Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has successfully navigated the demanding world of gastronomy. By the age of 24, he ascended to executive chef at New York City’s prestigious Aquavit, soon becoming the youngest chef to earn a three-star review from the New York Times.
In the following years, Samuelsson established himself as a leading restaurateur, launching notable venues such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has authored several cookbooks and memoirs and has been a prominent figure on the Food Network.
Now, he is venturing into a new field through a partnership with West Elm. Samuelsson is set to unveil a 32-piece home goods collection that draws from his Ethiopian and Swedish heritage as well as his life experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson discussed the evolution of dining out since the COVID-19 pandemic and shared his insights on cooking, creativity, and his new career direction. He noted that the pandemic enhanced the quality of takeout experiences, pushing diners to seek exceptional service and memorable atmospheres when dining out.
Samuelsson emphasized the importance of community in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster, where live music enhances the dining experience. He also highlighted his commitment to supporting local musicians. At Hav & Mar, located in Chelsea, he incorporates the local art scene into the restaurant’s vibe.
When asked about his transition into home goods design with West Elm, Samuelsson explained that his creative process as a chef parallels that of designing home products. He found joy in collaborating with West Elm, which allowed him to blend elements from his childhood in Sweden and influences from Africa into a cohesive collection.
Despite his wide-ranging talents in painting, writing, and design, Samuelsson revealed that at the end of a long day, he always returns to cooking. He described cooking as his definitive passion, where he feels grounded and assured in his expertise.