Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has consistently navigated the demands of a high-pressure career. By age 24, the Ethiopian-born and Swedish-raised chef became the executive chef at Aquavit in New York City and made history as the youngest individual to earn a three-star review from the New York Times.
Since then, he has established himself as a prominent restaurateur in New York, opening popular venues such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. Alongside his successful restaurants, Samuelsson has authored several cookbooks and memoirs, and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, Samuelsson is branching out into a new venture: a 32-piece collection of home goods created in collaboration with West Elm. This collection draws from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his experiences living in New York City.
In a recent interview, Samuelsson shared insights into the evolving restaurant landscape post-COVID-19, reflecting on how people’s engagements with dining out have transformed. He noted that the pandemic enhanced the home cooking experience, leading diners to seek not only great food but also exceptional service and a unique atmosphere when they go out.
He emphasized the importance of creating a vibrant ambiance at his restaurants, particularly highlighting Red Rooster’s integration of live music and community engagement. Samuelsson expressed deep pride in supporting local musicians and contributing to the neighborhood’s cultural fabric.
Discussing his new home goods line, he revealed that his creative endeavors extend beyond cooking to painting and writing. He expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with West Elm, noting that the project allowed him to blend inspirations from his Swedish roots and African heritage into a cohesive collection.
Ultimately, when reflecting on his various creative outlets, Samuelsson stated that cooking remains his primary passion. He feels a sense of mastery in the kitchen that he continues to explore, unlike his other artistic pursuits where he is still learning.