about
Serving South Bank locals, London wanderers, and theatre lovers since day one.
The Understudy is a pub and street food hub based at the iconic National Theatre, with river views, rotating taps, and a buzzing outdoor terrace. We’re here for post-show pints, walk-up hangouts, and lazy afternoons that turn into late ones.
We champion independent food and drink, in partnership with KERB.
Our Story
Opened in 2014, The Understudy has become a go-to hangout for locals, artists, and visitors to London’s South Bank.
Originally created as a laid-back space for National Theatre audiences to unwind, it’s evolved into a vibrant destination in its own right, known for its local, premium and sustainable drinks selection, creative food traders, and riverside atmosphere.
Whether you’re pre-show or prefer hanging backstage, it’s the kind of place people come back to.
Our sustainability promise
We’re serious about how we source and serve. From local breweries and cocktails on tap to carbon-negative beer and ingredients sourced from across the UK, everything at The Understudy is built with sustainability in mind.
We partner with traders and producers who share our values, and we’re always looking for new ways to lower our footprint without lowering the vibe.
KERB+
We’re incredibly proud to support KERB+, a not-for-profit social enterprise founded by our partners, KERB.
The Understudy forms an integral part of the Coaching for Work programme, where we welcome participants to learn vital hospitality skills.
Participants gain hands-on experience in theatre bars, cafés, and logistics, supplemented by regular holistic coaching. This unique blend of pastoral care and experiential learning offers transformative results.
