Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has always thrived in a high-pressure environment. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born and Swedish-raised chef had already made a name for himself as the executive chef of New York City’s Aquavit, becoming the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times shortly thereafter.
Over the years, Samuelsson established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, launching notable establishments including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. Alongside his restaurant ventures, he has authored several cookbooks and memoirs and has been a prominent figure on the Food Network.
Samuelsson is now venturing into a new arena by collaborating with West Elm to launch a 32-piece home goods collection. This new line draws inspiration from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In an interview with Quartz, Samuelsson shared insights on the evolution of dining out in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting how it has enhanced the desire for unique dining experiences. He noted that as home-cooking skills improved during lockdowns, diners now seek memorable outings that provide excellent service and a sense of community.
Samuelsson elaborated on the vibrant atmosphere at Red Rooster, emphasizing the importance of live music and community engagement. He also mentioned his commitment to supporting local musicians by offering them opportunities in Harlem.
Discussing his collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson expressed his passion for creativity, explaining that his artistic journey includes painting and writing. He reflected on how the design of his restaurants often echoes his Scandinavian influences, and he enjoyed the collaborative process with West Elm that allowed him to express these ideas through home goods.
Proud of the collection’s design, Samuelsson shared that many elements are inspired by his father’s fishing village in Sweden, combined with prints that reflect his African roots.
Despite his diverse artistic pursuits, Samuelsson reiterated that cooking remains his true passion. He cherishes the hands-on aspects of cooking, from selecting ingredients at the market to engaging with his family about food, and feels confident in his culinary skills compared to his ongoing growth in other creative fields.