A Homecoming at the Top of the World: Chef Marcus Samuelsson’s Marcus Addis

In the heart of Addis Ababa, atop the shimmering glass needle of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) Headquarters, a culinary homecoming has reached new heights. Chef Marcus Samuelsson—the man who cooked for the Obamas and revitalized Harlem’s food scene—has returned to his birthplace to open Marcus Addis. Located on the 47th floor of East Africa’s tallest building, the restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it is a full-circle moment for a chef whose life has spanned continents. The Vision: Born in Ethiopia, Inspired by the World Samuelsson’s story is legendary: born in Ethiopia, adopted and raised in Sweden, and eventually becoming a global icon in New York City. At Marcus Addis, these three worlds collide. The restaurant’s philosophy is a "fusion with an Ethiopian twist," moving beyond traditional expectations of what Ethiopian food should be. "This is a homecoming for me," Samuelsson says. "My culinary journey has always been influenced by my family roots here, and Marcus Addis celebrates that heritage in every detail." More Than a View While the 360-degree panoramic view of the capital is breathtaking, the interior is equally intentional. The space acts as a living gallery, featuring a rotating selection of contemporary Ethiopian art in partnership with the Addis Fine Art Gallery. But the real impact lies in the "vehicle to teach." Samuelsson has partnered with local culinary schools and the Hyatt Regency to turn the restaurant into a training hub. By hiring and mentoring young Ethiopian talent, he is helping to professionalize the local hospitality industry and create a global bridge for future chefs. Image Credits: @aronisme (instagram)