Opened in 1953 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the Beltline Bar offers Mexican fare featuring recipes dating back to 1966. In 2008, Grand Rapids Magazine named the restaurant's margaritas and burritos as best in the area. To help maintain its superior cuisine, Beltline Bar belongs to several industry-based organizations, one of which is the Michigan Restaurant Association (MRA).
As the leading organization of the state’s hospitality industry, the MRA represents close to 4,500 Michigan foodservice businesses. The MRA began in 1921 and has grown to employ more than 421,000 individuals and produce $15.4 billion in sales per year.
An event sponsored by the MRA is its annual Michigan Restaurant Show, with the 2016 show taking place October 18 and 19 at the Suburban Collection Showcase in Novi. This trade show is open only to industry professionals; the general public is not admitted. Attendees have an opportunity to listen to keynote speakers, watch live chef demonstrations, and partake in workshops. Attendees can also network with exhibitors, who come from all over the country to show their new products. Among the offerings at the 2016 trade show will be new seasonings, spices, beverages, and tableware.
