A good neighbourhood restaurant can quickly become the go-to destination. A friendly atmosphere, a family feel and good comfort food can is often just what you need to keep coming back, and especially when there’s Italian food! Sotto has recently opened its doors in Edinburgh offering just that and more, and provides a safe haven for foodies and wine lovers alike.
Sotto Enoteca & Trattoria is located on Deanhaugh Street right in the heart of Stockbridge, a perfect place to wander to after browsing at the Stockbridge Farmers Market on a Sunday. As a local business, guests can expect a seasonal menu accompanied by 200 Italian wines to choose from, as well as a range of cocktails.
Secret Edinburgh got the chance to try Sotto, and it is safe to say we will be back. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted with the warmth of terracotta and soft green tones, brought together by bright accent art and a huge wine rack in the corner. Watching life happen behind the bar and into the kitchen is also its own entertainment, putting a whole new meaning to people watching.
Sotto is open from midday until 10pm for both lunch and dinner, with a set lunch menu available as well as a four-course Chef’s selection for dinner. For those opting for lunch, a two-course meal will set you back £19 and a three-course lunch is £23. For the dinner set menu, which is a surprise, the four courses cost £50.
The menu for autumn is just as hearty as you would expect from the Scottish larder. The absolute highlights were the Beef Carpaccio with black garlic, Planeta Olive Oil and Pane Carasau, as well as the Mezze Maniche al Ragù di Cervo: Venison Ragu topped with Pecorino Romano. The freshness of the pasta is evident, officially making it my favourite place in Edinburgh for pasta.
Tiramisu lovers are also in for a treat. Prepare to be delighted by a deconstructed version of the popular dessert, where the biscuits are separated from the mascarpone and espresso.
As for the wine, it is probably worth going to Sotto just for a drink, too. We went with a Soave and a Gavi, which were excellent, and we will need quite a few trips back to try all 200.
Overall, the spot provides Stockbridge with the perfect neighbourhood restaurant with prices that won’t break the bank and good quality food. You should be running, not walking, to Sotto as you’re reading this.