Hôtel des Arts Saigon - MGallery - Luxury hotel - The Story Behind The Albion by Kirk Westaway: British Dining Elevated in Saigon

Introduction

In the heart of Saigon, a bold new vision of British dining awaits. The Albion by Kirk Westaway introduces the city to modern British cuisine, where classic flavors meet the vibrant, seasonal ingredients of Vietnam. Michelin-starred Chef Kirk Westaway, acclaimed for his work at Jaan in Singapore, brings his philosophy of “Reinventing British” to Saigon, offering an elevated, refreshing take on tradition.

But who is Chef Westaway, and what exactly is modern British dining? This blog post uncovers the captivating story behind The Albion, exploring Chef Westaway’s journey from the English countryside of Devon to Saigon’s dynamic culinary scene. Join us as we dive into the inspirations, flavors, and philosophy that make The Albion a unique addition to Saigon’s dining landscape.

What is Modern British Dining? 

Modern British dining reimagines traditional British cuisine with a contemporary approach, combining classic flavors with refined techniques and a global perspective. Traditionally, British food was known for its hearty, simple dishes centered around seasonal ingredients—think roasts, savory pies, and seafood, a natural reflection of Britain’s agrarian past (Historic UK). Over time, influences from trade and exploration introduced exciting spices, tea, and exotic flavors that continue to shape British cuisine.

In recent years, British dining has experienced a renaissance. Chefs across the UK have drawn inspiration from British culinary history, using high-quality, local ingredients to reimagine classic flavors with a modern edge (The Spruce Eats and Eater London).

For Chef Kirk Westaway, this approach perfectly describes his “Reinventing British” philosophy. At The Albion, he reinterprets British flavors with vibrant touches, using local Vietnamese ingredients to connect British heritage with Saigon’s rich food culture. “Both British and Vietnamese cuisines share an appreciation for light, delicate flavors and refined tastes,” Chef Westaway told Channel News Asia—a perspective that drives his mission to make British dining approachable, exciting, and distinctive for Saigon diners.

Chef Kirk Westaway – A Culinary Journey from Devon to Michelin Stardom

Chef Kirk Westaway’s journey from Devon, England, to the international dining scene has been shaped by a deep respect for simplicity, seasonality, and British heritage. Growing up in the English countryside surrounded by local produce, Westaway developed an early appreciation for ingredients in their purest form—an influence that still defines his cooking style.

After honing his skills in respected European kitchens, Westaway moved to Singapore, where he became Executive Chef at JAAN, one of the city’s most celebrated restaurants. At JAAN, he introduced his philosophy of “Reinventing British”—a concept that transforms traditional British flavors into modern, beautifully crafted dishes. His innovative approach quickly gained recognition, earning JAAN two Michelin stars and solidifying his reputation as a leading British chef (Michelin Guide Singapore).

For Chef Westaway, ‘Reinventing British’ celebrates seasonal ingredients and the understated elegance of British cuisine, showcasing them with a refined, modern flair. “British cuisine has always held an understated elegance, and my goal is to share that story with the world in a way that’s fresh, simple, and unforgettable,” he explains (Channel News Asia).

With The Albion, Chef Westaway brings this vision to Saigon, combining British heritage with local Vietnamese ingredients to create an elevated dining experience that feels vibrant, accessible, and distinctly British. Each dish at The Albion reflects his journey, offering diners a taste of British tradition reimagined for today’s palate.

Creating the Space – A British Atmosphere in the Heart of Saigon

Perched on the 23rd floor of Hôtel des Arts Saigon, The Albion offers sweeping skyline views and an ambiance that blends British elegance with Saigon’s contemporary flair. Previously home to the Social Club Saigon, the space has been reimagined in collaboration with Japanese designer Maeda Shinya from Super Potato, merging traditional and modern British aesthetics with artistic touches from Hôtel des Arts.

Guests are welcomed in the Author’s Lounge, where an 8-meter oak wood bar from London, surrounded by statues reminiscent of ship figureheads, sets a nostalgic, adventurous tone. This historic bar is an ideal spot to begin the dining experience with a cocktail that nods to British tradition.

The Kitchen Observatory adds a vibrant touch with bold red fabrics and a view into the culinary process, giving guests a dynamic, immersive experience. The Blue Parlour dining room contrasts with deep royal blue hues and ornate damask wallpaper, evoking a sense of luxury, while the Chef’s Study offers an intimate setting with fabrics inspired by Japan’s Edo period, creating a serene, refined atmosphere.

As Tatler Asia describes, the ambiance is “an elegant space that blends the old and the new.” The Albion’s 60-seat layout accommodates both social gatherings and intimate dinners, each detail thoughtfully chosen to enhance the dining experience.

The Albion’s Menu – British Flavors with a Fresh Perspective

Chef Christopher Clarke, a longtime friend and trusted colleague of Chef Kirk Westaway, plays a key role in bringing The Albion’s vision to life. Together, the chefs have curated a menu that celebrates British heritage while incorporating the seasonal freshness of Saigon’s local produce, creating a dining experience that feels vibrant, authentic, and distinctly British.

At The Albion, Chefs Westaway and Clarke bring their shared philosophy of “Reinventing British” to each dish, blending British tradition with ingredients sourced from Saigon’s markets and Dalat’s fertile farms. Their menu reflects a commitment to quality and simplicity, allowing the purity of each ingredient to shine.

Explore the Full Menu Here

Here’s a look at a few standout dishes, already celebrated by the press:

The Albion Tomato: Inspired by Saigon’s herb-rich cuisine, this starter showcases local tomatoes, house-made ketchup, basil-orange sorbet, and creamy burrata. Vogue Singapore highlights Chef Westaway’s use of local herbs, noting: “It was 50 percent pho and 50 percent herbs… I really think the world is not utilizing herbs as much as we should.”

Flower Lobster Cocktail: A refreshing twist on the classic prawn cocktail, crafted with Vietnamese lobster from local markets. Tatler Asia describes how Chef Clarke “found inspiration in Saigon’s fresh markets,” transforming this dish into a “celebration of local flavors with a British touch.”

British Classics with a Twist: Elegant renditions of British staples, such as roast lamb with mint and roast beef with horseradish cream. Channel News Asia praises these dishes for their “bold yet clean flavors,” a hallmark of The Albion’s approach to modern British dining.

Under the leadership of Chef Clarke, The Albion’s menu invites Saigon diners to experience British dining with a new perspective, where each dish reflects both British tradition and Saigon’s rich, local flavors.

Conclusion – An Invitation to Experience The Albion by Kirk Westaway

The Albion by Kirk Westaway offers Saigon a new and refreshing take on British dining, where heritage meets innovation, and tradition is reimagined through the lens of local ingredients. At The Albion, Chef Westaway and Chef Clarke invite diners on a journey that honors British roots while embracing Saigon’s rich flavors, creating an experience that is elegant, approachable, and distinctly modern.

Whether you’re drawn to the carefully curated menu, the stunning city views, or the vibrant yet refined ambiance, The Albion promises an unforgettable introduction to modern British dining. Come experience the creativity and craftsmanship that define Chef Westaway’s “Reinventing British” philosophy—a dining journey crafted to surprise, delight, and inspire.

Make a Reservation: Ready to experience The Albion? Visit our Reservations Page to book your table.

Address: Hôtel des Arts Saigon – MGallery, 23rd Floor, 76-78 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Follow The Albion Journey on Social Media: For updates and more glimpses into The Albion’s unique dining experience, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @thealbionbykirk