Abbott Lawrence IV

For more than 45 years, Abbott Lawrence’s family has owned and operated the beloved and thriving Pancho’s Mexican Restaurant, including its original Manhattan Beach location and a second Las Vegas branch. Built up and made successful by his grandfather E. Abbott Lawrence in 1977 and taken over by his father and uncle who are the new owners, Abbott Lawrence IV—who has worked in various restaurant capacities since he was in high school, from a bus boy to a host to a bartender—has excelled in helping to lead the family business, now considered a landmark.

He, along with his brother and father, opened the Las Vegas restaurant in 2015 and has been president of Pancho’s since 2019. In this capacity, he plays a vital role in maintaining the financial aspects of the restaurant under control, meticulously handling all the operating expenses, ensuring the smooth and efficient flow of money, and keeping a close eye on the spending patterns of the business.

While his brother has primarily managed the Las Vegas branch, Mr. Lawrence stayed focused on the restaurant in Manhattan Beach with his father, a very influential figure and presence in his life who passed away recently. The brothers have maintained their posts, and as a result of their combined leadership skills and shared vision, the two restaurants have thrived for years and become staples in their areas—which he is exceptionally proud of. He attributes the ongoing success of Pancho’s to the dedicated and loyal staff across both locations, all of whom he regards as family, as well as his wife, Kimberly, the driving force behind his achievements.

Prior to this appointment, Mr. Lawrence prepared for his professional life by earning a bachelor’s degree in hotel management from the University of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff in 2013—knowledge and skills that would eventually bolster his abilities at the reigns of Pancho’s. In addition, he has been a sponsor of the Manhattan Beach Police Department since 1995. Outside of his professional responsibilities, he considers his most notable achievement to be his three-year sobriety, which has allowed him to accomplish and appreciate more in his life, especially his family, including his young daughter.

Looking ahead, Mr. Lawrence strives to achieve two major goals: maintain his sobriety, which has been crucial in his success the last few years, and expand his family with another child. He and his wife also hope to purchase a second home in Florida, a place that holds a special significance for them as they visit every year; it would be a vacation home for the time being and a potential future residence.