Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has built an impressive career in the culinary world, rising to fame at an early age. By just 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised chef became the executive chef of New York City’s Aquavit, making history as the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times.
In the following years, Samuelsson established himself as a leading figure among New York restaurateurs, launching highly acclaimed venues such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. In addition to his restaurant achievements, he has authored several cookbooks and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Samuelsson is now venturing into a new domain with the launch of a 32-piece home goods collection in collaboration with West Elm. This collection draws inspiration from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson discussed the evolving landscape of dining in 2024, his culinary inspirations, and his future aspirations. He reflected on how the pandemic has altered people’s dining experiences, noting that while home cooking has flourished, diners are now looking for enhanced service and memorable experiences when they go out.
Samuelsson emphasized the significance of ambiance in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster in Harlem, where live music plays a vital role in the dining experience. He values community engagement and strives to ensure that his establishments contribute positively to their neighborhoods.
When asked about his new collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson shared that his creative pursuits extend beyond cooking; he has been painting since he was a teenager. Designing the home goods collection, he noted the synergy between his culinary themes and design inspirations.
Throughout his various artistic endeavors, Samuelsson remains grounded in his love for cooking, saying that at the end of a long day, it is cooking that brings him the most satisfaction and clarity.