Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has long been a prominent figure in the culinary world. By the age of 24, the Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised chef had already made headlines as the executive chef at New York City’s Aquavit, becoming the youngest recipient of a three-star review from the New York Times shortly thereafter.
Over the years, Samuelsson established himself as a leading restaurateur in New York, opening several acclaimed venues, including Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. He has authored cookbooks and memoirs, and has been a familiar face on the Food Network.
In a significant career shift, Samuelsson is now delving into the home goods market with a 32-piece collection in collaboration with West Elm. This collection draws inspiration from his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, as well as his experiences in New York City.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on the evolving dining landscape post-COVID-19. He noted that while many people improved their cooking skills at home during the pandemic, they now seek elevated dining experiences when visiting restaurants. Diners today desire not only great food but also memorable experiences that make them feel connected to the atmosphere and community.
He emphasized the importance of ambiance in his restaurants, particularly the live music at Red Rooster, which he sees as a way to celebrate Harlem’s vibrant culture while also supporting local musicians. Samuelsson also incorporates community elements into his other establishments, such as an art program at Hav & Mar that resonates with Chelsea’s artistic scene.
When discussing his collaboration with West Elm, Samuelsson highlighted that his creative journey as a chef often overlaps with his ventures in design. He has pursued painting and writing alongside his culinary career, and he took pride in merging his Swedish background and African influences into the home goods collection.
Ultimately, despite his diverse creative outlets, Samuelsson expressed that cooking remains his true passion, stating that all aspects of cooking bring him the most fulfillment, whether it’s shopping for ingredients or sharing meals with his family.