Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is well-acquainted with the pressures of a fast-paced culinary career. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born and Swedish-bred chef had become the executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit, making history as the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times shortly thereafter.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a prominent restaurateur in New York, opening notable establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has authored cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network for many years.
Now, the husband and father is venturing into a new field: in partnership with West Elm, Samuelsson 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 conversation with Quartz, Samuelsson shared insights about the evolving dining landscape in 2024, his culinary inspirations, and his future aspirations.
Samuelsson reflected on how the pandemic has reshaped people’s relationships with dining out. He observed that while home cooking has improved, dining has shifted towards expecting higher levels of service and an immersive experience. Diners now seek a sense of connection not only with their companions but also with the atmosphere around them.
He also praised the vibrant ambiance at Red Rooster, highlighting the importance of live music and community. Samuelsson emphasized his dedication to honoring the local culture and contributing positively to the neighborhoods where his restaurants are located.
When discussing the new home goods collection with West Elm, Samuelsson described his creative journey. He believes that his experiences as a chef paralleled his design work, as both require collaboration and artistic vision. This partnership allowed him to incorporate elements inspired by his Swedish heritage alongside African influences into the collection.
Reflecting on his diverse interests, Samuelsson noted that while he enjoys various creative outlets like painting and writing, cooking remains his primary passion. At the end of a busy day, he always finds his way back to the kitchen, where he feels most accomplished.