Readers remember the legendary Golden Bear

Locals share memories of the late, great Huntington Beach nightclub.

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band opening act was Steve Martin

Over the years, I visited the Golden Bear on many occasions. Perhaps the most memorable time was my very first visit. Hard to believe, that was probably 25+ years ago.

I went to the Golden Bear to see the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. The opening act for the Nitty Gritty was an unknown comic. My initial inclination when I entered the Golden Bear was to think to myself "let's hope this comedian is on and off as soon as possible so we can get to the Nitty Gritty." Well, this "unknown" comic turned out to be a fellow by the name of Steve Martin! I have never laughed so hard in my entire life!!! He was absolutely hilarious!!!

And the evening was topped with a fantastic performance by the Nitty Gritty, aided on occasions by Steve [Martin] on banjo! This was undoubtedly the best evening I ever spent at the Golden Bear and will never forget it!!!

-- Mike Robinson, Huntington Beach