Understory is an award-winning worker-owned and community-built restaurant grounded in collective action where we use food, culture, and collaboration as tools for resistance.

In an industry defined by exploitation—where workers are underpaid, overworked, and excluded from decision-making—we are carving a different path deeply rooted in solidarity, cooperation, self-determination, and community care.

We are majority queer owned, offering a vibrant and inclusive space where everyone can enjoy themselves, connect, and build community resilience.

OUR VIBRANT FLAVORS

Understory's menu is a curation of offerings that celebrate the labor and culinary traditions unique to our Collective Members' backgrounds.

Our menus are influenced by the seasons, with a strong emphasis on  inclusion of vegan and gluten-free offerings.

COMMUNITY OFFERING

We offer a pay-what-you-can dish on all of our menus for all to enjoy regardless of ability to pay. Our current Community Offering is Lugaw - a savory rice porridge with mushrooms, scallions, and chili oil.

NO ONE WILL BE TURNED AWAY FOR LACK OF FUNDS.