In Full Bloom: Geranium Copenhagen's Gastronomic Glory
©Claes Bech-Poulsen
In the vibrant heart of Copenhagen, where the city's greenery meets its urbanity, lies Restaurant Geranium. This culinary gem, perched on the 8th floor of Fælledparken (Common Gardens), offers a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Geranium invites guests to embark on a journey of culinary discovery, where thoughtfulness can indeed be tasted.
A Culinary Philosophy of Thoughtfulness
©Claes Bech-Poulsen
Geranium's kitchen is a testament to the pursuit of gastronomic clarity and diversity. Their mission is to create meals that involve all of your senses – meals that restore, challenge, and enrich. This pursuit is aptly described as "dynamic," drawing inspiration from the unseen formative forces of nature. These forces may not be visible, but their presence is unmistakable, leaving their biologic "footprints" on every dish.
Dinner in the Canopy: A Feast for the Senses
One of the most distinctive aspects of Geranium is its location. Situated amidst the lush Fælledparken gardens, this restaurant provides a stunning panoramic view of Copenhagen's green copper roofs and the distant windmills of Oeresund. It's a place where you can follow the seasons' journey through the tree crowns, all while savoring a culinary masterpiece.
The Journey of Rasmus Kofoed: A Culinary Maestro
©Claes Bech-Poulsen
Rasmus Kofoed, a native of Denmark, is the visionary behind Geranium. His culinary journey began in his mother's kitchen, where he developed a love for nature, vegetables, and cooking. Over the years, Kofoed's passion for cooking led him to become the captain of the Danish culinary team and a Bocuse d'Or champion. In 2007, he opened Geranium, which quickly garnered Michelin stars and acclaim for its celebration of seasonal, organic, and biodynamic ingredients.
The Universe Tasting Menu: A Gastronomic Symphony
The heart of Geranium's culinary experience is the 'Universe' tasting menu, a seasonally-changing extravaganza that unfolds over a minimum of three hours. With around 20 meticulously crafted courses, this menu is a harmonious blend of appetizers, savory dishes, and sweets. Every dish is an intricate work of art, served on nature-inspired crockery.
In 2022, Geranium reached the zenith of its culinary journey by being named The World's Best Restaurant, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, a testament to its commitment to innovation and excellence.
©Claes Bech-Poulsen
A Meatless Paradise: Nature on the Plate
In 2022, Geranium made a bold and sustainable move by becoming a meat-free zone. Instead, the focus shifted solely to local seafood and vegetables sourced from organic and biodynamic farms in Denmark and Scandinavia. This commitment to sustainability is evident in dishes like lightly smoked lumpfish roe with milk, kale, and apple, as well as forest mushrooms with beer, smoked egg yolk, pickled hops, and rye bread.
Masters of Hospitality: Warmth and Excellence
Geranium isn't just about food; it's about hospitality at its finest. Co-owner Søren Ledet is a natural-born people-person, charming host, and outstanding sommelier. He welcomes each guest like family, making them feel at home throughout their meal. The restaurant's warm service style and constantly evolving drinks program earned Geranium the prestigious Art of Hospitality Award in 2018.
Scandinavian Elegance: A Dining Experience Like No Other
The dining room at Geranium is a spacious, light-filled haven with direct access to the open kitchen, offering a glimpse into the culinary magic as it unfolds. For special occasions, guests can request the fireplace table, which overlooks the park, or opt for the larger private dining room in the Inspiration Kitchen. The restaurant's decor features open fires, blonde wood, and modern Scandinavian design, creating a truly world-leading setting for the world's leading restaurant.
©Claes Bech-Poulsen
Geranium is not just a restaurant; it's a transformative gastronomic experience that invites you to explore the intersection of urbanity and nature, all while savoring the creations of a culinary genius. It's a place where thoughtfulness is not just an idea but a flavor that can be tasted in every bite. Dining at Geranium is a journey you won't soon forget, a journey that involves all your senses and leaves you with a profound appreciation for the artistry of food.