Future site of Alchemy Wine & Beer – Front of the shop / Step Out Buffalo
Update (August 1, 2018): The plans for Alchemy have evolved to include a loft stage for live music indoors and a full fast casual food menu with the kitchen being lead by Ru’s Pierogi’s Andy Ruszczyk. Look forward to prosecco on tap, Oyster Sunday brunch, and more when they open their doors during their soft opening August 10. Look out for more coverage on Alchemy coming soon!
Just when you thought Hamburg was at it’s all-time best with the recent addition of Prima Oliva Cafe, Hamm & Fattys, The Grange, Carte Blanche, Hamburg Brewing Co. (the list goes on, but we’ll stop there), here comes Alchemy Wine & Beer.
This brand new-to-WNY concept will merge a wine bar with a wine/beer bottle shop inspired by New Orleans’ Bacchanal Wine and years of world travel by the co-owners – two Hamburg millennials, self-proclaimed foodies, and certified Level 1 Sommeliers.
The shop has its sights set on a June 2018 opening in the back warehouse building of the old H&K Publications. The 2,000 square foot space is complete with open duct-work, 18-foot ceilings, and – when they’re done with it – a pair of industrial, glass garage doors – the first in Hamburg shockingly enough. The front of Alchemy will technically face Union Street behind Mike’s Auto Shop and Bliss Bridal, with a sidewalk coming from the municipal parking lot in the center of the Village.
On your way in from the ample parking, you’ll catch a glimpse of their 1,000 square foot courtyard, which faces the John and Mary’s parking lot. It will have communal tables, strung lights, and is said to be the largest outdoor courtyard space in the Village of Hamburg. If this courtyard serves up even half of the backyard party realness at Bacchanal, we will have absolute fire on our hands. Plus, get ready for the mother of all cherries on top? Artist Chuck Tingley will be gracing the side of the building with his graffiti style artwork. Can we all just agree that street art is long overdue in the Village of Hamburg? I mean East Aurora has had it for years.
Future site of Alchemy Wine & Beer’s courtyard / Step Out Buffalo
How will the wine bar / bottle shop concept work? Glad you asked. “It’s all centered around sharing,” one of the co-owners told me during a recent call. Guests will choose a bottle of affordably priced wine (most bottles will be under $25) or a large format bottle of beer (meaning they are the size of a wine bottle – YAS), pay for it, and share with their friends (or not, let’s be honest). If you don’t finish (LOL), Alchemy will cork it for you and send you on your merry way. Hey, we all have our days.
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The concept is super similar to Aurora Brew Works in East Aurora or Hamm & Fattey’s Beer Co. in Hamburg, both relatively new bar/bottle shops that offer a massive selection of craft beer to go or stay. Alchemy will have similar beer offerings in addition to a wide selection of small farm-produced wines by the bottle or glass (available at the bar). Upon opening, the bar will not sell unopened bottles of wine to go, but like… it will be more fun to drink in the courtyard anyway. Ya know? The vibe they’re going for is more fun garden goals vs. stuffy wine bar/library.
The model is described by the co-owners as self-service, and that means the food menu too. Offerings will include appetizer style munchies, with a heavy focus on meats and cheeses. “It will be like you’re shopping at Wegmans,” they explained. Basically, you’ll pick a wrapped cheese, or meat, or whatever it may be, then bring it to the checkout with your bottle(s) of booze and pay. Then the staff will take the food and plate it, adding garnishes, pickles, etc., and bring it out to your table where you’re most likely already having a ball, making new friends, discussing your wine picks, and planning your next vaca together. It’s gonna be awesome.
What inspired this new adventure? And why Hamburg? As village residents, the co-owners recognized the need for another nightlife spot suited to the late 20 – 30 something crowd, and we can’t agree more. You know, somewhere that stays open past 9 pm, but isn’t gunning for that late night life (AKA JPs). Another spot that offers vibes, value, and a good menu. Oh and doesn’t put wine knowledge on a pedestal, but makes it super accessible.
“We want to make wine relatable. It shouldn’t be scary or pretentious, it’s supposed to be fun.”
Alchemy Wine & Beer
20 Union Street, Hamburg
Coming June 2018
@alchemywineandbeer
