The Kingsway, a contemporary Asian fine-dining restaurant from chef Ashwin Vilkhu, is now open in New Orleans’ Uptown neighborhood.
Known for his work at his family’s acclaimed restaurant Saffron—where he was co-nominated for a James Beard Award alongside his father, Arvinder—Vilkhu now steps out on his own with a concept rooted in personal narrative.
The Kingsway draws inspiration from the multicultural spirit of Singapore and Vilkhu’s experience as a third-culture Indian immigrant growing up in New Orleans. That layered identity comes to life in both the cuisine and space, which was designed by locally based firm FAROUKI FAROUKI.
Housed within a restored historic building, the interiors are a sophisticated expression of Vilkhu’s childhood home on Kingsway Drive, reimagined with an organic minimalism that favors warmth over nostalgia.
A subdued, golden-hour color palette is enriched with natural materials and patinaed finishes, while soft curves—seen in the millwork’s full bullnose edges and sculptural banquettes—bring a sense of comfort.
Framed family photographs replace traditional artwork, allowing the food to anchor the space visually and emotionally. Throughout, hand-blown and cast glass light fixtures introduce texture and tactility.
The floor plan encourages connection as well, with a layout that honors the ritual of communal dining through intimate, distinct seating areas—a modern interpretation of gathering around a family table.
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