The Alchemist Cardiff
Theatrical cocktails and innovative cuisine in Cardiff's most unconventional dining destination.
A theatrical cocktail bar and restaurant in Cardiff city centre where molecular mixology meets innovative cuisine. The Alchemist combines creative cocktails with an all-day dining menu featuring classic dishes with unconventional twists. The venue spans two distinct sections—an intimate restaurant with a 90-minute seating and a vibrant bar area—both designed to deliver an immersive experience of drama, artistry, and culinary theatre.
A brief summary to The Alchemist Cardiff
- 117 St Mary St, Cardiff, CF10 1DY, GB
- +442921303755
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Luxury
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-12 am
- Tuesday 11 am-12 am
- Wednesday 11 am-12 am
- Thursday 11 am-12 am
- Friday 11 am-1 am
- Saturday 10 am-1 am
- Sunday 11 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Book in advance, especially for weekend visits. The restaurant section has a 90-minute seating, while the bar operates on a two-hour booking window. Plan your timing accordingly based on whether you prioritise dining or extended bar time.
- Clarify which section you're booking—restaurant or bar—when making your reservation. Each offers a distinct experience and operates under different time allocations and atmospheres.
- Visit late on Friday or Saturday nights when DJs are present and the bar extends to 2 AM, transforming the atmosphere into a more energetic, late-night cocktail experience.
- Come with an open mind about the cocktails. The molecular mixology techniques create visually stunning and flavour-forward drinks that are as much about theatre as taste.
- If you have dietary requirements, inform staff at booking. The kitchen offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options alongside the main menu.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Alchemist Cardiff location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about The Alchemist Cardiff
A Theatre of Cocktails and Dark Artistry
The Alchemist Cardiff is a creative cocktail bar and restaurant that transforms the craft of mixology into theatrical performance. Located on St Mary Street in the heart of Cardiff's city centre, the venue celebrates the dark arts of molecular cocktails with precision, flair, and showmanship. Every drink is crafted as much for visual spectacle as for taste, with bartenders employing advanced techniques to create drinks that surprise and delight. The atmosphere pulses with energy and unconventional spirit, drawing inspiration from the historical associations of alchemy, mystery, and transformation.Dual Spaces for Different Experiences
The venue is thoughtfully divided into two distinct areas, each offering a different experience. The restaurant section provides an intimate setting with a 90-minute seating allocation, ideal for those seeking a focused dining experience with theatrical cocktails and a carefully curated menu. The bar area operates on a two-hour booking window and extends into late-night hours, becoming increasingly lively as the evening progresses. On Thursdays, the bar stays open until approximately 1 AM, while Fridays and Saturdays see service extend to 2 AM, with DJs setting the vibe during these extended hours. This dual structure allows visitors to choose their preferred pace and atmosphere.Innovative Cuisine Beyond Convention
The kitchen embraces the same philosophy of creative transformation that defines the bar. The all-day dining menu features classic dishes reimagined with unexpected twists, reflecting a commitment to culinary theatre as much as flavour. The venue caters to diverse dietary requirements, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options alongside its main offerings. Meals are served throughout the day, from breakfast and brunch through lunch and dinner, making it accessible for various occasions and times of visit.Setting and Atmosphere
Situated on St Mary Street, one of Cardiff's most vibrant thoroughfares, The Alchemist occupies a prime location in the city centre. The interior design reflects the venue's theatrical ethos, with an atmosphere that balances sophistication with playful energy. The space is designed to engage all senses—from the visual spectacle of cocktail creation to the aromas of the kitchen and the ambient energy of the crowd. The venue welcomes groups and individuals alike, with both table service and bar seating available.Accessibility and Facilities
The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, with full bar facilities and table service throughout. Free WiFi is available for guests, and the venue accepts reservations for both restaurant and bar bookings. Gift cards are available for purchase, making it suitable for special occasions or as a gift experience. The combination of these amenities ensures that a wide range of visitors can enjoy the experience comfortably.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historical Wales
0.2 km
Explore Historical Wales, a charming gift shop in Cardiff, offering unique souvenirs that embody the rich culture and heritage of Wales.
