al·che·my \ ˈal-kə-mē \
“… the process of taking something ordinary and turning it into something extraordinary, sometimes in a way that cannot be explained…”
Our commitment, work ethic and dedication to excellence are old fashioned. Our drinks and food, on the other hand, are not. Our cocktails are crafted through experimental techniques, using unique ingredients and innovative flavour combinations to deliver an unforgettable experience that you won’t find anywhere else in KZN. While tradition inspires us, it’s innovation that fuels our passion.
Embark on a captivating journey at The ‘Other’ Room, our cellar, and retail outlet. Unveil the best-kept secrets of South Africa’s wine world, with our collection of lesser-known yet highly regarded estate wines, as well as experimental, unusual creations from independent winemakers. What further sets The ‘Other’ Room apart is our focus on KZN wines and the finest locally crafted spirits. And of course, you won’t want to miss our award-winning Blackstrap Ginsala and Cassia Rum, made right here in Ballito!
At Alchemy, we blend tradition and innovation, and no less so in our distillery. Blackstrap Craft Distillery™ draws inspiration from the KZN North Coast’s rich heritage of sugarcane farming and sugar refining.
The very name, Blackstrap, is a nod to the viscous substance born during the sugarcane refining process. All our spirits, even the gin, are distilled from a sugar cane base.
Our very own GINSALA™ is more than just a gin; it’s a sensory exploration, a celebration of craftsmanship, and a testament to the marriage of tradition and innovation. Indulge in the limited volumes of this high-quality, small-batch gin that encapsulates the spirit of Alchemy—a place where heritage meets avant-garde.
One of our founder Theo’s fondest memories of living in New York is the city’s abundance of eateries serving all-day brunch or tapas, often with an amazing wine list and always with incredible cocktails. New York’s cosmopolitan and eclectic population ensures access to great cuisine from around the world. At Alchemy, we aim to bring a slice of that experience to our shores, with a small plates and weekend brunch menu designed to satisfy your food cravings, all day long. From Theo’s mom’s recipes to a tapestry of globally inspired dishes, each plate is presented with love, our usual commitment to excellence and our appetite for innovation.
OUR MOJO
What Defines The
Alchemy Magic?
OUR MOJO
What Defines The
Alchemy Magic?
Rooted in history with a decidedly modern twist
Our commitment, work ethic and dedication to excellence are old fashioned. Our drinks and food, on the other hand, are not. Our cocktails are crafted through experimental techniques, using unique ingredients and innovative flavour combinations to deliver an unforgettable experience that you won’t find anywhere else in KZN. While tradition inspires us, it’s innovation that fuels our passion.
Attention to detail
Every detail is important. From the selection of glassware to the drinks and food that we serve. Our cocktails are tested and perfected before making it onto the menu. Every wine in the cellar has been tasted to ensure it matches up to our high standard and delivers value at the price point. Our team knows the regulars by name. These are just some of the ways in which we aim to bring a touch of something special, by focusing on the details.
Sustainability
We try to do our part for the environment and in particular the precious marine life that makes the KZN north coast so special. One of our earliest initiatives was to avoid single-use plastics, including no plastic straws. We pioneered the use of glass straws in Ballito. While they cost us a lot of money, the investment in our marine life is priceless. We hope that we will continue to inspire all our customers and other venues to do the same.
Community
We strive to create opportunity for those who would not otherwise have had it. Our original three kitchen team members were recruited through “Work for a Living”, an organisation that provides work-readiness training to previously unskilled people. Still with us from day one, all three are now cooks in the Alchemy kitchen. We regularly support local charitable events and fund-raisers. We favour small, independent and local suppliers over large corporates. We believe that every little action can collectively lead to big change.
ALCHEMY
ON-THE-MOVE
From a scalable mobile bar solution to simply advising on menu design, volumes or liquor supply, we can help you make your event or party the most memorable yet.The ‘Alchemy On-The-Move’ mobile bar is modular, and can adjust to suit your needs – opt for one barman and a limited drinks list, to three barmen with a more comprehensive cocktail and drinks offering. The primary offer is craft spirits and a selection of cocktails from the Alchemy menu. Beer on tap available, as well as wines of your choice from The ‘Other’ Room. Service available in KZN only.
Please complete the enquiry form below. Our barmen wear black or white Alchemy shirts with dark jeans or trousers. If you have a specific theme in mind, let us know. When required, a menu is printed and displayed in a timber frame. We use the same high quality glassware you will find at Alchemy, unless alternative glassware is provided. We do not use plastic straws. If you wish to use environmentally friendly glass straws that remain with you or your guests after the event, please let us know.
Once you have completed the enquiry form, we will contact you to discuss your event and provide a comprehensive quote. Indicative pricing:• SETUP AND BREAKDOWN: Min R1,500 set up if one section used, plus R1,000 for second section and R500 for third. BARTENDER (each): R150 per hour
- BAR CREW / RUNNERS (each): R50 per hour
- ICE: R25 per bag
- GLASS HIRE: Cocktail R6 each, Beer R6 each, Wine R6, (Breakages – refundable deposit R30 per glass)
- TRAVEL: Additional R8,00 per km (in excess of 50km from Ballito metro). Service is available in KZN only.
- DRINKS: Based on requirements and menu selection, please provide details below.
- GLASS STRAWS (if used): R10 each.
JOIN US
NEW TASTES
& DISCOVERIES
- info@blackstrapcraft.com
- 032 648 0032
-
Monday to Thursday 12pm to 10pm
Friday 12pm to late
Saturday & Sunday 10am to late -
Unit 55A,
Ballito Lifestyle Centre,
398 & 445 Main Rd,
Ballito, 4420
Fresh from the heart, local to the core – our signature small plates are designed to ‘wow’ your palate. Best paired with an expertly crafted cocktail ✨
You asked, we listened - Alchemy now pours a lager 🍻
A night of culinary artistry meets the exceptional flavours of @baleiawines. Don’t miss this unforgettable pairing experience 🍷 Date: 26th November 2024 Time: 6 for 6.30pm Price: R495 per person excluding service charge On arrival Welcome aperitivo cocktail by Richie Baleia Olive Oil Butter with Rye Soda Bread Sauvignon Blanc Kabeljou, Sweetcorn Velouté, Charred Corn, Lime and Popcorn Limitados Chardonnay Chicken Breast, Roast Cauliflower Puree, Pickled Pine Nut & Sultana Relish Vinhos Rochas Midlands Beef, King Oyster Crisp, Portabellini Crème, Beef Sauce Limitados Amphora Syrah Lamb, Pea, Potato Au Gratin and Lamb Sauce Tickets are limited so please book through the @dineplan_app!
