Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, known for his high-pressure career, has significantly shaped the culinary scene. By the age of 24, he was the executive chef at Aquavit in New York City and became the youngest chef to receive a prestigious three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York with notable establishments such as Red Rooster, which opened in 2010, followed by Hav & Mar in 2022 and Metropolis in 2023. Alongside his restaurant ventures, he has authored cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
In a new venture, Samuelsson is collaborating with West Elm to launch a 32-piece home goods collection, inspired by his Ethiopian and Swedish heritage as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview, Samuelsson discussed evolving dining trends post-COVID-19. He noted an improvement in home dining experiences, leading many to seek elevated service and atmosphere when eating out, desiring a sense of community and connection with others while dining.
He emphasized the importance of ambiance in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster, which features live music that reflects the vibrant Harlem community. Samuelsson highlighted his commitment to that community by supporting local musicians.
When discussing his collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson expressed his excitement about blending his personal artistic influences into the home goods collection, drawing from his background in painting and design. He noted that many elements of the collection, such as the use of bright woods and prints, are influenced by his father’s fishing village in Sweden and his African heritage.
Ultimately, despite his diverse creative pursuits, cooking remains his core passion and the foundation of his career. He continues to find joy in every aspect of cooking, from shopping for ingredients to sharing meals with his family.