The California Restaurant Association actually began in Los Angeles in 1906. Then, it was called the Los Angeles Hotel and Restaurant Men’s Association.

One-hundred and twelve years later, the Los Angeles chapter of the CRA has over 1300 members and an active Board of Directors, currently headed by Lynne Davidson of Tito’s Tacos.

The chapter is one of the biggest supporters of the CRA Foundation, raising over $25,000 in 2017. The signature fundraising event each year is the Elizabeth Burns Lifetime Achievement Award Dinner. Ms. Burns was the first female president of the CRA—a true leader and pioneer in the restaurant industry, and a noted philanthropist.

The yearly Burns honoree is more than just a great restaurant operator, but someone who gives back to their community and works to advance the goals of the CRA. In 2018, it was Tony Palermo, of Tony P’s Dockside Grill, while in 2017, we honored Selwyn Yosslowitz of Marmalade Café.

Each of the chapters exists to foster networking and support amongst its members. To further that cause, the LA chapter hosts an annual new member breakfast in the spring and a mixer for restaurant owners at the August Western Foodservice Hospitality Expo.

They also sponsor a panel each year to discuss issues currently relevant to the industry, such as minimum wage and tip pooling, and those specific to Los Angeles, such as increased health department fees.

Join us for one of our upcoming events to learn more about the LA chapter.