Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has navigated a demanding career, rising to prominence by the age of 24 as the executive chef of Aquavit in New York City. His talent earned him the distinction of being the youngest chef to receive a three-star review from the New York Times. Over the years, he has established himself as a leading restaurateur, launching notable venues such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. Samuelsson has also authored several cookbooks and memoirs, becoming a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, Samuelsson is branching out into a new arena with a collaboration with West Elm to create a 32-piece home goods collection inspired by his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, alongside his experiences living in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on the evolution of dining out post-COVID-19. He noted that the pandemic has transformed diners’ expectations; people now seek improved home cooking experiences and memorable outings with superior service. Samuelsson emphasized the importance of creating an engaging atmosphere in his restaurants, such as the live music at Red Rooster, which celebrates the vibrant Harlem community. He also highlighted the necessity of contributing to the local culture when opening a new establishment.
Samuelsson explained his motivations behind designing the home goods collection, describing himself as a creative individual with a background in painting and writing. He underscored the collaborative process with West Elm and how the collection embodies influences from his father’s fishing village in Sweden along with African prints, creating a cohesive artistic vision.
At the end of a long day, despite his various creative endeavors, Samuelsson always returns to his passion for cooking, whether it’s shopping for ingredients, engaging with his children about food, or simply thinking about culinary creations. He feels most confident in his culinary skills, viewing them as a foundational aspect of his identity.