Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has successfully navigated a high-pressure lifestyle since an early age. By 24, he had become the executive chef at Aquavit in New York City and soon earned the distinction of being the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, founding notable eateries such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He is also a published author of cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, Samuelsson is venturing into a new field. In collaboration with West Elm, he is launching a 32-piece home goods collection that reflects his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, along with his experiences in New York.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson discussed the evolution of dining out since the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted the pandemic resulted in an improved home dining experience, leading many to develop their cooking skills. This, in turn, has raised expectations for restaurant dining, where patrons seek exceptional service and a sense of community.
Samuelsson emphasized the importance of ambiance at his establishments, particularly at Red Rooster, where live music plays a vital role in creating a welcoming atmosphere. He takes pride in supporting local musicians and ensuring his restaurants integrate thoughtfully into their neighborhoods.
The chef’s venture into designing a home goods collection aligns with his creative pursuits outside of cooking. He has a background in painting and writing, and he drew from his artistic instincts when collaborating with West Elm. He expressed pride in the collection’s blend of inspirations from both his father’s Swedish fishing village and African heritage.
Despite his diverse creative endeavors, Samuelsson shared that cooking remains his true passion. He feels confident in his culinary skills while still exploring and learning in other artistic fields.