Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is well-acquainted with the demands of a high-stress lifestyle. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised chef had already become the executive chef at Aquavit in New York City, shortly after earning the distinction of being the youngest chef to receive a three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, having opened notable establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has also authored cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, Samuelsson is venturing into a new realm. In partnership with West Elm, he is launching a 32-piece home goods collection inspired by his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on the evolution of dining out since the COVID-19 lockdowns. He noted that the pandemic has improved the at-home dining experience, leading to a generation of skilled home cooks. As a result, diners are now seeking superior service and unique experiences when they eat out.
Samuelsson emphasized the importance of ambiance in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster in Harlem, where live music plays a significant role in creating a vibrant community atmosphere. He takes pride in supporting local musicians and believes that restaurants should contribute positively to their neighborhoods.
Discussing his new collaboration with West Elm, he revealed that his creative journey as a chef extends into other artistic endeavors, including painting and writing. He expressed satisfaction with the partnership, highlighting the way elements of his Swedish heritage and African influences are woven into the collection.
Despite his diverse creative pursuits, Samuelsson remains grounded in cooking, viewing it as his true passion. He relishes the entire process of cooking, from sourcing ingredients to sharing culinary experiences with his family.