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Olives - Charlestown Reviews List
Olives - Charlestown
Located in the heart of Charlestown, MA, overlooking City Square Park, Chef Todd English invites you to experience the Rebirth of his flagship Olives Restaurant. The newly refurbished dining room is now anchored by a 45-seat square mahogany bar guarded by dual carved eagle heads, and boasts a rustic six-seat chef's table, solid oak wood panels from nearby St. Mary's Church, and pendant lights that resemble glass water jugs hung upside down.
The menu consists of some of Chef English's trademark rustic Mediterranean cuisine., with a twist & delicious new items, including a variety of small plates, great for sharing.
See more Olives - Charlestown details
The menu consists of some of Chef English's trademark rustic Mediterranean cuisine., with a twist & delicious new items, including a variety of small plates, great for sharing.
172 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Rating Breakdown 172 reviews
5 stars
(48)
4 stars
(81)
3 stars
(23)
2 stars
(19)
1 star
(1)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.1
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
3.5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- neighborhood gem(87)
- fit for foodies(82)
- vibrant bar scene(69)
- special occasion(63)
- hot spot(45)
- notable wine list(30)
Olives - Charlestown Reviews List
Review 1 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Olives has really changed since re-opening and in my view, not for the better. The space is more open but is louder and frankly looks like a pop-up restaurant and somewhat temporary. The service was bad - hard to get a beer at the bar and waiter just forgot about everything. The food wasnt as good as it used to be. Just a sad decline to a place that once was one of our favorites to visit and now is just another good place to eat."
Dined on 5/18/2013
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Review 2 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Too bad
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Been a long time since I've been. Way off their game. Food was over-seasoned and very salty. Too bad they have fallen so far."
Dined on 5/15/2013
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Review 3 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Wonderful Food - too loud to enjoy
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Olives is like a bad habit to me. I am drawn back because their food is so good - not as exceptional as it use to be but still very good. Every time, however, I end up running out the front door desperate for relief from the jarring pounding noise of the place. They use to have good desserts - I wouldn't know now since I can't bear to sit there another minute after finishing my meal. If their tables were full, I might think they wanted the turnover - but this past Friday at 8:00 the place was only half full."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene
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Review 4 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Diner was great
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Went with my wife for dinner it was quiet so we were a bit apprehensive but we were very pleasantly surprised. The food was very good and it was fun to watch the guys working in the kitchen. WOuld defiantly recommend we will be back."
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 5 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
my new go to place
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Olives has become a go to place for me. I tried their burger special. For $25 I had a delicious wedge salad loaded with bacon and blue cheese, a kobe beef burger that came with truffle fries (they even make the buns at the restaurant) and a pint of any beer that they offer on tap. What a great deal apparently they offer this special every Monday night I might have found my new spot to go to on Mondays."
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 6 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service and food was fantastic
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Service and food was fantastic the night we went. The restaurant is very loud and we had a hard time hearing our server. The management team was superb and wanted to make sure we were having a good dining experience. Would recommend Olive's highly."
Dined on 04/26/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 7 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
My food was indelible and
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"My food was indelible and the service was painfully slow."
Dined on 04/27/2013
2007
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 8 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
food was great. Staff was
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"food was great. Staff was very accommodating as the number of people who were going to join us kept changing. The chef table next to the kitchen was nice. My only complaint was that the noise level was unbearable loud. I enjoy a busy and somewhat noisy environment, but I could not hear my friends at all. I felt like an old person and my hearing is fine. I left with a hoarse voice because I was talking so loud and still we could not hear each other."
Dined on 04/26/2013
2006
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Review 9 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Olives is my and my wife's
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Olives is my and my wife's favorite special occasion dining spot. We have visited about a half a dozen times and have never been disappointed! On most occasions I have booked through "OpenTable" and have found that to be a very helpful, easy to use, and an effective way to make dining reservations."
Dined on 04/14/2013
2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 10 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Consistently good.
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Aucostics poor in this building. Food was good and consistantly so. Good service,nice variety."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2006
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Review 11 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Our main course was delivered
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Our main course was delivered to us three times - cold the first time,, very-overcooked (and probably just microwaved)the second time, and only a half-order the thrid time (they said they were running out of that dish). We chose to finish our wine and leave. We had a decent salad and appetizer but never did have dinner. It is certainly not the standard of the Olives of the past. WIll not go back!"
Dined on 04/11/2013
2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene
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Review 12 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent food, and the service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Excellent food, and the service was outstanding."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 13 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
So disappointing - service
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"So disappointing - service was awful, food just ok and extremely loud."
