# The Alchemist MediaCityUK — Manchester

The Alchemist MediaCityUK is a Cocktail bar in Media City, Manchester. 4.5★ from 2,816 Google reviews · $$$. Data as of 2026-04-14.

The Alchemist MediaCityUK is a waterfront cocktail bar where exceptional service and precision drinks define the experience, backed by an overwhelming majority of positive reviews.

## Go if
You want impeccably crafted cocktails and attentive service in a scenic, upscale setting overlooking the quays.

## At a glance
| Signal | Value |
|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5★ from 2,816 Google reviews |
| Momentum | 37 substantial reviews in the last 90 days |
| Chart history | 20 weeks on the Hot List, peak #2 |
| Rating trend | +0.78 over the trailing window |

## Rating breakdown
| Stars | Reviews | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 5★ | 1,936 | 70% |
| 4★ | 532 | 19% |
| 3★ | 148 | 5% |
| 2★ | 73 | 3% |
| 1★ | 62 | 2% |

## What stands out
- **Exceptional, personalized service** — Staff members like Abi, Poppy, Sammy W, and Logan are named in multiple recent reviews for attentiveness, warmth, and customizing drinks to individual preference—e.g., adjusting Old Fashioned bitterness on request and making children feel special during family visits.
- **Expertly crafted cocktails** — Described consistently as 'very good,' 'cool,' and 'amazing' in recent reviews; staff knowledge allows for preference-based customization, and the venue ranks among the top three in the zone for great cocktails.
- **Scenic waterfront location with atmosphere** — Overlooking Salford Quays with outdoor seating, live performances, and a balance of romantic and trendy ambiance that appeals to couples, groups, and solo diners alike.

## What people say
> "A bit loud place but nice food and great atmosphere for night out"

> "Lovely chilled vibe, great staff and enjoyed our meal."

> "They were ok and standard price for burger and chips on a restaurant."

## Good to know
| | |
|---|---|
| Categories | Cocktail bar |
| Best for | Celebrations, Cocktails with friends, Brunch outings, Solo dining, Date nights |
| Price | $$$ |
| Where | Media City, Manchester — The Bund, The Quays, MediaCity UK, Salford M50 3AB, United Kingdom |

## Opening hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | Closed |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | Closed |

## Common questions
**Is The Alchemist good for a solo visit?**

Yes—solo dining is listed as a popular use case. Reviews show solo guests and couples are welcomed with the same attentiveness as larger groups, and the waterfront location and bar seating create a comfortable environment for independent diners.

**Can I bring children?**

Yes. A recent review highlights staff making a child feel special by letting her make 'potions' during a lunch visit, with the parent praising the service as 'exceptional.' Food is available and arrives quickly.

**What are the cocktails like?**

Highly praised as expertly crafted and 'cool.' Staff are knowledgeable and will customize drinks to your taste—one reviewer noted a server adjusting bitterness levels on an Old Fashioned to preference.

**Is it accessible for wheelchair users?**

Yes. The venue offers wheelchair accessible entrance, restroom, and seating, making it fully accessible for guests with mobility needs.

**Is there food, or just drinks?**

Both. The menu includes food at the bar and table service. Brunch is particularly praised, and dishes are described as fresh and arriving quickly. Wine and beer are also available alongside cocktails.

## Contact
- **Website**: [thealchemistbars.com/venues/manchester/mediacity-uk/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb](https://thealchemistbars.com/venues/manchester/mediacity-uk/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb)
- **Phone**: +44 161 872 7396
- **Book a table**: [Book a table](https://thealchemistbars.com/bookings)
- **Menu**: [Menu](https://thealchemistbars.com/food/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb)

---
Source: [DondeOndeWhere](https://www.donde-onde-where.com/venue/ChIJQci9g2mue0gR6PlvZQ2ikZI) — independent restaurant & bar Hot Lists ranked from real Google reviews with a transparent Hot Score. No editorial picks, no paid placements.