Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is familiar with the demands of a high-pressure environment. By the age of 24, he had already become the executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit, making history as the youngest individual to receive a three-star review from The New York Times shortly after.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a prominent figure in New York’s dining scene, launching several acclaimed restaurants including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He is also known for his cookbooks and memoirs, along with being a familiar face on the Food Network.
Recently, Samuelsson has ventured into a new industry by partnering with West Elm to launch a 32-piece home goods collection inspired by his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his life in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson discussed the evolution of dining experiences post-COVID-19 and his creative inspirations. He noted that the pandemic has transformed diners’ preferences, leading to a greater appreciation for the service and atmosphere of restaurant dining as people have developed their culinary skills at home.
Samuelsson highlighted that guests seek not only delicious food but also an engaging environment that fosters connection and community. He pointed to the importance of live music in his restaurant, Red Rooster, emphasizing the significance of integrating the vibrant Harlem community into the dining experience.
When asked about his shift into home goods design, Samuelsson explained that being a chef has shaped his creative journey but painting and writing have also been vital to him. His collaboration with West Elm allowed him to integrate his artistic vision into the collection, combining elements from his father’s fishing village in Sweden with African influences.
Ultimately, despite his diverse creative endeavors, Samuelsson remains anchored in cooking, finding solace in all aspects of it, whether it’s shopping for ingredients, sharing culinary knowledge with his children, or simply cooking at home.