The Alchemist Spinningfields, Manchester
Innovative cocktails and contemporary dining in Manchester’s vibrant Spinningfields district, blending theatrical flair with a lively social scene.
The Alchemist Spinningfields is a vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant located in the heart of Manchester’s Spinningfields district. Renowned for its theatrical and innovative cocktails, it offers a unique blend of molecular mixology and classic drinks alongside a diverse menu of contemporary dishes. The venue combines a lively atmosphere with stylish interiors, making it a popular spot for social gatherings, special occasions, and pre-show drinks near the Manchester Opera House.
A brief summary to The Alchemist Spinningfields
- 3 Hardman St, Manchester, M3 3HF, GB
- +441618172950
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-1 am
- Thursday 12 pm-1 am
- Friday 12 pm-2 am
- Saturday 10 am-2 am
- Sunday 10 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Try the theatrical cocktails featuring smoke and color-changing effects for a unique sensory experience.
- Visit early for breakfast or lunch to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere before the evening crowd.
- Pair your drinks with sharing-style starters like duck spring rolls or Parmesan popcorn.
- The venue is popular for pre-show drinks due to its proximity to the Manchester Opera House.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Alchemist Spinningfields location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Alchemist Spinningfields
A Hub of Mixology and Culinary Creativity
The Alchemist Spinningfields stands out as a beacon of inventive cocktail craftsmanship in Manchester. Its drink menu is a theatrical spectacle, featuring molecular techniques such as smoke, foam, color changes, and flambé effects that transform ordinary cocktails into captivating experiences. From the Maple Manhattan topped with lemon and maple syrup foam to the visually stunning color-changing potions served in conical flasks, each drink is designed to engage multiple senses. Complementing the drinks is a food menu that balances simplicity with quality. Offering dishes like duck spring rolls, fillet steak, and sharing-style starters, the cuisine is crafted to be flavorful yet straightforward, providing perfect pairings for the bar’s signature cocktails. The venue also serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with options ranging from gourmet burgers to international tapas.Atmosphere and Ambience
The Alchemist creates a dynamic environment where high energy meets a relaxed, chilled vibe. Its interior features stylish, modern design elements with comfortable seating, including old-fashioned leather sofas that invite guests to linger. The bar’s atmosphere is lively and social, often buzzing with music and conversation, yet it retains a welcoming warmth through attentive and friendly staff. The venue’s location near the Manchester Opera House makes it a favored spot for pre-show drinks, adding to its cultural appeal. Despite occasional critiques about loud music levels, the overall ambiance is one of fun and theatrical flair, ideal for celebrations, nights out, or casual gatherings.Service and Experience
Service at The Alchemist is marked by knowledgeable and enthusiastic staff who enhance the guest experience with personalized recommendations and engaging interactions. From the moment of arrival, guests are greeted warmly and guided through the extensive drink and food menus. The bartenders’ dedication to professional mixology principles is evident in the meticulous preparation and presentation of each cocktail. The venue’s focus on delivering a memorable experience extends beyond drinks and food to include theatrical presentations that captivate and entertain. This approach has earned it recognition within Manchester’s food and drink scene, including nominations for local awards.Location and Accessibility
Situated at 3 Hardman Street in Manchester’s Spinningfields, The Alchemist benefits from a central urban setting known for its vibrant nightlife and dining options. The area is well-served by public transport, and the venue’s proximity to cultural landmarks enhances its appeal. Open daily with extended hours on weekends, it accommodates a range of schedules, from early breakfasts to late-night socializing.Signature Highlights and Unique Features
Among the standout elements of The Alchemist Spinningfields are its signature cocktails such as the Lady Marmalade and Passion Fruit Meringue Martini, which combine innovative ingredients with theatrical flair. The use of smoke, color transitions, and flambé techniques creates a sensory spectacle that transforms cocktail drinking into an immersive event. Food highlights include the Parmesan Popcorn and sharing platters designed to foster conviviality. The venue’s commitment to quality ingredients and presentation ensures that even simple dishes deliver satisfaction.Community and Cultural Impact
The Alchemist has become an integral part of Manchester’s social fabric, attracting locals and visitors alike with its blend of entertainment, quality, and atmosphere. It serves as a meeting point for celebrations, business gatherings, and casual nights out, contributing to the city’s reputation as a destination for innovative dining and nightlife. Its approach to mixology and dining reflects a broader trend toward experiential hospitality, where the focus is on creating memorable moments as much as serving food and drinks.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Mulberry Passage
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Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
Dalton Entry
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Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Free Trade Hall
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Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Albert Memorial
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A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
John Bright Statue
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A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Manchester City Council
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Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Bahnhof Manchester
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Manchester Piccadilly Station – Historic gateway and bustling hub connecting Manchester to the UK and beyond.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
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A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Roman Gardens
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Discover Manchester’s Roman past through tranquil gardens featuring reconstructed fortifications and ancient pathways in the heart of Castlefield.
