Meet Meredith Munchrath: The Heart Behind American Revelry's Hospitality

Some people are born for hospitality β€” they just don't know it yet. Meredith Munchrath walked into American Revelry in 2019 with zero restaurant experience and became the heartbeat of the place, turning first-time guests into chosen family and proving that the best hospitality comes from simply being available to the people around you.

As Private Dining & Special Events Coordinator and Front of House Manager, Meredith wears more hats than most people have in their closet. She works closely with Chef Denise to bring private events, wine dinners, and cooking classes to life, all while ensuring every guest feels welcomed, cared for, and truly at home. Meredith is the glue holding it all together β€” from your first visit to your most meaningful celebrations.

We sat down with her to talk about American Revelry family, chicken tenders with a side of legacy, and why Texas wine deserves a heck of a lot more respect.


How long have you been at American Revelry?

I have been with American Revelry since the very beginning, starting in November 2019. I had never worked in a restaurant before, so this was all uncharted territory for me. What a ride it's been so far, and I can't wait to be a part of our continued growth and success.

 

What keeps you coming back? What's the part you love the most?

My favorite part of my job is the people. I am incredibly grateful for the relationships built here β€” from watching children like Maggie and Luke grow up, to meeting lifelong friends such as Linsey and Lindsey, to the countless guests who have become chosen family. It is an honor to move from being someone's server to being welcomed into the most meaningful moments of their lives, including weddings and even funerals. This role has shown me how powerful simply being open, present, and yourself can be. I am also deeply honored to work alongside Chef Denise and to watch my brother, Forrest, thrive as a server β€” sharing this space with people I admire makes work even more special.

 

You've tasted almost every wine on the list. When someone sits down and looks overwhelmed, how do you help them find the one?

I help guests choose wine by first understanding what they're looking for β€” whether that's a specific flavor profile, body, or how the wine will pair with their meal. I ask thoughtful questions, listen closely, and use that information to guide them toward an option that fits their preferences and enhances their overall dining experience, allowing them to feel confident and excited about their selection.

 

Is there a guest moment that's just stayed with you? Something you carry around?

One of my most cherished guest memories is meeting a local family β€” Trent, Kelly, and Kelly's mother, Alice. Alice was a small but mighty presence, and getting to know her through simple moments, like serving her chicken tenders with fries and a Coke, was truly special. After Alice's passing, I was honored to receive a pair of her earrings, which I now wear here as a reminder of her spirit and the meaningful connections that make hospitality so rewarding.

 

You've done a lot of wine dinners. Which one hit differently?

William Chris Vineyards stands out as my favorite wine dinner because it challenged expectations and genuinely surprised our guests. In a room mixed with Texas wine skeptics, being able to showcase a winery ranked 31st on the 2025 World's Best Vineyards list was incredibly rewarding. Having Co-Founder and CEO Chris Brundrett present the dinner himself made the experience even more special, bringing insight, passion, and authenticity to every pour. As a proud Texan, I loved spotlighting wines made from 100% Texas-grown fruit and watching guests leave with a new appreciation for what Texas wine can truly be.

 

All right, last one: what are you drinking and eating right now?

My current favorite pairing: the Revelry Signature Steak Plate alongside William Chris Vineyards EnchantΓ©. A Bordeaux-style blend that brings out the richness of the filet and complements the sweet-savory notes of the plate beautifully β€” elegant, but comforting and always satisfying.

 

Want to experience Meredith's hospitality for yourself?

Whether you're joining us for one of our infamous wine events or simply stopping in for dinner, you'll quickly understand why guests become family at American Revelry.

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Denise Shavandy