Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has been a prominent figure in the culinary world since he became the executive chef at Aquavit in New York City at just 24 years old. His stellar career saw him earn the distinction of being the youngest chef to receive a three-star review from the New York Times. Over the years, he has expanded his influence, opening notable restaurants such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. In addition to his culinary ventures, Samuelsson has authored cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
In a new venture, Samuelsson is partnering with West Elm to launch a home goods collection featuring 32 pieces inspired by his Ethiopian heritage, Scandinavian roots, and life in New York City.
In an interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on changes in dining out since the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that while people have become better home cooks, they now seek out unique dining experiences that offer great service and a sense of community.
Samuelsson emphasized the significance of ambiance in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster, where live music celebrates the vibrant Harlem community. He also shared his commitment to contributing positively to the neighborhoods where his restaurants are located.
When discussing the inspiration behind his new home goods collection, Samuelsson highlighted his long-standing passion for creativity beyond cooking, including painting and writing. He expressed pride in his collaboration with West Elm, which blended elements from his father’s fishing village in Sweden with South African prints to create a cohesive collection.
Despite his many projects, Samuelsson revealed that cooking remains his true passion, stating that he feels most confident and experienced in the kitchen, where he continues to find joy after a long day.