Dined on 04/13/2013
2010
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Review 14 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The food was great. We had
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The food was great. We had a family style meal that was shared between 4 of us. From appetizers to deserts we were not disappointed. Portions were perfect, wait staff was knowledgeable and very attentative without interrupting our time with friends."
Dined on 04/07/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 15 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
went with three good friends.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
"went with three good friends. It's been a long time since I had such a great time at such a great restaurant! We sat and talked and ate till closing. what a gem!"
Dined on 04/07/2013
2005
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 16 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We went with a Google offer
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We went with a Google offer (3 course meal for 2). The food was good, as well as service. The place has a feel of a neighborhood restaurant, as everyone seemed to know each other. While the food was good, as I don't live in Charlestown, the location was not. Parking was tricky - thankfully we found a $6 parking garage. All around the restaurant is resident parking, and the valet is an excessive $16."
Dined on 04/05/2013
2008
Special Features: good for groups, hot spot
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Review 17 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Blanca is an excellent server!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Blanca is an excellent server! Really enjoyed the chef's table too. Get the meatballs app!"
Dined on 04/06/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 18 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food, great service.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food, great service. A little loud, but understandable on a Friday night. Would definitely come back!"
Dined on 04/05/2013
2010
Special Features: romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 19 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Wish I could love it...
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Not kid friendly and Im on the fence if "people friendly" (you need be or smite as rich, or a local or regular. Carpaccio was excellent but the $$$ entrees came out cold + our sons margherita flatbread left a lot to be desired... the bread was soggy overwhelmed by the sauce that tasted a bit like boxed pizza sauce. Our server Gina was wonderful, but considering the price tag (which probably isn't as shocking to the majority of the patrons they cater to assume affluent Bostonians and business crowd) I expect a bit more spot on / on point for our money. We have been known to spend $200 + on a weekend meal out. Ive plunked $1200 for a group of 8-10 with fabulous wines. Desserts good, but overall underwhelming..."
Dined on 04/06/2013
2004
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Review 20 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
visiting from GA
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"A lively bar seen but our table by the open kitchen allowed us to talk and watch the chefs at work.
Loved the Lobster chowder and Rock Shrimp tart (more like a pizza). The Tuna Tartare was also a treat."
Loved the Lobster chowder and Rock Shrimp tart (more like a pizza). The Tuna Tartare was also a treat."
Dined on 04/01/2013
2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 21 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
1st time guest. Always heard
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"1st time guest. Always heard good things and finally got a chance to try it. Food and service were wonderful, even though it was Easter and early in service. There will definitely be more visits."
Dined on 03/31/2013
2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 22 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent food and terrific service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My daughter and I had Easter Sunday dinner at Olives and selected the Chef's special four course dinner. It was family style where everyone in the party gets the same entree. The first course consisted of three appetizers: veal meatballs in mashed potatoes, spicy calamari and a Caesar salad. Second course was pasta in a pesto sauce with pulled pork. The main entree was lamb over a bed of garlic spinah with oven roasted potatoes. The finale was peanut butter ice cream with homemade dark and white chocolate chip cookies.. The food was incredibly delicious and the portions were very generous. We left with leftovers from every course. The wait staff was also very friendly and attentive. I highly recommend Olives restaurant in Charlestown."
Dined on 03/31/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 23 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Amazing food. Great view
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Amazing food. Great view of City Square and the Zakim Bridge. Everyone from the hostess to the waiter to the busboy was very warm and friendly. The one negative was the noise level -- specifically, the bassy music. If they can't turn down the volume, they should at least make it less boomy."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, scenic view
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Review 24 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Amazing food and ambiance
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Amazing food and ambiance - will definitely be going back!"
Dined on 03/29/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 25 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A place to go back to...
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This has become a neighborhood favorite for us for two reasons...the bar ambience, and the food. Since redoing Olives more than a year ago, owners have enlarged the bar area and reduced seated tables, which as far as I'm concerned, makes if a livelier venue. The food is wonderful, although it can be spotty. I ordered canneloni, which was really delicious, but I have had it when the plate was overwrought. Still, I think they learn from their mistakes because it has been great since then. Service, especially at the bar, is the best. Just when you think they're not paying attention, they are...more water, a wine refill, or a dessert menu. We love the place!"
Dined on 03/29/2013
2003
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 26 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Nice to have Olives back
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Had a great time food and service were top notch. We will return."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 27 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Olives rises again
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This was the first time back to Olives since it reopened. The food was great just as good as I remembered it the service was equally good. It was a bit noisy but that is part of what the place is (perfect place to go with a group of friends. There is a quiet back room if you are in the mood for a romantic dinner as well. Just glad that it is back and better than ever."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 28 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
It was my first time back
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"It was my first time back since Olives reopened. Food was excellent!"
