Brasserie Galliard is a massive restaurant with an outdoor terrace that is absolutely fantastic during the winter months. The food on offer is Mediterranean with a Turkisk/Italian twist, and the execution of the same is impeccable. For drinking cocktails, there are two bars on offer - one inside, which is quirky with a seriously displaced pillar, and one outside with the panoramic views of the Burj. When possible - always opt for the one outside, and go for the classics in the cocktail menu, the hired guns behind the bar won’t disappoint too much (but not impress either).
Come here for the Mediterranean brasserie experience and get impressed by the grandeur of Adrian Smith’s architectural masterpiece.
Atmosphere: 6/8
A stunning terrace overlooking Burj Khalifa - the winter months definitely play in favor of this place. An apposite playlist adds to the atmosphere, and it may well be that this place is not one for an all-nighter regarding cocktails, but it’s definitely a worthy place for starting any night out - or going for the full package dinner with a view.
Cocktails: 4/8
Archetypal cocktails for a bar that is first and foremost intended for apéritifs and digestifs - they do the job, but not much more.
Bartenders: 4/8
Bartender mercenaries - they take your order, mix your drink, serve it and go on to the next customer. Not a lot of interaction, but most of the guests only spend 15-20 minutes at the bar, waiting for their table, and as such they’re probably not looking for a lengthy discussion on Rye whiskey - or homemade falernum, for that matter.
Ice: 6/8
Strangely enough you’re awarded big spheres of ice if you’re having your drink in the bar, while the same cocktail is served with small ice cubes if you order it to your table. So when in doubt - order in the bar..
http://www.thegalliard.com/en/8-subeler/#branch2
The Address Downtown
Ground Floor
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
Downtown