Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, known for his impressive culinary achievements, is venturing into a new territory with a home goods collection. His journey began when, at just 24, he became the executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit, making history by receiving a three-star review from the New York Times, the youngest ever to do so.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a prominent restaurateur, launching successful venues like Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has also authored several cookbooks and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
In his latest collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson is set to introduce a 32-piece home goods collection that reflects his Ethiopian and Scandinavian roots, along with his experiences in New York City. In a recent discussion, he shared insights on the evolving dining landscape post-COVID-19 and how people’s relationships with dining out have transformed.
Samuelsson observed that the pandemic has enhanced home cooking experiences, prompting diners to seek a more theatrical and service-oriented atmosphere when they do eat out. He believes that guests are now looking for a sense of community and connection when they choose to dine out.
When discussing his restaurants, he emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming ambiance that incorporates local culture, such as live music at Red Rooster, which supports local musicians. He expressed a deep commitment to community engagement, ensuring that his venues contribute positively to the neighborhoods they inhabit.
Regarding his new home goods collection, Samuelsson explained that his creativity as a chef naturally extends into various artistic pursuits, including painting and writing. He relished collaborating with West Elm, integrating elements inspired by his father’s fishing village in Sweden and African prints to create a cohesive collection.
Ultimately, despite his diverse creative pursuits, Samuelsson affirmed that cooking remains central to his life. He sees cooking not just as a profession but as a cherished activity, embodying his passion and expertise more than any other aspect of his multifaceted career.
This new venture into home goods represents an exciting expansion of Samuelsson’s brand, showcasing his creativity beyond the kitchen and his commitment to sharing his cultural heritage through design. As he continues to innovate in various fields, it is clear that his passion for cooking will always be his foundation.
In summary, Marcus Samuelsson’s shift to home goods is not just about creating products but maintaining the essence of community, creativity, and cultural expression that he has championed throughout his career. Consumers can look forward to not only functional pieces but also items rich with stories and inspiration from Samuelsson’s diverse background.