FIVE SAILS ENTERS A NEW ERA AS FIVE SAILS BY ALEX KIM
National Champion Chef Alex Kim Becomes Chef-Partner and Co-Owner of Five Sails
“Five Sails has long been one of Vancouver’s most iconic restaurants, and it’s an incredible honour to become a partner in its future,” says Alex Kim. “I’m excited to continue shaping an experience that reflects my culinary philosophy— in seasonality, curiosity, and genuine hospitality. Every dish and every guest experience will reflect that vision.”
One of Vancouver’s most celebrated fine dining restaurants is entering an exciting new chapter. Today, Five Sails officially becomes Five Sails by Alex Kim, marking the evolution of the iconic waterfront restaurant under the leadership of award-winning chef Alex Kim as Chef-Partner and Co-Owner.
Since opening in 1986, Five Sails has earned its place as one of Vancouver’s premier dining destinations. This next chapter reflects a renewed vision for the restaurant; one led by a chef whose culinary achievements have earned national recognition and whose passion for exceptional hospitality will shape every aspect of the guest experience.
Chef Alex Kim, formerly Culinary Director of Glowbal Restaurant Group, assumes full creative and operational leadership of Five Sails. As Chef-Partner and Co-Owner, he will oversee every facet of the restaurant, from menu development and kitchen operations to service, wine, and hospitality.
The transition has the full support of Glowbal Restaurant Group founders Emad Yacoub and Jack Lamont, who will continue as owners while stepping away from the day-to-day operations of Five Sails.
This new chapter represents a bold commitment to chef-driven fine dining, showcasing refined seasonal cuisine inspired by the landscapes and producers of British Columbia. Working closely with local farmers, fishers, foragers, and artisans, Chef Alex Kim will continue to create thoughtful tasting experiences rooted in British Columbia’s bounty.
Chef Alex Kim was crowned the National Champion at the 2025 Canadian Culinary Championship in Ottawa, after winning both the Gold Medal and People’s Choice Award at the British Columbia regional competition. He also gained national recognition as one of the two finalists on Season 12 of Top Chef Canada, further establishing himself as one of Canada’s leading culinary talents.
As Five Sails by Alex Kim begins this new chapter, guests can expect an evolution of the restaurant’s culinary direction while continuing the hospitality and service that have defined Five Sails. The restaurant will also undergo thoughtful design updates.
About Chef Alex Kim
Born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, Alex’s passion was ignited during summers spent on his grandmother’s farm. There, amidst fields of peaches, grapes, and rice, he learned the art of nurturing ingredients. His grandmother’s methods of selecting vegetables and her meticulous fermentation processes laid the foundation for his appreciation of fresh, locally sourced produce. Memories of her beloved pork and kimchi stew remain a cherished part of his inspiration.
After discovering his love for cooking, particularly influenced by Jamie Oliver’s Naked Chef, Alex honed his skills in prestigious kitchens, including Fairmont and Shangri-La. Working alongside chefs from France, Germany, Japan, Italy, and Canada, he gained invaluable experience that broadened his culinary perspective and infused his cooking with diverse techniques and traditions.
With a rich culinary journey that reflects his deep-rooted passion for food, Alex is dedicated to crafting exceptional dining experiences that celebrate local and seasonal ingredients.
The Five Sails team will remain unchanged, all existing reservations will be honoured, and previously issued Five Sails gift cards will continue to be accepted.
Five Sails by Alex Kim will continue to operate at the Pan Pacific Vancouver, 999 Canada Place. Reservations are available at info@nullfivesails.ca and by telephone at 604.844.2855.