Founder

From the moment Tony Marchese, a proud Chicago native, first set eyes on Palm Springs, he felt an undeniable connection. That love inspired him to open TRIO in 2009, a restaurant that quickly became a beloved fixture in the community. In 2023, TRIO underwent an exciting refresh, embracing a sophisticated, modern design paired with a chef-driven, seasonally inspired menu that reflects Tony’s passion for exceptional dining experiences.

At his core, Tony believes in the power of hospitality to bring people together—to create moments of connection, joy, and shared experiences. But his commitment doesn’t stop at the dining table. His deep love for Palm Springs extends into the community, where his philanthropic efforts have made a lasting impact.

Through donations totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars, Tony has supported causes like the AAP Food Samaritans, Dining Out for Life for the Desert AIDS Project, and the Palm Springs High School Arts Program, even establishing a scholarship fund for Digi-Com students. His dedication has earned him prestigious accolades, including the Friends for Life Award from the Desert AIDS Project and the City of Palm Springs Human Rights Commission Community Service Award.

But for Tony, the greatest reward comes from seeing radiant smiles, shared laughter, and meaningful connections around the tables at TRIO. Alongside his dedicated team, Tony invites you to join the TRIO family—a place where every meal feels like a celebration and every guest feels like a friend.

Come, take a seat, and experience the heart of TRIO—where community, hospitality, and unforgettable moments come together.

Executive Chef

With over 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry and a background in chemistry, Chef Gladis Lizarraga brings a unique blend of precision and creativity to the kitchen. Most recently, she served as Executive Chef at Wildest Restaurant & Bar in Palm Desert, where her leadership earned accolades including Palm Springs Life’s “Best of the Best 2022” and OpenTable’s 2022 Diners’ Choice Award.

In San Diego, Gladis honed her culinary expertise working alongside celebrity chef Brian Malarkey at Farmer & The Seahorse and at celebrated restaurants within the Cohn Restaurant Group, including Island Prime, C Level, Vintana Wine + Dine, and Coasterra Modern Mexican.

Growing up on the Pacific Coast of Mazatlán, Mexico, surrounded by fresh seafood and bold flavors, Gladis developed a deep love for cooking at an early age. Inspired by her mother’s traditional Mexican recipes, she learned to appreciate the intricate balance of flavors that define exceptional cuisine. Moving to San Diego opened her eyes to a diverse culinary world, expanding her passion for innovative cooking techniques.

Relocating to the Coachella Valley five years ago, Gladis now calls it home. Outside the kitchen, she cherishes time with her two children—a six-year-old son and a two-year-old daughter—teaching them to cook, bake, and explore their creativity through sports, painting, and reading.

Chef Gladis is deeply committed to crafting menus that celebrate local ingredients, blending her heritage with modern culinary artistry.

"Enjoying delicious food and drinking a good wine go hand in hand with enjoying life. A great chef doesn’t just follow recipes—they bring their unique style and vision to every dish, making it truly special."

Partner

With an impressive career spanning over two decades in hospitality operations, Chris McElroy brings a wealth of experience and a passion for exceptional service to TRIO Restaurant.

Originally from Iowa, Chris began his journey in hospitality operations at Kauffman Stadium, home of the Kansas City Royals. He then transitioned into leadership roles, serving as Managing Partner for Red Door Grill, overseeing an eight-restaurant enterprise, and as Operations Manager at Q39, an acclaimed upscale BBQ restaurant in Kansas City.

In 2012, Chris relocated to Palm Springs to assist in opening a new dining establishment, further solidifying his expertise in restaurant operations. He later spent two years in management at the renowned California-French restaurant Cuistot in Palm Desert, where he honed his skills in fine dining service and team leadership.

Chris joined TRIO in 2014 and has since become an indispensable part of the team. He oversees front-of-house operations, ensuring seamless dining experiences for every guest. His dedication extends to staff training and development, fostering a culture of excellence and hospitality that defines TRIO’s outstanding reputation.

With his extensive background and hands-on leadership style, Chris McElroy plays a vital role in shaping the exceptional dining experience TRIO is known for.

"Great hospitality goes beyond service—it’s about creating memorable moments that keep guests coming back time and time again."