Promoting Michigan Culinary Tourism

According to a December 15, 2oo9 Michigan Restaurant Association (MRA) Press Release, The MRA is planning to partner with the Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) and Travel Michigan in order to promote Culinary Tourism in Michigan.  The MDA will play a leadership role in forming a Michigan Culinary Tourism Alliance, together with the MRA and Travel Michigan on a project that will be funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and matching funds from an MDA program, the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council.


"We are excited to be a part of this project" said Rob Gifford, president and CEO of the MRA. "Many of our members are already actively supporting local producers and offering a unique Michigan experience when people dine as they travel throughout the state.  With the coordinated efforts provided through this grant, we will expand these experiences and help make Michigan known as a travel destination that allows people to fully experience the bounty of our great state."

The hope is that from this effort will arise a boost in Michigan's economic development, given that agriculture and tourism are Michigan's 2nd and 3rd largest industries.  Michigan should be positioned as a worthwhile travel destination for an educational and healthy culinary encounter.


According to the press release, the goals of this collaborative efforts are to first increase sales and productivity for specialty crops in Michigan by offering menu choices packed with local produce at Michigan restaurants and also to promote Michigan as a culinary travel destination.

Members of the public and allied industries are encouraged to sign up to be a fan of the “Michigan Culinary Tourism” page on Facebook.

*source: www.michiganrestaurant.org.

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