What We Saw (and Loved) at the 2025 NRA Show

Another National Restaurant Association Show has come and gone, and McCormick Place is probably still echoing with the hum of espresso machines and the polite beep of robots navigating the aisles. For those of us lucky enough to be there, the 2025 show was more than just a trade event — it was a full-blown preview of where the restaurant world is headed, with plenty of surprises (and flavor) along the way.

As a creative services company that lives and breathes food marketing, we showed up ready to spot what’s next — and to help our clients bring it to life.

So, what was the vibe this year?

In a word: evolution. Not in the slow, let’s-see-what-happens sense — but in the fast, AI-powered, delivery-optimized, globally-inspired kind of way. This year’s show wasn’t just about what’s new — it was about what’s next, and how quickly we can all get there.

Here’s what stood out:

1. AI Is Officially Out of the Lab Coat

Artificial intelligence wasn’t just a buzzword this year — it was at the center of the show floor. We saw AI tools predicting inventory needs, analyzing customer behavior, and even helping restaurants personalize menus in real time. That’s not science fiction anymore. That’s Tuesday lunch rush.

More importantly for our clients: these innovations are creating new opportunities for storytelling, branding, and customer experience design. If AI is running the numbers behind the scenes, your front-of-house needs to feel even more human and connected — that’s where we come in.

2. Robots Are Rolling (and Pouring, and Cleaning)

From burger bots to drink-dispensing arms, automation has moved from the back room into the spotlight. Bear Robotics rolled out some serious service tech, and attendees were all in. These machines aren’t replacing the magic of hospitality — they’re freeing up humans to focus more on it.

Designing marketing around that blend of tech and touch? That’s the sweet spot. Let’s make your brand feel like the future — without losing the warmth.

3. Green Is the New Standard

If you weren’t talking sustainability at this year’s show, you weren’t paying attention. Energy-saving kitchen equipment, compostable everything, and locally sourced ingredients weren’t niche — they were everywhere.

For brands looking to win hearts and loyalty, showing real commitment to sustainability is no longer optional. And telling that story visually and consistently across all touchpoints? That’s where your creative partner earns their keep.

4. Flavor Without Borders

From sizzling Filipino street food to bold Korean sauces and Vietnamese spice blends, this year’s show was a culinary passport. Global flavors were having their moment — and it’s clear they’re not just trends; they’re becoming menu mainstays.

We see this as a huge opportunity for brands to celebrate authenticity, showcase cultural creativity, and build deeper connections through food. Bring us the bold — we’ll help you make it beautiful.

5. Takeout Isn’t Going Anywhere

Off-premise dining is still on the rise — and it’s getting a serious glow-up. Think smarter packaging, fresher presentation, and better logistics tech. If you’re a food brand and you’re not planning for takeout in your storytelling and design, you’re missing half the table.

Bottom line? The 2025 NRA Show proved that the foodservice industry isn’t just adapting — it’s innovating, fast. And for those of us in the creative trenches, it’s an exciting time to help brands tell better stories, build better experiences, and stay ahead of the curve.

If you were there too, we’d love to hear what caught your eye. And if you weren’t? Let’s connect — we’ll catch you up.