Gilt is dedicated to the craft of mixology, offering a unique experience worthy of its location.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah has opened a new cocktail bar – Gilt – on the 27th floor. The dazzling bar invites guests to enjoy the vibrant ambience while a team of skilled bartenders create drinks that mesmerise for their complex simplicity. Brought to you by acclaimed Mixologist Thibault Mequignon, Gilt is home to a dynamic and innovative menu with a strong focus on flavours and fresh ingredients.
A master of unusual cocktail creations, Mequignon has a unique approach to beverages that takes inspiration from the Michelin starred kitchens that he has worked in. “Research and development sessions are really important for me.” Thibault comments; “It is during these sessions that we can develop our artistic expression in a unique and innovative way and seek to push the boundaries of what is expected of a drink. Our cocktails are developed in our in-house lab before they are added to the menu and it is in this lab where we use different techniques such as centrifuge, sous vide or rotovap to combine, infuse or extract flavours in order to create original and balanced cocktails, to wow and please our guests.”
The cocktail menu at Gilt showcases every signature drink that Thibault has created throughout his impressive career. Like a chef with a signature dish, each cocktail is an ode to a place Thibault has travelled or a flavour combination that he loves. The extensive drinks menu promises to intrigue and delight guests thanks to the complex simplicity demonstrated in every drink, which serves as a welcome contrast to Gilt’s opulent interiors and surroundings.
Thibault’s Oseille cocktail is a perfect choice for a fresh and sour taste, with flavours that include sorrel, yopol (dehydrated yoghurt), lime, and green cardamom. Thibault has perfected this cocktail over many years and was originally inspired by a dessert that he made when working in the kitchens of two Michelin starred restaurant ‘La Grenouillere’.
The mineral and floral tasting Sakura cocktail was inspired by Thibault’s travels in Japan, with flavours such as cherry blossom, thanks to the Sakura tea, which is perfectly balanced with grapefruit zest. Another drink that demonstrates Thibault unique approach to flavour combinations is the Bee Pollen concoction. With a mellow honey taste, this drink is perfectly balanced with the acidic taste of verjus. Made from grapes, verjus was specifically chosen to compliment the cognac, also made from grapes.
Sip on bespoke cocktails or Gilt’s carefully curated grape and fizz list, while enjoying a selection of exquisite small bites from Michelin Chef Saverio Sbargali’s menu designed for sharing. The delicious Sockeye Salmon Lobster Bao is a must-try, as is the Beef Tartar, served with crunchy chips and a spicy mayonnaise. The divine Truffle French Toast and the Pommes Dauphine with its herb mayo, are perfect for pairing with cocktails, as well as the Caviar menu, which includes imperial Beluga and Oscietra Royal caviar.
The venue’s unique and iconic design, that glitters in a warm light is dominated by a stunning gold bar, which is framed by a feature wall of white gold-threaded marble, creating a welcoming and stylish space. A splash of green and lush plants further elevates the scene, together with chic chairs that beckon guests to sit, relax and take in the unequalled views.
DSCVR: Gilt, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai (04 432 3232). @gilt_burjalarab
