Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has had a remarkable career marked by a high-pressure lifestyle. By the age of 24, he had already become the executive chef of Aquavit in New York City, earning the distinction of being the youngest chef to receive a three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, opening notable establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010 and more recently, Hav & Mar in 2022 and Metropolis in 2023. He is also an accomplished author of cookbooks and memoirs and has been a fixture on the Food Network.
Recently, Samuelsson is branching out into a new venture: a 32-piece home goods collection created in collaboration with West Elm. This collection draws inspiration from his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage as well as his experiences living in New York.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on how dining experiences have evolved in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that while the quality of food delivery at home has improved significantly, customers now seek enriching dining experiences, including ambiance and social interaction. Diners want to feel engaged and part of a vibrant atmosphere when they go out.
Discussing his restaurants, Samuelsson emphasized the importance of community. At Red Rooster, live music is a key element that enhances the experience, and he takes pride in supporting local musicians. With Hav & Mar in Chelsea, he aims to connect with the local art scene, collaborating with artist Derrick Adams to bring an artistic element to the venue.
Samuelsson explained that his new direction in designing home goods with West Elm has been a fulfilling creative endeavor. He highlighted the collaborative process, which allowed him to incorporate elements inspired by his father’s fishing village in Sweden alongside African influences into his designs.
While juggling multiple creative outlets, Samuelsson remains grounded in his passion for cooking. He expressed that, despite exploring painting and writing, cooking is the area where he feels most confident and assured in his skills.