Dandelyan

Dandelyan London, a bar at 20 Upper Ground in London, was named World's Best Bar in 2018 and became known for Ryan 'Mr. Lyan' Chetiyawardana's botanical cocktail program and Tom Dixon's design. This well-known Mondrian London bar transformed the intimidating aura of traditional hotel lounges into an accessible yet sophisticated neighborhood gathering place within a five-star setting. Dandelyan's story began with an ambitious vision: 'The Modern Life of Plants.

' Chetiyawardana, already celebrated for his groundbreaking White Lyan concept, created a bar that challenged every convention of luxury hospitality. The team, including influential bartenders Iain Griffiths, James Wheeler, and Will Meredith, developed a program that explored botany's role in drinks, culture, and society. Their innovative approach earned global recognition, culminating in Dandelyan being crowned World's Best Bar at The World's 50 Best Bars in 2018. The cocktail menu at this London cocktail bar pushed boundaries through unusual, sometimes foraged or lab-created ingredients that made 'weird ingredients more relatable.

' Each drink featured tasting notes and backstories. The signature Diamond Daisy reflected Dandelyan's inventive spirit. Premium craft cocktails utilized botanical explorations that demystified complex flavors, with menus featuring surreal botanical illustrations in vivid, unconventional colors that reinforced the bar's distinctive identity. Tom Dixon's interior design created a green and gold palette with plush pink serpentine sofas, brass and walnut accents, and forest-green velvet.

The striking design balanced opulence with approachability, while the Thames-side location provided a strong sense of place. Service remained intentionally informal despite the luxurious surroundings, with the team prioritizing storytelling and education. The atmosphere buzzed with energy, enhanced by an unconventional soundtrack that included everything from ambient sounds to Black Sabbath. Dandelyan's legacy extends far beyond its closure, having redefined what luxury bars London could offer.

The bar's collaborative approach included hosting seminars and industry events. Smart casual dress code welcomed guests seeking cocktail innovation. Though Dandelyan closed and later became Lyaness, its influence on modern mixology and hospitality continues to shape London's bar culture.