Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is known for his ability to thrive in high-pressure environments. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born and Swedish-raised culinary expert had already ascended to the position 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 shortly thereafter.
In the following years, Samuelsson solidified his reputation as a leading restaurateur in New York, launching establishments like Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He is also an accomplished author, having penned cookbooks and memoirs while frequently appearing on the Food Network.
Samuelsson is now venturing into a new field with the launch of a 32-piece home goods collection in partnership with West Elm, drawing inspiration from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his life in New York.
In a recent interview, Samuelsson reflected on the evolving dining landscape three years after the COVID-19 lockdowns. He noted that the pandemic fostered an improved home dining experience, resulting in a generation of skilled home cooks. As a result, when dining out, people now seek exceptional service and vibrant atmospheres that make them feel part of something special.
He observed that customers now have more options than ever before, with the quality and accessibility of food continuing to enhance.
Regarding the ambiance of his restaurant Red Rooster in Harlem, Samuelsson emphasized the significance of community, particularly the role of live music in enhancing the dining experience. He takes pride in supporting local musicians, enriching the restaurant’s connection to the neighborhood.
For his Chelsea-based restaurant Hav & Mar, Samuelsson aims to integrate with the local art scene, collaborating with artist Derrick Adams to contribute to the area’s cultural fabric.
Discussing his new home goods collection, Samuelsson highlighted his long-standing creative pursuits beyond cooking, including painting and writing. He described the process of designing the collection with West Elm as a fulfilling collaboration that allowed him to merge diverse influences, including aspects of his father’s fishing village in Sweden and African prints.
Despite his numerous creative endeavors, Samuelsson revealed that cooking remains his ultimate passion. He cherishes every aspect of it, from selecting ingredients at the market to sharing culinary experiences with his children, feeling a sense of mastery in the kitchen that contrasts with his ongoing exploration in other creative fields.