About the Missouri Restaurant Association & Foundation
Founded in 1916, the Missouri Restaurant Association (MRA) is the champion for our State's restaurant and hospitality industry. We are trusted leaders for our community, protecting, serving, and promoting success from entry level to ownership.
The Missouri Restaurant Association Education Foundation (MRAEF) was established in 1977. As the philanthropic arm of the MRA, the MRAEF's mission is to help individuals in our industry advance and thrive.
Our Members
MRA's Membership is diverse and includes all segments of the industry including hotels with restaurants, bars, nightclubs, etc. Members also include traditional restaurants, caterers, hospitals, schools, institutions, clubs, cafeterias and vendors passionate about the continued success of the hospitality industry in Missouri.
New Member Spotlight
Our Mission
The Missouri Restaurant Association champions the success of Missouri’s foodservice and hospitality community. We bring together restaurant owners, operators, and industry partners to educate, advocate, and connect helping our members thrive in an ever-changing industry.
Through trusted advocacy, we protect the business interests of our members at every level of government. Through education and training, we prepare the next generation of leaders and promote excellence in food safety, service, and operations. Through networking and community, we build meaningful relationships that strengthen Missouri’s restaurant industry from small towns to major cities.
Together, we are the voice and the heartbeat of Missouri’s restaurant community united, resilient, and proud to serve.
Our mission would not be possible without our State Partners
About Missouri's Restaurant Industry
- 12,486 + eating and drinking locations in Missouri
- 70% percent of Missouri restaurants, and 85%+ of the MRA's dues-paying members - are independently owned and operated.
- Restaurants account for 9.4% of the state's workforce representing as the states 3rd largest private employer in the state.
- Annually, restaurants drive $23.5 + Billion in retail sales and $3.7 billion in state sales tax revenue to the Missouri economy.