Improv Comedy Club

That’s not true. No its not. Yes it is.
Are you sure? I think so.
I love it here. No you don’t. Yes I do. lol
Maybe.

A great place to have a good laugh! Food was okay as well drinks a bit pricy over good service!

I went to the improv comedy club for the first time over the weekend with my boyfriend. The stand up was very funny and we had a very great time. The servers were quick and walked by frequently to refill our order or get anything else. There were plenty of seating but to me, it was a bit crowded. We arrived right as it was supposed to start and even though the hall was packed, we were able to sit with a random couple in the front area. I would assume this would be hard if you have a big group. I knocked off a star because the drink prices were pretty high and they require you to buy two drinks minimum or will charge you anyway. The drinks/​food ended up equaling the tickets price.

Friday on a whim my boyfriend and I decided to see a comedy show. I bought tickets online. each ticket was $ 20. Plus a TEN DOLLAR CONVENIENCE FEE! Convenience my butt. We got to the theater and walked in with my CONVENIENT TICKET I printed and was told i had to wait in the will call line for my ticket. WHAT?! So back outside I went to wait in a line to get my tickets. They then packed us in like sardines. They had the back half of the theater blocked off so i was practically sitting on a strangers lap. Anytime he had to use the restroom I had to get up and move my chair because I was so close to the table behind us. I could not even sit comfortably. Took us 20 minutes to even get the waiter to get us a beer.**SIDENOTE If they make it a 2 item minimum per guest than they better give you prompt service which was lacking. I had to chug my last beer.
The only saving grace and reason I even gave this 2 stars was because of the comedians. They really made the visit enjoyable. But i will not be going back anytime soon.
Drop the TEN DOLLAR CONVENIENCE FEE that requires you to stand in line and maybe I’ll come back sooner next time. RIPOFF

So we wished to go out with some friends and see a comedian. The tickets say that the seating is general admission, first come, first serve. Understandable. We get there about half an hour early to try to get seats together for everyone.
Problem #1: The set up is in little round tables even for the general admission part. So if you need to find seats you essentially need to awkwardly impose on other people.
Problem #2: Even this early, there was far from enough seats near each other for a group of 6 people. So my wife and I looked around to see if we could at least get 4 of us, or even two together. We asked a couple of people where there were 2 seats together whether we could sit there and they said they were saving them.
The show was sold out, so there is no doubt that it should have been pretty packed. However, the fact that we couldn’t even find seats together coming early was incredibly frustrating. We left instead. Oh, and there are no refunds on any of the tickets you buy prior to going. Oh, and there was a 10 dollar online convenience fee to buy the tickets at the only place you can get them (on the club’s website itself). 10 dollar convenience fee for tickets that I can’t get refunded if I can’t find a place to sit with my wife? No thanks.
The improv club needs to make the entire club assigned seating, or sell in table groups. It is doubtful they will do this as they can charge for every seat in the house even though it is unlikely that all of them can be filled because most people travel in groups, not individually.
Awkward set up + no way to insure that you can get seats next to people you wish to be with = bad rating for me. If you are okay with this, then it won’t be that big of a deal for you and you may like it.
P. S. As an additional source of frustration, I bought a large draft beer (no more than 20 ounces) that ended up costing a WHOPPING $ 12.50. That’s absolutely astounding and unprecedented. The beers aren’t even that much at Houston sporting events. What a disappointment.

Last night was the 2^nd time I went to improv houston to see jokoy. While I love his comedy, it always started way later then the supposedly time. I didn’t mind but what bothered me was, the comedy club said «1^st come first serve seating». I made an effort to come 2 hrs before the show starts and was excited to be closer. I ended up sitting 2^nd row from the back! :(The girl that check us in never explained me where I sat nor gave me a chance to choose. So what’s the point of «first come first serve seating?»
When we were seated, at our table was 2 other couple, my back was so close to the next table I had to ask the waiter if he can move the tables apart a few inches :/​. To top it off, we had a pillar right in front of our table. I don’t think we should have to be seated like that when we paid $ 70 for tickets plus numoreous drinks and the bar and table. And here’s another thing, I asked for a shirley temple with vodka. I got vodka with cherry coke by the look and taste of it. After giving it a 2^nd try… and ended up with the same drink, I ordered beers.
Overall the show was great, venue «seemed» great, and our water was great. Just need to think more of the consumer who paid money and made an effort to come early!

