In 1997, Johann Schuster traveled from Germany to Houston. During his trip, he realized the potential of the city, and recognized Houston as a place where ethnic businesses and food establishments could thrive. Nearly two years later, Schuster and his wife Maria made the move from Germany to Houston where they opened Charivari restaurant. Johann is a Romanian-born European trained in culinary arts, and his cooking has influences from his home country, Germany, and other places he’s traveled.

Entrees from Around Europe

The fine dining experience at this restaurant will open your eyes to food from around Europe, and surprise you with flavors from multiple countries. If you dine during lunch hours, try the Wiener schnitzel, the Risotto al Piemonteze, the veal “Zurich,” or the delicate and simple Majestic salmon. Entrées for lunch range between $10.00 and $35.00.

If you prefer dinner over lunch, the Mediterranean seafood platter for two, priced at $70.00, will be some of the best seafood you have in Houston, and the lamb chops Sierra Nevada, $32.50, are definitely worth a try. You’ll also find a mouth watering 20-day dry aged rib eye on the menu that’s served with potatoes for $38.50. And before your meal even comes, may we recommend starting with an appetizer of escargot or Budapest Style foie gras.

European Feeling

If you’ve ever dined in Europe, then you know that the meal is regarded as a much more serious and eventful affair than it is in the United States. In Europe, rather than dinner being about providing you with food to fill your belly that you consume quickly and efficiently, the meal is an opportunity to reflect on your day, your life, and your relationships with those whom you’re sharing your table with. European dinners are never rushed, and multiple courses are always ordered. If you want to dine at a place where you can take as much time as you’d like, stick around for a few hours without feeling guilty, and truly take the time to enjoy your meal and connect with your dinner mates, Charivari is the place to go. Keeping European nature in mind, though, remember that the service might not be as quick or as attentive as you’d be used to in a regular American restaurant.

Piano Player 

You won’t find a loud band or singer at Charivari, but on certain nights of the week diners are lucky enough to eat while accompanied by fine piano music. The piano makes the place feel super classy and romantic, and turns it from a nice restaurant to one that you might want to choose for an anniversary or celebration dinner. Reservations are recommended, and dressy dining attire is required.