The Understudy
Our friendly riverside craft beer bar. Serving sizzling street food from KERB.
From our riverside location on London’s vibrant South Bank, The Understudy serves up an unbeatable line-up of Gipsy Hill beers and guest ales, wine from the best independent makers, spirits by East London Liquor Co. and a curated selection of three KERB street food traders.
Bring your mates and settle into our vibrant indoor bar, or soak up the views on our outdoor terrace.
Look out for regular tap takeovers, special events and limited edition themed dishes.
The Understudy main bar is currently closed and re-opens at 12 noon on Saturday 14 September. The food counter, River Bar and Apothecary Bar will remain open for craft beer, cocktails on tap and tasty street food from our KERB traders
Follow on Instagram @KERBnationaltheatre
Opening times
Monday – Wednesday: 12 noon – 12 midnight (food service until 10pm)
Thursday – Saturday: 12 noon – 1am (food service until 10pm)
Sunday: 12 noon – 10pm (food service until 9pm)
The main bar is currently closed and re-opens at 12 noon on Saturday 14 September. The KERB counter, River Bar and Apothecary Bar will be open during this time.
The Understudy will be closed completely on Sunday 15 and Monday 16 September. We will be re-opening as normal on Tuesday 17 September.
Email: kerb_understudy@ntfoodanddrink.org.uk.
Tel: +44 (0)20 7452 3551
Directions
The Understudy, National Theatre, Upper Ground, SE1 9PX
View a map and get directions
KERB traders at The Understudy
Meltdown Cheeseburgers
Slinging out a range of juicy, oozy burgers, (choose from double smashed beef patty, spiced chicken thigh or vegan patty) – plus rotating monthly specials and loaded beef brisket fries. Beef comes courtesy of Farm Wilder, who prioritise ethical regenerative farming methods.
Sen Noods
Serving up tasty East-Asian ramen bowls and dumplings, plus Japanese fried kitchen and Hong Kong noodles.
Sireli
Translating to ‘my love’ in Armenian, Sireli focuses on delicious, modern Middle-Eastern food, with a selection of flatbread wraps and small plates.
Christmas at The Understudy
Celebrate the festive season
Join us in our South Bank home for seasonal specials from our street food traders, plus mulled wine and other winter warmers.
Tasty packages are available for larger groups (20+), starting from £45pp.
Special offers & events
Student deals: 15% discount
On all food & drinks at The Understudy
Available all day
To redeem this offer, show your student card to The Understudy bar team.
Not available when ordering via QR codes.
The Understudy is turning 10
and we’d love to celebrate with you!
We’ll be serving 2 for £10 anniversary cocktails from 8pm-10pm, samples from your favourite drinks brands and rotating guest beers, plus a DJ playing tunes from the last 10 years.
Join us Friday 18 October, 5pm until late.