Hav & Mar: Marcus Samuelsson’s Vibrant Vision for a New Era of NYC Dining

A New Restaurant for a New New York

In a city that’s constantly reinventing itself, few chefs understand the pulse of New York quite like Marcus Samuelsson. Best known for Harlem’s Red Rooster, Samuelsson has long been a beacon of cultural expression through food. Now, with his latest venture Hav & Mar, he’s created a space that responds not just to trends, but to a deeper shift in what people seek from restaurants post-pandemic — connection, culture, creativity, and comfort.

Nestled in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, Hav & Mar isn’t just a seafood restaurant. It’s a celebration of Afro-Caribbean heritage, sustainability, and the renewed spirit of hospitality. Launched after a period of personal and industry-wide reflection, the restaurant is Samuelsson’s answer to what New York needs now: a dining experience with meaning, built on community, representation, and bold flavor.

The Story Behind the Concept: Reflections That Shaped a Vision

The pandemic forced many in the culinary world to rethink everything — from operations and staffing to purpose and identity. For Marcus Samuelsson, that meant slowing down and asking essential questions. What does New York truly need from its restaurants now? How can dining serve as a tool for healing and inclusion?

Out of that period of reflection came Hav & Mar, a name that blends Swedish and Ethiopian roots (meaning “ocean” and “honey,” respectively). The duality in the name reflects Samuelsson’s multicultural upbringing and the restaurant’s mission — to bring together rich African and Caribbean culinary traditions with a refined seafood-forward menu.

But this wasn’t a solo endeavor. Samuelsson partnered with Black-owned design and art collectives, and the restaurant team reflects a diverse community of chefs, artists, and front-of-house leaders. The intention was clear: Hav & Mar would be a space where both the food and the people behind it could shine.

A Culinary Philosophy Rooted in Heritage and Sustainability

Hav & Mar is not simply about seafood — it’s about storytelling through ingredients. Samuelsson’s culinary philosophy at this restaurant builds upon his legacy of blending global influences, but with a strong spotlight on Afro-Caribbean techniques, sustainable sourcing, and female-led fishing operations.

The menu focuses heavily on ocean-forward dishes, with a commitment to showcasing underrepresented cultures in seafood traditions. At the same time, it places equal importance on ethics and sourcing — from choosing regenerative aquaculture to working with minority-run fisheries.

The kitchen is guided by a balance of innovation and cultural respect. Dishes draw from Ethiopia, Jamaica, Trinidad, and the American South — connecting dots across the African diaspora. And true to Samuelsson’s ethos, the food is soulful, seasonal, and always reflective of its community.

What Makes the Menu Special: A Journey Across Coasts and Cultures

At Hav & Mar, the menu reads like a map of the Atlantic, blending Caribbean spice, African textures, and American coastal classics. Each plate is thoughtfully composed, offering both comfort and sophistication.

1. Whole Snapper with Berbere Butter

This dish pays homage to both Ethiopian spice and Caribbean grilling culture. The snapper is flame-roasted, basted with berbere-infused butter, and served with charred citrus and sweet plantains.

2. Black Mermaid Fish Stew

A standout entrée that embodies the restaurant’s imaginative flair, this stew includes mussels, shrimp, and flaky white fish simmered in a coconut-laced broth with bright herbs and ginger. It’s a nod to traditional African fish stews with a contemporary finish.

3. Crispy Saltfish Beignets

Crispy on the outside, soft and briny inside, these bites are a playful fusion of Southern beignets and Caribbean saltfish fritters, served with hot pepper aioli.

4. Shellfish Jollof Rice

A bold reinterpretation of West Africa’s most famous rice dish, this version is studded with shrimp and scallops, offering a deep umami hit while still respecting the dish’s roots.

5. Mango-Honey Sorbet with Teff Crisp

Dessert is a celebration of light and texture. The house-made sorbet is tangy and refreshing, elevated by the crunch of Ethiopian teff.

The beverage program also echoes the restaurant’s Afro-Caribbean identity — featuring cocktails made with rum, sorrel, ginger, and hibiscus, alongside a thoughtful selection of natural wines and non-alcoholic pairings.

Designing an Inclusive and Immersive Space

Beyond the menu, Hav & Mar is a sensory experience. The interiors, designed by Black artists and creatives, are layered with symbolism and warmth. Think colorful tile work, textured fabrics, and walls adorned with Afro-futurist artwork.

The open kitchen design fosters transparency and intimacy, allowing diners to connect with the cooking process. There's also a community table and semi-private booths — catering to everything from group celebrations to quiet date nights.

What sets Hav & Mar apart is the intentional inclusivity in its design — from its ADA-compliant layout to its emphasis on staffing women and BIPOC talent in leadership roles.

Samuelsson’s vision isn’t just about creating a beautiful restaurant. It’s about cultivating a space where every guest, regardless of background, feels seen, welcome, and nourished.

A Post-Pandemic Approach to Hospitality

Hospitality has changed in the wake of the pandemic, and Hav & Mar leans into that shift. It’s not just about excellent service — it’s about empathy, connection, and resilience.

The restaurant prioritizes mental health, fair wages, and growth opportunities for its staff. It also maintains a flexible structure, with pre-fixed options and digital menus for convenience, all while maintaining a human touch.

Samuelsson understands that people no longer want just good food — they want to support values. At Hav & Mar, dining becomes a form of community engagement, supporting sustainable practices, equity, and local economies.

Conclusion: The Restaurant New York Didn’t Know It Needed

Hav & Mar isn’t just another upscale restaurant in Chelsea. It’s a powerful response to a moment when dining out must mean more. It’s where seafood meets soul, where design meets identity, and where every meal tells a global story rooted in cultural pride.