One of the great joys of working in Stockbridge is watching the neighbourhood’s world-class food scene evolve. At Cullerton’s, we’re always keen to champion the local businesses, old and new, that make our neighbourhood so unique.
This month, our property consultant Stephen is highlighting a personal favourite that has quickly become the talk of the town: Sotto Enoteca & Trattoria.
We sat down with Sotto’s owner, James Clark, to discuss his “love letter to Italy,” his eclectic wine list (which Stephen here at Cullerton’s can personally vouch for), and why his team is the real reason why people keep coming back for more.
Here are some words from James Clark about Sotto Enoteca & Trattoria.
1. Tell us about some history around Sotto, how and when it started, why it started?
I took over the old Ping On in June 2023, and started on what was basically a one year renovation. The Ping On was an institution in Stockbridge, but the site required a lot of work, which helped to build anticipation I think. We eventually opened in October 2024. People often ask me why, and I always say Sotto is my love letter to a country and cuisine that I’ve completely fallen in love with.
2. What is the ethos behind Sotto?
I was inspired by casual but quality Italian restaurants in London, and actually from my time living in Adelaide. The Aussies do relaxed-but-refined very very well. I want people to be able to come and eat something delicious, drink fantastic wine, and enjoy being in a beautiful space without feeling they have to dress or behave in a certain way. Everything we do is very relaxed. The food is traditional and regional Italian, a mix of classic dishes and things that you might find less often on these shores. The wine list is eclectic too; a mixture of classical producers and more modern, minimal intervention styles. Stephen has tried most of them!!!
“People often ask me why, and I always say Sotto is my love letter to a country and cuisine that I’ve completely fallen in love with.” – James Clark of Sotto.
3. Any particularly interesting wines currently being stocked, and what makes them special?
Borgogno ‘No Name’ 2019 Langhe Nebbiolo. A wine that tells a story of protest against bureaucracy in the most Italian way possible, but also a bargain as it wasn’t able to be classified as a Barolo. Come in for a glass and I’ll tell you the story!
4.What draws people to Sotto, and why do they come back?
The team of people I am so fortunate to have. Our waiters treat our regulars like members of their family, and whilst I think our food and drink offer is wonderful, and the restaurant itself is beautiful, people come back for the service we offer.
28-32 Deanhaugh Street, Edinburgh, EH4 1LY
in**@************gh.com
0131 332 3621
https://www.instagram.com/sottoedinburgh/
https://www.instagram.com/jamesieclark/