Reconstruction of Mamucium Roman Fort Wall
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Explore Manchester’s Roman roots at Mamucium, a reconstructed fort showcasing ancient military might and early urban life.
St. Peter's Square
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Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Remains of eastern wall of the Roman fort
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Explore the evocative remains of Mamucium’s eastern wall, a cornerstone of Manchester’s Roman heritage and ancient military might.
Castlefield historical zone
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Explore Castlefield, Manchester’s vibrant urban heritage park where Roman ruins meet industrial canals and lively cultural scenes converge.
Rochdale Canal Lock 92
0.7 km
Final lock on the historic Rochdale Canal, linking Manchester’s waterways and embodying two centuries of industrial heritage.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
0.7 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
Unmissable attractions to see
John Rylands Research Institute and Library
0.2 km
A neo-Gothic architectural gem housing one of the UK’s largest rare book collections and a vibrant research institute in the heart of Manchester.
People's History Museum
0.2 km
Britain's national museum of democracy, celebrating radical stories of people fighting for a fairer world.
Saint John's Gardens
0.2 km
A serene urban oasis in Manchester preserving historic churchyard remnants and offering peaceful green space near Deansgate.
Mural - Peterloo.
0.2 km
A vivid street art mural in Manchester commemorating the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the enduring fight for democracy.
Abraham Lincoln Statue
0.3 km
A powerful bronze tribute in Manchester honoring Abraham Lincoln and the city’s courageous support for abolition during the American Civil War.
Albert Hall, Manchester
0.3 km
Historic Wesleyan chapel turned iconic music venue with stunning stained glass and vaulted ceilings in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Great Northern
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A lively blend of historic charm and modern entertainment in Manchester’s premier shopping and leisure plaza.
House of Fraser
0.3 km
Discover luxury shopping and historic charm at House of Fraser Manchester, a premier department store on Deansgate.
St Mary's RC Church
0.3 km
Discover St Mary's RC Church, Manchester's historic 'Hidden Gem' blending Victorian artistry and deep Catholic heritage since 1794.
Alcotraz Manchester: Cell Block Three-Four
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Discover the thrilling cocktail experience at Alcotraz Manchester, where immersive storytelling meets masterful mixology in a unique prison-themed bar.
Science and Industry Museum
0.4 km
Explore 250 years of innovation and industrial heritage at Manchester’s historic Science and Industry Museum, housed in the world’s oldest passenger railway station.
Parsonage Gardens
0.4 km
A peaceful garden oasis in central Manchester, rich with history and quiet reflection amid the city’s vibrant heart.
The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience
0.4 km
Dive into the ultimate immersive adventure inspired by the iconic 90s TV show, where teamwork and fun collide in Manchester’s thrilling Crystal Maze LIVE Experience.
Albert Square
0.4 km
Manchester’s grand civic heart, framed by Gothic spires and alive with markets, monuments, and city life.
2 Albert Square
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Historic Albert Square in Manchester showcases Victorian Gothic grandeur with its iconic Town Hall and Prince Albert Memorial.
Essential places to dine
20 Stories
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Experience Manchester’s skyline from 20 Stories, a glamorous rooftop restaurant blending Modern European cuisine with stunning city views.
Bill's Spinningfields Restaurant
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Cozy British dining with eclectic charm and seasonal flavors in Manchester’s lively Spinningfields district.
Tattu Manchester
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Modern Chinese cuisine and theatrical design in Manchester's Spinningfields district.
Masons
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Elegant Modern British dining with art deco charm and a refreshingly simple menu philosophy.
Hawksmoor Manchester
0.2 km
Experience exquisite British steaks and seafood in a historic Victorian courthouse with impeccable service and elegant private dining.
Australasia
0.2 km
Stylish Pan-Asian dining in Manchester’s Spinningfields with vibrant flavors, chic design, and a lively atmosphere for special occasions.
Gusto Italian
0.2 km
Experience elegant Italian dining in Manchester’s historic Elliot House, where 1920s charm meets fresh, contemporary cuisine.
San Carlo - Manchester
0.3 km
Experience authentic regional Italian cuisine in a stylish, celebrity-frequented Manchester hotspot known for elegance and vibrant atmosphere.
Italiana Fifty Five Great Northern
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in Manchester’s stylish Great Northern Warehouse setting.
Albert's Schloss - Manchester
0.3 km
A lively Bavarian-inspired beer hall in Manchester blending hearty food, live music, and vibrant nightlife in a unique social setting.
Almost Famous GN
0.3 km
A lively Manchester burger bar serving bold, indulgent American-style burgers with loaded fries in a vibrant, casual setting.
James Martin Manchester
0.3 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine in an elegant casino setting, where seasonal ingredients and expert service create a memorable Manchester dining destination.
Another hand
0.4 km
An intimate modern British restaurant in Manchester’s Deansgate Mews, celebrated for inventive seasonal dishes and natural wines.
Gaucho Manchester
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Experience premium Argentine steaks and elegant dining in a spectacular historic church setting in the heart of Manchester.
