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Elizabeth Trevino Named Top Restaurant Owner of the Decade by IAOTP
Restaurateur recognized for leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence in the industry
Apr. 1, 2026 at 3:37pm
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Elizabeth Trevino, owner of La Playa Mexican Café in Harlingen, Texas, has been selected as the Top Restaurant Owner of the Decade 2026 by the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP). Trevino, known for her high standards and hands-on approach, has led the successful restaurant since 2006 and is being honored for her outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence in the industry.
Why it matters
Trevino's recognition by IAOTP highlights the importance of strong, values-driven leadership in the restaurant industry. As a successful immigrant entrepreneur who built a legacy business alongside her family, her story inspires others and showcases the impact that mission-driven, community-focused restaurateurs can have.
The details
Elizabeth Trevino has owned and operated La Playa Mexican Café in Harlingen, Texas since 2006. She is known for her high standards, hands-on management style, and commitment to quality, consistency, and integrity. Trevino worked alongside her sons to grow the business, and they now own and operate their own successful restaurants, continuing the family's legacy in the industry.
- Trevino has owned La Playa Mexican Café since 2006.
- She will be honored as Top Restaurant Owner of the Decade 2026 at IAOTP's annual awards gala in New York City on April 1, 2026.
The players
Elizabeth Trevino
Restaurateur and owner of La Playa Mexican Café in Harlingen, Texas. She has led the successful restaurant since 2006 and is being recognized as the Top Restaurant Owner of the Decade 2026 by IAOTP.
La Playa Mexican Café
A Mexican restaurant located in Harlingen, Texas that has been owned and operated by Elizabeth Trevino since 2006.
International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP)
An international networking organization that recognizes top professionals from various industries, including selecting Elizabeth Trevino as the Top Restaurant Owner of the Decade 2026.
What they’re saying
“Elizabeth is inspirational, influential, and a true powerhouse entrepreneur. We cannot wait to celebrate her accomplishments.”
— Stephanie Cirami, President of IAOTP
What’s next
Elizabeth Trevino will be honored as the Top Restaurant Owner of the Decade 2026 at IAOTP's annual awards gala in New York City on April 1, 2026.
The takeaway
Elizabeth Trevino's recognition as the Top Restaurant Owner of the Decade 2026 by IAOTP highlights the importance of strong, values-driven leadership in the restaurant industry. Her story as a successful immigrant entrepreneur who built a legacy business alongside her family is an inspiration to others, showcasing the impact that mission-driven, community-focused restaurateurs can have.
