The Bottom Line
Pros
- Put frankly, Sammie Relford is the most enjoyable live soul-singer in Houston
- Within walking distance of contemporary R&B lounge Cotton Exchange
- Large patio
- Not terribly populated (yet)
Cons
- Only open Friday and Saturday
- Within walking distance of 18 and Up clubs Toc Bar and Pink Monkey
- Parking is a hassle (though that's to be expected)
- Not terribly populated (yet)
Description
- R&B hangout
- 711 Franklin Ave., Houston, Tx 77007
- 713-236-0711
Guide Review - Review: The Real Sammie
Sammie Relford has been a nightlife staple in Houston for what seems like forever. He was at his most hip while performing at the now defunct Gallant Knight, his most relevant while at the still operating Sammy's at 2016 Main, and at his most vulnerable in his newest locale, The Real Sammie.The prevailing vibe inside The Real Sammie is surprisingly melodramatic. Given the fable that has become a Sammie Relford live performance, you'd expect the decor to be that of bright, vivrant colors and grandiose fixtures. They are not. Red leather couches in the lounge area do little to counteract the nondescript carpet and trim. Large wall-length windows, which are the highlight of the room, help keep the venue from becoming feeling downright drab. Make no mistake, Sammie's aptitude for performance has lost no luster, but you get the feeling that he may have relied a little too heavily on his reputation to make this place as successful as its predecesors.
The populace, which can really be hit or miss, is as eclectic as it ever was. Everyone from the younger, whiter college crowd to the older, blacker R&B throwbacks can be found here, but it hasn't seemed able to get its footing like most expected it would. Eventually, word will get out that Sammie is back in business (The Real Sammie hasn't been open more than a few months) and his regular followers will flock here as they always do, but for the time being, it's not entirely unheard to visit before or after peak hours and find only a smattering of people inside.
If you're looking for the latest in glitz, this isn't the place for you. But if you're looking for an inarguably energetic show from one of Houston's most likeable personas, give The Real Sammie a try. Tell 'em About.com sent you; you won't get anything for free, but at least they'll look at you quizically. That's always good for the ego.
