Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has built a reputation for himself in the high-pressure world of food and hospitality. By the age of 24, he had already secured the position of executive chef at Aquavit in New York City, making history as the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, with notable openings such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has also authored several cookbooks and memoirs, and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, Samuelsson is venturing into a new domain by collaborating with West Elm to launch a 32-piece home goods collection that draws inspiration from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a recent conversation with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on the evolution of dining out since the COVID-19 lockdowns, highlighting a shift where people now seek unique experiences when dining out. He noted that advances in home cooking during the pandemic have led diners to crave exceptional service and an enjoyable atmosphere when they choose to eat out.
Samuelsson emphasized the significance of ambiance in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster, where the integration of live music plays an essential role in enhancing the community experience in Harlem. He also mentioned the importance of contributing to the neighborhoods where his establishments are located, ensuring that his restaurants reflect the local culture.
Discussing his foray into home goods design, Samuelsson mentioned that being a chef is just one facet of his creative expression. He has been involved in painting and writing for years and found that designing restaurants often involves a creative collaboration with architects, which he applied to his partnership with West Elm.
He expressed pride in the collection’s connection to his heritage, with designs that reflect both his father’s fishing village in Sweden and artistic elements from Africa. Ultimately, Samuelsson revealed that despite his varied pursuits, cooking remains his true passion and what he returns to at the end of each day.