The Food & Beverage Magazine family of publications.

Written by FBM Publications Editors