Seed Library

Tucked beneath the stylish One Hundred Shoreditch hotel, Seed Library is a cocktail sanctuary that redefines minimalism with a warm, analog touch. Created by award-winning mixologist Ryan Chetiyawardana (also known as Mr Lyan), the bar champions low-intervention ingredients and laid-back elegance, offering a refreshing contrast to the high-energy bars of East London.

History & Concept

Opened in 2022, Seed Library is the latest addition to Mr Lyan’s globally acclaimed portfolio. The bar’s ethos is rooted in simplicity, sustainability, and creative freedom. It moves away from over-the-top showmanship and instead focuses on thoughtful, quietly complex drinks that let each ingredient shine. This philosophy gives birth to a menu that feels curated yet spontaneous — much like flipping through an actual seed library.

Design & Atmosphere

Stepping into Seed Library feels like entering a retro recording studio crossed with a 1970s lounge. With its burnt orange tones, wood-paneled walls, and vinyl records playing soulful beats in the background, the space is cozy, dimly lit, and refreshingly intimate. The low seating and soft lighting encourage long conversations and unhurried enjoyment — it’s a place where you sink in and stay awhile.

Seed Library Menu

The Seed Library menu blends inventive cocktail craftsmanship with a rotating selection of seasonal and sustainable ingredients. Expect familiar flavors presented in unexpected ways, as well as a few small bites that complement the drinks without overwhelming them.

Cocktail Menu

• Burnt Pear + Jasmine. A silky mix of roasted pear, jasmine tea, and neutral spirits, this cocktail balances fruit, floral notes, and earthiness.
• Blackcurrant + Beer. Sharp and slightly funky, combining blackcurrant liqueur with a beer distillate for a rich, tangy finish.
• Rye + Cola. A refined take on the classic, using house-fermented cola syrup and rye whiskey for depth and spice.
• Lemon Verbena + Peach. Delicate and bright, this drink captures summer in a glass with herbal undertones and stone fruit sweetness.

Food Menu

While the food offering is minimal, the Seed Library menu includes carefully chosen bar snacks designed to enhance the cocktail experience:

• Pickled cucumbers with sea salt and dill
• Sourdough crisps with whipped smoked butter
• Marinated olives
• Seasonal cheese plate with homemade preserves

Price Level

Seed Library offers a mid-to-premium pricing structure, with cocktails generally ranging between £12–£16. The pricing reflects the quality of the ingredients and the care that goes into crafting each drink, yet the atmosphere remains approachable and unpretentious.

Awards & Recognition

Though relatively new, Seed Library has already drawn acclaim from global publications like Condé Nast Traveller, The World’s 50 Best Discovery, and Time Out London. Ryan Chetiyawardana’s influence alone attracts cocktail aficionados, and the venue has quickly become one of Shoreditch’s most respected bars.

Opening Hours & Guest Policy

• Monday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
• Friday to Saturday: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
• Sunday: Closed

Guests must be 18+ to enter. The bar operates a relaxed smart-casual dress code and encourages walk-ins, though groups of 6 or more are advised to book.

Reservations

While walk-ins are always welcome, online reservations are available for groups or those looking to secure a cozy table on busier nights. Bookings can be made via the official website.

Why Visit?

Seed Library offers a cocktail experience unlike any other in London — soulful, slow-paced, and artfully understated. Whether you’re a seasoned drinker or a curious explorer, the bar invites you to engage with flavor in a more personal, thoughtful way. It’s perfect for intimate dates, quiet conversations, or simply discovering what a cocktail can truly be when stripped down to its essence.