Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has been navigating a demanding lifestyle for years. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised chef had become the executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit, making history as 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, with establishments such as Red Rooster, which opened in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has also authored several cookbooks and memoirs, and has appeared frequently on the Food Network.
Samuelsson is now venturing into a new field. In partnership with West Elm, he is launching a 32-piece home goods collection inspired by his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on the evolution of dining out since the COVID-19 lockdowns and the new expectations diners have. He noted that the pandemic led to an increase in home cooking, which has made people seek a more elevated dining experience when they eat out. Diners now desire excellent service and an engaging atmosphere, feeling a sense of connection with the community around them.
He highlighted the significance of ambiance in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster in Harlem, which features live music. Samuelsson emphasized the importance of integrating the cultural richness of the Harlem community into the dining experience. Similarly, at Hav & Mar in Chelsea, he aims to contribute to the local art scene through collaborations with local artists.
When asked about his collaboration with West Elm and its similarities to his culinary inspirations, Samuelsson explained that creativity runs through his work. He has a long history in the arts, including painting and writing, and he often incorporates his artistic vision into restaurant design. His partnership with West Elm has been particularly rewarding, allowing for a creative exchange that caters to both his design sensibilities and West Elm’s established expertise.
Samuelsson expressed pride in the unique elements of his home goods collection, such as the incorporation of inspirations from his father’s fishing village in Sweden alongside African prints, creating a cohesive collection that reflects his multicultural influences.
Despite his diverse pursuits in art, writing, and furniture design, Samuelsson consistently returns to cooking as his true passion. He relishes every aspect of it, from selecting ingredients at the market to sharing culinary experiences with his family at home. Cooking remains a clear and definitive focus in his life.