Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has built a remarkable career in the culinary world, making his mark in New York City. By the age of 24, Samuelsson had become the executive chef at Aquavit, a prestigious restaurant, and shortly thereafter, he achieved the distinction of being the youngest chef to receive a three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, he has established himself as a leading restaurateur, launching several acclaimed establishments including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. Samuelsson is also a published author of cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network for many years.
Now, Samuelsson is venturing into the home goods industry by collaborating with West Elm on a new collection consisting of 32 pieces. This collection draws inspiration from his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, as well as his experiences living in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson shared insights into the evolving dynamics of the dining industry since the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that while home cooking has improved, diners now seek an elevated restaurant experience characterized by excellent service and a sense of community. The variety of dining options available has also expanded significantly since the pandemic.
Samuelsson emphasized the importance of ambiance in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster, where live music is a key element of the dining experience. He believes in creating a sense of community within his restaurants, contributing to the cultural richness of their neighborhoods.
When discussing his new home goods collection, Samuelsson articulated how his creative pursuits as a chef and an artist intersect. He has long embraced artistic collaborations and found working with West Elm gratifying, as it allowed him to blend his cultural influences into a cohesive collection.
Among the aspects of this collaboration, Samuelsson expressed pride in the connections between his father’s Swedish fishing village and his African heritage, seamlessly integrating these narratives into the designs.
Despite his diverse creative endeavors, Samuelsson revealed that cooking remains his true passion and comfort. He finds solace and clarity in the culinary arts, whether it’s sourcing ingredients, sharing meals with his family, or simply thinking about cooking.