Emma Mykytyn A new underground cocktail bar is preparing to open in Edinburgh’s West End, promising innovative drinks, playful food and a nostalgic twist.
Understory will open to the public on Tuesday 15th September 2026. Hidden inside the historic vaults beneath The Rutland building, the venue describes itself as a “five-star dive bar” combining creative cocktails with relaxed, friendly hospitality.
The new Edinburgh cocktail bar will be led by former Bramble manager Sam Baxendale and The Rutland’s head of bars, James Grant.
Experienced Edinburgh bartenders behind Understory
General manager Sam Baxendale brings more than 21 years of hospitality experience to the new venue. His career includes roles at several well-known Edinburgh bars and restaurants, including Monteiths and Bon Vivant.
He also spent five years running Bramble, regularly recognised as one of the world’s leading cocktail bars.
James Grant has worked at The Rutland for four years and was promoted to head of bars in 2026. He has competed in numerous UK drinks competitions, finishing second in the UK Italicus competition and becoming a finalist in events organised by Nc’nean, Jameson, Sipsmith and Kilchoman.
“We want Understory to become a part of Edinburgh’s hospitality culture — to be on people’s list when they think of what places to recommend,” said Sam.
James added: “I’m excited to see this project come to life and share it with people. It feels like we’re making a bar for the right reason.”
Cocktails inspired by childhood memories
Understory takes its name from the layer of plants and wildlife growing beneath a forest canopy, reflecting the bar’s hidden location below Edinburgh’s streets.
Inside, guests can expect rich colours, opulent textures, contemporary lighting, neon details and touches of maximalist design.
The cocktail bar also has its own laboratory, where the team will create many of the ingredients used across the drinks menu from scratch.
Understory’s rotating cocktail menus will be based around different nostalgic themes. Its opening collection, titled Batch 01: Halcyon Days, takes inspiration from British childhood memories.
Expect the colours, aromas and flavours of penny sweets and half-remembered summer holidays to be transformed into modern but approachable cocktails. The team promises inventive drinks without an overly serious attitude.
Chicken tenders with Champagne
A bold small-plates menu has been created to complement the cocktails and continue the bar’s playful “five-star dive bar” theme.
Dishes will include:
Beef tartare and caviar served with crisps
Barbecue corn ribs
Chicken tenders served with Champagne
The combination of high-end ingredients and familiar comfort food is intended to reflect Understory’s relaxed but luxurious identity.
£100,000 investment in Edinburgh’s West End
Understory follows a £100,000 investment by Edinburgh-based Signature Group. The new opening is expected to support 15 local jobs.
Mike Lewis, director of The Rutland, said the team had spent six months developing the concept.
“We describe it as a ‘five-star dive bar’ — incredibly modern, innovative drinks without the fuss, underpinned by what we believe is the sometimes-forgotten art of genuine hospitality,” he said.
“We’ve brought together an amazing team to create something exciting and different for Edinburgh’s West End, and I genuinely believe Understory will be one of the most exciting new bars in Edinburgh to open in 2026.”
Where is Understory in Edinburgh?
Understory is located at 1A Rutland Street in Edinburgh’s West End, a short walk from the West End tram stop, Princes Street, George Street and Edinburgh Castle.
The bar occupies the historic vaults beneath The Rutland, an Edwardian landmark that is also home to The Huxley, Kyloe steak restaurant and The Rutland’s boutique hotel rooms and apartments.
Understory opening hours
Understory will open seven days a week from Tuesday 15th September 2026.
Sunday to Thursday: 4pm–1am
Friday and Saturday: 4pm–3am
For further information, visit the Understory website or follow Understory on Instagram
