Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has made a name for himself in the culinary world, particularly in New York City. By the age of 24, he had already become the executive chef of the renowned Aquavit and was recognized by the New York Times with a prestigious three-star review, making him the youngest recipient of such acclaim.
Samuelsson has opened several successful restaurants, including Red Rooster in Harlem, Hav & Mar in Chelsea, and Metropolis, further establishing his reputation as a leading restaurateur. In addition to his work in the kitchen, he has authored cookbooks and memoirs and appeared frequently on the Food Network.
Recently, Samuelsson is venturing into a new sector by collaborating with West Elm to launch a 32-piece home goods collection inspired by his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, as well as his experiences living in New York City.
In a recent interview, Samuelsson shared insights on how dining habits have shifted since the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that home dining experiences have improved significantly. As a result, people now seek higher-quality service and engaging atmospheres when dining out, desiring more than just a meal but a sense of connection and community.
Samuelsson emphasized the importance of ambiance in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster, where live music plays a vital role in creating a welcoming environment that reflects the vibrant Harlem community. He also highlighted the significance of giving back, noting that the musicians who perform at Red Rooster are compensated, further intertwining the restaurant with its community.
As for his new collection with West Elm, Samuelsson revealed that his creative journey as a chef parallels his approach to design. He has a long-standing passion for painting and writing, which informs his aesthetic sensibilities. Collaborating with West Elm allowed him to infuse elements from his father’s fishing village in Sweden and incorporate various African prints into a cohesive collection.
Ultimately, no matter how diverse his creative pursuits become, Samuelsson’s heart lies in cooking—be it shopping for ingredients at the market, sharing meals with his family, or simply contemplating food. He views his culinary skills as his most established craft, while he continues to explore and grow in other artistic domains.