Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has a history of thriving under pressure. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised chef had already taken the helm as executive chef at Aquavit in New York City, making waves by becoming the youngest recipient of a three-star review from The New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading figure in the New York restaurant scene, launching successful establishments like Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. In addition to his culinary pursuits, he has published cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, the chef, who is also a husband and father, is venturing into a new realm: he is collaborating with West Elm to unveil a 32-piece home goods collection inspired by his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In an interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on the transformation of dining out since the pandemic, stating that people have come to appreciate elevated restaurant experiences even more, seeking both quality service and a vibrant atmosphere. He noted that diners are now more selective about their dining choices, leading to enhanced food delivery services that have improved accessibility.
When discussing the environment at his restaurant Red Rooster in Harlem, he emphasized the importance of community and the inclusion of live music, expressing pride in paying musicians who contribute to the cultural fabric of the area. He also mentioned a similar commitment to community engagement at Hav & Mar in Chelsea through art programs.
Samuelsson shared that his decision to create a home goods collection arose from his long-standing interest in creative endeavors beyond cooking, including painting and writing. He enjoyed the collaborative process with West Elm, appreciating their receptiveness to his artistic vision.
Among the elements he is most proud of in the collaboration is the incorporation of design inspirations from both his father’s fishing village in Sweden and African prints, creating a cohesive collection that reflects his rich cultural background.
Despite his diverse talents and projects, Samuelsson remains anchored in his love for cooking, declaring it his true passion, whether he’s shopping for ingredients, sharing food with his children, or simply contemplating culinary creations.