Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is well-acquainted with the demands of a high-pressure career. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born and Swedish-raised culinary talent had reached the position of executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit. Shortly thereafter, he made history by becoming the youngest chef to earn a three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading figure in New York’s restaurant scene, launching several notable establishments including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. In addition to his restaurant ventures, he has authored cookbooks and memoirs, and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, the chef and family man is venturing into a new domain. In partnership with West Elm, he is introducing a 32-piece home goods collection that draws on his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his experiences living in New York City.
During an interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on how the restaurant industry has evolved since the COVID-19 lockdowns. He noted that the pandemic improved the takeout experience, leading to a new generation of skilled home cooks. As a result, diners now seek an elevated experience when eating out, desiring excellent service and a vibrant atmosphere.
Samuelsson expressed that patrons want to feel a sense of community and connection when dining out, with an environment that enhances their experience. He emphasized that diners now enjoy more choices than ever before, which are continually improving.
He also spoke about the importance of ambiance in his restaurant Red Rooster, particularly the inclusion of live music. Samuelsson takes pride in representing the Harlem community within his restaurant and ensuring that they support local musicians.
When discussing his new collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson explained that his creative journey extends beyond cooking—he has been passionate about painting and writing for years. The collaborative design process with West Elm has been one of his most fulfilling projects, allowing him to incorporate elements reflective of his heritage and personal experiences.
Samuelsson is proud of how his collection ties together influences from his father’s fishing village in Sweden and African prints, creating a cohesive line of home goods.
Finally, when asked about his go-to activity after a hectic day, he reaffirmed his love for cooking, as it remains the aspect of his career where he feels most confident and fulfilled, unlike his other creative endeavors where he still feels like he is in the learning phase.