Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson is known for navigating a high-pressure career, having achieved significant accolades at a young age. By 24, he was the executive chef at Aquavit in New York City and earned the distinction of being the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times.
In the years since, Samuelsson has established himself as a prominent restaurateur in New York, launching several establishments including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has also authored cookbooks, memoirs, and maintained a presence on the Food Network for many years.
Recently, the husband and father is venturing into a new arena by collaborating with West Elm to introduce a collection of 32 home goods. This collection draws inspiration from his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, as well as his life in New York.
In a discussion with Quartz, Samuelsson spoke about changes in dining habits since the pandemic, expressing that while home dining experiences have improved, diners now seek unique outings that offer great service and a sense of community. He emphasized that patrons want to feel a connection, not only with their companions but also with others in the restaurant.
Samuelsson also highlighted the overall experience at Red Rooster, particularly the ambiance shaped by the Harlem community and live music. He noted that it’s essential to contribute positively to the neighborhoods his restaurants inhabit, ensuring that they reflect local culture and art.
Explaining his new home goods collaboration, Samuelsson shared that his creativity stems from more than just cooking; he has engaged in painting and writing for many years. The design process with West Elm was particularly rewarding due to the collaboration with a partner that values innovative ideas while being well-established in the industry.
He expressed pride in the storytelling behind the collection, where elements were inspired by memories of his father’s fishing village in Sweden, combined with prints from Africa, creating a cohesive collection that honors both heritage and craftsmanship.
Ultimately, despite his varied creative pursuits, Samuelsson cited cooking as his foundation. He finds joy in every aspect of it, from selecting ingredients at the market to sharing culinary experiences with his family, emphasizing that cooking is the area in which he feels most confident and accomplished.