Katie Gerber, Communications & Engagement Manager, Connecticut Restaurant Association.

By Katie Gerber, Communications & Engagement Manager, Connecticut Restaurant Association

The Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association (CRHA) has been busy advocating for our industry, celebrating member achievements, and investing in the future of Connecticut’s hospitality workforce. Here’s a look at some of the latest news from across the association and Foundation.

CRHA Speaks Out on Proposed $25 National Minimum Wage

In mid-June, Senator Chris Murphy introduced a bill that would establish a $25/hour national minimum wage. The CRHA responded immediately, emphasizing the significant impact such a proposal would have on Connecticut’s independently owned hospitality businesses. 97% of Connecticut’s hospitality businesses are small, independently owned and operated businesses with razor thin profit margins. 

When the government forces labor costs to skyrocket, they will have no choice but to pass those costs onto consumers, making it more expensive to take a family out for a meal or an overnight stay. It’s an inflationary cycle that hurts working-class people, and the CRHA thinks our senators’ time would be better spent on legislation that actually supports small businesses. The CRHA will continue advocating for policies that strengthen Connecticut’s hospitality industry while supporting the independent businesses that serve communities across the state.

Celebrating Connecticut’s 2026 Wine Spectator Award Winners

Congratulations to the many CRHA member restaurants recognized in Wine Spectator’s 2026 Restaurant Awards. More than 4,000 dining spots, from all 50 U.S. states and more than 85 countries, earned honors for excellence in their wine lists, cellars and service. Connecticut is home to 30 award winners, many of whom have been honored for consecutive years. This includes CRHA Members Barcelona Wine Bar, The Capital Grille, David Burke Prime, L’escale, Nouveau Monde, The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood, Washington Prime, Arethusa al tavolo, The Brushmill by the Waterfall, Gabriele’s Italian Steakhouse, The Griswold Inn, ZINC, Viron Rondo Osteria, 2 Hopewell Bistro, The Shipwright’s Daughter, and Shell & Bones. Congratulations to The North House, The Foundry, The Waters Edge at Giovanni’s, Union League, and Swyft for entering the list in 2026! 

CHEF Expands Workforce Development Opportunities

The Connecticut Hospitality Educational Foundation (CHEF), the CRHA’s 501(c)(3) charitable foundation, continues to support the development of the future of Connecticut’s hospitality workforce!

CHEF is participating in the HOPES GO5 program, a National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation initiative that creates meaningful career pathways for justice-involved young adults ages 18 to 24. Participants receive industry-recognized credentials, one-on-one mentorship, and 177 hours of paid, hands-on work experience with local hospitality employers.

In Connecticut, the program is being delivered in Bridgeport and surrounding communities through a partnership between CHEF, Career Resources Inc., and the Connecticut Department
of Correction.

Over the next two years, the program will connect dozens of young adults with valuable learning experiences while helping hospitality employers develop the next generation of industry talent.

Learn more and get involved here.

Help 86 the Stigma Around Mental Health

The Bear’s Foundation, in partnership with the Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association, is proud to launch a fundraising initiative through the 2026 Eversource Hartford Marathon to expand access to Mental Health First Aid training for hospitality workers across Connecticut. Hospitality is an industry built on passion, resilience, and long hours, but many employees face stress, burnout, anxiety, and other mental health challenges without the support they need. Funds raised through Team Bear’s will help provide hospitality businesses with the tools and training to recognize when someone is struggling, respond with compassion, and connect coworkers to appropriate resources. We are recruiting runners and walkers to join Team Bear’s for this year’s Eversource Hartford Marathon. Join on your own or encourage your team to step up to the challenge and make a meaningful impact.

There are two easy ways to get involved:

• Race: Sign up for the 5K, Half Marathon, or Full Marathon as a member of Team Bear’s.
• Donate: Support the mission with a donation — no running required!

Learn more here.

CRHA membership unlocks support, resources and more for hospitality businesses across Connecticut. Subscribe to our industry newsletter by scanning the QR code.