Danish chef-turned-sommelier Søren Ørbek Ledet is co-owner, general manager and wine director of Geranium in Copenhagen. His move from the kitchen to the dining room helped shape Geranium into one of the world’s leading fine-dining destinations (awarded its third Michelin star in 2016).
Born in Denmark in 1974, Søren Ledet began his career in the kitchen in 1995, working in several high-level Danish restaurants before moving towards front-of-house service.
In 2007, he co-founded Geranium with chef Rasmus Kofoed. Both initially worked in the kitchen, but Ledet soon transitioned to the dining room and wine direction, marking a pivotal turning point in his professional path.
In 2013 he earned his sommelier qualification from the Court of Master Sommeliers and, in the same year, received the Danish award Restaurant Manager of the Year.
As general manager and wine director, he oversees a cellar of several thousand labels and is known for a philosophy centred on guest comfort: “The wine list is not built to impress, but first and foremost to please.”
His approach to hospitality combines technical precision, emotional awareness and a deep understanding of pairing. Ledet often highlights how his background as a chef helps him bridge kitchen and dining room: “Understanding both sides is a strength I use every day.”
In 2022, Geranium was ranked No.1 in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, a milestone that reflects the synergy between Kofoed’s cuisine and Ledet’s service vision.
Through meticulous attention to detail and a guest-focused philosophy, Ledet has helped redefine Nordic fine-dining hospitality, shaping Geranium into a global benchmark.