Cardiff Town Wall
0.2 km
Step back into medieval Cardiff with the ancient Town Wall, a striking relic offering history, architecture, and panoramic city views.
Fogo's Free Tours
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant history and culture of Cardiff with Fogo's Free Tours – an engaging experience for every traveler.
John Batchelor Statue
0.2 km
A Victorian radical immortalised in bronze, standing where Cardiff’s political battles once raged.
Nereid Statue
0.4 km
A bronze sea nymph offering mythological protection to Cardiff's maritime legacy
Cardiff Central Train Station Water Tower
0.5 km
A historic Grade II listed water tower overlooking Cardiff Central Station and the River Taff, symbolizing the city’s rich railway heritage.
South African War Memorial
0.5 km
A poignant bronze and stone tribute in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who served in the Second Boer War, embodying peace, war, and grief.
Capitol Cardiff
0.6 km
Discover the heart of Cardiff at Capitol Cardiff, a shopping center offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and a taste of local culture.
City Hall
0.6 km
Majestic Edwardian Baroque landmark and civic heart of Cardiff, crowned by a striking clock tower with a Welsh dragon.
Water Towers by Amber Hiscott & David Pearl
0.6 km
Iconic blue sculptural towers in Cardiff symbolizing water through innovative glass and metal artistry.
The Gathering - Cardiff
0.6 km
Victorian Neogothic landmark and active faith community in the heart of Cardiff
Mountain of Fire & Miracles Ministries Cardiff.
0.6 km
A dynamic Christian church in the Capitol Shopping Centre, offering daily worship, prayer, and community in the heart of Cardiff.
Statue of The Second Marquess of Bute
0.7 km
Historic bronze statue in Cardiff honoring the visionary who transformed the city through the development of its docks and industrial growth.
Alexandra Gardens
0.7 km
Discover the beauty and history of Alexandra Gardens in Cardiff, a peaceful retreat filled with stunning landscapes and rich cultural significance.
Wales National War Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn Gothic Revival monument in Cardiff honoring Welsh soldiers who sacrificed their lives in both World Wars.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Cardiff Market
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff Market’s vibrant Victorian charm, where fresh local produce and unique stalls create a lively city-centre shopping experience.
Cardiff Market
0.1 km
A bustling Victorian indoor market in Cardiff city centre, alive with fresh produce, street food, vintage finds and local character under a grand glass roof.
High Street Arcade
0.1 km
A beautifully preserved Victorian shopping arcade in Cardiff’s Castle Quarter, filled with independent boutiques, vintage shops, cafés, and historic charm.
Castle Quarter Arcades
0.1 km
Explore Cardiff’s historic Castle Quarter Arcades—Victorian charm, independent shops, and vibrant dining in the city’s heart.
St John The Baptist City Parish Church
0.1 km
Cardiff’s oldest medieval church, blending historic grandeur with vibrant community spirit in the city centre.
Blue Bell
0.1 km
Discover the charm of The Blue Bell, Cardiff's premier pub for traditional food, local ales, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Museum of Cardiff
0.2 km
Explore Welsh art, natural history, and archaeology in Cardiff’s grand historic museum with free admission and rich cultural treasures.
Rummer Tavern
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and rich local culture at Rummer Tavern, a must-visit pub in the heart of Cardiff.
Firing Line Cardiff Castle Museum of the Welsh Soldier
0.2 km
Discover the rich military heritage of Wales beneath Cardiff Castle in this immersive museum dedicated to the Welsh soldier.
Cardiff Castle, Cardiff Castle
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff Castle, a majestic blend of Roman roots, Norman strength, and Victorian splendor in the heart of Wales’ vibrant capital.
