Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has established himself as a prominent figure in the culinary world, especially in New York City, where he became the executive chef of Aquavit at just 24 and later earned a three-star review from The New York Times, a historic milestone at that age.
Samuelsson has continued to thrive as a restaurateur, launching establishments like Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. Alongside his culinary achievements, he has authored several cookbooks, memoirs, and has been a recurring presence on the Food Network.
In a new venture, Samuelsson is teaming up with West Elm to introduce a 32-piece home goods collection that reflects his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson discussed the evolving dining landscape post-COVID-19, noting that the pandemic improved home cooking experiences, leading diners to seek out more engaging restaurant experiences. He emphasized the importance of ambiance, service, and community connections in his restaurants, such as the live music at Red Rooster, which celebrates Harlem’s vibrant culture.
When asked about the motivations behind his collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson highlighted the creative aspects of his career, which extend beyond cooking to include painting and writing. He expressed pride in the fusion of inspirations from his father’s fishing village in Sweden and African themes in his home goods collection.
Ultimately, despite his various creative pursuits, Samuelsson indicated that cooking remains his primary passion, where he feels most confident and skilled.