A new Mexican restaurant and bar is looking to pick up where BarbWire Steakhouse left off.

Mexi-Kans is on schedule for opening early next month at 2412 Iowa, owner Ed Hernandez said. It will have seating for 168, a room for receptions and special events, and a bar equipped with televisions and a full lineup of margaritas.

The menu will be heavy on fajitas, enchiladas and burritos.

Crews are transforming the vacated steak restaurant into an inviting establishment featuring pictures of famous Mexicans, such as Pancho Villa, and notable Kansans, including Dwight Eisenhower and Amelia Earhart.

Hernandez, who bought the building, intends to have up to 70 employees. He formerly worked for his family’s business, Jalape a small chain of Mexican restaurants in the Kansas City area.