Aneurin Bevan Statue by Robert Thomas (1987)
0.2 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Cardiff to Aneurin Bevan, visionary founder of the NHS, sculpted by Robert Thomas in 1987.
Morgan Arcade
0.2 km
Step into Morgan Arcade, Cardiff’s enchanting Victorian shopping arcade where historic charm meets modern boutiques and cozy cafes.
St David's Hall
0.2 km
Experience world-class acoustics and bold brutalist design at Cardiff’s iconic St David’s Hall, a vibrant cultural landmark in the city centre.
Cardiff Antique Centre
0.2 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at the Cardiff Antique Centre.
Royal Arcade, Cardiff
0.2 km
Step into Cardiff’s oldest Victorian shopping arcade, where historic charm meets unique independent shops and delightful eateries.
Essential places to dine
The Alchemist Cardiff
0.0 km
Experience the magic of mixology at The Alchemist Cardiff, where innovative cocktails meet exquisite dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
Turtle Bay Cardiff
0.0 km
Caribbean soul meets Welsh hospitality—bold jerk, tropical cocktails, and island warmth in Cardiff city centre.
Asador 44 Spanish Grill & Wine House
0.1 km
Authentic Spanish charcoal grilling and fine wines in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Cafe Citta
0.1 km
Cozy Italian eatery in Cardiff city center serving authentic wood-fired pizzas and pasta in an intimate, stylish setting.
Casanova
0.1 km
A long-standing Cardiff trattoria serving authentic regional Italian food with warm service and an excellent all-Italian wine list.
Dirty gnocchi (Cardiff Market)
0.1 km
Savor authentic Italian gnocchi and pasta delights in the vibrant heart of Cardiff Market, where tradition meets street food charm.
Lezzet Turkish Kitchen
0.1 km
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine with vibrant flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff city centre.
The Botanist Cardiff
0.1 km
A vibrant gastropub in Cardiff city centre where botanical décor, creative cocktails, and live music bloom together.
Maison de Bœuf
0.1 km
An intimate French steakhouse in Cardiff’s Castle Arcade, blending Parisian charm with live jazz and signature cuisine.
The Potted Pig
0.1 km
A stylish underground eatery in Cardiff serving seasonal Welsh-inspired modern British cuisine in a unique former bank vault setting.
Pasture Restaurant Cardiff
0.1 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and vibrant atmosphere at Pasture, Cardiff’s celebrated destination for premium meat dining.
Bar 44 Cardiff
0.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in Cardiff's vibrant Castle Quarter.
The Sorting Room Restaurant
0.1 km
Elegant modern European dining in Cardiff’s city centre, celebrated for Welsh beef specialties and refined brasserie ambiance.
The Welsh House Cardiff
0.1 km
Experience authentic Welsh flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant city centre.
Tŷ Madeira Restaurant
0.2 km
Award-winning Portuguese dining in Cardiff's city centre, blending authentic tradition with modern culinary excellence.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mojo King
0.1 km
Discover smart, affordable Mod and Northern Soul-inspired men's fashion at Mojo King, a unique gem in Cardiff Indoor Market.
Great Welsh Gifts
0.1 km
Unearth authentic Welsh crafts, treats, and treasures on Cardiff's High Street—a delightful dive into Cymru's cultural heart at Great Welsh Gifts.
Knight Vintage
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures and exclusive KV collections in the heart of Cardiff Market’s vibrant historic setting.
Hobos Vintage
0.1 km
A vibrant Cardiff vintage shop packed with retro fashion, trainers, and accessories from the 1950s to today – perfect for throwback style and bargain finds.
Castle Welsh Crafts Ltd
0.2 km
Discover authentic Welsh craftsmanship and personalized lovespoons opposite Cardiff Castle at Castle Welsh Crafts.
Little Welsh Company
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff's premier independent shop for authentic Welsh gifts, blending tradition with modern charm since 2003 on lively St John Street.
