Craft by Side Hustle

Imagine a place where brewing traditions meet the futuristic skyline of the UAE capital. We are talking about Craft by Side Hustle — the first and only microbrewery in Abu Dhabi and the entire Middle East. This unique space is located in The Galleria mall on scenic Al Maryah Island, offering guests a whole new level of freshness: drinks are brewed here in small batches and served straight from tanks installed just a few meters from your table.

Craft. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The venue harmoniously combines the features of a modern gastropub and a rugged American restaurant. The industrial-style interior, with massive equipment behind glass panels, creates an atmosphere of genuine production without losing its coziness. Guests can expect not only exclusive craft brews but also authentic Southern American cuisine: from tender smoked brisket to legendary mac and cheese.

The popularity of Craft is confirmed by high ratings and the love of both locals and tourists. It is more than just a bar; it is a vibrant venue with family zones, a sports bar, and a stage for live music. People come here for expert cocktails, rare brews, and that relaxed atmosphere that makes a city break truly high-quality.

To inquire about details or book a table, you can contact the venue directly. The Craft team is active on social media, where you can follow menu updates and event announcements.

The main reason to visit Craft is to taste unique varieties that you won't find anywhere else. Be sure to try the Maryah Island IPA with its bright citrus notes or the light Corniche Lager, perfect for a hot day. For those who like to experiment, they prepare original beer cocktails, such as the Tropical Hustle with lime and pineapple.

The culinary side of the establishment deserves special attention. The menu is dominated by hearty American dishes: spicy wings, juicy burgers, and signature smoked beef ribs. Large portions are perfect for long gatherings with friends, while the open kitchen allows you to watch the chef at work and the process of preparing smoky barbecue.

In addition to food and drinks, visitors can enjoy a rich entertainment program. You can play darts, watch an important football match on big screens, or enjoy live music and DJ sets. The venue often hosts themed events, such as family Sunday roasts or ladies' nights, making it a great place to relax any day of the week.

Craft is conveniently located in The Galleria mall on Al Maryah Island. If you are arriving by private car or taxi from the city center, look for the Rosewood Hotel — the bar is situated directly beneath it on level B3 (or L1, Section E). The drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport takes about 20–30 minutes, and free parking is available in the mall for those arriving by car.

For those preferring public transport, bus routes heading to the Al Maryah Island stop are suitable. From the stop, it is about a 5-minute walk to the mall entrance. Once inside the mall, simply follow the signs for the dining area or the Rosewood Hotel to quickly find the entrance to this unique microbrewery.

The story of this venue began with an ambitious idea from the Dubai-based Side Hustle group. They decided to break tradition and create the first fully licensed microbrewery in the UAE, where beverages are produced and served in the same building. This was a true breakthrough for the local gastronomic scene, offering an alternative to standard imports.

At the heart of the concept is a passion for the craft. The creators gathered recognized master brewers, experienced mixologists, and talented chefs under one roof. Thanks to the open layout, guests can literally see their favorite drink being born, emphasizing a commitment to quality and fresh ingredients from the very first day of operation.

In a short time, Craft has transformed from a bold experiment into a leader of the local craft movement. The establishment became a pioneer in the region, offering guests not only unique brews but also Southern American smokehouse-style dishes, which are rare for the area, securing its status as a key destination on the capital's culinary map.

To fully appreciate the atmosphere and the menu, it is recommended to set aside 2 to 3 hours for your visit. This is plenty of time for a leisurely tasting of several types of freshly brewed beer, a hearty barbecue-style lunch, and a game of darts.

If you only plan to stop by for a glass of something cold, one hour will suffice. However, on evenings with DJ performances or sports broadcasts, guests often stay for 4 hours or more, soaking in the venue's energetic rhythm.

The establishment is open daily, offering guests a flexible schedule for lunch and nightlife. On weekdays, Craft stays open until late at night, and on weekends, it extends its hours for the most dedicated patrons.

Operating hours: Monday – Thursday from 12:00 PM to 01:00 AM; Friday and Saturday from 12:00 PM to 03:00 AM; Sunday from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM. It is recommended to check the current opening times before your visit, as the schedule may change during holidays.

Al Maryah Island and the surrounding areas offer many options for further leisure. After visiting the microbrewery, you can head out for new experiences at entertainment centers or enjoy a walk by the water.