Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has established himself as a prominent figure in the culinary world, having taken on the role of executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit by the age of 24. His exceptional talent earned him the distinction of being the youngest ever recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson has further solidified his reputation as a leading restaurateur in New York, launching several successful establishments, including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. In addition to his restaurant ventures, he is a prolific author of cookbooks and memoirs and has been a prominent presence on the Food Network.
Now, Samuelsson is venturing into a new domain by partnering with West Elm to introduce a 32-piece home goods collection that draws inspiration from his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, as well as his experiences living in New York City.
In a recent interview, Samuelsson discussed the evolving landscape of dining out in a post-COVID-19 world, his culinary inspirations, and his forthcoming projects. He noted that the pandemic significantly transformed people’s relationships with dining out. As home cooking improved, diners now seek enhanced experiences in restaurants, desiring not just great food but also exceptional service and ambiance.
Samuelsson emphasized the importance of community in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster in Harlem, where live music plays a vital role in creating the right atmosphere. He expressed pride in supporting local musicians and ensuring that each restaurant reflects its surrounding community.
When asked about his motivation for creating a home goods collection, Samuelsson highlighted his creative background. Although cooking has been his primary focus, he has also pursued painting and writing for many years. His collaboration with West Elm was a rewarding experience, allowing him to blend influences from his father’s fishing village in Sweden with elements from African culture, creating a unique collection.
Despite his numerous creative pursuits, cooking remains his most grounded passion. Samuelsson finds joy in every aspect of the culinary process, from grocery shopping to sharing meals with his family, revealing that his connection to cooking is as strong as ever.