Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has led a high-pressure lifestyle throughout his career. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born and Swedish-raised chef was the executive chef at Aquavit in New York City, becoming the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times shortly thereafter.
Since then, he has established himself as a prominent restaurateur in New York, launching successful venues such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. In addition to his culinary success, Samuelsson has authored cookbooks and memoirs and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
Now, the family man is venturing into a new field by collaborating with West Elm to launch a 32-piece home goods collection. This collection draws inspiration from his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on how dining out has evolved since the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that many people have become better home cooks, raising expectations for their dining experiences. As a result, diners now seek exceptional service and a vibrant atmosphere when eating out.
Samuelsson emphasized the importance of creating a strong community connection within his restaurants. For Red Rooster, he highlighted how live music plays a critical role in enhancing the experience while supporting local musicians. He also mentioned his commitment to understanding the character of each neighborhood before establishing a restaurant there.
When discussing his collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson shared that his creative pursuits extend beyond cooking. He has been painting since his late teens and has experience in designing restaurant spaces. His work with West Elm allowed him to blend elements of Swedish and African aesthetics into a cohesive collection.
Proud of various elements in the collection, he pointed to the inspiration drawn from his father’s fishing village in Sweden and the integration of African prints. Despite his diverse interests, Samuelsson remains anchored in his culinary passion, stating that cooking continues to be his primary focus and source of fulfillment.