Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is known for thriving in a demanding environment. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised culinary talent had ascended to the role of executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit, later becoming the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, founding Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023, among several other venues. He has authored numerous cookbooks and memoirs and has been a long-time presence on the Food Network.
In a new venture, Samuelsson is collaborating with West Elm to launch a 32-piece home goods collection that draws from his roots in Scandinavia and Ethiopia, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In an interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on how dining out has evolved since the COVID-19 lockdowns. He noted that the pandemic improved home dining experiences and created a generation of skilled home cooks. As a result, diners now seek more than food; they desire exceptional service and an enjoyable atmosphere when going out.
Samuelsson emphasized the importance of ambiance at his restaurants, like the live music at Red Rooster, which enriches the dining experience by connecting patrons to the vibrant Harlem community. He showcases local talent and believes in contributing to the neighborhoods in which his restaurants are located, such as through an art program at Hav & Mar in Chelsea.
Regarding his new collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson expressed pride in incorporating inspirations from his life, including elements from his father’s fishing village in Sweden and African prints, resulting in a cohesive collection.
Despite his various creative pursuits in painting and writing, Samuelsson noted that cooking remains his primary passion, consistently drawing him back even after a long and stressful day. He feels confident in his culinary skills, viewing those creative outlets as ongoing learning experiences.