olea - New Haven

Olea is our favorite restaurant in the area. The food is delicious and very inventive with flavors and wines you don't find anywhere else. You can tell Chef Romero is passionate about his culinary creations and the outstanding flavors, taste, and plating derives from the love he puts into every dish. We can't wait to return.

Attended a friend's birthday celebration and had an unpleasant experience. The management treated us poorly, creating an unwelcoming atmosphere from the coat check to encounters with the apparent manager. While taking photos by the bar, we were asked to move aside, despite our efforts to be considerate. Even at our table, we were told not to take photos due to alleged disturbance to other guests. When we requested to take photos by an empty wall, the request was denied, contributing to our discomfort. Feeling unwelcome, we chose to leave, tipping our waiter, and opted for a more accommodating experience at Siena restaurant in the Blake Hotel. While I hesitate to label the initial place as racist, an uncomfortable vibe was undeniable.

Always a great dining experience at this restaurant

Celebrating my friend's first wedding anniversary, we chose Olea for its promise of a delightful dining experience. Our visit on a Thursday evening at 7 PM was off to a fortuitous start with a parking spot directly in front of the establishment. Olea welcomed us with an ambiance that was both elegant and comfortable. Our party of four embarked on a culinary adventure, sharing an array of dishes including ceviche mixto, tartar de atun, the chef's daily fish selection, and cochinillo. The ceviche mixto was particularly to my liking, while my wife and her friend were impressed with both the fish selection and the cochinillo. Each dish affirmed Olea's commitment to excellent cuisine, with no single choice falling short of our expectations. The service paralleled the quality of our meal, characterized by attentive and insightful recommendations from our waiter, enhancing our experience. For those new to Olea, soliciting the staff's favorites is a practice I'd endorse. My rating for Olea stands at a well-deserved 5 out of 5. The restaurant has earned a return visit from me whenever I'm seeking a welcoming atmosphere and a meal that satisfies the senses.

What a great experience. The food service were extraordinary.