Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has consistently demonstrated his ability to thrive under pressure. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised culinary talent had already achieved the position of executive chef at Aquavit in New York City, becoming the youngest individual to earn a three-star review from the New York Times shortly thereafter.
In the years that followed, Samuelsson established himself as a leading figure in New York’s restaurant scene, launching notable establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has also authored several cookbooks and memoirs, and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, Samuelsson is venturing into a new arena. In partnership with West Elm, he is set to unveil a 32-piece home goods collection that draws influence from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his experiences living in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson discussed how the pandemic has transformed diners’ relationships with eating out and shared insights into his inspirations as a chef and designer. He noted that since the COVID-19 lockdowns, people have raised their expectations for dining experiences, now seeking exceptional service and a vibrant atmosphere when going out.
Samuelsson highlighted the importance of community in his restaurants, particularly Red Rooster in Harlem, which features live music as a way of enriching the dining experience and supporting local artists. He emphasized the significance of connecting with the neighborhoods in which his restaurants are situated, ensuring that they contribute positively to those communities.
When asked about his new collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson reflected on his creative background, which includes painting and writing alongside his culinary pursuits. He expressed pride in the partnership, noting that it allowed him to bring elements from his father’s fishing village in Sweden and African influences into a cohesive collection.
Despite his many creative endeavors, Samuelsson revealed that cooking remains his greatest passion and source of comfort, highlighting the joy he finds in various cooking-related activities, whether shopping for ingredients or exploring food with his children.