Dined on 03/28/2013
2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 29 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
I had high expectations but
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I had high expectations but was disappointed. Service was very good though."
Dined on 03/26/2013
2008
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Review 30 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
This new incarnation is only
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"This new incarnation is only a shadow of the original. The food had too much going on, and the flavors were muddled."
Dined on 03/24/2013
2005
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Review 31 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Had been wanting to try out
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Had been wanting to try out Olives since it re-opened, but never got around to it. Went there with a group of four for restaurant week. The food was very good. We all had the lamb tacos for an appetizer, and we all really enjoyed them. Two of us had the salmon and the other two had the sirloin followed by the chocolate cake and warm cookies/gelato. We all went away full and satisfied. Would definitely go there again."
Dined on 03/24/2013
2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 32 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great to have Olives back. The
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great to have Olives back.
The food is top notch, we had the pheasant ravioli and the
ox tail, both delicious.Drinks are generously poured and the wines,
even by the glass are very good. The service is terrific!
The noise level is very high, possibly one of the noisiest
restaurants I've ever eaten in,the waitress really had to practically
shout in our ear to talk about the menu.I love rock music, but I don't love
it as the soundtrack for dinner."
The food is top notch, we had the pheasant ravioli and the
ox tail, both delicious.Drinks are generously poured and the wines,
even by the glass are very good. The service is terrific!
The noise level is very high, possibly one of the noisiest
restaurants I've ever eaten in,the waitress really had to practically
shout in our ear to talk about the menu.I love rock music, but I don't love
it as the soundtrack for dinner."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 33 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The pasta portions are too
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The pasta portions are too small but otherwise the food was great. A little too noisy, could probably do without the loud music and change it up to lighter classics."
Dined on 03/23/2013
2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 34 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
While the service was outstanding
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"While the service was outstanding - the "new" Olives did not measure up to the "old" Olives. Perhaps I have romanticized it from days past, but the ambiance of the renovated space has eliminated the specialness that used to exist - a TV in the dining area? - and the food, while good, is no longer great. All in all, likely worthy of a regular local destination, but no longer "worth the special trip" vs. other great options in Cambridge and Boston. Which is sad because it used to be a favorite destination out, but I guess Todd has focused his efforts elsewhere on his growing empire."
Dined on 03/20/2013
2006
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Review 35 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Loved our Valentine's Day Meal
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"My wife and I went on Valentine's Day and had a wonderful meal. We had never been to the restaurant before but we really enjoyed every part of the meal. We loved the appetizer, main course and dessert.
We will go again."
Dined on 02/14/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 36 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food was delicious. Waitress
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food was delicious. Waitress was very friendly and helpful. Will be going back."
Dined on 03/06/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 37 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Underrated! Believe it or not
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
"I went here expecting to have a good experience, but I must say I was impressed. I was able to park for free on Chelsea st (always a plus). The interior was an elegant dark oak. Starting off with deliciously warm chewy bread with caramelized onions, we got the mortadella tart which was very well executed with ricotta. For entrees I got the Osso Buco with Risotto, this was a huge portion (especially for a T. English) the veal was literally melting of the bone, the bone had plenty of the decadent bone marrow, the risotto was almost perfect. My date had the swordfish on a bed of orzo, she said it was the best swordfish she ever had, it was about 3/4 of an inch thick, seasoned charred exterior and moist interior, perfectly cooked!"
Dined on 03/12/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 38 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Loved eating here in the shadow
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Loved eating here in the shadow of the Leonard Zakim Bridge. We had veal meatballs as an app which came sitting in a bed of mashed potatoes in a cast iron pan. I had the duck, my husband had the Lobster Fra Diavolo. They were both cooked perfectly and were wonderfully tasty."
Dined on 03/10/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, scenic view, hot spot
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Review 39 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Was here when this was Tod's
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Was here when this was Tod's first... and he was on NBT with a food show...amazing stuff...
now...the flagship has been left behind...which is just part of the change...it's fine...smoothy sailing mate..."
now...the flagship has been left behind...which is just part of the change...it's fine...smoothy sailing mate..."
Dined on 03/08/2013
2006
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Review 40 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Always a "special" experience,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Always a "special" experience, both food and service."
