Marcus Samuelsson, the Ethiopian-Swedish chef behind Redbird in New York and multiple Michelin-starred establishments, is opening a burger restaurant at Etihad Park, the new soccer stadium under construction in the Bronx. The concept, still unnamed, will launch in 2027 alongside other local dining operators at the venue.
Samuelsson has built his career on refined cuisine informed by his heritage and travels. His Red Rooster Harlem location became a neighborhood anchor since 2010, and his restaurants have earned critical acclaim across New York. This burger venture marks his entry into casual, stadium-based dining, a departure from his fine-dining focus but consistent with how top chefs expand their portfolios across price points.
Etihad Park will serve as home to a new Major League Soccer franchise beginning in 2027. The stadium development includes significant retail and dining components, with the Samuelsson restaurant contributing to the food program designed to attract diverse audiences beyond game days. Stadium dining has become increasingly competitive, with acclaimed chefs and established concepts competing for high-traffic venues that offer year-round visibility.
The burger concept aligns with broader trends in chef-driven casual dining, where culinary leaders develop approachable menus without sacrificing ingredient quality. Samuelsson's involvement signals the Bronx's continued culinary evolution, particularly as new infrastructure transforms neighborhoods and attracts investment in hospitality.
Details about the menu, pricing, and restaurant size remain undisclosed. The Samuelsson name carries significant weight in New York dining, and his participation suggests the stadium operator invested in culinary credibility rather than chain concepts. For Samuelsson, the 2027 opening provides an opportunity to reach a broader audience and establish a casual dining presence in one of New York's most underserved neighborhoods for high-profile restaurant openings.