Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is well-known for his high-pressure lifestyle and impressive career. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born and Swedish-raised chef had already secured the position of executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit, earning the distinction of being the youngest person to receive a three-star review from the New York Times shortly thereafter.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, opening several restaurants including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He is also recognized for his cookbooks and memoirs, and he has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Recently, Samuelsson ventured into a new industry by collaborating with West Elm to launch a 32-piece home goods collection that draws inspiration from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his New York City experiences.
In an interview with Quartz, Samuelsson discussed how the COVID-19 pandemic has changed people’s dining habits. He noted that many have become better home cooks, leading to a desire for elevated dining experiences when eating out, including great service and a vibrant atmosphere.
Samuelsson emphasized the importance of creating a community-centric environment in his restaurants, like Red Rooster, which features live music. He highlighted his commitment to supporting local musicians and integrating the essence of the neighborhood into his dining spaces.
When asked about his new collection with West Elm, Samuelsson shared that being a creative extends beyond his role as a chef. He has a long-standing passion for painting and writing, and he regards the design process as a collaboration that has allowed him to express his vision. He takes particular pride in incorporating elements from his father’s fishing village in Sweden into the collection, while also blending in African influences.
Despite his many creative endeavors, Samuelsson revealed that cooking remains his passion and primary focus. He finds satisfaction in all aspects of the culinary process, from shopping for ingredients to sharing meals with his family.