Beneath Edinburgh's bustling Stockbridge high street, Sotto + Edinburgh emerges as the city's most authentic Italian enoteca and trattoria, where over 200 carefully curated Italian wines rest in a hidden cellar that gives the restaurant its evocative name—'sotto' meaning 'under' in Italian. This dual-level destination represents sommelier James Clark's passionate vision of bringing genuine Italian hospitality to Scotland's capital.

Opened in October 2024, Sotto honors both Italian tradition and local heritage, thoughtfully replacing the beloved 56-year-old Ping On restaurant while maintaining connections to the community that made Stockbridge home. Clark, an Edinburgh-born sommelier with extensive experience in Australia's wine regions, partnered with Calabrian head chef Francesco Ascrizzi, whose impressive pedigree includes acclaimed Edinburgh establishments like Divino Enoteca, Tipo, and Mark Greenaway. Together, they've created something rare: an Italian restaurant that feels genuinely transported from the peninsula itself.

The cuisine philosophy centers on classical Italian techniques elevated by Scotland's exceptional seasonal produce. Ascrizzi's menu showcases signature dishes like Gnocco fritto with Culatello, handmade Tagliatelle with porcini mushrooms, and Aberdeen Angus carpaccio with radicchio and gorgonzola. The chef's tasting option 'Fai Tu' delivers a four-course feast designed for sharing, while weekend brunch features truffle polenta with wild mushrooms and fontina. Each dish reflects the marriage of Italian tradition with Scottish terroir, creating a menu that evolves with the seasons while maintaining authentic Italian soul.

The experience unfolds across two distinct levels, each offering its own charm. The bright, 25-seat Enoteca upstairs buzzes with morning espresso service, aperitivi, and casual wine tastings around marble-topped counters. Descending to the 36-cover Trattoria reveals an intimate dining room wrapped in warm wood paneling, deep green banquettes, and a distinctive cork ceiling. The private dining room accommodates eight guests for exclusive wine experiences, while the legendary cellar houses Clark's comprehensive collection spanning every Italian region.

What distinguishes Sotto in Edinburgh's competitive fine dining landscape is its unwavering commitment to Italian authenticity. The predominantly Italian staff share genuine passion for their homeland's culinary traditions, while Clark's wine program offers both education and discovery. Guests can purchase bottles to take home alongside house-made Sott'Olio preserves and Italian pantry essentials. Regular wine tasting events transform casual diners into devoted oenophiles.

Reservations at Sotto book quickly, particularly for weekend brunch and evening Trattoria service. The restaurant welcomes both casual wine bar visits and planned dining experiences, though securing a table in the intimate downstairs space requires advance planning. For Edinburgh's most genuine Italian experience, Sotto delivers la dolce vita without leaving Scotland.