TYLER, Texas — A familiar spot on Loop 323 has gone dark. The Wendy’s that many East Texans made a regular pit stop is now permanently closed, and the building is sitting empty.
But Tyler didn’t stay quiet for long.
When locals were asked what they’d like to see move into that space, hundreds of responses came rolling in. And what people want might actually surprise you.
Tyler isn’t looking for “just another burger place”
One theme showed up again and again in the comments — people are tired of the same old options.
Several residents pointed out that Tyler already has plenty of burger joints, chicken spots, and, yes, car washes. What people really want is something new. A restaurant that East Texas doesn’t already have on every corner.
That passion for something fresh came through loud and clear.
Some suggestions had people laughing out loud
Not every comment was serious, and that’s what made reading through them so fun.
One person nominated Waffle House — specifically “for the fights.” Another predicted, with a straight face, that the building would probably just become another vape shop. A few dreamers threw out Buc-ee’s, knowing full well that’s never fitting on that lot.
But the real wish list kept growing
Alongside the jokes came genuine requests — names that kept appearing over and over as more East Texans joined the conversation. Del Taco and Long John Silver’s showed up in later comments, adding to an already packed list.
The pattern is clear. Tyler residents know exactly what they want. They just have to wait and see who shows up.
What restaurant would you want to see take over that spot on Loop 323? Drop your pick in the comments — let’s keep the list going.