After finding a home in Dallas, he joined Mamasuez to help the family launch a Joe T’s location there. When Hope launched her own café, Esperanza’s, he returned to Fort Worth to work at her side and help her realize her dream. Here, Phillip found his voice as a cook and a large-scale strategist for the restaurants. Over the years, he assisted his mother in successfully launching two locations for Esperanza’s while assisting with recipes, plating, hiring, and business planning.
He understands that in the kitchen, as in life, we are all working towards a common goal. We all have our own skills and strengths, and by working together, we can create something greater than we could alone. From food styling to contracting, designing to hiring, Phillip is a big-picture problem solver who thrives on the logistics of challenges and a multi-talented member of the Garcia-Lancarte team. Phillip’s combination of intuition, team mentality, and robust work ethic have allowed him to honor his family legacy through his invaluable work at Joe T’s and Esperanza’s
Philip Edward Lancarte
Phillip Lancarte fondly remembers his childhood spending time in the kitchen with his mother and grandmother. From them, he not only learned how to connect with guests and create a warm, inviting atmosphere, but these early experiences instilled in him a love for working alongside his siblings: whether plating food or waiting tables.
These formative moments gave Phillip a passion for delicious food and deep respect for his mother and grandmother,Hope and Mamasuez. Working at their side, Phillip formed a strong bond with the family matriarchs who kept the restaurant running.
In his teenage years, Phillip worked alongside his siblings and friends, enjoying the opportunity to connect with guests and wait tables alongside the classmates he recruited to join the Joe T’s team. Meanwhile, Mamasuez cleverly put aside his pay every night until he was ready to buy a house at just age 21.
Phillip married Heidi Addis in 1982 and is blessed with a large family: Phillip Parker, wife Kimberly, and grandchildrenNathan and Alister; Chance and fiance Haley Crowe; Cali Christine; and Mary Mackenzie Lancarte Hobbs, husbandMason Hobbs and children Thomas and Caroline.
“If we’re going to do it, let’s do it.”
— Phillip Lancarte
What are some of your core values? I believe in working in the trenches alongside my employees. It’s not enough to just delegate tasks– you have to work hard, too.
What’s one of your favorite stories? When I was 10 years old, my brothers and I used to shoot the neighborhood birds with BB guns. One day, I got a ticket and had to appear in front of a judge. I never shot those birds again!
What is your favorite meal at Joe T’s? We have the best enchilada dinner and the best nachos!
What is your favorite space at the restaurant? I like to sit next to the fountain near the north side where I can see all the guests.