Lyaness

Birth of a Cocktail Visionary

Lyaness emerged from the mind of Ryan Chetiyawardana, the acclaimed mixologist dubbed Mr Lyan. Trained as a chef, biologist, and artist, he brings a multidisciplinary approach to bartending. Previously behind bars like White Lyan and Dandelyan—which earned global accolades before transformation—Lyaness continues this legacy of reinvention in the Sea Containers London space. The bar embodies his philosophy of fun, clarity, and deliciousness through boundary-pushing drinks.

Riverside Elegance and Design

Perched at 20 Upper Ground on the South Bank, Lyaness gazes directly across the Thames, framing views of the river's ceaseless flow. Inside, powder-blue walls envelop a cosy, lush atmosphere, anchored by a striking deep green serpentinite bar counter. Ample windows flood the space with natural light, blending the intimacy of a lounge with the drama of its waterfront position. The design-forward setting within the Sea Containers hotel enhances the sense of sophisticated escape amid London's vibrant South Bank.

Collaborative Cocktail Alchemy

The ever-evolving menu draws from themes of collaboration, each drink inspired by unique stories—from medical innovations to quirky cultural phenomena. Bartenders craft libations with unconventional techniques, such as inoculating melons with penicillium for curaçao or fermenting camel milk with kefir for yoghurty depth in punches like the Moo Reed. Ingredients challenge conventions yet deliver outrageous tastiness, often explained with passion by knowledgeable staff who share the narrative behind each creation.

Sustainable Innovation at the Core

Sustainability drives Lyaness's ethos, with zero-waste practices and precise, chef-like efficiency. Cocktails minimize excess through scientific methods, reflecting Chetiyawardana's biological background. This commitment earned the bar the first-ever three-PIN rating from the Pinnacle Guide, akin to a Michelin three-star for mixology, and a Best Cocktail Menu award from World's 50 Best Bars. Small plates complement drinks, featuring inventive bites like aubergine tacos that harmonize with the beverage focus.

South Bank Cultural Nexus

Positioned between Tate Modern and Southbank Centre, Lyaness sits at the heart of London's creative pulse. The Thames-side location invites post-performance crowds or art enthusiasts for a refined unwind. Open evenings through late nights, with weekend afternoons, it pulses with the area's energy while offering a welcoming respite. The bar's warmth and riverside allure make it a natural draw for those exploring the cultural corridor.