Sony Rego, who co-owns Santa Fe Steakhouse, The Republic of the Rio Grande, and University Draft House, was recognized this weekend with the Outstanding Restaurateur of the Year award by the Texas Restaurant Association’s Rio Grande Valley Chapter.
The award, which was announced Sunday at the 2022 Texas Restaurant Awards ceremony in Dallas, recognizes restaurateurs who “demonstrate leadership at both the local and state level of the Texas Restaurant Association” and “are involved in their local community; personify the values of fair and equal treatment of their employees and are highly regarded by their industry peers,” according to the TRA website, which listed Rego as owner of the Santa Fe Steakhouse in the awards list.
Rego has worked in the restaurant industry for 22 years. Throughout those years, she has devoted much of her time to helping other restaurateurs in the community.
“I do try to get involved everywhere,’” Rego said. “It felt amazing, especially because Annette (Franz) from the McAllen Chamber Commerce was there. For me, I was very impressed.”
Through the years, she’s received support from many friends.
“I felt loved,” Rego said. “I feel wonderful.”
Franz, who serves as Chairman for the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, said Rego was more than deserving to receive the award because of her passion for the restaurant industry and her continued service to the community through her support of numerous nonprofits.
“This award is given to those that have demonstrated inspiring levels of dedication and excellence in their work,” Fanz said. “She is recognized for her passion and for creating a culture of the highest quality service in those that visit the Santa Fe Steakhouse. It means a great deal for our Valley. It is evident that operating a restaurant means so much more to her.”
Franz also praised Rego for being not only an upstanding member of her community, but for being a good friend.
“Sony is a great friend to many,” Franz said. “If you know her, you love her. She is all about service. She’s very humble — always giving back.”
Before boarding a plane back to the Rio Grande Valley, Rego shared her recognition with the people she works with.
“Recognizing my work in the restaurants, I feel like they notice that we try to do our best every day,” Rego said. “My staff is doing their best. I have a great team.”
“We’ve been working hard for so many years,” Rego continued. “We’re going to keep doing what we’re doing because we love it, and we appreciate the community supporting us. We really appreciate it.”
