Understory

Understory, signature cocktails in an Edinburgh basement

Understory is a cocktail bar and kitchen located in the basement of Edinburgh, at 1A Rutland Place, EH1 2AD. The venue occupies historic vaults and its name refers to the hidden layer beneath the forest canopy, a space where life quietly thrives below the surface. The establishment opens seven days a week.

The lab: ferments, shrubs and cordials

The drinks offering is built around its own lab installed in the vaults, where the team makes the ingredients that are then used in its menu. Among the house-made preparations are ferments, shrubs and cordials. The house presents this dedication to cocktails with a light-hearted attitude: drinks are taken seriously, but very little else.

Food and short menu

Alongside the drinks offering, Understory serves a short food menu. The website organises its content into three main sections: drinks, food and the lab.

Opening hours

The bar opens Sunday to Thursday from 5pm to 1am, and Friday and Saturday from 5pm to 3am.

Bookings

The venue offers the possibility of booking a table through its website.

Location and contact

1A Rutland Place, Edinburgh EH1 2AD