History
Gruppo Ristoratori Italiani is a not-for-profit association founded in 1979 to increase the awareness of fine, authentic Italian cuisine and to promote its image through member restaurants, culinary scholarships, fundraising events and news media. Initially founded by a small group of influential Italian restaurateurs, GRI has grown into one of the food industry's most respected associations as a leader in codifying, clarifying and elevating the perception of Italian food and wine throughout the hospitality industry.
Our Mission
GRI is dedicated to popularizing authentic Italian cuisine and enhancing its image in the United States through education, member restaurants and promotions. GRI strives to provide a constant flow of information about Italian cuisine to member restaurants, US press, culinary schools, importers, distributors and general consumers with a serious interest in authentic Italian food.
Organizational Structure
GRI is a not-for-profit corporation governed by a Board of Directors, which is drawn from its member restaurateurs. The officers of the association, elected bi-annually, consist of a Chairman, President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary.
Member restaurants are selected owners of Italian restaurants across America who present an authentic Italian gastronomic experience and are committed to the GRI mission. Corporate members are made chefs, educational institutions, food & wine producers, importers and/or distributors and other trade consortia that are consistent with the GRI mission.