‘Cheers’ of East Dallas has heart, soul, rock ‘n roll

By Shari Goldstein Stern

A British Invasion in Dallas 75238? What does that sound like in 2022? Look like? 

Tucked away in a cozy, Lake Highlands strip center, Lone Star Roadhouse (LSR) has attracted thousands of patrons from the ’hood throughout the years, although fans from across zip codes learned long ago that the E. Northwest Highway at Jupiter landmark is well worth the drive. Boomers have a niche.

That’s where the Michael Byron’s Alpha Dogs band pulled out all the stops last Saturday night, playing music from the 60s for a Woodrow Wilson alumni birthday party. Music of British bands is a specialty of this group.

An ideal venue for a date night, LSR, the “Bar & Grill” mimics supper club-type of offerings including dinner, music and dancing conveniently under one roof. A customer favorite dinner, according to owner Dee Nollen, is sirloin steak with a baked potato and salad. Customers describe the food as “exceptional” and “so much better than any other bar in town.” 

Dee purchased LSR from her uncle in 2003, who had opened the business in 1978. She explained: “I’d been essentially running the business for nine years, including managing it and interviewing bands. It was my livelihood. Buying it was the opportunity of a lifetime. It’s making me a living!” 

“What I love more than anything is all my bands. We’re like a family,” Dee added.

“These guys are exceptionally talented.” Bands call Dee to get on LSR’s calendar. 

Most bars serve snacks, nachos and finger foods or burgers. LSR takes a different approach. Some customers enjoy going there strictly for lunch or dinner because the food is that good. 

According to Dee, a few customer favorites are chicken fried steak and house salads topped with home-grilled chicken breasts. Bryan Adams alumni and LSR regular Paul Ridenour said: “The food is great. I especially like their catfish and fried chicken wings. I love the burgers, and there’s a big variety on the menu.” Ridenour added, the bands that perform there are great, like A Hard Day’s Night, Remedy, Mojo and Tango Foxtrot.

According to the owner, music you hear and can dance to at LSR ranges from 1950s to 1980s, and includes country, classic rock and a little blues. “I like to call it rock ’n roll. I have the kind of music that makes guests want to get up and dance. That’s what I like to see. People smiling and having a good time. We have a lot of classic people.”

Nollen said: “I love my bands. Most musicians are retired, many from their own companies, or work in the music industry. I love it that they’re not in it for the money. When they do it just for the money, I don’t think their heart is in it. Money doesn’t really make you happy.”

One of the longest performing bands at LSR is the Dave Anderson Band. Dee had this to say about one of her favorite band leaders, Dave Anderson: “His is one of my favorite bands that play here. Dave’s an incredibly talented and all-around good guy. He’s also a kind guy, who lets people come out and play with him. I’ve admired him for about 10 years.”

Anderson said, “I’ve been doing shows with my band at LSR for many years, even back when it was called the Junkyard. It’s like the ‘Cheers’ of East Dallas. It’s casual with friendly people, friendly staff, great food, a large dance floor and great bands.” 

The Dave Anderson Band will be appearing at Lone Star again on Friday, March 11.