"Knowledge is the Key to Success and Profitability"

The Education Department is dedicated to offering quality seminars, training materials, and services to the food service industry.

ServSafe Sanitation Classes
The Association’s ServSafe sanitation classes qualify successful students for both state and local certification.  ServSafe is the most widely accepted food safety program among state, local and federal health departments.  Classes are held at our office every month.

Sanitation Re-certification
The Illinois Restaurant Association is an approved provider of city and state re-certification (five year renewal) classes. This one-day seminar is required for the renewal of all sanitation certificates and must be completed PRIOR to expiration.

ServSafe Alcohol Certification Training
The Illinois Restaurant Association’s ServSafe Alcohol Training Program, is a one-day certification course designed to train participants on how to serve alcohol responsibly and legally.  This program is certified and licensed by the Illinois Department of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, and fulfills all state and local B.A.S.S.E.T. training requirements.

"In-House" Classes
All certification classes can be arranged on-site for groups of 10 or more.  Please call (800) 572-1086 for more information.   

Training Products
In partnership with the NRAEF we provide valuable tools and resources to educate and train your employees on topics such as food safety, work place safety, harassment prevention and responsible alcohol service, to name a few. These products reflect industry standards and contain the most up-to-date information available.

Summer Festival Sanitation Certification Course
The Education Department offers a Summer Festival Sanitation Certification Course. This course, approved by the City of Chicago, is required for all summer festival foodservice vendors. This program covers all topics related to outdoor food handling and proper festival sanitation techniques. Courses available from April to September each year.

If you have any questions for the Education Department, please call 312-787-4000 / 800-572-1086 or email maryw@illinoisrestaurants.org.