Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, known for his high-pressure lifestyle, has achieved significant milestones in his career. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised chef became the executive chef of Aquavit in New York City and was the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times.
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Throughout the years, Samuelsson has solidified his status as a leading restaurateur in New York, launching iconic establishments including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He is also an accomplished author of cookbooks and memoirs and has been a long-time presence on the Food Network.
Now, Samuelsson is branching out into a new venture. In partnership with West Elm, he is unveiling a collection of 32 home goods pieces that draw inspiration from his Scandinavian and Ethiopian heritage, along with his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson addressed the evolution of dining experiences since the COVID-19 lockdown. He noted a shift toward improved home cooking and a desire for more engaging dining experiences when people eat out. Customers now seek memorable atmospheres and a sense of community during their outings.
Reflecting on his own restaurants, such as Red Rooster, Samuelsson emphasized the importance of integrating local culture, particularly through live music, and contributing positively to the communities in which his restaurants reside.
Regarding his new collection for West Elm, Samuelsson expressed that his creative pursuits have always included painting and writing. He mentioned that his experience in designing restaurants has influenced his collaboration with West Elm, where he felt incredibly supported in bringing his vision to life.
When asked about his pride in the collection, Samuelsson shared that elements of the designs are inspired by his father’s fishing village in Sweden, combined with prints from Africa, resulting in a cohesive collection.
Despite his diverse creative outlets, Samuelsson revealed that cooking remains his passion. He enjoys all aspects of it, whether it’s shopping at the market or cooking for his family, and feels more confident and accomplished in this field compared to his other creative endeavors.