Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is known for his high-pressure lifestyle and remarkable achievements. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised chef had already become the executive chef of New York City’s Aquavit and made history as the youngest chef to earn a three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, launching notable venues such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and the recently opened Metropolis in 2023. He has authored cookbooks, penned memoirs, and been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, as a family man, Samuelsson is venturing into a new arena with the launch of a 32-piece home goods collection in collaboration with West Elm. The collection draws inspiration from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his experiences living in New York.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson discussed the evolving dining landscape post-COVID-19, his inspirations in culinary arts, and his future endeavors.
Reflecting on the pandemic’s impact, Samuelsson noted that people have become better home cooks and now seek more from their dining experiences. When they choose to eat out, they desire exceptional service and an engaging atmosphere. Samuelsson emphasized that diners crave a sense of community and connection, not only with their companions but with others in the restaurant as well.
He highlighted the significance of ambiance in his own establishments, such as Red Rooster, which features live music that reflects the vibrant community of Harlem. He expressed pride in supporting local musicians and ensuring that each restaurant genuinely connects with its neighborhood.
In discussing his new home goods collection, Samuelsson mentioned that his creative journey encompasses various forms of art, including painting and writing. He relished the collaboration with West Elm, where he could blend different cultural elements into cohesive designs.
One of his proudest achievements in the collaboration is the incorporation of natural woods inspired by his father’s fishing village in Sweden, alongside prints that celebrate African heritage, all unified in one collection.
Ultimately, when winding down after a challenging day, Samuelsson returns to cooking. He finds joy in every aspect of the culinary process, from selecting ingredients at the market to sharing meals with his family, viewing cooking as his true passion and expertise.