Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has carved out a prominent place in the culinary world, achieving remarkable milestones by the age of 24. Born in Ethiopia and raised in Sweden, he became the executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit and made history as the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times shortly thereafter.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as one of New York’s leading restaurateurs, launching several popular establishments, including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. In addition to his restaurant ventures, he has authored cookbooks and memoirs while making regular appearances on the Food Network.
Now, Samuelsson is venturing into a new area: home goods. In partnership with West Elm, he is introducing a 32-piece collection inspired by his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on how the pandemic has transformed dining out. He noted that the lockdowns resulted in a rise in home cooking, leading people to seek enhanced dining experiences when they go out, craving not just good food but also exceptional service and ambiance. Customers are increasingly looking for a vibrant atmosphere where they feel a sense of community.
Samuelsson highlighted the importance of community engagement in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster in Harlem. He emphasized that the establishment reflects the vibrant local culture, further enriched by live music created by local artists. He also aims to honor and contribute to the neighborhoods where his restaurants are located, such as Chelsea’s art scene at Hav & Mar.
Discussing his collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson shared that his artistic background extends beyond cooking; he has been painting since his teenage years and considers himself a creative spirit. He expressed pride in how the home goods collection blends inspirations from his Swedish roots, including elements from his father’s fishing village, with African prints, creating a unified collection.
Despite his various creative pursuits, Samuelsson revealed that cooking remains his true passion. He finds comfort and clarity in all aspects of the culinary world, whether it’s sourcing ingredients, educating his children about food, or simply cooking for enjoyment.