Dined on 03/06/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 41 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The food is always excellent
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food is always excellent at Olives. In fact a frugal eater can go here on a date (with an understanding partner) and order the mussels and Mac and cheese side plate and be stuffed and happy for $20 or so. This is one of the best places I have found found for mussels - the broth the fingerling potatoes and linguica."
Dined on 03/05/2013
2009
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 42 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Food was way too salty ...salad
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food was way too salty ...salad and the filet migon. Could not cut the brocolli. Waiter said they coated it with salt on both sides before the cook it. Why I'll never know, would rather enjoy the flavor of the meat instead of salt for $39. It would have been nice to have a garnish like a lemon twist with my lemon drop martini. All in all it wasn't bad. Way too expensive for quality of food and lack of ambiance. Dishes were dropped three times while we were there between 5-7pm. May be because the tables are too small. The place needs an upgrade in all areas. Sorry."
Dined on 03/04/2013
2008
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Review 43 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Best meal we have had since
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Best meal we have had since moving to the Boston area 2 years ago. Service was fantastic."
Dined on 03/04/2013
2011
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 44 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food was very good and well
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Food was very good and well flavored (i.e. NOT bland).
Entrees were uneven portion size -- pork chop was huge, but the brased short ribs were small, yet ~same price. Entrees were reasonably priced.
Apps very well flavored and inventive.
Deserts were good, but new highest price I've seen for deserts for this restaurant level in the area.
Drinks were outrageous. $7 for a draft beer, and only basic/common beer that you can get at a bar down the street for $5 (wine glasses start at $9/10 and signature martinis were $12/14 - on the high side).
I'd go back for food, but stick with tap water."
Entrees were uneven portion size -- pork chop was huge, but the brased short ribs were small, yet ~same price. Entrees were reasonably priced.
Apps very well flavored and inventive.
Deserts were good, but new highest price I've seen for deserts for this restaurant level in the area.
Drinks were outrageous. $7 for a draft beer, and only basic/common beer that you can get at a bar down the street for $5 (wine glasses start at $9/10 and signature martinis were $12/14 - on the high side).
I'd go back for food, but stick with tap water."
Dined on 03/03/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 45 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
So disappointing....
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"How disappointing...this is NOT the same Olive's that we have loved over the past 20 or so years.
Olives used to be THE place by which we judged all others. The food while once was extraordinary, is now mostly common place. The ambiance which was special, now feels like a sports bar/pub. There is even a huge TV that is on! The service was spotty...
Yet, at the same fine dining prices, we just don't get it..."
Dined on 03/03/2013
2006
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Review 46 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We were seated in the back
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We were seated in the back room of the restaurant which would normally be very quiet. There was a large party at another table that included five young children, so it was not as quiet as I'm sure it would normally be."
Dined on 03/02/2013
2008
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Review 47 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Terrific food in vibrant setting
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Great food. We had never been to Olives before, but took advantage of a Groupon last Friday night and saved 50% off food. Although we were there early, the restuarant filled up faily quickly. Filet and roast duck were fantastic. Tuna tartar was recommended and was very tasty. Tasty bottle of Malbec went well with the meal. The chocoate cake was a terrific finish. The only negative was our waitress seemed to hover too much, filling our wine glasses after only a couple of sips. It seemed she wanted to turn the table over quickly. Despite that,we will definately make a return visit."
Dined on 03/01/2013
2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 48 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food was very good and the
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food was very good and the atmosphere is casual and energetic. Meal was heavy and $$$$, however. Need to be hungry and suitable for an occasion - e.g., not an everyday meal, at least for us."
Dined on 02/27/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 49 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We really liked the New Olives.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We really liked the New Olives. We had a nice table but it was a bit drafty by the windows and the hosted happily moved us to a different table. We tried two different drinks, a bellini martini and a Maker's Mark drink with peach and mint and both were exceptional.We ordered tuna tartar and it was delicious, the best I've had. On entree was the scallops. They were on the small side but the problem was they were rather dry. When we told our server he offered to give us some more and we ended up with an entire new order. These scallops were much bigger and not over cooked at all.
Though there were a few miss steps they were handles pleasantly and efficiently. I would go back in a minute."
Though there were a few miss steps they were handles pleasantly and efficiently. I would go back in a minute."
Dined on 02/27/2013
2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 50 for Olives - Charlestown
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food was terrific. Glad Todd
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food was terrific. Glad Todd brought this venue back
Noise level, when it is full, makes conversation difficult. Staff was very accommodating when we asked they turn down the background music (noise)"
Noise level, when it is full, makes conversation difficult. Staff was very accommodating when we asked they turn down the background music (noise)"
Dined on 02/26/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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