The word "saloon" might conjour the image of an old country bar with swinging doors and country dancing. Although the Cy-Fair area is not exactly known as a wild country environment, bringing a part of this atmosphere to the area was always part of the plan for Kari and Andrew Wood, owners and of Masones Saloon.

"We wanted to focus on drinking, dancing and Texas country," she said.

Wood, who is also the owner of Masones Bar and Grill in Cypress, said her new venture focuses more on live music and event hosting. The venue has only been opened since last fall, but it has already become a hot spot for locals looking to throw country-themed birthday and bachelorette parties, she said.

The venue is open 6 p.m.–2 a.m. from Wednesday through Saturday. Live music was originally planned to take place every Thursday, but the saloon has since attracted enough attention to start to booking shows Fridays and Saturdays as well, Wood said. Upcoming shows include John Conlee May 16 and Sammy Kershaw June 20.

The saloon also hosts free country dance lessons along with $4 whisky specials every Wednesday at 8 p.m., with karaoke starting at 9 p.m.

"Houston is getting bigger, but the true Texas country spirit will never be lost," Wood said. "We're proof of that."

11133 Huffmeister Road

Houston 281-890-5556

www.masonessaloon.com