Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has built a remarkable career, marked by high-pressure stakes and significant achievements. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised chef became the executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit, earning 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 distinguished restaurateur in New York, opening several notable establishments, including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has authored multiple cookbooks and memoirs and remains a familiar face on the Food Network.
In a new venture, Samuelsson is entering the home goods industry through a collaboration with West Elm. This 32-piece collection reflects his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his life in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson shared insights on the evolution of dining out since the pandemic, noting that while home cooking has flourished, diners are now seeking elevated dining experiences. He emphasized the importance of atmosphere, mentioning how Red Rooster incorporates the vibrant culture of Harlem through live music and community involvement.
When discussing his collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson expressed pride in the creative process, which mirrors his work as a chef. He drew inspiration from his father’s fishing village in Sweden while also integrating African motifs into the collection.
Despite his many creative pursuits in painting, writing, and design, Samuelsson revealed that he ultimately finds solace in cooking, which remains his primary focus and passion.