Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has carved out a remarkable career, first gaining prominence as the executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit by the age of 24, making him the youngest chef to receive a prestigious three-star review from the New York Times. Over the years, he has established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, launching notable venues like Red Rooster in 2010 and most recently, Metropolis in 2023. Samuelsson is also an accomplished author and a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, Samuelsson is venturing into a new domain with the introduction of a 32-piece home goods collection in partnership with West Elm. Drawing inspiration from his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage as well as his life in New York, this collection signifies a new chapter in his creative journey.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on the evolution of dining out since the pandemic, noting that while home cooking has surged, people’s desire for an elevated dining experience has also increased. He underscored the importance of community and atmosphere in his restaurants, emphasizing the role of live music and local contributions in creating a vibrant dining experience.
His partnership with West Elm stems from a lifelong passion for creativity, where Samuelsson cherishes collaboration and has drawn on his artistic skills developed through years of painting and writing. He expressed pride in how his collection combines various cultural influences, featuring elements from both his Swedish roots and African heritage.
Despite his diverse interests, Samuelsson remains rooted in cooking, which he regards as his primary calling. After a busy day, he finds solace in the kitchen, enjoying every aspect of the culinary process.