Filed under: Commentary
My name is Wahkeen Thomas. I am in the 7th grade at Global Technology Prep and am currently a member of "Incredible Edibles" Citizen Schools apprenticeship.
On May 10th, Incredible Edibles went for a visit to Marcus Samuelsson's restaurant Red Rooster. I had the opportunity and the privilege to interview the owner himself. I felt like he was a really cool guy and when you get to know him better, he's even cooler. Before the interview, while we were getting mic'd up, Marcus asked me some personal questions like, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" I told him I wanted to be a professional skateboarder.
After the interview, Marcus spoke to my classmates and me about local and healthy foods, as well as their seasons.
Read the questions I asked Marcus and his answers. I really liked what he had to say. Personally, I think Marcus is awesome!
What inspired you to become the owner of Red Rooster?
Marcus: I always wanted to have a restaurant in Harlem. I'm very proud to put Red Rooster right here on 126th and Lenox.
How did it feel to cook for the President?
Marcus: It was an amazing opportunity and feeling to cook for President Obama at his first state dinner. The whole street was full of people. It was one of my greatest honors.
How did you start your career of cooking?
Marcus: I started cooking around the age of 6 or 7. I was helping out my grandmother making gingersnap cookies and bread. At the age of 16 or 17, I always knew from then on it would be my job.
How has cooking affected your life?
Marcus: Cooking has affected my life in every way possible. I've had the chance to travel all over the world through food.
What other opportunities have you encountered in your past?
Marcus: Through food, I've really been able to meet so many people. It's a people business and people industry. To feed people and make people happy, makes me very happy.