The Robinson Family, proud owners of the beloved Cozy Corner Restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee, have been named the Memphis Restaurant Association’s Restaurateur of the Year—a recognition that celebrates their legacy of excellence, resilience, and deep-rooted impact on the Memphis culinary scene. For decades, the Robinsons have served up more than just mouthwatering barbecue; they’ve created a welcoming, soulful space that feels like home to generations of Memphians and visitors alike. Their commitment to quality, consistency, and community has made Cozy Corner a cherished institution and a shining example of what it means to be stewards of both tradition and innovation. The MRA is honored to recognize the Robinson Family for their extraordinary contributions and for continuing to make Memphis proud!
Chris Green of Athens Distributing has been named the Memphis Restaurant Association’s Associate of the Year, a recognition that truly reflects his unwavering dedication, professionalism, and impact on the local hospitality industry. Chris has long been a trusted partner to countless restaurants in our community, known not only for his deep knowledge of the beverage distribution business but also for his integrity, responsiveness, and genuine support of our industry’s success. His commitment to building lasting relationships, coupled with his tireless work ethic and always-positive attitude, has made him an invaluable asset to the MRA and its members. We are proud to honor Chris Green for his outstanding contributions and continued excellence!
🎉 Step Into the M-Rald City for Zoo Rendezvous!
Join us at Zoo Rendezvous on Friday, September 5, at Prentiss Place — an amazing night of food, drinks, music, and magic at the Memphis Zoo!
Sample bites and sips from Memphis’s best restaurants, food trucks, and bars while dancing the night away under the emerald glow. This 21+ event supports animal care and conservation efforts, and it’s one of the Zoo’s biggest fundraisers of the year.
🎟️ Tickets are on sale now!
✨ Click your heels and get ready for the biggest bash of the year!
We expect to serve the last meal between 3-4pm, but that could change based on the speed of play!
We will have putting contest entries, additional raffle entries, and mulligans for sale at registration.
🚗 Parking Reminder: Parking is limited—carpool if possible! Feel free to drop your bag in the roundabout—Galloway staff will assist. Then park and head to the clubhouse to enjoy breakfast and check in.
👕 Team Spirit: Wear your company polo or hat so we can celebrate all the great local support!
Come experience a Legendary performance honoring the life of BB King’s 100th Birthday! The 3 days worth of events begins on Sunday, September 14th, with a free music festival on Beale Street from 2-6 pm. On Tuesday, September 16th and 18th, we will continue the birthday parties inside BB King’s Blues Club with dinner and show style entertainment.
INDUSTRY LEADERS OPPORTUNITY- Looking for a great training or team building event about our city?
Discover Memphis and Enhance Your Memphis Knowledge
Join Welcome to Memphis for their monthly Insiders Tour, a 90-minute guided bus ride through Midtown and Downtown Memphis. Designed for local hospitality professionals, this tour highlights key attractions, amenities, and the rich history of our city.
Details:
When: Second Wednesday of every month at 9:30 AM
Where: Tennessee Welcome Center, 119 Riverside Drive (Free parking available)
Who: Hospitality professionals eager to deepen their Memphis knowledge
Cost: $10 per person (assists with transportation costs)
Equip yourself with insights to provide guests with authentic Memphis experiences.
Excessive credit card processing fees have been rapidly increasing, and small business owners have had no recourse. Now, a bill in the U.S. Senate could inject competition into the credit card market and bring down swipe fees.
Your elected officials work for you, and you are the expert on running your business. Contact your elected officials to push for credit card swipe fee reform.
🚨🎉 Beale Street is stacked with summer fun this July! 🎉🚨
Get ready for: 🎤 KIX on Beale – Free country concerts in the heart of Memphis! 🏃♂️ Ed Murphey Classic – World-class track & field action you don’t want to miss 🚘 Hot Rods on Beale – Classic cars & cool vibes every month 🏍️ Bike Night on Beale – Bikes, music & the best kind of crowd 🚙 Jeep Night on Beale – Jeeps take over the street in serious style 🎆 4th of July Fireworks Downtown – Celebrate Independence Day with a BOOM
🔥 Mark your calendars & meet us on Beale! Memphis is showing out all month long.
Associate and Vendor Members,
This event is for you! Network with others in the restaurant industry. We buy your cup of coffee.