Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is well acquainted with a demanding lifestyle. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised culinary artist had ascended to the position of executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit, later becoming the youngest individual to earn a three-star review from The New York Times.
Over the years, Samuelsson has established himself as a leading figure in the New York restaurant scene, launching notable establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has authored several cookbooks and memoirs and has been a prominent presence on the Food Network.
Now, the family man is venturing into a new field. In partnership with West Elm, Samuelsson is set to unveil a 32-piece home goods collection influenced by his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage and his experiences in New York City.
Samuelsson recently spoke with Quartz about the evolution of dining culture in 2024, his culinary inspirations, and future career ambitions. The interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.
Reflecting on the pandemic’s impact, Samuelsson noted that people have developed a deeper appreciation for dining out, seeking not just food but an overall experience that engages them socially and emotionally. He emphasized that diners now expect heightened service and ambiance when choosing to eat out.
In discussing his restaurant, Red Rooster, Samuelsson highlighted the importance of community and collaboration. He emphasized that the restaurant reflects Harlem’s vibrant culture and that live music enriches the dining experience for patrons. He also mentioned that he actively seeks to integrate local artistry into his establishments, particularly in Chelsea’s Hav & Mar.
Samuelsson explained his motivation to create a home goods collection with West Elm, describing the project as a natural extension of his creativity. He drew parallels between the design process for the collection and his work as a chef, emphasizing his passion for collaboration and design.
He expressed pride in merging elements of his Swedish heritage and African influences within the collection, illustrating his artistic vision through the choice of materials and designs.
Despite his diverse creative pursuits, Samuelsson revealed that after a long day, he always returns to his first love: cooking. He enjoys every aspect, from sourcing ingredients to sharing the joy of food with his family, affirming his deep connection to the culinary arts.