Ladies, I’ve found the ultimate mid-week cocktail venue. Now, there’s nothing I like more than a mid-week mojito and now that the most coveted cocktail bar in Leeds has opened less than 15 minutes away from my home, it would be rude not to indulge. The Alchemist is one of the fanciest bars in the new Trinity shopping center and with everything from a minty mojito to a marvelous martini, it promises to impress.
My favorite thing about the Alchemist is the way it has something to please everyone. Couples will enjoy the intimate setting, friends will enjoy the relaxed yet chic atmosphere and boys will enjoy the beautiful crowds that The Alchemist attracts. A word of warning. It’s trendy. The Alchemist is packed to the brim with people who look effortlessly stylish. So try hard, you’ll be glad you made the effort.
Big Al’s Pornstar Martini-They’re ridiculously good…
Expect to spend about half an hour deciding on a drink. You can order everything from a glass of Rose (boring) to a kettle (yep, a kettle) of cocktails to share. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, the staff are lovely and are quite happy to talk you through their signature drinks. My cocktail of choice? The Pornstar Martini. But why have a Pornstar Martini when you can have a Big Al’s Pornstar that includes a sprinkling of popping candy? Sold! The couple on the next table ordered the Mad Hatter’s Tea party. It’s a fairly fabulous concoction of Russion Vodka and Elderflower Liquor that is boiled at your table and poured into steaming tea cups. I would advise ordering this immediately to avoid a serious case of cocktail envy.
Ces’t impressive non? Now, on to the biggest surprise of the night. The food. I expected killer cocktails but I didn’t expect to be blown away by the food. It’s absolutely delicious and unlike some of the other restaurants in Trinity, you will still be able to afford to eat out after it without abusing your overdraft.
Potato skins with extra cheese…
Delicious duck rolls
Fillet Steak and chips
Seabass and Rice
I chose this as I’m trying to be healthy before my holidays but what I really wanted was the fajitas. The best thing about The Alchemist is the close proximity to the other diners. Perfect, if like me, you love to have a nosy and see what everyone else is having. We were sat close to the kitchen and I couldn’t help but notice that everyone else’s food looked way more fun than mine. Chicken lollipops floated past me with a portion of chicken in a chicken shaped basket. Rice served in a skull, vegetable stir fry emerged from a golden dome from which a puff of dry ice floated out. Huff. I plan to make a return visit post Ibiza when my bikini is safely tucked away until next year.
The mains are mouthwatering but don’t forget to save a little space for dessert.
Waffles and Ice Cream
Chocolate Fudge Cake
The waffles are scandalously good and I forbid you to opt for anything else. Get your partner to order the chocolate fudge cake as while it isn’t a patch on the waffles it is worth a try.
Haven’t found the perfect place for your midweek mojito? Try The Alchemist and let me know which cocktail to try next!