Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has always thrived in high-pressure environments. By the age of 24, he had become the executive chef at the renowned Aquavit in New York City, making history as the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times shortly thereafter.
Since then, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, launching successful venues like Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He is also well-known for his cookbooks, memoirs, and several years of appearances on the Food Network.
Now, as a husband and father, Samuelsson is venturing into a new field. He has partnered with West Elm to create a 32-piece home goods collection inspired by his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In an interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on the evolution of dining experiences since the pandemic. He noted that people now have heightened expectations when they dine out, seeking exceptional service and an engaging atmosphere. “Diners want to feel like they are part of something,” he stated, emphasizing that food delivery has also improved significantly.
Samuelsson expressed that ambiance is crucial in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster, where live music is a key element of the experience. He believes it is important to reflect the vibrant community of Harlem and support local musicians.
When discussing his new home goods collection, Samuelsson remarked on the similarities between this creative endeavor and his work as a chef. He has a long history of artistic expression, including painting and writing, and enjoys collaborating with partners to develop restaurant designs. His work with West Elm has been especially fulfilling, allowing him to draw on inspirations from his father’s fishing village in Sweden, alongside designs influenced by African motifs.
Ultimately, amid his diverse pursuits, cooking remains his steadfast passion. He described it as a constant source of clarity and fulfillment, contrasting it with his ongoing journeys in writing, painting, and furniture design.