Thursday, December 11, 2025

Latino Restaurant Association - Are YOU FIFA 2026 Ready? — Let’s Get Your Business Ready

 

December 11, 2025

Get Your Restaurant Holiday-Ready: Tips for a Successful Season

The holiday season is one of the busiest — and most profitable — times of the year for restaurants. With families gathering, companies hosting celebrations, and visitors filling the city, now is the perfect moment to make sure your restaurant is prepared to shine.


1. Refresh Your Holiday Menu

Highlight seasonal flavors, limited-time dishes, and festive drinks. Guests love trying something special during the holidays, and unique offerings can help boost sales.


2. Decorate with Purpose

Create a warm, inviting atmosphere with simple holiday décor. A cozy space encourages customers to stay longer, spend more, and share their experience on social media.


3. Plan Your Staffing Early

The rush is coming — ensure your team is trained, scheduled, and ready. Clear communication and extra support during peak times can make all the difference.


4. Offer Online Ordering & Gift Cards

Many guests prefer convenient holiday meal options. Promoting gift cards can also help generate additional revenue and attract new customers.


5. Promote, Promote, Promote

Use social media, email newsletters, and your Google Business profile to highlight specials, events, and updated hours. Consistent communication helps keep your restaurant top of mind.



This holiday season, preparation is key. With a thoughtful plan, you can create memorable experiences for your guests while maximizing your end-of-year success.

Attention LRA Members! ⚽️

Are You FIFA Ready?

The Latino Restaurant Association is conducting a special survey and readiness analysis to help our members prepare for the FIFA World Cup 2026 — one of the biggest opportunities for restaurants in Los Angeles and beyond!


This exclusive program is a member-only benefit. All LRA members will receive a separate email with their official FIFA Readiness Package.



Not yet a member? Don’t miss out — scroll down to join the LRA today and be part of this exciting initiative!

Partner with the LA28 Olympic & Paralympic Games

About LA28

The LA28 Organizing Committee is responsible for planning and delivering the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

Beyond hosting the Games, LA28 is committed to driving economic growth and opportunity across the region — empowering local businesses to participate in this historic event.


Opportunities with LA28

LA28 will work with an expansive network of suppliers across key industries, including:

  • Logistics
  • Hospitality & Tourism
  • Transportation
  • Events & Production

If you’re a supplier or business owner interested in working with LA28, we invite you to register your company today!


By registering, your business will be added to the LA28 supplier database.

If a relevant opportunity arises, the LA28 team will reach out for more information.

(Please note: registration does not guarantee a business opportunity.)


Register Here


Be part of the movement shaping the Los Angeles 2028 Games — and help bring the Olympic spirit to life through local business collaboration!

When

Saturdays, Jan. 10 to Feb. 7, 2026

9:30 AM to 3:00 PM


Where

1055 Wilshire Blvd. #900B

Los Angeles, CA 90017


The Entrepreneur Training Program (ETP) is a 24-hour business start-up course for entrepreneurs that want to start a new business. Topics include:


  • Entrepreneurial Keys to Success
  • Introduction to Business Plan writing: Defining Mission and Setting Goals
  • Marketing Analysis: Customers, Competition & Industry, the 4Ps
  • Small Business Taxes with the IRS and EDD
  • Budgeting and Cash Flow Management
  • Legal Aspects Choice of Entity, Contracts, Licensing & Permit
  • Protecting Your Business Assets: Intellectual Property
  • Access to Capital


We invite you to certify your business with the #Sello M, a distinction awarded by the Mexican Academy of Gastronomy in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Consulate General of Mexico in Los Angeles.

 

This recognition is designed for businesses abroad that keep authentic Mexican cuisine alive, honoring original ingredients and traditional methods that make our gastronomy unique worldwide.


Registration is open until December 16. The “Sello M” certificate validates the quality and authenticity of your dishes but also helps you stand out with your customers and strengthen the Mexican identity of your culinary offerings.


If your mission is to share the flavors Mexico through every dish, this distinction is for you.

 

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Te invitamos a certificar tu negocio con el #Sello M, un distintivo otorgado por la Academia Mexicana de Gastronomía en colaboración con la Secretaría de Relaciones Exteriores y el Consulado General de México en Los Ángeles.


Esta certificación está dirigida a los negocios en el extranjero que mantienen viva la auténtica cocina mexicana, respetando ingredientes originales y métodos tradicionales que hacen única nuestra gastronomía en el mundo.

 

El registro estará abierto hasta el 16 de diciembre y es gratuito.