This was my first time visiting the Improv and I must say I will be back. I enjoyed the whole vibe of the place. Now the food on the other hand was a big disappointment. I only ordered queso, salsa and chips and it was pretty bland. The drinks also were not a big selling point. My advice is to stick with wine, beer or a stiff drink on the rocks. I really enjoyed the featured comedian Ali Saddiq he was really funny like tears rolling down my face funny. Will I be back, yes but I will make sure I eat before I do.

Great comedy
We ordered the Date plate, two drinks to meet requirement.

Thoroughly enjoyed my experience at the Improv!!! We got tickets to see DeeRay Davis perform on a Sunday night at 9:00, which was the last show. The space was huge and the acoustics were great. It was comfortable in the building. They seem to book the more funnier comedians so I’m definitely going to become a regular!
The actual show featured two up and coming comedians before DeeRay performed. One was local and the other was not. They were both funny. In fact my sister, friend and I lol’d the whole time.
We each got the a few drinks and shared an appetizer sampler. Everything was standard comedy club offerings.
I will definitely be coming back!!!

I give this venue one star for some of the decent comedians they bring in.
The seating is unorganized. I arrived to get my ticket. They wrote my table number on the back of the ticket and I asked what time I should be back since the previous show hadn’t even let out yet. When I came back at the suggested time, my table was given to someone else.
With new seats, we really enjoyed the show. Our drinks were super sweet but the worst part was an unexpected 18% surcharge on the bill which apparently doesn’t even go toward the server’s tip.
Get ready to laugh and get ready for a monster bill at the end of the night. I’d rather pay more for a ticket upfront than to feel like I’m being taken advantage of.

I usually like the improv but when I purchased a ticket today to pay extra for front I get there and the table I’m assigned to is NOT the front. I would hv paid regular price and used the extra $ 10 on the food for my 2 item minimum.
But they came and corrected the issue…

Have been to several shows here and have sat in different areas of the club. I haven’t had a bad view yet.
I don’t like the way the waiting in the bar area is set up, because everyone is trying to be first in to get their seats, even when they are assigned. The problem with the way they assigned it, you don’t know where you are sitting. If we could choose the seats when we purchase them so it is clear where everyone is seating it would make it much less of a hassle getting in. Then we you wait at the bar, you can sit back and wait.
Overall its one of the better comedy clubs in the Houston area, so we will return.

We have been to this comedy club several times, going because of the talent not because of the experience. The club is easy to get to with free parking, but if you get there early be prepared to stand in line. We have only been there once when we were allowed to go to the bar in the lobby before the show — all other times we had to stand in a line outside no matter what the weather. Once inside the lobby has a bar, but not enough bartenders. Drinks are pricey so be sure to order something you like — we stick to beer or wine.
You are escorted into the stage/​audience area and told where to sit based on which ticket you bought, sometimes having to share your table with complete strangers. We have sat on the floor level a few times and I do not recommend it. It’s very hard to see and feels very crowded and uncomfortable.
The drink/​food service at the tables is average at best. We always have to flag our server down to order another drink, and once it’s ordered, it takes a very long time to actually receive it. Food just comes out whenever — lots of fried appetizers, sandwiches, etc., so we typically eat before or after the show somewhere else. Getting checks before the end of the show is pretty chaotic — be sure to pay attention to your tab because we have found mistakes more than once.
The comics that perform at this club are great — but the lack of organization on the club’s side is disappointing. Hopefully they have gotten more efficient since our last visit, we love comedy clubs and want to continue to be patrons of this Improv!
Cheers!

It was such a fun night. After reading their website I expected over priced food and drinks and bad service. Just the opposite. The place had a decent menu and fresh kegs.
I would plan on getting their 45 minutes before the show for a decent seat.

