Edinburgh’s new ‘five-star dive bar’ Understory has officially opened its doors on Rutland Street in the city’s West End.
Led by former Bramble manager, Sam Baxendale, and the Rutland Hotel’s head of bars, James Grant, Understory takes its name from the hidden layer beneath the forest canopy – a place where life quietly thrives below the surface.
Baxendale, said: “Understory is officially open and welcoming guests.
“Some have asked how we’ve managed to turn this project around so quickly? It’s down to the hard work, dedication and excitement of the team. We hope this is felt when you visit us!”
Understory is carved into the vaults below a classic Edwardian building, which is also home to a range of other venues, including The Rutland’s boutique hotel rooms and apartments, The Huxley bar and Kyloe steak restaurant.
The new cocktail bar has its own on-site lab where the mixologist team craft many of the ingredients used in the drinks menu.
For customers, the interior offers ‘rich and opulent colours and, with a dash of maximalist design, modern ambient lighting and neons.
The rotating cocktail menu concept has been built around nostalgia.
The debut chapter, ‘Batch 01: Halcyon Days’, draws on British childhood memories. The colours, flavours and aromas of penny sweets have been reimagined through ‘contemporary but approachable drinks’ and a menu that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
To accompany, there’s a bold and punchy small plates menu, featuring beef tartare and caviar served with crisps; barbecue corn ribs; and chicken tenders served with Champagne.
Following a major £100,000 investment by Signature Group, Understory now supports 15 local jobs.
It is open seven days a week, 4pm until 1am Sunday to Thursday, and 4pm to 3am on Fridays and Saturdays.
