The newly remodeled Silver Star Saloon has transformed itself from a Chinese food restaurant into a bar committed to keeping it country.
Formerly The Dragon’s Lair, the saloon began holding weekly concerts in September. For a $5 cover, owner Tim Erickson said country fans — whether partial to classic acoustic tunes or the more modern upbeat sound — can expect a quality show each Saturday from 8 p.m. to midnight.
Most bands booked to play the venue are from the Vancouver area. Last week it was Countryside Ride, Saturday it will be Carrie Cunningham and the Six-Shooters. The band’s drummer, Derek Boone, also works at The Columbian.
After 13 years serving Chinese cuisine, Erickson became inspired to change directions this year. With 7,000 square feet and a brand-new wooden dance floor and stage, he believes his venue is the largest out-and-out country and western club in Vancouver.