This was my second trip to Houston Improv, with the first being to see Josh Blue last year. This time around, I went with three friends to see Steve Byrne. Houston Improv is located in a big multiplex with Edwards, Dave & Busters, Drink Houston, and a bunch of restaurants. There’s a huge parking lot but it gets pretty busy Friday and Saturday nights so parking can be an art. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the show. The waiting area has a bar so you can start getting your drink on before the show starts. You have assigned seats and I would recommend not sitting in the front rows. If you do, there’s a good chance you’ll become the comedian’s target! Same can be said for going to the restroom during the show.
They also have food consisting of pretty much bar fare. I had the chicken tenders with fries. They were OK but hey you’re not going to a comedy club for an incredible meal. Before the main act comes up, there are two comedians who perform prior to get things warmed up. Both times I’ve been it’s been interesting to see the striking difference in quality between the first act, the second act, and the main act. The main act is just on another level! Yes, there will be offensive and inappropriate jokes. But it’s hilarious and all in good fun. Just let it go, don’t be uptight, and have a great time. I had laughed so hard throughout the show that my cheeks hurt.
18% gratuity is automatically added so be careful when you’re paying your bill. Houston Improv makes for a fun date spot. If you’re lucky, the comedian may even pick on you as the comedians I’ve seen love picking out couples during their shows!

Worst experience ever! Was originally given two tables for my party. But because they overbooked section C the door boy (Bradley) attempted to bully my party from our tables as well as a couple who was already seated.
We were literally the first to walk in the doors to be seated. And the first to order our drinks but because we refused to move for the other party our orders kept being «delayed». I’m disgusted at the professionalism Bradley displayed and how unorganized and cramped the seating is.
I was even reprimanded for laughing by Bradley’s right hand waiter with the Dark Justin Bieber haircut. I didn’t even stay for the whole show and will never return to this shitty establishment.

Forgot to mention they don’t serve water… WATER! They’ll sell you a bottle of water but they won’t take a glass, fill it with ice and water, and place it in front of you. F-​tards.
Hate this place. …till the show starts.

Improv was my first «upscale comedy club» (as opposed to underground, cram packed clubs in Austin) and I have to say I was pretty impressed. Went here on a third date (go me, right?) and had a really, really great evening.
The parking was super easy! Large parking garage in the back. The atmosphere inside was very clean, large, and the stage was easily viewable from anywhere in the room. However, the drinks were wayyyy way way wayy wayyyyyy overpriced and TINY. Probably the worst Cosmo I’ve ever had… so definitely drink a little/​a lot before you come… As for the food — we just ordered the calamari and the portion was large as was the price tag (I see we are developing an overpriced theme here…). Most the food options were fried — nothing very healthy available.
And the important part — the comedians were really great. Even the house comic had me laughing out loud which doesn’t always happen…
They do not take Discover. Who doesn’t take Discover?
Overall — I’ll be back to see the talent… but I’m getting drunk beforehand and I’m ordering two bottles of water as my «two item minimum». Also — the area surrounding the club is really cool — Dave & Buster’s next door for some «late night games» as well as a frozen yogurt place and dance club called «Drink Houston».

This is a great place for (adult) entertainment in Houston. No, not that kind of adult entertainment… the comedy kind!
The concept is simple. A very small stage with a bar stool and a microphone. And lots of jokes. And of course they are much more funny with language and/​or off color so most shows aren’t for the kids. I have been 4 or 5 times and never found a show I didn’t laugh at least a little. Usually a lot.
And this venue gets some of the great acts. I’ve seen Christopher Titus, Rob Schneider, David Spade, and John Caparulo. Chris Farley’s brother Kevin also was a featured comedian. Check out their website and you’ll see familiar names from stage and screen.
Tickets are reasonable, usually $ 30 — $ 40. We like to splurge for the front section for a few more dollars. You just naturally get more into the show if you are only a few feet away. It’s worth it.
While the ticket prices are very reasonable, there is a two drink (or item) minimum. Most draft beers were $ 6, mixed drinks $ 8 and up. They do carry just about every Houston Craft Beer (St. Arnold, Karbach, Southern Star, even 8^th Wonder recently). Nice to get a good beer if you’re going to have to pay. Food is also average to above average. Bar fare, plus a few desserts. No free water, you pay for the bottle. Also an 18% gratuity is included (and it seems as if they expect a little more by the extra line on the credit card slip). Expect to spend $ 40 — $ 50 per couple just for drinks and maybe one food item.
The staff is very attentive. Most shows are two a night, so they are quick to get you in and out to keep things moving. The first order takes a while since a hundred or so people are all ordering at the same time. The staff is also excellent at working the table without disrupting the show.
The table seating rules are hard to follow so I’ll just give you advice. Call ahead and see if you can get a table assignment. See what time the line is open for your show, and check into the box office early. I believe all ordered tickets must check in at the BO to get an assignment. You can’t call or ask too many questions, the staff is always helpful. The more thorough you are, the better chance for closer seating.
The seating in the venue is tight, but that’s okay. You’re not going to move around a whole lot. You may be placed with other patrons (i.e. two couples sharing a table for four). Great chance to meet other people (and you don’t have to make small talk for too long since there is a live show starting shortly).
Depending on the comedian, sometimes they’ll pose for photos with patrons. Either the guard using your camera or they’ll take the photos and post (depends on how much time they have). A nice touch.
Parking is easy and free as the location is in a major entertainment area.
I can’t think of many ways to improve other than lower the prices, but they gotta make money.
One final example of how nice the staff is, on one occasion we showed up Saturday and they could not find our reservation. We figured out we had accidentally ordered tickets for the Friday show. Instead of making us repurchase, without even asking, they got us a table for that night’s show. That’s customer service.

