Testimonials

"The Connecticut Restaurant Association provides valuable resources, networking opportunities, and tailored advocacy to our industry.  Max Hospitality relies on the CRA for regulatory guidance, industry education, and up to date legislative information.  Overall, the CRA contributes to a thriving community that benefits all restaurants - owners, and employees both.  When a member invests to belong to the CRA, I wouldn't be surprised if they got 10x back in return."
Steven Abrams | Max Hospitality, Multi-Location - member since 2009

"As a restaurant owner & family man, one of the biggest challenges I face is 'finding the time."  I spend my time focused on the strength of my business.  The CRA spend theirs focused on the strength of our industry, dedicating countless hours to advocate for restaurants at both the state and federal level."
Michael Androw | E&D Pizza, Avon - member since 2020

"Being a member of the CRA keeps me connected with other restaurateurs & caterers around the state.  Networking in this community gives us a chance to share ideas and tackle challenges together.  If you're facing a problem, there's a good chance another member has experienced something similar and can help walk you through it to succeed."
Doug Polistena | The Amber Room Colonnade, Danbury - member since 2020

"The real dollar value of the Connecticut Restaurant Association far exceeds the cost of membership dues, even if you only consider the lobbying and representation, which is not available from any other source.  Membership can be the difference between success and failure in this business."
Bill Taibe | Don Memo,  Westport - member since 2017

"Joining the CRA was one of the smartest decisions I've made as an operator, especially when I joined as a busy single mom.  During the pandemic, and even now, the resources at my fingertips have been invaluable.   Whether it's organizing a ServSafe training for my employees, navigating complex issues like the fight to keep the tip credit, or getting quick, expert advice from the CRA team, the support has saved me hours of research and made running my business much easier.  The CRA is truly a partner in our success." 
Christina Fitzgerald | New Haven - member since 2019

"As a CRA member for over 10 years, I have always felt as if I have had an extra set of eyes and ears overseeing the wellness of my businesses with support available 365 days a year.  The past few years have been difficult for the hospitality sector, as we all face a more & more challenging business climate.  The CRA continues to be an indispensable resource to our industry."
Scott Miller | DORO Restaurant Group, Multi-Location - member since 2013

"As members of the Connecticut Restaurant Association, we deeply value the advocacy efforts on behalf of the industry, which ensures our voices are heard at the state level. Beyond advocacy, the practical support—ranging from educational resources to member discounts—has been a tremendous asset. The CRA also provides a great platform for connecting with fellow restaurateurs, fostering collaboration, and sharing best practices, while the Foundation’s (CHEF) work in supporting culinary education aligns with our mission to empower future hospitality professionals."
Ben Dubow | Fire by Forge/Forge City Works, Hartford - member since 2022

"Through my many years as a restaurateur, I've watched as countless operators neglected to get involved on the organizational or legislative level, only to be on the sidelines as the 'powers that be' decided what was best for our industry.  An active CRA membership can help you protect your interests and network with other hardworking business owners like yourself.  We all can learn best practices from each other while growing our community."
Frank Klein | FK Restaurants + Hospitality, Fairfield - member since 2024

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