Tyler’s iconic Mercado’s restaurant has hit a milestone, celebrating its 30th anniversary Tuesday.

Owner Andy Gugar has been in the restaurant business for over 40 years, first opening Hickory Fare Bar-B-Que in the early 1970s.

He also built the Papacitas concept and sold it within three years in the early 1980s.

In 1987, Gugar opened Mercado’s and, since that time, the business has grown from the original location to 15 Posados and one Happy’s Fish House.

“It’s one of the few restaurants you will see families taking pictures outside because it is a destination not just a dining experience,” said chief operating officer John Corley. “The atmosphere is very special. With all the market intrusion and different companies, to be around for 30 years is quite a feat.”

Gugar is known for providing a welcoming atmosphere at his restaurants, Corley said.

“He wants to treat everyone like they are family and a special guest in his home,” he said. “If the food doesn’t have a wow factor of eight or nine, he is not happy with it.”

Renovations have been underway at the restaurant, doubling the capacity in the bar area.

Since the opening of the restaurant, the single Mercado’s location has produced 28.5 million tortillas and 9.5 million enchiladas.