Cocktail bar
Unclaimed profileSilver Lyan
Washington, DC · $$$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
Silver Lyan's cocktail program is a study in inventive, globally sourced mixology, with drinks like Hokusai Snap and Homer's Heimlich Punch pushing flavor boundaries. Prices run $19-$49, and boozeless versions of select cocktails are available at $14. The wine list offers a compact but well-chosen range, and the bar's former bank vault setting adds to its speakeasy mystique.
- What should I order?
- Start with Hokusai Snap, a gin-based mix with starfruit fino and bleu curaçao. For something mezcal-forward, try Homer's Heimlich Punch. The Checkpoint Charlie Freeze offers a frozen, playful option. Boozeless drinkers can request a $14 version of Shaka Sour.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Cocktail enthusiasts seeking inventive, globally inspired drinks will find much to admire. The speakeasy atmosphere and creative presentations appeal to those wanting a distinctive night out. Guests who appreciate non-alcoholic alternatives will also be well served.
- When should I go?
- Evenings are prime for the full speakeasy experience. Sunday Lyan events with guest bartenders offer a chance to see collaborative creativity, though availability is not detailed.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails range from $19 to $49, with most in the $20s. Boozeless cocktails are $14. Wine by the glass runs $16-$26, and beer is $6-$8.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The program is led by Mr Lyan and his team, known for unique flavor combinations. The menu draws inspiration from D.C. Culture and history, and the bar occupies a former bank vault. Playful items like Jello Shots and Tots & Shots add a casual counterpoint.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
Inventive, globally inspired cocktails with unique ingredients and techniques. Menu includes playful items like Jello Shots and Tots & Shots.
Menu strengths
- — Highly creative and unique cocktail menu with global influences.
Standout selections
- — Hokusai Snap – Fords gin, starfruit fino, bleu curaçao, fuji apple, damson plum EDV ($23)
- — Homer's Heimlich Punch – Siete Misterios mezcal, pechuga, purple potato amazake, strawberry donuts ($21)
- — Checkpoint Charlie Freeze – Cherry Hendrick's, cucumber, concrete, woodruff whip, frozen ($19)
Pricing: $19-$49 for signature cocktails; boozeless versions at $14
Wine
Compact but diverse wine list including white, rosé, Champagne, and red. Offers both by-the-glass and bottle options, with notable picks like Laurent-Perrier and skin-contact Soreli.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse selection including Champagne and skin-contact options.; Offers both by-the-glass and bottle options.
Standout selections
- — Laurent-Perrier La Cuvée Brut Champagne – $26/$104
- — Dourthe N*1 Sauvignon Blanc, Bordeaux – $16/$64
- — Couer de Terre Pinot Noir, Willamette – $22/$88
Pricing: $16-$26 per glass; $64-$104 per bottle
Beer
Small but serviceable beer and cider list with domestic and craft options, including a non-alcoholic choice. Priced affordably.
Menu strengths
- — Offers a mix of classic and craft beers.
Standout selections
- — Miller High Life – $6; Manor Hill Pilsner – $8
Pricing: $6-$8
Nonalcoholic
Thoughtful non-alcoholic program with boozeless versions of signature cocktails at a lower price, plus a non-alcoholic beer. Ideal for designated drivers or abstainers.
Menu strengths
- — Provides non-alcoholic alternatives for several cocktails.; Includes non-alcoholic beer option.
Standout selections
- — The Mighty O. (Boozeless) – $14
- — Wash Bear Cobbler (Boozeless) – $14
Pricing: $14 for boozeless cocktails
Spirits
Extensive use of diverse, global spirits in creative cocktails, including gin, vodka, mezcal, whisky, rum, cognac, tequila, and more. Spirits are integral to the bar's identity.
Menu strengths
- — Extensive use of diverse spirits in creative cocktails.
- — Spirits are integral to the bar's identity and cocktail program.
Standout selections
- — It's Alive! 75 – Patrón reposado, reanimated berry madeira, acorns, pandan absinthe, Champagne
- — Bandit Emperor Fix – Oban 14, mugwort baiju, toasted millet, pomegranate sherbet, maple longan tea
- — Gutenberg Highball – Grey Goose, mulberry leaf, burdock soda, Riesling ink, mint
Pricing: No separate spirits list; spirits are used in cocktails priced $19-$49
How it sits with the food
The menu includes playful items like Tots & Shots, which pair naturally with the bar's inventive cocktails. The globally inspired flavors in drinks like Homer's Heimlich Punch could complement savory snacks, though specific food pairings are not detailed.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
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