Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has had a remarkable career, marked by significant achievements at a young age. By 24, he became the executive chef at Aquavit in New York City and made history by being the youngest chef to receive a three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson established himself as a leading restaurateur, opening celebrated venues such as Red Rooster in 2010 and Hav & Mar in 2022, with his latest venture, Metropolis, debuting in 2023. He has authored several cookbooks and memoirs and has been a prominent figure on the Food Network for many years.
Recently, Samuelsson is venturing into a different field by collaborating with West Elm to release a 32-piece home goods collection inspired by his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, along with his experiences in New York City.
In an interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on how the pandemic has reshaped people’s dining habits. He noted that home cooking has improved, leading diners to seek unique dining experiences that offer exceptional service and ambiance when they go out. He emphasized the desire for patrons to feel connected and part of a vibrant community when dining out.
Regarding the ambiance at Red Rooster in Harlem, Samuelsson highlighted the importance of incorporating live music into the dining experience and supporting local musicians. He expressed pride in his restaurants reflecting the spirit of their neighborhoods, emphasizing community involvement and cultural contributions.
When asked about his new collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson shared that he has always been a creative individual, engaging in painting and writing alongside his culinary career. He relished the opportunity to work closely with West Elm, appreciating their willingness to collaborate and innovate.
Samuelsson expressed pride in elements of the collection, noting that the designs were inspired by his father’s fishing village in Sweden, blended with prints from Africa, creating a cohesive collection that showcases his diverse background.
Ultimately, when reflecting on his passions, Samuelsson stated that cooking remains his true calling. He continues to find joy in all aspects of cooking, from shopping for ingredients to sharing meals with his family, conveying that while he explores other creative avenues, cooking is where he feels most accomplished.