Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has made a name for himself in the culinary world, achieving significant recognition by the age of 24 when he became the executive chef of New York City’s Aquavit. He later became the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times. Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as one of New York’s top restaurateurs, launching popular establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has also authored cookbooks and memoirs and is a familiar face on the Food Network.
Recently, Samuelsson has ventured into a new industry by partnering with West Elm to launch a 32-piece home goods collection inspired by his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage as well as his life in New York City.
In an interview, Samuelsson shared his insights on the evolving dining landscape post-COVID-19 and discussed the importance of ambiance and community in his restaurants. He noted that the pandemic transformed people’s expectations of dining out, with a greater demand for exceptional service and unique experiences.
Samuelsson emphasized the significance of community in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster, where live music enhances the dining experience. He takes pride in supporting local musicians and ensuring that his establishments contribute positively to their neighborhoods. His approach at Hav & Mar also reflects local influences, including an art program that ties the restaurant to the Chelsea community.
Regarding his collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson described being creative in various ways throughout his career, from cooking to painting and writing. He highlighted the joy of working with West Elm, stating that the collaboration allowed him to merge elements from his father’s fishing village in Sweden with African prints, resulting in a cohesive collection.
Despite his many creative outlets, Samuelsson revealed that cooking remains his primary passion and focus. He expressed confidence in his culinary skills, viewing them as a cornerstone of his career, while he continues to explore growth in writing, painting, and design.