River Oaks gets a new bar

Culture Map Houston:

When the Roll-N Saloon closed its doors back in January, regulars mourned. The dive bar offered a low-key escape for those who cared more about hanging with friends and the old school tunes on the jukebox than being seen at an “It” bar with the see-and-be-seen crowd.

Plus, the neighborhood back roads provided ample alternate routes for those hoping to avoid the more populated streets at 2 a.m. But while the Roll-N can never be replaced, former enthusiasts please take note — there’s a new kid on the block.

The space is now occupied by the (aptly named) Railyard, and owned by Trey Melcher, Cody Melcher and Clinton Hedges.

Trey Melcher, one of the original investors in the Red Room, saw a business opportunity when the owner of the Roll-N chose not to renew his lease. The original idea was to keep the re-modeling down to a minimum. However, after digging in, Melcher realized a major overhaul was needed.

Fear not — though things have been updated, you’ll still recognize the place. The old CD jukebox has been replaced by a digital jukebox, but your old favorites by Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson and Bon Jovi are still in the rotation — just with Top 40 neighbors.

And there are still some familiar faces. Tony and Marc, former staff of the Roll-N, are still behind the bar. One change no one will mind? The restrooms have been modernized and cleaned up.

There are happy hour deals from 4 -7 p.m. weekdays and football drink specials on the weekends.