Tucked beneath the Riggs Washington DC hotel, Silver Lyan marks Ryan Chetiyawardana’s (aka Mr Lyan) first U.S. venture—an elevated subterranean cocktail bar born out of a historic bank vault. The dimly lit space marries plush crimson velvet, tin‑ceiling heritage, concrete vault walls, and geometric lighting for a brooding, art‑deco‑meets‑industrial vibe. Silver Lyan’s ethos is celebration of cultural exchange: seasonal, sustainability‑driven cocktails use local American produce—corn, potato, cherry blossoms—reimagined through Chetiyawardana's inventive lens. The menu includes bold creations like the Emu Queen (emu‑pechuga mezcal), Nimbus Spritz (mushroom caramel, clay Champagne), Unspeakable Snap, and Press Gang Daisy—each packing sensory surprise and storytelling flair. Cocktail prices average $18–23, with spirited high‑low offerings ranging from $6 jello shots to $49 premium espresso martinis. The concise food menu features shareable bites: oysters, tater tots, pizza spring rolls and matcha cream brioche—perfect companions for drinks. There are hidden gems inside: The Cabinet Room (vault‑lined private lounge) and the “Dishonesty Bar” for ultra‑private, playful indulgence. Frequent “Sunday Lyan” pop‑ups with guest bartenders add to Silver Lyan’s creative pulse. Named North America’s No. 48 Best Bar 2025 and Food & Wine’s #1 US hotel bar 2024, Silver Lyan is both a refined destination and casual hotspot—ideal for creative cocktail enthusiasts, date nights, or late‑night rendezvous in DC’s Penn Quarter.
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