CAMPAIGN: Rao’s at the Ryder Cup
CLIENT: PGA of America
AGENCY: Intersport
Creating the Most Sought-After Reservation in Sports
Redefining Hospitality at One of Sports’ Biggest Events
Intersport earned its reputation by creating sensational experiences that intersect sports, entertainment and culture. Last year, the agency delivered one of its most buzzworthy activations yet: Rao’s at the Ryder Cup.
Rao’s at the Ryder Cup was developed in partnership with the PGA of America to answer the call for premium, on-site after-play programming—along with additional brand engagement and hosting opportunities.
An Unprecedented On-Course Experience
What makes Rao’s at the Ryder Cup so exciting is that it truly broke new ground. Everyone does off-site pop-ups—but this brought an iconic, famously exclusive restaurant directly onto the golf course.
It solved a key challenge for guests and corporate partners alike. Rather than battling New York traffic or scrambling for reservations after play, attendees could remain on site in a luxury setting built for entertainment and connection.
Its prime location also made it a central gathering spot for VIPs, executives, celebrities, athletes and influencers. Simply put, it was the place everybody wanted to be.
Bringing the Rao’s Brand to Life
Of course, capturing the magic that makes Rao’s the most sought-after table in America wasn’t easy. A custom-built, fully functioning restaurant would need kitchen infrastructure, HVAC, lighting, power, staffing and carefully curated interior design. Brand standards needed to be upheld, and there are the practicalities of activating at a giant outdoor sporting event.
Fortunately, Intersport was able to draw on deep hospitality and event production expertise. In the end, signature décor, first-class service and flawless culinary execution set the stage for a jaw-dropping replica of Rao’s original Harlem location.
Setting a New Standard
The result was a rare crossover between high-end dining and live sports entertainment—one that felt personal, exclusive and culturally relevant. And the numbers speak for themselves. All four nights sold out quickly, hosting more than 1,000 guests and generating over 164 million earned media impressions.
Just as significantly, Rao’s at the Ryder Cup proved that exceptional hospitality offerings can become part of the main event itself. By blending sports, culture, dining and entertainment directly on the course, Intersport produced a one-of-one experience that redefined premium activation at a global sporting event.
Testimonial
Intersport’s operational experience and deep front- and back-of-house hospitality expertise ensured the Rao’s brand showed up authentically.”
— MJ Lide, VP of Operations & Brand Marketing, Rao’s
