The Alchemist Salford

The Alchemist at Salford Quays is the most recent of three Manchester venues and has an outdoor terrace overlooking the water and plenty of gold. And while base metals don’t magically become that precious commodity here, theatre is promised at The Alchemist.

This is evident not least in the cocktail department – sorry, molecular mixology – where names such as the Smokey Paloma and Bath Bomb reflect the content (and sometimes fleeting special effects) of those chemistry lab beakers and flasks stacked behind the bar – sorry, apothecary. Interesting serving ideas seep over into the food menu, too, and you can experience “delicious all-day dining with a twist”, including popcorn chicken with Sriracha mayo and sticks of breaded halloumi and sweet mustard dip. Flavours are both trad British and hyperglobal, with all tastes catered for, from classic chicken Caesar salad to a Philly cheesesteak ciabatta served with fries. Think along the lines of “miso buttered” steaks (fillet or ribeye) and fish and chips, with “black activated charcoal batter”, vegan plant burger and a choice of three smoking fajitas. Arrive early doors and check out the Boundless Brunch set menu, aka Murder Of The Dancefloor, which, for a fixed price, gets you three Chambord-based beverages and a pairing dish from the likes of a veggie bennie to The Full Alchemist, complete with Bury black pudding and buttered sourdough toast.

Afters are just as showy, from mango gelato to churros: tossed in sugar, injected with caramel and served with hot fudge sauce.

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