By Roger Porter Once in awhile the cosmos align in such a way as to produce combinations that form spectacular success.
Surely everyone remembers Rogers and Hart, Laurel and Hardy, Seigfried and Roy and countless other dynamic duos.
Now, without fear of contradiction, though perhaps on a more Montana sized scale, we can add the names of Powell and Alonzo to that list.
Well known in Western Montana, this ambitious pair has risen from the streets, so to speak, leveraging a modest beginning with their Hoagieville drive-ins (former A & W root beer stands) into a virtual hospitality empire embracing establishments in Ravalli, Missoula and Flathead counties.
Originally the pair of Missoula natives set out to franchise their successful Hoagieville drive-ins. When they ran into some snags, they adapted as has many a successful entrepeneur who preceded and followed them.
First there was the launch of Katie O'Keefe' in Missoula, a former Corner Pocket, which is now a successful casino/restaurant and the location of the pair' business offices.
Next was Calamity Jane' in Hamilton, another former A & W, now another successful tavern and casino.
Then the partners took an even more daring gamble: the acquisition and conversion of Missoula' ever popular Heidelhaus, a legend to generations of college students. The partners purchased it, closed it and completely remodeled it. The venerable location exists today as the successful Montana Club on Brooks St. near "Malfunction Junction."
However, even that risk seems to pale in comparison to the most recent addition to the pair' portfolio: the Montana Club II located on booming Reserve St.
Built from the ground up, from concept to completion Club II was two years in incubation. One only has to tour Missoula to ascertain Reserve is where the action is. From nationally known box stores to a plethora of easily recognizable hotel names and chain franchises, Club II is smack dab in the middle or the hot retail action.
The new enterprise is indeed an imposing structure and clearly stands out among the many corporate cookie-cutter structures packing the strip. However, you haven't savored the true scale and ambience of the Montana Club II until you enter the interior.
As a guest enters the building they are immediately transfixed by the sheer scope of the dining area which appears before them. This preoccupation with space is probably magnified by the 40-foot ceiling which has a tendency to shock and awe.
The lofty ceilings are set off by huge beams and tastefully painted mechanical components which seems to blend into the scheme of things, giving the visitor a feeling of rustic Montana with a sophisticated touch.
The building also houses a separate bar/casino which is well removed from the dining area. Just past the drinking and gaming area are a pair of double doors which lead to a private meeting or party room.
From floor treatment to the walls, the colors are subtle and tasteful. The wall surfaces are covered with large photographs which visit the history of early day Montana.
A multi-page menu offers the diner a wide choice of tantalizing food.
Montana Club II was initially designed to employ about 100, and those working on the front line are outfitted in tasteful uniforms which should appeal to the mature dining crowd.
When questioned as to their investment in the new establishment, the pair is rather tight lipped, except to state, "It was more than we had."
Hats off to Nick Alonzo and Bob Powell for bringing an exciting new attraction and concept to life in Missoula for western Montana. The two are also to be congratulated for a partnership which has lasted for 20 years, a true rarity in this day and age.
Source: The Montana Tavern Times, Sept, 2005, published monthly by Continental Communications, 125 W. Granite St., Suite 102, Butte, MT 59701.