Expanding the Content:
A new ‘neighbourhood Enoteca and Trattoria’ is set to grace the streets of Edinburgh next month, offering a tantalizing selection of over 200 Italian wines to entice the palate of wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike. The establishment, aptly named Sotto, draws its inspiration from the Italian word for ‘under’, a nod to the hidden wine cellar nestled beneath Stockbridge high street that houses its extensive wine collection. Opening its doors to the public on Wednesday, October 2, Sotto promises a unique dining experience that seamlessly blends modern and traditional wine styles to showcase the diverse regions of Italy.
The brainchild behind this exciting venture is Edinburgh-born sommelier James Clark, whose illustrious career in the hospitality industry has seen him honing his craft at some of the city’s most esteemed restaurants, including Divino Enoteca and The Palmerston. With a passion for Italian food, wine, and culture that has blossomed over the past decade, Clark is eager to share his interpretation of the warmth and hospitable nature synonymous with Italy through Sotto.
Delving into the Culinary Experience:
Sotto, located on Deanhaugh Street, offers a multi-faceted culinary experience spread across two floors. The upstairs Enoteca beckons guests to indulge in a diverse array of wines, while the downstairs Trattoria, helmed by Calabrian head chef Francesco Ascrizzi, promises a feast for the senses. Ascrizzi, who brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at notable Italian restaurants in Edinburgh, such as Divino Enoteca, Mono, and Tipo, showcases his culinary prowess by combining seasonal British produce with classical Italian cookery.
The menu at Sotto is a culinary tapestry that celebrates the best ingredients from both countries. Diners can tantalize their taste buds with dishes like Tagliatelle with porcini, Mezze maniche with venison ragù, Lamb shoulder with artichokes and lentils, and Sole with caper butter and salsa verde. For dessert, options include Marsala poached pear with sweet ricotta, cannoli, or ‘Zuppa Inglese’ with Alchermes liqueur and crema pasticciera. Additionally, guests can opt for the ‘Fai Tu’ experience, where the chef curates a four-course feasting-style meal for sharing.
The Sotto Experience and Beyond:
Beyond the delectable culinary offerings, Sotto aims to provide a holistic experience for its patrons. The wine bar, seating 25 guests, will host complimentary tastings every other Thursday evening, showcasing a specific producer, region, or grape variety. Guests can enjoy the wines on pour throughout the evening and even take home their favorites. Moreover, the restaurant will serve as an espresso bar during weekday mornings, transitioning into an Italian-influenced brunch spot on weekends, featuring dishes like Truffle polenta with wild mushrooms and fontina cheese, Frittata di pasta, and Brioche with gelato.
Clark expresses his excitement about opening Sotto in Stockbridge, a neighborhood he has called home for the past decade. He acknowledges the vibrant food and drink scene in the area, noting that it is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. By joining this dynamic community, Sotto hopes to add its unique flavor to the culinary landscape of Edinburgh.
As the countdown to the opening of Sotto begins, James Clark and his team are gearing up to welcome guests into their realm of Italian culinary delights and exquisite wines. Sotto invites diners to embark on a gastronomic journey that celebrates the richness and diversity of Italian cuisine, promising an experience that is both memorable and enchanting.
For more information and to plan your visit to Sotto, located at 28 to 32 Deanhaugh Street, Edinburgh, visit www.sottoedinburgh.com.