Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is well-known for thriving in a fast-paced environment. By age 24, the Ethiopian-born and Swedish-raised culinary talent had already become the executive chef of New York City’s Aquavit, making history as the youngest chef to earn a three-star review from the New York Times shortly afterward.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading figure in New York’s restaurant scene, opening notable establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has authored cookbooks, memoirs, and became a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, the family man is venturing into a new arena: in partnership with West Elm, Samuelsson is launching a 32-piece home goods collection influenced by his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a conversation with Quartz, Samuelsson shared insights on dining trends in 2024, his culinary inspirations, and his future endeavors. The interview has been condensed for clarity.
When asked about the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on diners’ relationships with eating out, Samuelsson noted that the demand for quality service and an engaging dining experience has increased. With improvements in home cooking, people now seek out restaurants for the full experience, wanting to feel part of a vibrant community.
Samuelsson emphasized the importance of ambiance in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster, where live music plays a key role in capturing the essence of Harlem and supporting local musicians. Similarly, his restaurant Hav & Mar integrates the artistic community of Chelsea, enhancing its cultural relevance.
Discussing his new home goods collection with West Elm, Samuelsson reflected on his creative journey. He has long been passionate about various forms of art, including painting and writing, and sees similarities in the creative processes behind designing restaurants and home decor.
He expressed pride in the collaboration with West Elm, highlighting how elements of his Swedish heritage—such as furniture inspired by his father’s fishing village—are blended with African prints to create a cohesive collection.
Despite his many creative outlets, Samuelsson always returns to his first love: cooking. He finds solace in all aspects of the culinary process, from sourcing ingredients at the market to sharing meals with his children, reaffirming his mastery and passion for the craft.