Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is known for his demanding lifestyle and impressive career trajectory. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised chef had already taken on the role of executive chef at Aquavit in New York City and became the youngest chef to earn a three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a significant figure in New York’s dining scene, launching restaurants such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has authored cookbooks, memoirs, and made numerous appearances on the Food Network.
In a new venture, Samuelsson is collaborating with West Elm to launch a 32-piece home goods collection that draws inspiration from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, along with his life experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson discussed the evolving dining landscape post-COVID-19. He noted that the pandemic enhanced home cooking, leading diners to seek out memorable restaurant experiences marked by exceptional service and a vibrant atmosphere.
Samuelsson emphasized that when patrons visit his restaurants, they desire not just a meal, but a sense of community and enjoyment. He explained that visitors to Red Rooster in Harlem appreciate the ambiance, including live music, which is integral to the restaurant’s identity and ties back to the local community. He also highlighted the importance of contributing to and understanding the neighborhoods where his restaurants are located.
Regarding his new home goods line with West Elm, Samuelsson expressed his excitement about this creative venture, which he sees as an extension of his artistic skills beyond cooking. He mentioned his long-standing interests in painting and writing and how these influences contributed to the collection’s design process.
Samuelsson revealed that the collaboration allowed him to express elements from both his Swedish background and African roots, resulting in a cohesive collection.
Despite his numerous creative pursuits, he stated that cooking remains his primary passion. He finds peace in various aspects of cooking, whether it’s selecting fresh ingredients at the market or sharing culinary experiences with his family. He feels confident in his culinary skills while still exploring growth in other creative areas.