A new site is set to open for cocktail bar The Alchemist in MediaCityUK in Salford Quays as part of nationwide expansion for the concept.
It will be in a purpose-built building next to the waterfront, with floor-to-ceiling glazing and an outside terrace looking out over the water. It is being developed with The Peel Group which runs and part-owns MediaCityUK.
Designed by Manchester-based Reid Architects, the new building will be 450 square metres (4,850 square feet), with 100 dining covers and seating for 110 in the bar, split 45 inside and 65 out.
It will be the third site for The Alchemist in the Manchester area after the first in Spinningfields and the second in New York Street. There are now also two at Trinity Leeds and Greek Street in Leeds and one at Bevis Marks in London.
More openings are planned for Liverpool, Birmingham and Alderley Edge in Cheshire this year. The concept, originally created by bar and restaurant operator Living Ventures, is being rolled out after a private equity-backed buy-out involving the Living Ventures team.
Simon Potts, managing director of The Alchemist, said: “I’m delighted that The Alchemist will be opening in MediaCityUK and hugely excited to be creating a bespoke venue in conjunction with Peel from the ground up which will reflect the vibrancy and innovation for which MediaCityUK has become renowned.”
Stephen Wild, managing director of MediaCityUK, said: “The Alchemist quickly made its mark in Manchester and is distinguished for its stylish yet inviting interiors, creative mixologists and varied food menu so we are delighted they’ll be expanding their brand here at MediaCityUK.
“The community here is constantly evolving and it’s vital to have a diverse, high-quality offering of bars and restaurants.”
Simon Reid from Reid Architects added: “We are pleased that our work is recognised as having the right creative quality for this key site on the MediaCityUK waterfront. It has been very rewarding to work closely with the teams from MediaCityUK and Living Ventures to deliver this unique project.”
