Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has thrived in high-pressure environments throughout his career. By age 24, he had already become the executive chef of Aquavit in New York City, earning the accolade of the youngest chef ever to receive a three-star review from the New York Times shortly thereafter.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, opening several notable establishments including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has also authored numerous cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, as a family man and husband, Samuelsson is branching out into a new area: a 32-piece home goods collection in collaboration with West Elm. This collection draws inspiration from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson shared his thoughts on the evolving dining landscape post-COVID-19, the ambiance in his restaurants, and his new venture into home goods.
Reflecting on how the pandemic reshaped dining experiences, he noted that people have developed a new appreciation for quality service and theatrical dining. Samuelsson believes diners now desire a memorable experience that surpasses what they can create at home.
He emphasized the importance of community in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster in Harlem, which features live music as a key element. Samuelsson expressed pride in supporting local musicians and integrating the community’s spirit into his venues.
Discussing his new collection with West Elm, he mentioned that his journey as a creative extends beyond cooking to include painting and writing. He pointed out the successful collaboration with West Elm, where he was able to blend elements from his Swedish upbringing with African influences into a cohesive collection.
Ultimately, despite his diverse creative pursuits, Samuelsson revealed that cooking remains his first love. He finds joy in every aspect of it, from shopping for ingredients to sharing meals with his family, underscoring his commitment and passion in the kitchen.