The Memphis Restaurant Association has been moving fast—and making an impact. From advocacy wins to packed events and what’s ahead this summer, here’s what you need to know
MRA AWARDS HAVE BEEN CHOSEN!
The Memphis Restaurant Association is proud to announce that our 2026 award recipients have officially been selected. These individuals represent the very best of our industry—leaders who have gone above and beyond in their businesses, their communities, and the Memphis hospitality scene as a whole.
We’ll be honoring them throughout the year with special recognitions, beginning with a formal announcement in our upcoming newsletter and press release. Stay tuned as we celebrate their impact across our events and platforms.
Keep an eye out for the full announcement coming soon!
HELP US GROW THE MEMPHIS RESTAURANT COMMUNITY
The strength of the Memphis Restaurant Association has always come from our members—and the relationships behind them. If you know a restaurant, supplier, or operator who should be part of this network, now is the time to bring them in.
We’re launching a limited-time Membership Challenge to grow our community with the right people—those who care about this industry and want to be part of its future. For every new member you refer who joins, you’ll receive a $50 credit toward an MRA event or your membership renewal—and if you refer three new members, you’ll earn a free ticket to one of our upcoming events.
All referred members must complete their membership signup on the MRA website by July 1, 2026 for referrals to qualify. Please reach out to Ronna to confirm the referral has signed up!
Let’s grow this together.
👉 Refer a Member Today
Challenge runs through July 1, 2026
RECAP: DAY ON THE HILL
Our recent Day on the Hill was a powerful reminder of why the MRA exists—to ensure our industry has a voice where decisions are made. Members of our delegation met directly with legislators to advocate for issues that directly impact restaurant operators, from credit card fees to tourism funding and regulatory clarity.
These conversations matter—and they only happen because of a unified, engaged membership base. This is your association in action.
MRA FRIENDS & FAMILY NIGHT AT THE SHELL (JUNE 4)
Join us on June 4 for one of our most anticipated community events—MRA Friends & Family Night at the Overton Park Shell. Your ticket gives you access to our exclusive MRA deck, featuring a cash bar, great food, and one of the best atmospheres Memphis has to offer.
This is the perfect night to bring your team, your family, or your industry friends and enjoy a relaxed evening together.
We’re bringing something brand new to the table—the Inaugural MRA 9 Ball Doubles Tournament on August 22. This event pairs MRA members with skilled pool players for a competitive, high-energy tournament designed to build connections and create a completely different kind of networking experience.
Whether you’re stepping up to play or coming or sponsoring, this is one you don’t want to miss.
Our Smokin’ Clays Shoot was another incredible success, bringing together members and supporters for a great day of competition—all in support of the MRAPAC.
Events like this directly fuel our ability to advocate for the restaurant industry at the local and state level. Every participant and sponsor plays a role in strengthening that voice.
Join us for our next Associates Coffee Club on May 5th from 8:00–9:00am. This casual morning meetup is designed for our associate members to connect, share ideas, and build meaningful relationships within the MRA network.
Whether you’re looking to strengthen partnerships or simply stay plugged into the community, this is an easy and valuable way to start your day.
As Shelby County prepares for upcoming mayoral elections, it’s critical that our industry stays informed and engaged.
Key voting dates are approaching, and we encourage all members to make a plan to vote. Leadership decisions at the county level have a direct impact on public safety, workforce development, and the overall business environment for restaurants.
Momentum is building across the Memphis restaurant community—and the MRA is at the center of it. From advocacy to events to industry recognition, we’re continuing to create opportunities that move our members forward.
