Windows peer into the kitchen of the new restaurant called 1836 Texas Kitchen on Old Jacksonville Highway in the West Village shopping center. (Sarah A. Miller/Tyler Morning Telegraph)

Mundo and Carlos Villapudua opened Villa Montez in Tyler over 10 years ago. The brothers looked to expand and open more restaurants in Tyler, but put it off until they found the right place and the time was right for them. As Tyler expanded south and areas on Old Jacksonville Highway developed, their vision became a reality.

1836 Texas Kitchen is at 2467 Crow Road in the West Village Shopping Center off of Old Jacksonville Highway in Tyler. The Villapuduas plan a soft opening for in the next two weeks. Plans for a grand opening on March 2, Texas Independence Day, the inspiration for the name, are in the works.

“We wanted to start new on the other side of town,” Mundo said. “We’re not leaving Villa Montez behind. It’s our backbone and we wanted to take this opportunity to grow.”

The menu features Texas inspired entrees and dishes from different regions of the state. Plates of chicken fried steak, authentic enchiladas, gumbos, etouffee, Latin street sandwiches, shrimp and grits, different types of barbecue, seafood, steaks, fried okra with pepper jelly and many other Texas inspired dishes await Tyler restaurant goers.

Michael Brady, former Fresh executive chef, will join the team as executive chef. William Hererra will take on the role of chef of cuisine. His experience with producing high volumes of Latin food in a Denver restaurant adds the knowledge and skill the Villapuduas were looking for in their new establishment.

“Mundo and Carlos were generous to welcome me to their team,” Brady said. “The plan is to incorporate Southern highlights and ideals with true Texas regional dishes.”

1836 Texas Kitchen’s goal is to be a neighborhood restaurant that people will want to eat at with their families.

“We don’t want to be a destination restaurant,” Brady said. “We want to have affordable dishes and the ability to get to know our guests.”

The decor is rustic with modern touches of wood, iron and glass. The open kitchen concept allows customers to see the chefs as they work. Private rooms are available for special events.

The bar will feature a simple drink list and local, regional and international wines.

“We have a seat for everyone,” Mundo said. “My brother, Carlos’ talents are the reason Villa Montez is so successful. The timing was right for us to bring something locally grown to East Texas.”