Restaurant Association Grieves Loss of Matt Martinez Jr.

3/16/200910:00:52 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment

The Texas Restaurant Association, along with the restaurant industry, mourns the loss of Matt Martinez, Jr. Matt passed away March 13 at 7:30 p.m.  "Matt Martinez was a pioneer in the restaurant industry and made invaluable contributions to advancing the business interests of restaurateurs throughout his career," said Gerard Cace, TRA president and owner of Johnny Cace's Seafood and Steakhouse, Longview. "His wife Estella and their family are in our thoughts and prayers. Matt will be missed by all of his dear friends in the restaurant community.

"I have been fortunate to know Matt Martinez, Jr. for more than 30 years, thanks to his involvement in the Texas Restaurant Association," said Richie Jackson, TRA executive vice president/CEO. "While countless Texans enjoyed his pioneering cuisine, the Association benefitted tremendously from his vision, enthusiasm and willingness to share his extensive knowledge of the restaurant business. I have always enjoyed my association wtih Matt and will miss his entertaining stories and strong support of the Assocation and the Texas restaurant industry."

Mr. Martinez owned Matt's Rancho Martinez restaurants in Lakewood and Cedar Hill and family-owned restaurants in Austin. He authored several cookbooks on Tex Mex cooking and served many dignitaries including both former Presidents Bush and former President Lyndon B Johnson and their wives. He is also known for introducing Julia Childs to Texas Chicken Fried Steak.

Mr. Martinez served as Texas Restaurant Association State Director from 1992 through 1995. He served on the TRA Executive Committee from 2000 to 2002 and as Greater Dallas Chapter President from 1996 to 1997. He was inducted into the TRA Hall of Honor in June 2000. Mr. Martinez was awarded the Lone Star Award for Culinary Achievement in 2007.

Most importantly, Matt was a wonderful father, husband, grandfather, friend and leader.