Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has established himself as a prominent figure in the culinary world, achieving significant milestones early in his career. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised chef was appointed executive chef at Aquavit in New York City, where he became the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson has gained recognition as a leading restaurateur in New York, launching successful establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He is also a seasoned author, having penned several cookbooks and memoirs, and is a familiar face on the Food Network.
In an exciting new venture, Samuelsson has teamed up with West Elm to introduce a 32-piece home goods collection that reflects his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson discussed the evolving landscape of the dining experience in 2024, his artistic inspirations, and his career trajectory. He noted that the pandemic has shifted people’s expectations of dining out, leading to a desire for more engaging experiences. Customers are now looking for exceptional service and a lively atmosphere as they seek to feel connected in social settings.
He emphasized the importance of community in his restaurants, particularly highlighting the cultural essence of Harlem at Red Rooster, where live music enhances the dining experience. Similarly, he noted that his Chelsea restaurant, Hav & Mar, is designed to resonate with the local art scene.
When asked about the inspiration behind his home goods collection with West Elm, Samuelsson expressed that his creative journey extends beyond cooking. He has been involved in painting and writing for many years and enjoys the collaborative process in his restaurant design work.
Samuelsson’s collaboration with West Elm was particularly fulfilling, as he was able to blend elements from his Swedish roots and African heritage into a cohesive collection. Ultimately, cooking remains the cornerstone of his passions, offering him a sense of clarity and fulfillment amidst his diverse creative pursuits.