Morgan Quarter
0.2 km
Discover Cardiff’s charming Morgan Quarter, a historic Victorian arcade blending unique shops, cozy cafes, and timeless architecture in the city centre.
The Works
0.2 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in the heart of Cardiff’s vibrant Queen Street shopping district.
Welcome Things
0.2 km
Discover whimsical treasures in Cardiff's historic Royal Arcade at this eclectic gift shop, where unique Welsh-inspired finds meet global curiosities in Victorian splendor.
elephants and flowres
0.2 km
Artisan gifts and local crafts in Cardiff's charming Victorian arcade.
Driftwood Designs Cardiff
0.2 km
Bright, bold Welsh art and homewares in the heart of Cardiff’s Royal Arcade – perfect for souvenirs, gifts, and a splash of contemporary Welsh culture.
Joie de Vivre Boutique and Vintage Store
0.2 km
Independent boutique treasure trove in historic Royal Arcade, celebrating curated vintage and artisanal finds.
Urban Outfitters
0.2 km
Curated lifestyle retail celebrating creativity, fashion, and cultural expression in Cardiff's city centre.
Ganesha Handicrafts
0.2 km
Ethical elegance from India and Nepal: jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts in Cardiff's iconic Royal Arcade.
Sobeys Vintage Clothing
0.2 km
Discover unique reworked vintage fashion in Cardiff’s historic Royal Arcade at Sobeys Vintage Clothing, where creativity meets sustainability.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Flight Club Cardiff
0.0 km
Experience the thrill of Social Darts® and vibrant city nightlife at Flight Club Cardiff’s unique multi-level bar and rooftop terrace.
Penny
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s intimate cocktail haven with innovative drinks, expert bartenders, and a stylish, welcoming atmosphere at Penny.
Rum & Fizz
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s rum haven with over 200 rums, crafted cocktails, cozy elegance, and live jazz every Friday in Castle Arcade.
Tiny Rebel Cardiff
0.1 km
Discover Cardiff’s vibrant craft beer scene and lively pub culture at Tiny Rebel, a hub for award-winning brews and eclectic events.
The Libertine Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
A stylish Cardiff cocktail bar blending gothic charm with expertly crafted drinks and a lively city center vibe.
Main Stage
0.1 km
Cardiff's vibrant gay bar and cabaret club with lively drag shows, DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Glassworks
0.1 km
Lively Cardiff pub pouring Greene King ales, serving pub classics, and screening sports in the heart of the city center—perfect for meals, pints, and pre-event vibes.
The Bootlegger
0.2 km
A vintage-flavoured Cardiff speakeasy serving expertly crafted cocktails and late-night live music on cobbled Womanby Street.
Revolution Cardiff
0.2 km
A multi‑level cocktail bar and late‑night club opposite Cardiff Castle, built for groups, events and colourful cocktail theatre.
Mary's Cardiff
0.2 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant nightlife at Mary’s, a lively bar and nightclub blending modern lounge vibes with energetic party spirit.
Slug & Lettuce - St Mary St Cardiff
0.2 km
Vibrant Cardiff cocktail bar on St Mary Street, famed for bottomless brunches, creative mixes, and lively nights in the city heart.
Boom Battle Bar Cardiff
0.3 km
Cardiff’s ultimate bar for games, street food, cocktails, and late-night fun in a lively, interactive setting.
Brewhouse
0.3 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant live music scene with great food, drinks, and a lively atmosphere at Brewhouse in the Old Brewery Quarter.
Kapu
0.3 km
Experience Cardiff’s vibrant tiki cocktail bar and nightclub with expertly crafted drinks and a lively tropical atmosphere.
The Live Lounge Cardiff
0.3 km
Cardiff’s lively hotspot for live music, affordable eats, and vibrant nightlife until 4am every day.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
- Romantic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Viral Moments
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
