He starts most days by arriving at the restaurant early to prepare Mamasuez’s secret enchilada gravy recipe, followed by checking off a list of dutiful contributions to the family legacy. But the most poignant moment comes with quiet reflection in his office with a cup of coffee, reflecting on the portraits of his father and grandfather. In those quiet moments, he remembers the lessons they taught him and the example they set.Always putting others before himself, his office door remains open, whether to relatives or the team member she cares for like family.
Lanny is the creative mind behind the lush, tropical oasis Joe T.’s is known for and a plant lover to his core. Aside from participating in daily zen and yoga within the peaceful garden grounds, he’s busy greeting guests, training employees, or assisting those he cares about. Lanny is always a man on the move. While juggling operations, hiring, and finances of Joe T.’s, he still upholds the legacy of his parents and grandparents with unwavering dedication.
In 1970, Lanny married Anna Jo “Jody” Lancarte, and her story soon became interwoven with the Joe T.’s Legacy as well. She has served as the right hand of the duo for over fifty years as the mastermind of Joe T.’s booming event catering and vigilant financial manager. Through and through, Lanny is a family man who works to instill the Lancarte family values in his own children and grandchildren: Kelly Lancarte and her children Kent Davis Breedlove, Isabella Hope and Paul David Breedlove; Lanny Paul and Raven Lancarte’s children Laurelei Pilar and Lanny Paul Lancarte III; and Art and Leah Lancarte with their child Max Zavala.
Together with the family, Lanny and Jody have propelled Joe T.’s from its humble beginnings, preserving the past’s authentic recipes while expanding the original family home into a Fort Worth oasis and staple for generations.
LANNY PAUL LANCARTE
The eldest of the Lancarte siblings, Lanny grew up in Joe T.’s kitchen, spending countless hours at what would become a way of life for him and his siblings. His childhood is filled with memories of falling asleep in piles of tablecloths and watching his grandmother and grandfather—Mamasuez and Joe T., along with his mother, Hope, and father, Paul—run the family restaurant. It was within the walls of Joe T.’s that Lanny was drawn to the sights and smells of the kitchen and the bustle of the dining room, fascinated by how his family could turn simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces. Here, he grew a deep love of family, an untiring work ethic, and a hospitable presence: qualities that would serve him well throughout his life.
Before Lanny was even old enough to work alongside his family, tragedy struck. Joe T. suddenly passed away, and the close-knit family faced seemingly insurmountable difficulty. However, the strength and resilience of Hope and Mamasuez determined their path: to persevere and protect the family restaurant and home.
So at merely 17, Lanny fulfilled his responsibility, stepped up alongside his mother and grandmother, and dutifully began to help run Joe T. Garcia’s.
Despite suddenly being thrown into responsibility, Lanny served as a leader and role model to help raise his younger siblings. The teamwork and ethic he inspired guided the restaurant through growth, transformation, turmoils, and successes. He has become a deeply respected member of the community, a beloved friend, brother, husband, father, and grandfather who takes ownership of his work and takes pride in doing it well.
“Joe T.’s is my life.”
— Lanny P. Lancarte
Do you have any phrases that you use when leading your team? At the start of service or a task, I always say, “It’s showtime, let’s rock and roll!”
What is your favorite meal at Joe T.’s? Enchilada Dinner
What is your favorite drink at Joe T.’s? Cold Coors Light
Favorite space at Joe Ts? There is nothing more peaceful to me than being in the gardens in the early mornings
What has made the Lancarte family so successful? I think what has made the Lancarte Family successful is our strong work ethic and our love for what we do. We have respect for each other. We are all uniquely gifted in specific areas and we give each other space and stay in our respective lanes.
Why does family matter? My grandmother gave me so much. I’m here and I work so hard because of her. I would do anything for my family! Family brings comfort and peace of mind. Having family around makes it all worth it.
What is it about this place that makes it successful? I don’t compare our restaurant with others. We stick to what works! Our roots and our foundation are part of what makes us so successful. We are grounded in family, authentic Mexican food and a beautiful patio reminiscent of the gardens in Mexico. And of course the people from our customers to our staff.
What is the Joe T’s restaurant to you? Joe T’s is my home. It is where I grew up, where I raised my family, and where I love to be everyday. It is a beautiful, tranquil place where I can clear my mind.