In the stacks

Seed Library (Nomad)

BARS • First Round

One of the most exciting new bar openings in New York City since Sip & Guzzle debuted in early 2024 is Seed Library, which opened last month in the basement of Hotel Park Ave, brought to the city by London’s legendary bar operator Ryan Chetiyawardana (better known as Mr Lyan). With a refined speakeasy vibe, the bar’s sexy orange glow, modern lines, tan upholstery, and polished wood accents create a warm, intimate atmosphere where each table feels deliberately secluded.

The drinks are exceptional, creative without veering into the overly experimental, and clearly the result of meticulous, high-effort preparation. Take the C.R.E.A.M. Margarita: Lalo tequila, mezcal, a chile-and-passionfruit atom, lime, and clarified cream. The result is a rich, full-bodied margarita with just the right amount of spice to add depth and intrigue.

Seed Library’s signature Unfiltered Martini pushes the boundaries of classic cocktail technique, combining Haku vodka with fermented potato. Cloudy, aromatic, and texturally creamy, it delivers a completely new martini experience without sacrificing balance or elegance. To finish, the Koji Hardshake is a knockout: Johnnie Walker Black, miso, koji, cream sugar, and a touch of lemon for brightness. Garnished with a torched marshmallow, it’s simultaneously nostalgic and inventive — fittingly, much like this bar. –Lee Pitofsky

→ Seed Library (Nomad) • 51 E 30th St • Sun-Thu 5p-12a, Fri-Sat 5p-1a • Reserve.