Mr. Lyan’s London

In 2013, Ryan Chetiyawardana opened White Lyan, an innovative cocktail bar, in London. Since then, Mr. Lyan (as he’s called), has opened a second location, Dandelyan Bar at the Mondrian London, won World Bartender of the Year, and more. Here, the extraordinary bartender shares his favorite places to eat, shop, and people watch in his hometown.

Favorite Store: “It would be easy to pick a booze shop such as Bottle Apostle or The Whisky Exchange, but I love Folk Clothing in Spitalfields. It’s fairly classic, but with quirky touches and nice attention to detail.”

Favorite Restaurant: “I alwaos love Fera, Clove Club and Lyle’s for fancy dining done with love. Rita’s, Trangallan, St John, Oldroy and Elliot’s have become my regular casual picks, and Bao in Soho is a new spot I’d love to make it back to.”

Favorite View: “The panorama from Rumpus Room on the 12th floor [of the Mondrian London] is obviously spectacular, but I love the ability to be right on the riverside watching the crowds saunter past with a (ahem) similarly spectacular cocktail in hand.”

Favorite Museum: “The Tate Modern. London’s South Bank has changed so much over the years, but Tate Modern has remained a wonderful addition to London and Britain as a whole. Since my art college days it’s been a source of inspiration, enjoyment and relaxation.”

Favorite Coffee Shop: “Kaffeine, on Great Titchfield Street. My long-time collaborators Square Mile’s coffee is served with love here, and for me as a (shock!) non-coffee drinker, I can get a perfect cup of Henrietta’s (Rare Tea Co.) tea too!”

Favorite Bakery: “I’ve always loved the bread from St. John’s, but it was overtaken by Elliot’s in Borough Market. I can’t wait for the bread that’ll come from Lee Tiernan’s new restaurant when he opens in Highbury – it’s long-fermented, charcoal-grilled and the best I’ve tasted.”