The Improv is too clean and too upscale looking. It does not look like a lot of beer has been spilled all over; no cigarettes put out on the seats; no holes punched in the wall by comedians hyped up on the *reads smudged writing on hand* ovaltine. I am not sure how I feel about this. This does not feel like the kind of authentic comedy veteran road warrior place I would see tiny beautiful human Doug Benson out on the road; however immediately after I said that last night I found out he is booked here, so I need to eat my hat.
The comedians that were heavy smokers juxtaposed against the sanitized cleanliness of the venue smelled very strongly from very far away. Back in my day we let ‘MURICANS do Murkan things like smoke where ever they gatdang wanted — and several comedians were funnier with the prop in their hand, and the lack of nicotine jitters some of these fellas seemed to be having since our nanny state sees fit to deprive these young men of the ability to multitask smoke and perform work inside. There is something so manly about a guy smoking a cigarette and doing some sort of work like chainsawing a tree (traditional American) or being a doctor (traditional Russian); it just isn’t the same as they sip sad water and have the look of forlorn hope in their eye as time marches slowly onward to the conclusion of their set and the beginning of the smoke break.
As far as the menu goes it is your basic airport bar pricing with some light bar food. The mozzarella sticks very obviously are the kind you buy in bulk for $ 3 at the supermarket, but at least they serve them steam-​rolling-​off-​them hot for all the mark-​up on them. I did not have enough Good Boy Points earned to order the tendies, so no observations on those are available at this juncture.
The drink menu has some clever drink names. My first round was the Silly Goose — Grey Goose with Hpnotiq — because I wanted the other brothers in the VIP section to know I was about that life. The name of my mistake notwithstanding, I thought I was ordering a thug drink that would come in a pimp chalice or something of the ilk Lil Jon would drink out of. Instead I received a weird cutesy tropical drink sort of glass with a lemon wedge on the rim to draw extra attention to how not-​manly this drink is. It was colorful; but it was more silly than Goose. It was almost entirely Hpnotiq and ice cubes. The Goose done stayed away from this party. A true thug would not order this drink around his boys, #yolo or not.
My second round was a beer. Whew, I am glad I came here on $ 10 beer night.
The tables in the VIP area are very sturdy, unlike a lot of the night club kind of tables that are far too easy to flip over whether you are telling a hilarious joke with a bunch of Italian emotive hand gestures or just too turned up to understand basic physics. This is in stark contrast to the chairs which are wobbly as shit. In a way I am glad my chair was so wobbly so I felt like I was far more hammered the whole evening right up until the point I stood up and had to walk to the one restroom in the building. However there is something to be said for having a chair flat on the floor too. Different strokes for different folks.
Parking is easy since there is a mega huge garage out back for all of the strip mall activities. The box office/​will call is outside in the elements and the ‘hood bulletproof glass is so thick/​the microphone contraption so fuzzy you and the worker guy need to essentially shout back and forth to figure anything out.
The worst thing about this place is that they do not accept Discover. I have just one question for you — who in the HECK do you think you are?
The venue brings great acts to town so it is a-​okay by me as I count down the days to seeing giant menacing cyborg Doug Benson again.