Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has established himself as a prominent figure in the culinary world, particularly in New York City. By the age of 24, he became the executive chef at Aquavit and was the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times. Over the years, he has gained recognition as a top restaurateur, launching successful establishments like Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. Samuelsson has also authored numerous cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Expanding his creative horizons, Samuelsson is venturing into the home goods market through a partnership with West Elm. This new collection consists of 32 pieces inspired by his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a conversation with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on the changes in dining habits since the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that while people have become better home cooks and expect higher-quality dining experiences when going out, they also desire a sense of community and connection.
The ambiance of his restaurant, particularly Red Rooster, is integral to the dining experience. Samuelsson emphasized the importance of live music and community engagement, stating that his establishments are designed to reflect and contribute to the neighborhoods they inhabit.
Discussing his collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson expressed his pride in incorporating elements from his father’s fishing village in Sweden alongside African prints, resulting in a cohesive collection.
Despite his diverse creative pursuits in painting and writing, Samuelsson emphasized that cooking remains his greatest passion. For him, the process of cooking and engaging with food is where he feels most grounded and accomplished.