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Home > Forklore > Archives > 2009 > October > 08 > Entry

Jack Gilmore leaving Z’Tejas to open Oak Hill restaurant

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Jack Gilmore, the longtime chef behind Z’Tejas, is striking out on his own.

Gilmore, who oversaw the culinary operations at all 10 Z’Tejas restaurants nationwide, and Tom Kamm, regional director of operations for Z’Tejas, are going to open a restaurant called Jack Allen’s Kitchen the Oak Hill location that used to house the Y Bar and Grill.

Gilmore says he’s excited to back to the chef-driven concept of making good food using local ingredients. “I had the sweetest gig at Z’Tejas, working with the best people,” he says, “but this was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up.” Construction on the new site has already begun, and they are hoping to open just after Thanksgiving.

(Robert Godwin photo for the Austin American-Statesman. Rendering by Mann & Mann Architects Inc.)

Permalink | Comments (9) | Post your comment Categories: restaurant news

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By Yep

October 9, 2009 3:05 PM | Link to this

Sweet, sounds like a winner. Several things have failed at that location….so here’s hoping this one is a success!!

By Bob Zink

October 15, 2009 8:46 AM | Link to this

What a great development for the Oak Hill area! I’m sure the new concept offered by Tom and Jack will be a big hit with diners in the Oak Hill area. Already makes me hungry so I can’t wait till the new restaurant opens. Remember, support local restaurants, they make what Austin is unique and known for!

By Howard

October 21, 2009 8:45 AM | Link to this

Great news! I will be there to support the locals.

By Anna

November 3, 2009 12:40 PM | Link to this

Oh my, I hope this works out. That poor building just can’t get a break. If Z-Tejas can’t fix it, no one can. Fingers crossed.

By txharleyman

November 5, 2009 9:43 AM | Link to this

Don’t worry folks, this is gonna be HUGE. I’ve been enjoying Jack’s fabulous food for about 20 years now. South Austin needs a cool fun place with great food, service and atmosphere, and I know that Jack Allen’s Kitchen will provide all of the above. The only problem is that you’ll have to get there early to make sure that you get your favorite table or spot at the bar. And, the out door patio will be the ideal spot to enjoy great music by local bands and singers. A sure-fire winner. Can’t wait to go there.

By RAJUNZ

December 3, 2009 8:01 PM | Link to this

The Y Bar and Grill had too snooty of an atmosphere, almost like you had to have a Mercedes to park in the lot. Oak Hill is full of bubbas, hopefully this one will be alot more fun.

Z Tejas has amazing food, so can’t go wrong there. Looking forward to it, The Rajun Cajun

By Rick Perkins

January 6, 2010 5:52 PM | Link to this

We’re coming over for the Tail Gate before the Texas / Alabama game! Can’t wait to eat through the menu!

By Denise Renfeldt

January 18, 2010 12:11 PM | Link to this

It was quite a drive from Cedar Park to Jack Allen’s Kitchen, but worth every mile! The food was everything I thought it would be and more. The Spinach Gorgonzolla Ravioli was excellent! We were all fighting over who ate the last bit of sauce that was so tasty!!! The pimento cheese was a great way to start the meal! Great idea! All of our meals were nothing but exceptional!!!! We all thought we were too full for dessert, but then then the chocolate bomb and seven layer bar with ice cream came and there was nothing left! I am so happy that Jack is fulfilling his dream and it so awesome to see someone do what they love to do! Jack has such a passion for cooking and it shows all over the restaurant.. I love what they did with the decor with all the reclaimed wood. It scores a 100 with our family!

By John Theiss

July 7, 2010 6:38 PM | Link to this

Outstanding. I really missed the Navajo Taco when Z-Tejas dropped it. Oak Hill seemed such a drive from N Central Austin for good food. I only wound up there for a business meeting and I was looking forward to a Navajo Taco. But, the trout salad looked so appetizing I ordered it. Everything on the table looked great and everyone was pleased. Delicious, I’ll be back. And, I still need a Navajo Taco.

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