For Thomas Herman, executive chef at Restaurant Herman, eating is about remembering and reminiscing. His intimate establishment serves up classic Danish fare with a sophisticated twist, accompanied by one of the city’s best wine lists.

[B]How did you get to where you are now professionally?[/B]

I spend a lot of hours behind the stove and by working with many different and inspiring chefs all over the world.

[B]Do you rank Copenhagen among the world's creative capitals? Why/why not?[/B]

Yes. Copenhagen is such a cultural city within art, gastronomic, music, design and furniture.

[B]The W* shoot is all about Copenhagen shopping – what are your favourite Copenhagen stores?[/B]

Dansk Møbel Kunst gallery

[B]What object/piece of furniture in your home could you not live without?[/B]

My two Spanish chairs by Børge Mogensen

[B]Who/what is inspiring you most right now? [/B]

Old, traditional danish gastronomic updated in a 2009 style.

[B]What advice do you wish you'd been given 10 years ago?[/B]

Don't smoke!

[B]What's your secret/favourite indulgence?[/B]

That I'm stubborn and always 100 per cent focused.

[B]If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?[/B]

My lack of patience.

[B]What's the one thing you'd never change?[/B]

That I'd never compromise concerning quality.

[B]How do you relax?[/B]

With my girlfriend, a bottle of Champagne and a dozen oysters.