Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
Santa Fe Steakhouse & Cantina, a staple of fine dining in McAllen, Texas, has once again earned the prestigious OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award for 2025. This marks the fourth consecutive year the restaurant has received the honor, solidifying its reputation for exceptional food, service, and atmosphere, all recognized directly by its guests.
The OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award is not based on nominations or applications but on verified reviews from diners booked through the OpenTable platform. As co-owner, Sony Rego explains, “It’s a people’s choice award. It comes from our guests—the people who dine with us, celebrate life’s special moments, and take the time to share their experience.”
Founded in 1993, Santa Fe Steakhouse has become synonymous with excellence in the Rio Grande Valley. Known for its perfectly grilled steaks, fresh seafood like the signature Orange Roughy, and an award-winning wine list, the restaurant is also cherished for its ambiance, enhanced by live piano music and a welcoming staff. Guest comments frequently praise the attentive service, celebratory atmosphere, and personalized touches for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions.
“Many guests leave personal notes,” said Rego. “‘My steak was fabulous.’ ‘The ambience made our anniversary unforgettable.’ That feedback means the world to us because it’s honest and reflects everything we work for—hospitality, quality, and care.”
But Santa Fe’s contributions extend far beyond the dining room. The restaurant gives back to the community through the Santa Fe Steakhouse Foundation, co-founded by Rego and partners Albert Rego and Fred Harms. Its annual Wine Classic event has raised substantial funds for local education initiatives, including scholarships for students in the culinary arts and the International Baccalaureate program.
The Diners’ Choice Award takes into account several key factors, all driven by diner feedback:
1. Verified Reviews: Only guests who dine through OpenTable are eligible to review.
2. High Ratings: Restaurants must earn consistently strong marks in food, service, ambiance, and value.
3. Timeliness and Volume: A steady stream of positive, recent reviews boosts eligibility.
4. Regional Excellence: Awards are granted in specific categories and locations, such as “Best Romantic” or “Best Steakhouse” in a given region.
5. Automatic Participation: All OpenTable-listed restaurants are considered automatically.
For Santa Fe Steakhouse, the award reflects deep community roots and a relentless commitment to quality. “We tailor our service to our guests,” said Rego. “Whether they’re celebrating something or just want a great night out, we try to make every visit memorable from start to finish.”
With its blend of culinary excellence, live music, and heartfelt hospitality, Santa Fe Steakhouse continues to raise the bar—not just in McAllen, but in the entire Rio Grande Valley. And with four Diners’ Choice Awards under its belt, the community agrees.
