11/13/08

will return if I'm ever in the neighborhood again...

by teknodogg

We have been here 1 time. The patio is nice but it was cold so we sat inside. it's a very

relaxed, comfy envrionment, the deco was pretty nice, there was a guitarist playing the whole time and singing...which was really great. we enjoyed a few small dishes and the sangria. The server did seem a bit cold.

• Pros: deco, mood, food choices
• Cons: pricey, cold servers

09/22/08

Romantic, Chic, Delicious and Flavorful

by kiki723

I have visited the restaurant several times over the last 6 months or so. At first I was a little daunted at the expansive menu catering to a wealth of Mediteranian dishes from the north coasts of Africa to the regions of Spain and Italy to the Isles of Greece. Never have I seen such a veriety in a Meditteranian restaurant and it be done so well on every level.

The tappas are flavorful, especially the crab acras with its creamy and decadent sauce and the potato wrapped shrimp that had a crispy jacket of paper thin potato strips wrapped around succulent jumbo shrimp. The main courses are a rare treat, especially when you order a special item like the roast lamb, or flame grilled herbed steak or one of Chef Joshua Gurvey's daily items and it comes out to you seasoned superbly [I have never had anything served to me at this place that was over seasoned or under seasoned and this is very rare I find in todays retaurant industry] and cooked to perfection. They actually know what medium rare is supposed to look and taste like here! The salads are perfect for lunch or a light dinner, I especially like the salad of tomoatoes, cucumbers and black olives in a light oil-herb sauce-clean yet still flavorful. The ceaser dressing is the best I have tasted anywhere, here in Dallas or in my travels throughout the US.

Desserts: what can I say about something that is so decadent, so rich, and yet you want more? The tiramisu is the first one that I would try if it is your first time to the place. Rich and creamy, without too much coffee flavor or too much chocolate, it is perfectly balanced and the presentation with the chocolate espresso beans is delightful to the eye as well as the palate. Chef Gurvey also makes one of the best chocolate mousses around!

This is not the type of place to bring young children and in fact one night was almost ruined by a youngster screaming except for the expert handling of the staff. Get a sitter and bring your loved one here for romance!

• Pros: Quality of Food and Variety

07/21/08

A wonderful place to experience

by Elenastx

The first time I visited Olea was for a birthday party I organized. This was a new restaurant and I did not know what to expect. I spoke with the manager and took a leap of faith? The service has exceeded all my expectations and the menu was excellent. The staff was amazing at managing a large party and very accommodating to our needs. A terrific experience!

My second visit was for a dinner on a week night. We were equally impressed with the service, atmosphere and quality food. For me, Olea would always be a perfect place for a special occasion.