Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson has stepped beyond the kitchen to embark on a new venture in home goods. Known for his high-pressure lifestyle, Samuelsson became the executive chef at Aquavit in New York City by age 24 and made history by being the youngest chef to receive a three-star review from the New York Times shortly afterward.
Over the years, he has established himself as one of New York’s leading restaurateurs, opening notable establishments such as Red Rooster in 2010, Hav & Mar in 2022, and Metropolis in 2023. Samuelsson has also authored cookbooks and memoirs and is a familiar face on the Food Network.
In collaboration with West Elm, he is launching a 32-piece home goods collection that draws inspiration from his Ethiopian and Scandinavian heritage, along with his New York City experiences.
In a recent interview with Quartz, Samuelsson reflected on the evolving dining landscape post-COVID-19. He noted that the pandemic led to a surge in skilled home cooks, which has shifted diners’ expectations when they choose to eat out. They now seek exceptional service and an engaging dining experience.
Discussing the ambiance of his beloved restaurant Red Rooster, known for its live music, Samuelsson emphasized the importance of community. He highlights the need to integrate local culture into the restaurant experience while supporting local musicians.
Samuelsson also shared insights about his home goods collection, explaining that his artistic pursuits—from painting to cooking—are intertwined. He credited his collaboration with West Elm as one of his most fulfilling experiences, blending elements from his father’s fishing village in Sweden with African influences.
Despite juggling multiple creative outlets, Samuelsson always finds his way back to cooking, which he describes as his true passion and expertise.