CHICAGO — The 2006 National Restaurant Association Restaurant, Hotel & Motel Show, held May 20-23 in Chicago, is a global marketplace where products from different countries and cultures around the world gather under one roof. According to a news release, more than 200 international exhibitors from 40-plus countries will be part of this year's show.
Attendees browsing through the International Cuisine Pavilion and other exhibits throughout the show floor will find a host of traditional ethnic and international food and beverages. American consumers are increasingly looking for bolder flavors and more exotic concepts in their dining experiences, and restaurateurs are looking for new ways to satisfy customer demands and keep their operations fresh and exciting.
"Ethnic and fusion cuisines, as well as adding international twists on traditional dishes, is a trend that has been brewing for some time and is gaining momentum among restaurants and chefs in the U.S., making this an exciting time for the culinary arts," said NRA president and chief executive officer Steven Anderson. "Over the last few decades, international travel and immigrant populations have introduced Americans to new flavors and dishes that they now expect to see on restaurant menus. To meet the needs of these adventurous diners, restaurant operators are always searching for new ideas, and the 2006 show will provide inspiration and countless new food and beverage options."
