Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has consistently navigated a high-pressure career, achieving remarkable milestones early in life. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born and Swedish-raised culinary star had already become the executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit, making history as the youngest chef to receive a three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, launching notable restaurants such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has also authored several cookbooks and memoirs and has been a prominent figure on the Food Network.
Recently, Samuelsson has ventured into a new arena by partnering with West Elm to unveil a 32-piece home goods collection. This line draws inspiration from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview, Samuelsson shared his thoughts on the evolving dining landscape post-COVID, expressing that the pandemic has significantly altered how people engage with food experiences. He noted that as home cooking improved, diners now seek elevated service and a sense of community when dining out, craving the feeling of being part of something greater.
When talking about the atmosphere at his restaurant Red Rooster, he emphasized the importance of live music and the community of Harlem. Samuelsson takes pride in hiring local musicians, believing that their presence enhances the dining experience and reflects the richness of Harlem’s culture. He also highlighted his commitment to understanding the neighborhoods his restaurants inhabit.
Samuelsson’s expansion into home goods came naturally as he sees himself as a creative force beyond just cooking. He has a long history of painting and writing, and design collaboration is integral to his approach. He expressed his satisfaction with working alongside West Elm, noting the blend of Swedish and African inspirations in the collection, particularly drawing from his father’s fishing village in Sweden.
Ultimately, when the workday ends, Samuelsson returns to his first passion: cooking. Whether shopping for ingredients, teaching his children about food, or contemplating new dishes, cooking remains his true comfort and expertise amidst his creative pursuits in writing, painting, and design.