Katie Gerber, Communications & Engagement Manager, CRHA
The Latest from the Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association
By Katie Gerber, Communications & Engagement Manager, Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association
The next chapter of the Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association is here. Introducing our new brand identity — one that reflects the strength, diversity, and spirit of Connecticut’s hospitality community.
After expanding our portfolio to include hotels and lodging earlier this year, it was time for the next step. This refreshed brand reflects where the CRHA is today and where we’re headed, while bringing to life three commitments that have been at the heart of our work since 1961:
- Amplifying the industry’s voice
- Celebrating the people and places behind it
- Supporting the work of operators across the state
Learn more about hospitalityct.org.
Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association’s Scott Dolch, President and CEO with Dan Mesier, CRHA Legislative Committee Chair (Restaurants) and Founder of 85th Day Food Community at the Chef Farm Reception & Culinary Tour.
A Showcase of Connecticut’s Culinary Scene Raises Funds for Hospitality Advocacy
Connecticut’s culinary community came together for a special one-night-only event celebrating chefs, local purveyors, and the hospitality community — all while raising funds to support industry advocacy.
Held at Stone Acres Farm in Stonington, the Chef Farm Reception & Culinary Tour brought together nine of Connecticut’s acclaimed chefs: Ashley Flagg, Ryan Carbone, Tyler Anderson, Adam Young, Renee Touponce, Prasad Chirnomula, David Standridge, Chris Vanasse, and Luke Venner, along with Faddy’s Donuts.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the generous sponsors who helped make the evening possible: Hartford Distributors, Eder-Goodman, Peak Event Services, Powerstation Events, CTbites, and Falvey Linen & Uniform Supply.
And, of course, a huge thank you to all of the participating chefs, Stone Acres Farm, and the team at 85th Day Food Community for bringing this special evening to life and supporting the future of Connecticut’s hospitality industry.
A dessert from Sift, served during the Chef Farm Reception & Culinary Tour.
Connecticut Tourism Continues to Gain Momentum
Tourism marketing is vital to hospitality businesses, and the CRHA continues to push for increased funding in the state budget.
A recent report from the Connecticut Office of Statewide Marketing & Tourism found that the state welcomed 72.2 million visitors last year, compared to 70 million in 2024. Visits to Connecticut increased 3.1% over the previous year, compared with national growth of 1.5% during the same period.
The Annual Tourism Economics Report also shows tourism growth in Connecticut more than doubled the national rate for the year. Connecticut tourism in 2025 generated $20.1 billion in total economic impact, and the hospitality industry supports over 125,000 jobs, generating $1.6 billion in Connecticut state and local tax revenue.
If you are interested in getting more involved with the CRHA, email info@hospitalityct.org or visit hospitalityct.org to find out more about how you can help amplify our voice through membership.
Photos courtesy of CRHA and CTbites.
