Today we’d like to introduce you to Hans Gerner.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’ve been in the restaurant/bar/hotel business for most of my life from busboy to chef to regional manager to owner of several establishments over the last 38 years. I founded Hans’ Bierhaus and currently own the Kelvin Arms Scottish Pub in the Rice Village as well as Ship & Shield in Montrose.
Most of my establishments have been one of a kind–Ship & Shield came to me as I wanted to do something with my Norwegian Heritage. While watching the TV series “Vikings” one night the idea came to me to do Houston’s only Scandinavian Restaurant with a Viking theme complete with a Viking longboat as a bar and Viking shields as tables.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Bars are a lot easier than restaurants, so yes–usually smooth sailing. Ship & Shield is going on its 7th month and has had its ups and downs as any startup business does. The reviews however, have been extremely positive and we expect to be one of Houston’s most popular restaurants.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Ship & Shield story. Tell us more about the business.
At Ship & Shield we specialize in all products being made, smoked and cured in house. We are the only restaurant in Houston with Scandinavian cuisine. As with all my establishments, we specialize in excellent service, quality product and a very unique atmosphere.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
The more you prepare–the more luck you have, so I’ve been pretty lucky.
Pricing:
- Happy Hour M-F, 3pm to 7pm. $1.00 off drafts and $6.00 house mead
- Danish Smorrebrod sandwiches $8.00
- Price range from $8.00 to $35.00
Contact Info:
- Address: 403 West Gray
- Website: www.shipandshield.com
- Phone: 346-701-0555
- Email: contact@shipandshield.com
- Instagram: #shipandshield
- Facebook: Ship & Shield
- Twitter: @shipandshield
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