[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 41 (Tuesday, March 8, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E227]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





               HONORING THE LIFE OF ROBERT SAMUEL DUVALL

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                          HON. MARK DESAULNIER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 8, 2022

  Mr. DeSAULNIER. Madam Speaker, I rise today along with Speaker Nancy 
Pelosi to recognize the life of Robert Samuel ``Sam'' DuVall, legendary 
San Francisco restauranteur.
  Born in Mississippi, Sam graduated from the University of Mississippi 
in 1962. During his time in college, Sam hosted dinner parties for his 
friends, introducing them to different kinds of food and unknowingly 
honing the hospitality that would foster his future career. Following 
graduation, Sam moved to San Francisco in 1964, which he ultimately 
made his home. While passing an empty storefront one day in 1967, Sam 
decided to open a restaurant, Front Room Pizza. He conducted research 
by eating pizza throughout San Francisco and hiring the best pizza chef 
he could find. With the opening of Front Room Pizza, Sam started a more 
than 50-year career as a restaurateur, during which he opened 30 
restaurants.
  One of Sam's most famous restaurants, Izzy's Steakhouse, opened in 
1987 and became a gathering place for the community. Patrons were 
welcomed, not only with comforting meals, but also by Sam's renowned 
warmth and generosity. The restaurant was awarded Legacy Status on its 
30th anniversary as part of an initiative to recognize iconic 
establishments in San Francisco. Sam's legacy lives on through his 
daughter, Samantha, who heads The DuVall Family Restaurant Group and 
continues operations of Izzy's. Another one of Sam's restaurant's, 
Elite Cafe, opened in 1981 and is known locally as the first New 
Orleans-style restaurant in San Francisco. Due to his love of 
traveling, jazz, and art, Sam's restaurants embodied his many passions 
and gave diners an immersive experience that allowed them to escape the 
bustling city.
  Sadly, Sam passed away on November 1, 2020 at the age of 80. He was a 
cherished member of our communities and he will be deeply missed. 
Please join us in honoring Sam for his many contributions to the San 
Francisco Bay Area.

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