Jumeirah at Etihad Towers continues to push the boundaries when it comes to opening new, on-trend restaurants and bars. Brasserie Angélique, which opened in July, is a beautiful restaurant offering classic French à la carte cuisine with an impressive bar that will transport you to the centre of Paris. As soon as you walk through the black guilded doors it’s the atmosphere and décor that immediately strike up a rapport with the senses. We popped in for some drinks and delicious canapés to experience everything that this new establishment has to offer.
Service
What makes this bar great is the attentive interaction from bar staff and their knowledge of the drinks on offer. Service is prompt and reminiscent of the elegance of some old classic Hollywood movie, and the bartenders will pour your beverage with effortless style. Our advice is not to be too intimidated by the extensive drinks menu on first glance because the waiters are more than happy to navigate you through what’s on offer.
Brasserie Angélique’s specialty is vintage bubbly but they also do an excellent selection of blends, such as the Brasserie Angélique mixed beverage. The bartenders are very talented and will mix you up a blend with confidence and flair. They are more than happy to stir up a sweet signature or make something else of your choice. The beverage list is an absolute delight and offers up a large variety of bubbly, grape, premium beverages and more – the grape list in particular has decadently tempting vintages from all corners of the world. They also have an impressive cigar selection that you can choose from, should you wish to indulge. Even if you don’t smoke it’s hard to resist.
Every detail is immaculately observed and every whim addressed, from the moment you step in to the moment you leave.
Décor and atmosphere
Located through the restaurant at the back, the bar keeps its lights low and features classic French design influences such as wooden parquet, black and white mosaic floors, upside down parasol chandeliers and ornately moulded ceilings which can be seen throughout. The restaurant’s atmosphere whisks you away from the busy city that is Abu Dhabi and will make you feel instantly relaxed and removed from the daily grind. The elegant lounge music playing in the background is entirely modern and yet is evocative of the 1920s, and so perfectly fitting for the ambiance.
Food
The food is incredible, consisting of cute, bite-sized French inspired tapas which are addictive. Don’t miss the canapé style croque madame and the small nugget of beef with foie gras on top. Everything is beautifully presented on a timber board for you to share with your companion.
Pros
This is a seriously sophisticated spot, perfect for pre or post dinner drinks. You won’t be disappointed with the décor or the service and should enjoy a grown up evening out relaxing in the plush surroundings. This makes for an elegant and romantic yet cosy spot for a drink.
Cons
The bar is small and intimate and the reception can be a little frosty at first, so make sure that you call ahead and book a table. If you like a drop of bubbly you will be forking out some serious cash to drink here but selecting a beverage from the classic blends list will prove money better spent.
Brasserie Angélique, open daily 7pm to late, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Corniche Rd (02 811 5555).
