Built in the early 1970s by Jim Sloan, brother of Bill of Swiss Meats, the Silver Dollar was built as a tavern for the locals. A limited menu was offered, and a liquor store operated from an area adjacent to the tavern that now serves as Silver Dollar's kitchen. The Silver Dollar was a place to have a burger and beer and exchange gossip, and it remains so today.

Two years ago, Jack Stoyanov purchased the Silver Dollar. He still considers it a local hangout because nearly 90 percent of his business comes from area residents. "I'm the little tavern in wine country where the locals hang out," he explained. He considers the tavern unique because of its setting in wine country, and it features a wine list of local wines that are sold by the glass or bottle.

Jack has worked in the food and beverage industry for about 30 years. He is a meat cutter by trade, and claims he grew up in an Italian meat market in St. Louis. He has worked at major restaurants (Tony's in St. Louis among them), country clubs and hotels, mostly on the West Coast. He has brought his culinary expertise to the Silver Dollar, and his mission is simply stated. "We feature a simple menu done right, serving food worth driving for." Mission accomplished, according to his many repeat customers.

The menu features the famous Silver Dollar burgers in addition to daily plate lunch specials. "On weekends we fire up the outdoor grill and feature aged, hand-cut steaks and chops grilled on a charcoal fire. BBQ ribs are a favorite along with roasted chicken and grilled seafood," he said. Also on the menu are salads, appetizers, burgers and sandwiches, full dinners, homemade desserts, and kid's meals. This is a family-friendly facility.

The interior of the tavern has changed little since it was first built. Jack has given it a new coat of paint and fixed it up in a few places, and put red and white checked oilcloth covers on all the tables, but you still feel like you are walking back in time as you enter the establishment. An old, all-country jukebox features country-western favorites and adds to the tavern's charm.

During the winter months, the Silver Dollar hosts washer leagues Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday nights. Wednesday night is open night so anyone can join in the fun. Jack proudly announced that the Silver Dollar teams were the league winners for 2006.

The Silver Dollar is open seven days a week. Summer kitchen hours are from 11-4 on Sunday, 11-8 Monday through Thursday, and 11-9 Friday and Saturday. Drinks are served until a little later in the evening. Carry-outs are available.

The Silver Dollar is located on Highway 19 about 12 miles south of Hermann. For information, or to book a private party or meeting, call 573-486-3102.