The Texas Restaurant Association has named three hospitality leaders to its 2026 Hall of Honor, the association’s highest distinction, according to a June 22 news release.
This year’s inductees are Robert and Laurie Lozano of Food & People Brands in McAllen, Walter “Tap” Bentz of Another Broken Egg Cafe in College Station, and Jerry Walker, the retired founder of Conference Hospitality Group in Dallas. The association said the Hall of Honor is reserved for industry leaders, nominated by their peers, who have made significant contributions to the restaurant community while demonstrating a long-standing commitment to the TRA.
Inductees must have at least 15 years of membership, demonstrate superior business ethics and show a sustained commitment to advancing the industry.
“The Hall of Honor is reserved for individuals whose impact can be felt across generations of Texas restaurants,” Emily Williams Knight, president and CEO of the Texas Restaurant Association, said in the release. “Through their leadership, mentorship, advocacy and service, this year’s inductees have strengthened our industry, supported restaurant professionals and helped create opportunities for future generations.”
According to the release, the Lozanos have spent more than 40 years building Food & People Brands into a multi-unit organization of more than 40 locations while supporting hospitality across South Texas and championing the use of AI and emerging technology in foodservice operations.
Bentz, a longtime member of the TRA’s Brazos Valley chapter, has served as chapter president, board member and association president. His career included nearly two decades as managing partner of Outback Steakhouse.
Walker, a former TRA president, has held roles including treasurer, second vice president and chairman of the association’s political action committee, and became a champion for the Texas ProStart program while working as an award-winning adjunct culinary instructor.
Tony Abruscato, the association’s chief marketing officer, said the honorees “share a common commitment to serving others, strengthening their communities and investing in the future of our industry.”
The three will be recognized Sunday, July 12, at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts in San Antonio during the Texas Restaurant Awards, held as part of the Texas Restaurant Show. Formed in 1937, the TRA represents the state’s $138 billion restaurant industry and its more than 57,000 locations, the association said.