Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, known for his high-pressure lifestyle, became the executive chef of New York City’s Aquavit by the age of 24. He soon earned the distinction of being the youngest chef to receive a three-star review from the New York Times. Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a prominent restaurateur, opening popular establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. In addition to his restaurant ventures, he has authored cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Samuelsson is now venturing into a new realm by launching a 32-piece home goods collection in collaboration with West Elm. This collection draws inspiration from his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage as well as his experiences living in New York City.
In a recent interview, Samuelsson reflected on the evolving dining landscape three years post-COVID-19 lockdowns. He noted that the pandemic significantly improved people’s home cooking skills, leading diners to seek out superior service and immersive experiences when eating out. “People want to feel like they are part of something,” he explained, emphasizing the desire for exceptional dining experiences.
The atmosphere at Red Rooster, particularly the presence of live music, is another key factor in its appeal. Samuelsson highlighted the importance of integrating the vibrant Harlem community into the restaurant, mentioning the pride he takes in compensating local musicians. He further expressed that when establishing new venues, he emphasizes the need to connect with and contribute to the surrounding community.
Discussing his new collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson drew parallels between designing home goods and his culinary work. He has engaged in creative processes throughout his life, including painting and writing, and considers the design aspect of restaurants a form of artistic collaboration. He expressed enthusiasm for working with West Elm, appreciating their openness to his ideas.
Among the facets of his West Elm partnership, Samuelsson particularly cherishes the inspiration drawn from his father’s fishing village in Sweden, alongside African influences, resulting in a cohesive collection.
Despite his diverse creative pursuits, Samuelsson always finds solace in cooking. Engaging in various aspects of it—from market shopping to sharing culinary experiences with his children—remains a grounding force in his life. He feels confident in his culinary skills, viewing his other creative endeavors as ongoing learning experiences.