Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is known for his high-pressure career, becoming executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit by the age of 24 and earning the distinction of being the youngest chef to receive a three-star review from The New York Times. Over the years, he has established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, opening notable establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. In addition to his restaurant ventures, Samuelsson has authored several cookbooks and memoirs and has been a prominent figure on the Food Network.
Now, he is venturing into a new realm: home goods. In collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson is launching a 32-piece collection that reflects his Ethiopian and Scandinavian roots, along with his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson discussed changes in dining culture following the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that while the experience of ordering food at home has improved, people now seek elevated dining experiences with exceptional service and a lively atmosphere when they go out to eat. He emphasized the importance of feeling connected to a community in restaurants, contributing to local culture, and engaging with patrons through elements like live music at Red Rooster.
When asked about the inspiration behind his home goods collection for West Elm, Samuelsson revealed that his creativity as a chef extends to various artistic endeavors, including painting and writing. He expressed pride in the collaboration process with West Elm, where he drew upon his Swedish heritage and African influences for the collection.
Ultimately, after a long and stressful day, Samuelsson finds solace in cooking. He views cooking as his true passion, while he continues to explore his skills in writing, painting, and design.