Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has long thrived in a high-pressure environment. By age 24, he achieved the position of executive chef at Aquavit in New York City, becoming the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times soon after.
In recent years, Samuelsson has established a reputation as a leading restaurateur in New York, launching notable establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023, alongside his work as an author of cookbooks and memoirs and a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, he is venturing into a new arena. In partnership with West Elm, Samuelsson is set to unveil a 32-piece home goods collection, drawing inspiration from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian roots as well as his life in New York City.
In an interview with Quartz, Samuelsson shared insights on the evolving landscape of dining out post-pandemic, the atmosphere at his restaurants, and the motivations behind his new home goods collection.
He noted that the pandemic transformed dining habits, enhancing home cooking skills and raising expectations for dining out experiences. Customers now seek exceptional service and an immersive atmosphere, wanting to feel engaged within the dining space.
Discussing the ambiance at Red Rooster, he emphasized the importance of community and live music as integral to the dining experience, noting the restaurant’s commitment to paying local musicians and honoring the area’s cultural heritage. Similarly, at Hav & Mar, he recognized the need to contribute meaningfully to the Chelsea community.
Samuelsson also delved into his new collaboration with West Elm, explaining how his creativity extends beyond cooking to include painting and writing. He expressed pride in the partnership, which allowed him to blend elements from his personal history and artistic vision into the collection.
Reflecting on his diverse creative endeavors, he concluded by reaffirming his unwavering passion for cooking, stating that it remains his true and clear focus amidst his exploration of other artistic mediums.