Our mission is to ensure the health of the Greater Houston Restaurant Association and promote the growth of our industry through education, public awareness and governmental affairs.
The earliest record of the Greater Houston Restaurant Association dates back to September 13, 1928, when officers of the Texas Restaurant Association gathered in Houston for a three-day session. Seventy-nine years later, the Association is thriving. Houston has more TRA members than any other local chapter. We continue to be a strong advocate for our members politically, as well as a resource for information, training and networking opportunities.
We recognize that building and maintaining a successful business begins with being knowledgeable on all the ins and outs of the industry. That is why we have established a solid education committee to help promote and support culinary programs and restaurant owners. With a primary focus on helping schools and restaurateurs in need of resources and training, we provide avenues to educate aspiring restaurateurs of tomorrow.
Our members host professional seminars for restaurateurs and participate in Junior Achievement programs in local schools, career days and educational programs like HISD's Culinary Showcase.
The GHRA hosts monthly membership activities to keep members in-the-loop on what’s happening in the industry, while allowing them to network and enjoy gourmet cuisine with fellow friends in the business. In addition, we have three major fundraisers each year: the Dine Around, Spring Golf Classic and Annual Gourmet Gala. At the Dine Around, members hop in a luxury limo and are driven to top restaurants to enjoy succulent spirits and delectable dishes. The Golf Tournament is known to be a swinging good time, allowing restaurateurs to take the day “off” from the busy restaurant scene to enjoy a little fun in the sun. Saving the best for last, the Annual Gala is a first-class, black-tie event with enjoyable themes like a Mardi Gras Masquerade, a Beatles’ Tribute to “A Hard Day’s Night” and last year, a “James Bond” inspired theme—Dine Another Day. In addition to being a good time for everyone involved, each event raises funds to support local charities, institutions and scholarships that relate to the industry.