Houston’s foremost nightlife experts are bringing a new cocktail lounge to River Oaks. Fancy’s, the newest concept from The Clé Group, opens this Friday, May 17.
Located in the former Albi space at 1947 W Gray St., Fancy’s aims to offer an elevated cocktail experience with an upscale interior and music by DJs. For Clé Group owners Zack Truesdell, Salim Dehkordi, and Dallas Rodriguez, the new bar reflects their desire to spend time in an environment that’s more grown up than the nightclubs that have powered their success.
“This is so different from anything we’ve ever done before,” Dehkordi said in a statement. “When collectively strategizing our next move, we went back to the drawing board and focused on what was appealing to us based on the stage of life we’re in. And it’s an experience we seek in this city.”
Cocktail options consist of house originals inspired by martinis and other classics. Options include the Oh You Fancy, Huh, a spicy margarita riff made with tequila, butterfly pea tea, citrus, jalapeno and serrano; the Star Martini, made with tequila, citrus, and passionfruit-vanilla extract; the Sweet XO, an espresso martini variation made with tequila, chocolate bitters, coffee foam, and coffee crema; and the Lychee Blossom made with vodka, St. Germain, lychee and passionfruit, and citrus.
While the focus is on the drinks, Fancy’s will also serve a limited food menu of shareable bar snacks, sushi, and caviar. Options include hummus, truffle fries, and a charcuterie board. Sushi options include nigiri (salmon, tuna, hamachi, etc) and rolls such as the Fancy (spicy salmon, blackened tuna, avocado, etc.) and the Shaggy Dog (spicy shrimp tempura, crab, etc.).
Inside, the space features Roberto Cavalli textured wallpaper and deep red chandeliers. An onyx bar will serve as a lively gathering spot.
In keeping with the upscale atmosphere, Fancy’s recommends customers make reservations. A request form on the bar’s website asks for a range of information, including the typical contacts such as phone number and email address along with a person’s social media handles, their birthday, and the number of men and women expected to be in the party.
Social media posts on the Fancy’s Instagram account note that a dress code will be strictly enforced. A representative did not have specific requirements but noted that the pictures above point to the general vibe: collared shirts and sport coats for men and cocktail attire for women.
"Our lounge is designed to be a haven for an upscale, mature demographic, where they can savor expertly crafted drinks and enjoy a luxurious atmosphere that exudes style and sophistication," Truesdell added.
Opening Fancy’s comes at a time of transition for the Clé Group. In February, the company quietly closed Bisou, its lively, French-inspired restaurant in River Oaks District. BLVD Park, the group's new patio bar next to sister concept Heights Social, is expected to open soon.
Photo by Shane Dante
Fancy's will serve sushi rolls and other shareable plates.
