Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, known for his high-pressure career, took on the role of executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit by the age of 24 and quickly garnered fame as the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times. Over the years, he has established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, launching notable establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. Samuelsson has also authored cookbooks and memoirs while being a familiar face on the Food Network.
In a new venture, Samuelsson is collaborating with West Elm to introduce a 32-piece home goods collection inspired by his Ethiopian and Swedish heritage alongside his New York experiences. In a recent interview with Quartz, he discussed how the pandemic has altered people’s dining habits and expectations. He noted that during lockdowns, home cooking improved significantly, leading diners to seek more special and elevated restaurant experiences with a focus on service and atmosphere.
Samuelsson emphasized the importance of community in his restaurants, particularly at Red Rooster, where live music is a staple that enhances the dining experience. He also highlighted the responsibility to contribute positively to the neighborhood. At Hav & Mar, he sought to incorporate local art, reflecting his commitment to the community.
When asked about designing the home goods collection, Samuelsson mentioned his long-standing passion for creativity, including painting and collaboration with architects for his restaurants. He expressed pride in the blend of Swedish and African inspirations in the West Elm collection, noting that the design process was particularly enjoyable with a receptive partner.
Ultimately, despite his various creative pursuits, Samuelsson always returns to cooking as his foundation, finding joy and clarity in the culinary arts amidst his diverse interests.