Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is well-acquainted with the pressures of a demanding career. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born and Swedish-raised chef had already attained the position of executive chef at New York City’s renowned Aquavit and became the youngest recipient of 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 notable establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He is also an accomplished author of cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
In a new venture, Samuelsson is expanding into the home goods industry through a collaboration with West Elm. This new collection, featuring 32 pieces, draws inspiration from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson discussed the evolution of dining out experiences since the pandemic, sharing that the period has cultivated a new generation of home cooks, which has elevated expectations for dining out. Patrons now seek not only delicious food but also exceptional service and an atmosphere that fosters connection with others.
Samuelsson emphasized the significance of community in his restaurants, particularly highlighting the ambiance and live music at Red Rooster and the artistic connection at Hav & Mar. He is committed to integrating his establishments within their neighborhoods, acknowledging the rich histories that precede them.
When asked about his decision to design a home goods collection for West Elm, Samuelsson expressed that his creative pursuits extend beyond cooking. He has been passionate about painting and writing for many years, and the collaboration has allowed him to blend various influences, echoing his culinary work while exploring design.
One of Samuelsson’s proudest achievements in this collection is the incorporation of elements inspired by his father’s fishing village in Sweden, alongside prints reflecting African heritage, all unified within a single collection.
Despite his diverse interests and accomplishments, Samuelsson revealed that cooking remains his fundamental passion. Whether he’s shopping for ingredients, sharing culinary stories with his children, or simply immersed in the craft, he feels most grounded in the kitchen, clear about his path as a chef.