 

El “Sello M” respalda la calidad y autenticidad de tus platillos, sino que también te ayuda a destacar frente a tus clientes y a reforzar la identidad mexicana de tu propuesta culinaria.

 

Si tu misión es compartir los sabores de México a través de cada platillo, este distintivo es para ti.



Help keep your business running smoothly and sustainably!

Take advantage of energy-efficient natural gas equipment rebates from SoCalGas.

For Chefs, By Chefs – Supply Chain Solutions.

At CookUnity Supplies, we’re redefining what’s possible for restaurants, chefs, and foodservice operators. Our team is dedicated to help you streamline procurement, reduce costs, and access the power of collective buying—without the typical hurdles for small business owners.


Our Solutions – FREE for LRA members:

  • Maximized Savings: Leverage the purchasing power of our network to enjoy lower prices on high-quality ingredients and essential supplies. 
  • Reliable Suppliers: Partner with CookUnity trusted, vetted suppliers who prioritize service and reliability above all else.
  • Simplified Procurement: Enjoy a hassle-free ordering process with access to the items you need, when you need them.
  • Dedicated Supply Chain Consulting: Get personalized support to optimize your procurement strategy, reduce inefficiencies, and solve supply chain challenges unique to your business.
  • Scalable Solutions: From single-location operators to multi-brand groups, our solutions grow with you.


Want to see how much you could save?


Book a time for FREE food cost audit HERE or email us at erick@cookunity.com to chat!

Don't wait, save now - save up to $3,000!

Do you know about the California Foodservice Instant Rebates Program? If your business is serviced by SoCalGas, Pacific Gas & Electric, or San Diego Gas & Electric, you can get valuable, instant rebates up to $3,000 on qualifying energy-efficient equipment for your business. Learn more at caenergywise.com/instant-rebates.


You can skip the paperwork and receive an instant rebate as a discount directly on your invoice when you purchase qualifying, high-efficiency natural gas or electric commercial foodservice equipment from participating dealers.


Qualifying equipment must be installed at a non-residential site that receives natural gas and/or electricity service from SoCalGas, Pacific Gas & Electric, and/or San Diego Gas & Electric.

“Major cooking appliances account for almost 35% of the average restaurant's energy expenditures*.”


Upgrading to high-efficiency equipment uses less natural gas, electricity, and water and can reduce utility costs by as much as 75% compared to standard efficiency equipment. Plus, many energy-saving products produce less heat, which could increase comfort and could decrease your cooling costs.


*Energy consumption for commercial kitchens based on a study by Energy Star(R). Actual savings may vary.

Read it Now: The Nov/Dec 2025 issue of el Restaurante magazine is here!

We are excited to announce that our newest edition is now out! It includes articles about the renaissance of Rompope, creative desserts, shared plates and much more.

 

Click here for the "flipbook" version, which is beautifully designed and looks like a print magazine

 

Click here for our easy-to-read Web-Optimized version, which works great on your computer, tablet or phone

 

Pulse aquí para leer el número completo en español


We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we enjoy bringing it to you!

Go Green: Get Up to $4,000 for Heat Pump Upgrades!

Breathe easier, help improve air quality, and potentially lower your energy bills! The South Coast Air Quality Management District is excited to launch the GO ZERO Incentive Program—your chance to save money while making a positive impact on the environment.


Upgrade to Cleaner, Smarter Heating

Heat pumps are a clean, energy-efficient solution for space and water heating. By switching from traditional systems, you can reduce harmful emissions and enjoy year-round comfort—while qualifying for rebates of up to $4,000 for your home or small business.


Who’s Eligible?

Residents and small businesses in South Coast AQMD’s jurisdiction, which includes large areas of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties. Visit https://www.aqmd.gov/nav/about/jurisdiction for more details.


What products will qualify for rebates?


All-electric heat pumps for space heating (heat pump HVAC) and water heating (heat pump water heaters) for the pilot phase that:

  • Are ENERGY STAR® certified, unless otherwise indicated;
  • Were installed on or after June 24, 2025, for single family rebates;
  • Were installed on or after June 13, 2025, for multifamily or small business rebates;
  • Are replacing gas furnaces or gas water heaters (The model number of a replaced gas appliance, or a photo of the replaced gas appliance if the model number is not legible, is required for the application).
  • Rebates are not provided for heat pumps only replacing an AC without also replacing a gas furnace.
  • For small business rebates, the pilot phase incentivizes heat pump water heaters replacing a gas water heater.


Act Fast: Apply Today!

Take the first step toward a cleaner, more efficient future. Visit aqmd.gov/gozero to learn more and apply. Available starting September 3rd, first-come first-served while funds last.


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