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All the United States Washington, D.C. Silver Lyan
AO Edited Gastro Obscura

Silver Lyan

Sip creative cocktails in the former vault of the Riggs Bank.

Washington, D.C.

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Blythe Roberson , Harrison Watkins
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View of the trophy room from the communal couch area near the entrance.   blimpcaptain / Atlas Obscura User
The trendy bar Silver Lyan sits in what was once the historic Riggs Bank.   Greg Powers
If the Cabinet Room feels particularly secure, that’s because it previously housed the bank’s vault.   Greg Powers
Antique trophies line the vault walls under the original metal ceiling.   Greg Powers
The Riggs National Bank financed some of the most important people and events in United States History.   Greg Powers
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About

Silver Lyan occupies what was once the vault of the historic Riggs Bank. Today, the cozy space is lined with comfy red sofas. Its thick concrete walls are decorated with cabinets displaying trophies that glimmer in the low lighting. (The trophies are an unusual mix, including one awarded to “Last Place Champ.”) The vault’s original metal ceiling is still proudly on display. That room is perfect for larger groups, but if you just want to swing in and have a drink while soaking in the building’s history, walk-ins are always welcome at the sleek bar.

Riggs Washington DC has a central place in the history of the nation. Built in 1891, the bank handled the personal finances of numerous U.S. Presidents, including Van Buren, Lincoln, Grant, Eisenhower, and Nixon. It eventually became known as the “Bank of Presidents.” The bank also served “The Great Compromiser,” Henry Clay, and suffragist Susan B. Anthony. In 1845, it provided the financing Samuel Morse needed to invent the telegraph and in 1868, put up $7.2 million toward the purchase of Alaska.

Silver Lyan was founded by international mixologist and bar owner Ryan Chetiyawardana–or “Mr. Lyan”—who is known for his innovative drinks. One standout, the Half-Smoke Rickey, mixes fennel seed-infused Ford’s gin, lime, soda, and flat top shrub. The bar snacks err more on the traditional side: pretzel bites and pizza rolls are all on the menu. Washington fat cats, meanwhile, have the option on dropping $110 on ice cream with a side of caviar.

Related Tags

Snacks Drinks Alcohol Banks Bars Cocktails

Know Before You Go

Silver Lyan is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 5 p.m. until late. Reservations are recommended, especially for parties larger than six.

Community Contributors

Added By

blytheroberson, heshsf

Edited By

blimpcaptain, claudette

  • blimpcaptain
  • claudette

Published

April 27, 2023

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  • https://www.instagram.com/silverlyan/
  • https://www.riggsdc.com/bars-restaurants/silver-lyan
Silver Lyan
900 F St NW
Washington, District of Columbia, 20004
United States
38.898027, -77.024462
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