By Jocelyn Bogen
October 26, 2009

Through a partnership with the National Restaurant Association and the Culinary Institute of America, The U.S. Conference of Mayors has launched the annual Mayors’ Culinary Cup, a new award program, which recognizes restaurants who contribute to their communities by supporting mayoral programs or initiatives.

Roughly nine out of ten restaurant operators actively participate in community activities, but consumers are largely unaware of their role in these endeavors. The Conference of Mayors recognizes the importance of highlighting the philanthropic side of restaurants and the role restaurants play in improving the quality of life for America’s cities.

The winner will be announced in January 2010, at a luncheon during the 78th Winter Meeting in Washington (DC). The winner will create a signature dish with a CIA master chef for the luncheon. The dish will be used to promote the program and culinary excellence in the United States.

Please view the application for more information and how you can nominate a restaurant for the 2010 Mayors’ Culinary Cup. Submit applications to: National Restaurant Association, c/o Mayors’ Culinary Cup, 1200 17th Street NW, Washington (DC) 20036. Applications are due November 9.

For further information, contact Jocelyn Bogen at jbogen@usmayors.org or 202-861-6727.