In the vibrant culinary landscape of Copenhagen, a new player has emerged. Helmed by Michelin-experienced chef Karim Khouani, Texture is not just another fine dining restaurant — it's a deeply personal project built on passion, ambition, and family.
Born in Marseille, France, with Italian roots, Karim Khouani’s journey into the world of food began at a young age, inspired by his mother's and grandmother's cooking. Despite initially pursuing a career in football, he found his true calling in pastry and quickly embarked on an apprenticeship. With more than 28 years of experience in gastronomy, his determination to excel led him to work at prestigious establishments like Restaurant Escale and Carryle Rouet, Marco Pierre White’s Oak Room in London, and several other two- and three Michelin Star restaurants across Europe.
Moving to Sweden, Khouani opened Restaurant Ambiance and became the first to earn a Michelin Star in Malmö in 2015. After selling Ambiance in October 2016, he launched Restaurant Sture in Malmö, earning another Michelin Star just three months later. Despite his impressive resume, Khouani’s approach to cooking remains refreshingly humble. “At my restaurant, we are family – both the staff and guests. Seeing our guests smile is what makes our day,” he says. His philosophy is clear: treat everyone like a VIP and constantly strive to improve. This dedication is evident in his meticulous approach to service and quality.
Texture was born out of Khouani’s desire to build something meaningful for his son, Nelson, who shares his passion for cooking. “Nelson is only 13, but he probably cooks two to three dishes every day. He has something special – a taste and touch that most kids don’t have. It’s a gift,” Karim says proudly. Through Texture, he hopes to provide his son with the tools and inspiration to pursue his culinary dreams. The name holds a profound meaning: “Autistic kids are very sensitive to touch, smell, layers, and textures. It’s something very close to my heart,” Khouani explains.
Khouani chose Copenhagen for his latest venture because of its reputation as one of the world’s premier culinary capitals. “It was important for me to develop and challenge myself in a new country where I don’t have a reputation,” he admits. His return to fine dining follows a period spent hosting private dinners and running the more casual restaurant Oki Doki, but it’s clear that the business is in his blood. “I can’t live without gastronomy. I travel for food. I sleep thinking of restaurants.”
Texture promises a welcoming and refined experience, with a bold French menu complemented by classic French wines. The culinary team consists of talented individuals such as Albert, the passionate dining room manager and Khouani’s business partner; Erin, Khouani’s right hand in the kitchen who previously worked at AOC; and Magnus, a sommelier who worked at Frantzén. The new culinary contender prides itself on collaborating with local producers, sourcing organic vegetables and flowers from Kiselgården and cheese from Copenhagen Goat Milk. Additionally, Rossini Caviar plays a prominent role in many dishes, enhancing the luxurious and intricate flavor profile of the menu.
Texture’s ambition is clear: to earn its first Michelin star. “The goal is to get a Michelin star in June,” Khouani states confidently. He mentions that they have already received a form for inclusion in the next guide, but his approach to hospitality remains the same, regardless of the outcome: “We treat everyone like they’re a Michelin inspector.”
As for how he would celebrate such an achievement, Khouani’s response is telling. “To be honest, to be in the restaurant the next day with the guests, that will be the best celebration.” For his team, the focus remains on constant improvement. “The next steps are to improve on a daily basis and make sure we have a full dining room with happy patrons.”
With passion, humility, and relentless drive, Texture is making its mark on Copenhagen’s fine dining scene. Whether or not the Michelin Guide will grant a coveted star at the next ceremony for the Nordics on 16th June 2025 in Odsherred, Denmark, Khouani's dedication to excellence is already enhancing every dish.
Texture Restaurant
Sølvgade 86
1307 Copenhagen
Denmark
