Drifting Inside with Robert Gilliland, Drift Dining and Bar Turns One
- Lloyd Green
- Dec 8, 2015
- 3 min read
The only question you need to ask when meeting Robert Gilliland — Owner and Managing Director of Drift Dining and Bar — is why?
And don’t expect a short answer either!
The 37-year-old former Sydney-sider and professional sommelier exudes a passion and zest for life seldom seen these days.
His love of what he does coerces you into a world where dreams do exist and where art and food is not just an item but an emotion.
When sharing his concept for Drift Dining and Bar — a modern Australian restaurant and bar in the heart of Kuala Lumpur — Robert pulsates with energy as he explains why Drift is no ordinary establishment.
“Does someone with money find people with passion? Or do people with passion find people with money?” he beams from across the bar.
“I believe great things happen through passion rather than money. Of course it is easier to find money than passion, but intrinsically people with passion will always find a way to win.
“There is a million ways to make money. Drift is not one of them.”
Robert is part-artist, part-food lover, part-entertainer, part-sommelier and full time visionary. He defines ‘Drift’ as a continuous slow movement from one place to another and says “going out” should be an “experience” and something that is “part of our social construct”.
As such, everything Robert and his team does — from design, to presentation, to food and service — is centred around their passion and their promise of providing the ultimate experience for their customers.
“Nothing here is an accident. For me this is a visual representation of ‘Drift’.
“Each space is carefully designed to protect the experience of the individual,” Robert enthuses when pointing out the four distinct sections of the bar.
“We wanted to create an ambiance, an atmosphere that is unique for the customer. A place where they feel equally comfortable as their home.
“Subtle elevation changes, artwork that is though provoking and more importantly an escapism from the chaos of the city — a place you can ‘Drift’ in and out.
“Thus when you walk into Drift — no matter your experience, whether good or bad — it is our fault and if you’re the first person to enter or the last one to leave we want you to feel the same.”
So why Malaysia? Robert first planted the seed for a bar and restaurant in Kuala Lumpur in 2007 having accumulated over 10 years of experience at the finest restaurants and wine companies in Sydney, Bali, Philippines and Malaysia, but it wasn't until 2014 that his vision came to life.
“No idea works everywhere, no idea works at every moment.
“You need the perfect combination of timing, talent, money and location.
“Right now Malaysia is perfect for Drift. But eight years ago this would not have worked,” Robert stresses.
Robert is the captain of a well-oiled ship and while he revels in the theatre of his own charisma he knows Drift is only possible as a result of his dedicated and equally passionate staff.
“Hospitality should be like magic,” he concludes.
“People shouldn't see the work or thought it should just happen before they realise.
“I’ve worked tirelessly in building my team. They come from all corners of the globe. But what’s most important is that they have bought into this same passion that I have.”
By Lloyd Green
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Drift Dining and Bar is celebrating their one year anniversary on Wednesday, January 20th 2016 with a fun-filled evening encompassing Drift’s favourite things; amazing wine, amazing food and amazing people.
Like all fine wines, Drift has matured into Kuala Lumpur's favourite venue and has set the standard in terms of service, atmosphere and customer experience.
When: Wednesday, January 20
What: Drift Dining and Bar Turns One
Where: Drift Dining and Bar, 38 Jalan Bedara, Ground Floor Bidara Condo, Bukit Bintang
To book your table for Drift’s one year birthday celebrations contact events@driftdining.com or call 0321102079
~~ “Amazing things with amazing people and we will do amazing things.” - Owner & Managing Director, Robert Gilliland
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