Basque immigrant Peter Juaregui dreamed of opening a hotel and bar where his fellow countrymen could gather, share news of the old country, and live during the off season from their ranching jobs. On December 17, 1910, Pete opened The Star at a cost of $11,000. Basque residents received room and board for $1.00 a day and drinks for a dime. Meals were served family style, with no menus, as everyone sat together at long tables and ate the same fare served on large platters and in large bowls. Mealtimes were announced by the ringing of a large handheld bell heard throughout the hotel and bar. The Star Hotel and Restaurant is now open to the public and is one of Elko's finest restaurants. Some long term boarders still live upstairs and are considered part of the family. For more than 102 years, The Star has been a Basque gathering place where people gather, share a drink or meal, exchange news, collect mail from home, or meet an old friend. The family style dining, the exchange of local news and current events, and the handheld bell remain in use today. Throughout its 102 year history, The Star Hotel has had 14 owners, all of Basque heritage, all continuing Pete's dream of providing the Basque people a place to meet, have a good meal or drink, and exchange news from the Basque community, a home away from home now for all to enjoy.