MODERN TALKING

The Albion by Kirk Westaway reimagines British comfort food through a modern, thoughtful and produce-driven lens – right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

- AMY VAN

The Albion by Kirk Westaway is more than just a new addition to Vietnam's evolving culinary scene; it's a confident revolution in modern British cooking.

Perched on the 23rd floor of the Hôtel des Arts Saigon, the restaurant combines sweeping views with 1930s-inspired elegance.

The first overseas venture by executive chef Kirk Westaway of Singapore's two-Michelin-starred Jaan by Kirk Westaway, The Albion marked a new chapter for the British-born chef, when he launched the restaurant in late 2024. They have since earned a spot in the 2025 edition of the Michelin Guide Vietnam under the “Michelin Selected” category.

Kirk works closely with head chef Christopher Clarke to bring his vision to life. Originally trained as a scientist, Chris holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Nottingham, where he published several papers in respected academic journals. Driven by a deeper creative calling, he made the bold decision to leave behind a career in research and pursue his true passion: cooking. Over the past seven years, Chris has worked in Michelin-starred kitchens including Restaurant Frantzén and Core by Clare Smyth.

“The menu is rooted in comfort food,” Kirk explains. “Familiar British classics reimagined in a cleaner, more refined way. It's all about creating dishes that feel approachable yet elevated.”