The Connecticut Restaurant Association (CRA) and Diageo held their Second Annual Legislative Reception at the State Capitol on Tuesday, May 28, 2013. Over 400 legislators and staff attended this popular event where guests were able to taste menu items from several Hartford area CRA-member restaurants, including Joey Garlic’s, Restaurant Bricco, Max Amore, Wood-n-Tap, J. Timothy’s, Carmen Anthony’s, and Republic. Diageo provided an impressive variety of beers, wines and premixed cocktails.

The event serves a dual purpose: to showcase the fabulous food and beverages provided by CRA member restaurants and Diageo, and to give both organizations the opportunity to mingle with legislators and staff regarding pending legislative proposals and the impact such proposals can potentially have on the hospitality industry in Connecticut.

“We are thrilled with the turnout for our Legislative Reception this year,” said Nicole Griffin, Executive Director of the Connecticut Restaurant Association. “Folks in the Capitol look forward to this event each year and line up to taste the fabulous menu items provided by our member restaurants. It was also a chance for restaurateurs and legislators to discuss pending legislation as the session is winding down.”

Dwayne Kratt, Senior Director of State Government Affairs from Diageo echoed Griffin’s remarks and said, “Co-sponsoring this reception is indeed a great way to chat with legislators and staff in a more relaxed atmosphere and also to share with them a bit about Diageo; the fact that our North American headquarters is located in Connecticut and we have roughly 800 employees here.”