Sam I Am!
by senior contributor Brendan Kownacki
“Sam I am” he would always say, and the familiar words were sweet to here this week as a local legend made his way back to the District. We’re talking, of course, about Sambonn “Sam” Lek, known best for decades behind the bar at the Mayflower Hotel’s Town and Country bar; pouring stiff drinks, entertaining patrons with his signature magic tricks and, of course, counseling barflys from around DC (and the country) as any good bartender does.
Sam was a signature addition to Town and Country, right up until the last day when the bar closed somewhat suddenly in January 2011 to pave way for a massive renovation to the hotel (which now has a new bar; Edgar Bar & Kitchen). “I lost my house, lost my income” he said of the shocking twist and that “early retirement” seemed to be the only option.
In 2011 Sam returned to his native Cambodia to focus on his foundation, Sam Relief, a group that aids the people of Cambodia and South East Asia. The group has to date delivered more than 101 scholarships to children, built 27 schools and drilled more than 349 wells to bring in fresh water. This is where Sam’s heart lies, helping people, but he says he missed his family and he missed DC, where he had spent more than 38 years.
His kids were in DC and so back he came, landing at 14K Restaurant & Lounge where he has quickly gotten back up to his old tricks. “It got boring, I was here for more than half my life” he said of his encore into DC. Lek was quick to greet guests, pour cocktails like the new signature 14K Gold and catch up with former regulars who are ready to celebrate his return.
“If they treat me nice, I’ll stay” he laughed as he dashed across the bar to show off one of his signature magical illusions.
There’s always a touch of magic in the air when Sam is behind the bar.
