Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has built an impressive career, having reached the role of executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit by the age of 24. He later achieved fame as 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, founding several restaurants including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has authored multiple cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Recently, Samuelsson has ventured into a new industry by collaborating with West Elm to launch a 32-piece home goods collection inspired by his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York.
In an interview, Samuelsson shared his insights on how the pandemic has reshaped dining habits. He noted that the quality of food delivery has improved significantly, leading diners to seek more from their restaurant experiences, such as excellent service and an engaging atmosphere.
Samuelsson emphasized the importance of community in his restaurant projects. He aims to reflect the distinct character of neighborhoods, like Harlem and Chelsea, through live music and art collaborations, respectively. He believes in contributing positively to the communities where his restaurants are located.
Discussing his new collection with West Elm, he expressed pride in incorporating elements from his father’s fishing village in Sweden alongside African prints, creating a cohesive and diverse offering.
Despite his various creative pursuits, including painting and writing, cooking remains his primary passion. He feels confident in his culinary skills, contrasting this with his ongoing learning experiences in other artistic fields.