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
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- Luxury
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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
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Alchemist Cardiff.
- 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.
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Activate your presenceGetting There
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve St Mary Street and the surrounding city centre, including services from Cardiff Bus and other regional operators. Journey times from Cardiff Central Station area are typically 5–10 minutes depending on route and traffic. Buses run frequently throughout the day and evening. Single fares range from £1.50 to £3.00 depending on distance; day tickets are available for approximately £5.00.
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Train
Cardiff Central Station is approximately 10–15 minutes' walk from The Alchemist on St Mary Street. From the station, head north through the city centre following signs toward the shopping district. The walk is straightforward and well-signposted. Train services connect Cardiff to destinations across Wales and the wider UK; journey times and fares vary by origin.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services (Uber, local operators) are readily available throughout Cardiff city centre. Journey times from Cardiff Central Station are typically 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares vary; expect to pay £8–15 for most city centre journeys. Late-night services are available, particularly useful when leaving after 1–2 AM on weekends.
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Walking
St Mary Street is in Cardiff's city centre and is accessible on foot from most nearby attractions and accommodation. From Cardiff Central Station, the walk takes approximately 10–15 minutes via a straightforward route through the shopping district. The street is well-lit and busy, particularly in the evening and at weekends.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Restrooms
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Information Boards
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.Explore the best of what The Alchemist Cardiff has to offer
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