3 Takeaways from Bar & Restaurant Expo 2025
I just got back from the Bar & Restaurant Expo in Las Vegas. It was my fifth time attending, and as always, walking the show floor was a blast—and an education. When I walk the floor, I’m looking for two things: something I’ve never seen before, or something that’s starting to become a trend.
This year, both were easy to spot. Operators are hungry for smart, scrappy tools that help them adapt—especially when it comes to labor, costs, and guest engagement. Here are the three big trends I walked away with.
1. Labor-stretching tech is getting more hands-on—and more fun
The labor squeeze is still real, and it’s pushing operators to get even more creative. This year’s expo was packed with tech designed to help teams do more with less. But what really stood out? Tools that take over specific tasks—without taking away from the guest experience. Think: digital pouring machines, automatic liquor inventory tools, and small-keg pre-mixed cocktails. These tools don’t just make operations more efficient—they free up your staff to do what they do best: deliver those moments guests remember.
In talking with operators, there were mixed opinions on how and when to bring in tech. In my opinion though, this is not just automation for the sake of automation, but real solutions that can make life easier for operators and employees alike.
2. AI that works for operators
AI is here to stay. And with the hype-first, substance-second solutions fading, what’s emerging are much more useful tools: AI agents that are purpose-built for restaurant operators. The flashy, all-in-one AI tools are giving way to specialized agents that focus on tedious tasks like competitive pricing research or labor scheduling automation. The value here isn’t just in saving time—it’s in eliminating the guesswork.
If you're an operator looking to cut through the AI noise, look for tools that solve a specific pain point. The best AI doesn’t replace people. It gives them better data and more headspace to run the business.
3. Small-format entertainment is a big opportunity
Restaurant profit margins are tight. Guests are more value-conscious than ever. Gen Z is drinking less alcohol. And operators are asking: how do we get people to stay longer, spend more, and come back? One answer I saw over and over again: small-format social games. Darts. Shuffleboard. Tabletop experiences that spark connection, and a healthy dose of competition. It’s not just about having fun (though that doesn’t hurt). It’s about creating value-driven experiences that turn a night out into something memorable—and drive up check averages while you’re at it.
If you’ve got a little space to spare, these kinds of low-maintenance entertainment options are a smart, cost-effective way to diversify your revenue stream and give guests another reason to choose your place over the one down the block.
Every year, I come back from the Bar & Restaurant Expo energized. The tech keeps evolving, but the goal is always the same: support operators with tools that are practical, personal, and proven. If you're focused on freeing up your team, elevating your guest experience, or finding new ways to drive revenue, there’s never been a better time to explore what’s out there.