Evuna Deansgate
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Authentic Spanish tapas and award-winning wines in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Deansgate district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Manchester Souvenirs Gifts & Presents Geek Elf Elux Bars Luggage storage locker
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Authentic Manchester souvenirs and gifts with local charm, plus convenient luggage storage in the heart of Deansgate.
TVSeriesJackets
0.4 km
Explore TVSeriesJackets in Manchester, where iconic TV show jackets come to life, blending style with your favorite characters' adventures.
Catch my Thrift
0.4 km
Sustainable designer vintage at £25 and under – Manchester's thrift haven for slow fashion lovers in the city centre.
Science and Industry Museum Shop
0.4 km
Discover science-infused souvenirs in the heart of Manchester's industrial birthplace, where history meets hands-on innovation at the Science and Industry Museum Shop.
Pulse
0.5 km
Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
Søstrene Grene
0.6 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Rams Gift World
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.7 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
Menkind
0.7 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, Manchester Arndale’s vibrant destination for fun and innovative presents.
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
0.8 km
A vibrant Chinese art and craft gallery in Manchester’s Chinatown, showcasing handcrafted treasures and cultural heritage in a warm, welcoming space.
Stare Society
0.8 km
Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
Branded Like A Boss
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Discover Manchester's spirited souvenirs and artisan crafts at this vibrant Owen Street gift shop, blending trendy flair with local soul.
ItsFetch
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Unleash your fashion potential at ItsFetch, a stylish accessories shop in Manchester, featuring unique pieces for every trendsetter.
Deansgate Square General Store
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Futuristic cornershop at Deansgate Square's base: craft coffee, local brews, zero-waste refills, and artisanal bites amid Manchester's iconic towers.
Curvilicious Clothing
0.8 km
Empowering plus-size style in Manchester's beating heart: Curvilicious Clothing celebrates curves with trendy, authentic fashion on Owen Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alchemist Spinningfields
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Innovative cocktails and contemporary dining in Manchester’s vibrant Spinningfields district, blending theatrical flair with a lively social scene.
The Blues Kitchen Manchester
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Experience authentic Southern barbecue, soulful live music, and vibrant vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Spinningfields.
The Gas Lamp
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Discover Manchester’s atmospheric basement pub with a rich history, exceptional craft beers, and a cozy, characterful vibe beneath Bridge Street.
MOJO
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Eclectic cocktail bar in Manchester’s heart, blending creative drinks with a lively, urban nightlife vibe.
Speak In Code
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Discover Speak In Code, Manchester’s innovative cocktail bar blending artisanal mixology, sustainable practices, and a uniquely immersive atmosphere.
Arcane
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Discover Arcane, a cozy Victorian-inspired cocktail bar in Manchester’s city centre, blending inventive drinks with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - Albert Square Manchester
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Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Manchester’s Albert Square, perfect for lively brunches, evening drinks, and social celebrations.
Three Little Words
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A stylish gin distillery and cocktail bar under historic arches, blending craft cocktails, seasonal food, and immersive experiences in Manchester’s heart.
cask
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Authentic Manchester pub pouring cask ales amid Castlefield's historic canals and warehouses—timeless brews in a revolutionary setting.
Be At One - Manchester
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Lively cocktail bar on Deansgate with 100+ drinks, private hire rooms, and unbeatable happy hour deals in the heart of Manchester nightlife.
Salt Dog Slim's Manchester
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Dive into Salt Dog Slim's Manchester for bold cocktails, American-style hot dogs, and a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of the city.
Cloud 23
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Experience Manchester’s skyline from the stylish 23rd-floor cocktail bar with innovative drinks and panoramic city views.
Corbieres Bar
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Discover Corbieres Bar, Manchester’s cozy underground spot famed for its eclectic jukebox, vegan-friendly pizzas, and welcoming vibe.
The Deansgate
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Historic Deansgate pub revived with cask ales, hearty eats, rooftop terraces, and Manchester buzz—perfect pit stop since the 18th century.
Lock 91
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Historic charm meets inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Lock 91, a versatile bar and events venue beneath the city’s Metrolink station.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
42's
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Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
History Nightclub
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Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Club Liv Manchester
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Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Venue Nightclub
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Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Royal Vida Night Club
0.3 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
Ark Manchester
0.6 km
Multi-room beats and canal-side cocktails fuel Manchester's electric Deansgate Locks nightlife at Ark—dance, drink, repeat till dawn.
Popworld Manchester
0.6 km
Dance to cheesy pop anthems amid neon lights and poptail cocktails in Manchester's ultimate throwback nightclub.
Bliss Club Manchester
0.6 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
Bijou Club
0.8 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Satans Hollow
0.8 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Viva Manchester
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Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Cargo
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Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Kable
1.0 km
A compact, late‑night basement club on New Wakefield Street, favoured for punchy electronic nights and close‑up DJ sessions.
Club Tropicana
1.0 km
Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.
The Cockatoo Club
1.0 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Cockatoo Club in Manchester, where vibrant cabaret performances meet an unforgettable atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly