I LOVE this restaurant. I try to make it here every year for my birthday and have yet to be disappointed. The setting is pleasant, the wine selection lovely, the waiters friendly and attentive, and the food could not be tastier. I love the small plates and the interesting (but still appetizing and home-style) combinations. Would recommend this to anyone who wants a nice meal!
(5)
Dan J.
What's left to be said. Still one of the best in the area.
(5)
Srini V.
Oleana would hold its own anywhere, but towers above most others in Boston, where good food is seemingly an occasional exception, not the norm. The crowd is typical for Cambridge--quite homogeneous. But be prepared to be pleasantly surprised by the variety and quality of the food, the generally classy service, and the well-designed layout. Oleana excels in its appetizers, and I would strong recommend that one make a full meal out of them. The red lentil slider, whipped feta and falafel are outstanding. The main courses indeed have a hard act to follow, and falter on occasion. The fideos and chick peas are my default option. From time to time the specials can be delightful. Alternatively, the appetizers may be requested in entree size servings. Of the dessert options, the Baked Alaska, with coconut ice cream is quite popular, but not exactly to my liking. I prefer the black walnut baklava even though the salep drink that accompanies it seems like an odd complement. The cocoa-rose ice cream is an excellent option. All said, a consistently enjoyable five-star experience by Boston standards. And one of my favorites for Mediterranean-Middle Eastern fare.
(4)
Susan R.
Oleana is flat-out one of the best restaurants Metro Boston has to offer. I have been at least ten times and have been thoroughly impressed with the food each time. If you are a timid eater, you will simply have to promise yourself that you will at least try everything that arrives, and you will find yourself surprised at how perfect the flavors, and textures are. I highly recommend the vegetarian sampler menu to split between two people, even if you aren't a vegetarian... the falafel is out of this world, the whipped feta is impressive and although you may at first scoff at the portion sizing... it is truly difficult to make it through all of the courses. I always find myself saying 'oh God!, there's ANOTHER course?!' A great place to impress a client, or someone you date, but a big spendy... so it may look like you are trying too hard for a first or second date. You should make a reservation with opentable.com as you never know when it is going to be busy, and don't leave without trying the Baked Alaska! tip: There is a small lot across the street that they claim can be used after a certain time (check with the host first), other than that - street parking can be tough.
(4)
Chris D.
If you're looking for a nice dinner out in Cambridge, Oleana is your place. Just make sure to get reservations well in advance, as seating here books up quite quickly. My wife and I came here on a busy Saturday night - service started out a bit slow but picked up quickly. We had a variety of delicious mezes including spinach falafel, kale salad, crab cakes and zucchini dolma, not to mention a perfectly cooked tuna entree (yes we gorged ourselves). The only thing we thought didn't stand out was the hummus - go figure. All in all I think the quality of food at Oleana is just a cut above most restaurants in Boston and you're unlikely to be disappointed here.
Oh WOW!!! This place is amazing! While visiting my sister in Middleton, she raved about Oleana and insisted we had to go before I flew back to CA... We had the vegetarian samplers and enjoyed every dish! I've always been quite the carnivore, but I decided to follow her lead and try something different. The flavors of each of the 6 items were just out of this world, so much so that I'll be venturing out into the vegetarian arena again soon!
(5)
Joyce T.
I've been wanting to try this place forever but never got around to it because of the restaurant's location (awkward by T). However, not disappointed! The service at the restaurant was extremely welcoming. The decor warm and lovely, with a delightful outdoor seating area that makes me want to come up when the weather is suitable for outdoor dining. We had a mixtures of mezes as a meal. The falafal was the perfect texture of crispy (but not too much) on the outside and warm/almost melty on the inside situated on a lovely wrap with some greens and beet meze. In particular, the spicy grilled octopus/brussel sprouts was a standout with some kind of bean cake topped with a sauce and a punch of tangy pomegranate seeds. The other dishes we got were also good but those were the two standouts for me. Only wish this place were closer or more conveniently situated so it could be a regular "special" dinner place for me! Sofra Bakery is also amazing (but hard to get to from JP)!
(5)
Chris B.
It's a intimate spot with excellent food and service. Really inventive Mediterranean flavors that's great for vegetarians and sometimes those vegans.
(4)
Lila A.
Landed the perfect table without a reservation. Every item ordered was exceptional. This was one of the best dining experiences we've ever had; we even ordered a second round of appetizers because they were unbelievable!
(5)
L C.
AMAZING! I took my boyfriend there twice in two weeks because we absolutely loved it and were celebrating special events. The menu is thoughtfully prepared, curated with the finest local ingredients and seasonal vegetables. The quality of the meals are outstanding, absolutely superb, and amazingly delicious! The staff is very kind and accommodating and we went both times without reservations (they're nearly impossible to book) and were seated very quickly, both for outdoor patio seating and indoor table seating; perhaps we were extremely lucky both times, but we certainly would've waited happily for as long as necessary. The ambiance is fantastic and the prices are extremely reasonable for the quality of the dishes and portions served. I'm excited to return in the Fall when the menu changes, as they are a sustainable restaurant (to the best of my knowledge). This is definitely a restaurant to put on your bucket list!
(5)
Muttley D.
Oleana is a great restaurant. Many exotic delights await you. The only thing I ate here that was sort of boring were the flattened potatoes with lemon and oregano...they weren't bad, but they aren't necessary on this menu filled with wonderous, magical, amazing and tantalizing delights! (is that enough superlatives for ya?) Dive into this restaurant, embrace this cuisine, it is awesome!
(5)
Ned B.
I have eaten at Oleana perhaps 100 times, including 3 times last week. It is consistently the most interesting restaurant in Cambridge. Anna Sortun is a total original. Most other restaurants I go to fit into the same "international cuisine" model but she creates new and wonderful dishes of a quite different sort. The middle eastern emphasis is part of the secret. But I just came back from 2 months in Abu Dhabi-- a city that has many extremely expensive restaurants with high paid chefs-- and Oleana is head and shoulders above anything there. My favorite restaurant in New York is 11 Madison Park which got its 3rd Michelin star and has continued to improve since then. The two are not comparable--they are trying to do different things--but I am equally happy eating at each of them.
(5)
Jonathan P.
It is incredibly difficult NOT to write a long review for this amazing place. Ill try to be brief though. My first impression of the restaurant from outside is, is this it? Thinking to myself, this seems out of place...and then I walk in. Has a friendly, not too hoity or stuffy appeal and thankfully its not cramped like some other places. Food: Amazing. Nuff said. Wait. No, theres more. The fried mussels were absolutely amazing (though watch out for the peppers!) and the felafel is to die for. The food is beautifully presented from beginning to end and each dish is not only pleasing to the eyes, but to the mouth as well. Between all four of us at our table, we had to try everything each one of us ordered, yes its that good you'll be reaching across the table to try each dish. Cannot. Wait. To. Come. Back.
(5)
Samuel F.
Went here with a friend to try the vegetarian tasting menu, which was _amazing_. I expected that they'd have a fixed menu for the day, but my friend and I were given entirely different meals, so we were able to taste a dozen dishes each. The restaurant is a bit small (at least the indoor area is more cozy than spread-out), but the space feels very relaxing. Excellent patio dining, too.
(5)
Kat B.
The last time we went here in October for my birthday was just perfect. Get the VEGETABLE TASTING MENU and you won't be disappointed! Some highlights of ours were the really beautiful mini vegetable casserole with carrots and fennel, creamy corn soup with white asparagus, and their spinach falafel (always very pretty and delicious as well). We also ordered their lamb with Turkish spices, which is always amazing! Even though my husband and I are both big meat eaters, the loving way the chefs at Oleana prepare their vegetables with huge amounts of flavor and spices really makes you not even miss meat. The dessert of the tasting menu was fantastic as well...ice cream/sorbet on top of this "bird's nest" of sweet pastry flavored with an amazing sauce; I think it was quince. Unfortunately I didn't even hear the waiter describe the exact ingredients because my mind and tummy were myopically focused on how beautiful and delectable it looked. The vegetable tasting menu now comes with a dessert (had it again recently for another birthday) and if you like non-alcoholic drinks you MUST try their Sienna Mocktail! It tastes better than their Sangria! I also have to mention that on one occasion I was given the wrong entree which I absentmindedly started to eat immediately...guess I was hungry. To make up for it they actually brought me the entree I ordered but took it off the tab. That was unexpected and really nice of them!
(5)
Helen G.
Ok food. Mediocre service.
(2)
Taylor E.
This meal was virtually spotless (much like our plates). Ana Sortun gives new definition, in my mind, to high end Mediterranean. The following day our party of 4 tried to narrow down what our favorite plates had been, and it was impossible to choose. At least everything we ordered was called out as someone's favorite. Top of the list for me was the hummus, fried mussels, and trout w/salmon roe: * It is my opinion that hummus, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, is a quick and sure fire way to judge a Mediterranean restaurant. I eat hummus pretty religiously and while 98% of hummus is good, there is that 2% that really knocks your socks off. The hummus at Oleana easily fits in to the latter category. * As for the mussels, I really shouldn't have to explain further. They are mussels, that are fried... pure genius. * The trout was cooked perfectly, with the avocado smeared over the top almost like a sauce and the roe littered on top of that. While trout can often come out bland, this was anything but. It's a must try. * I also really loved the brown butter bread pudding. I'd been turned off from bread pudding in the past by how heavy and dense it can be, but this bread pudding reignited my love affair with it, inspiring me to start making it at home (although my version does not quite compare with Oleana's). Try to save room for it if you can. Though we made some poor choices on the wine menu, it is quite extensive. More exciting than the wine for me was the local brewery they turned us on to called Night Shift. They carry the Trifecta here which is a Belgian pale ale aged on vanilla beans. We enjoyed it so much that we made the hike to Everett the following day to visit the Night Shift tasting room! If you've ever been to Everett you will understand the motivation required to make such a trip, but it was totally worth it. The only stain on our evening was our waiter. In addition to being really unhelpful (luckily you don't need a ton of guidance with this menu) he made it seem like our very presence there annoyed him. He was never out right rude, but a friendlier attitude would have been really appreciated. All in all, if you make it to Cambridge, Oleana should be at the top of your to-do list. I'll undoubtedly be a return customer.
(4)
Nikki R.
Epic meal - truly one of the more memorable dining experiences I have had in ages. I was visiting Boston from Los Angeles to see family and we wanted to have a special last meal before I headed back to the West Coast. We were a party of five and sat on the patio. The night started a little rocky as our table was basically in pitch blackness - not OK for a foodie family that likes to photograph and obsess over every dish. They fixed this relatively quickly by bringing a large glowing orb light and placing it on our table. We ordered almost the entire menu: Deviled Eggs, Octopus Carpaccio, Falafel, Fried Mussels, Bread and Cheese Dumplings to start. Duck, Chicken, Hanger Steak (special), and Salmon to share as entrees. There was honestly not one miss here (I can't remember the last time I have said that!) - the bold flavors were pure perfection, ingredients were incredible (locally sourced from Sienna Farms in Sudbury), and presentation was the perfect mix of rustic and refined. Paired this with a light, effervescent vinho verde from Portugal. Now the best part: dessert. We ordered four (don't judge): Baked Alaska (divine), Profiteroles (mind-blowing), Hazelnut Nest (indulgent), and Strawberry Tart (clean flavors, but just OK). Server was friendly, very knowledgeable and attentive (perhaps a little casual at times, but it worked). Looking forward to coming back here again and again. Oleana was an absolute perfect ending to my vacation.
(5)
Samantha G.
I brought my better half here for his birthday dinner and the experience was delightful. We were able to sit in the patio area on such a lovely night. Lights strung among the trees and a nice setting of wrought iron patio furniture. Our service was a little slow getting started, but I think the server was seated very rapidly at that moment. Moving on... We had the Warm Buttered Hummus with Basturma & Tomato (my favorite of the night), the Sultan's Delight, the Vermont Quail Kebob (his favorite), and one of the Mezze specials..some sort of seared cheese with peach and goodness all over. All of these choices were spot on. And the Sicilian Almond Cremolata & Warm Chocolate Panino for dessert. I had mentioned in my reservation that it was his birthday, so they ended up bringing the dessert out with a candle without me even asking. Nice touch. Thank you for a great evening, Oleana.
Very inventive and interesting food. Most of it is designed to be shared. The portions are small, but the food is very rich and flavorful. In fact this is actually a pretty good deal when you break it down. They have excellent vegetarian options (for my mother) and the service was very good. I tend to agree that when it comes to middle eastern food vegetarian options are normally a better bet. I would tend to go higher than 4 stars for this place, but I reserve the 5 star ratings :)
(4)
Tharathorn R.
Dining at Oleana is a divine experience. We came in with much anticipation, settling for later reservation hour and rearranging our plan for the evening to be able to dine here. I must say the food quality much exceeds our expectation. For appetizers, we went with a safer choice and something unusal: Deviled Eggs with Tuna & Black Olives and Vermont Quail with Baharat, Barberries & Pistachio. Both were delightful. The deviled egg filling has Tuna meat in it making it meaty than typical deviled eggs we have had. For our quail dish, the juicy quail meat is well pair with tartness of the barberries and the chewy texture of the sticky rice cake on which it is served. We are pleased. I ordered the Beef Sarma & Sweet Potato Kumpir for my main dish. The mashed sweet potatoes and flavorful butter was really nice. Unlucky for me though, that night they ran out of nicer cuts of beef and my dish was made with brisket cubes rather than steak cuts. The flavor was great but I wished the beef was more tender. My boyfriend had the Lamb with Turkish Spices (seasoned lamb meatballs) which he really enjoyed. Perhaps, the best part of the night was the desserts. Oleana's plated desserts are way better than many plated desserts at many specialized dessert places in town. Each components of the dessert is full of fresh and authentic flavors, and only slightly complimented by a little of sweetness. I had the Nougat and Mango Sorbets (2 flavor of sorbets). The sorbets were really tasty and not too sweet. They were served with tart and tangy mango and passion fruit compote which compliments the sorbets really well. My boyfriend had the Milk Chocolate-Tahini Tart (2 layered tart) with Halvah Ice Cream. I didn't know chocolate pair really well with Tahini until I tried this tart! Overall, I think it's place worth all the anticipation. It's on the top of my bookmarked list as a togo place for special evenings.
(5)
Lucy Z.
I had heard so many good things about this place before I finally pulled the trigger two nights ago, and Oleana didn't disappoint! We got there really late (right before the official close time for the kitchen), so the food came out a bit fast. The wine list was reasonable, and there was also the option of a $40 vegetarian tasting menu. We ordered a la carte per yelp recommendations and all the dishes were amazing. Spinach Falafel: fluffy, creamy and super light Sultan's Delight: beef was so tender and juicy, and the smoked eggplant puree with pinenuts was a nice touch Pork Belly: crispy skin, flavorful meat, good balance of fat and lean meat Lamb: grounded lamb patties. Normally I am not a big fan of grounded meat, but this tasted pretty good even though it was not my favorite dish of the night For the dessert, we really wanted to try baked alaska, but it looked huge for two people on other people's table. Ended up getting the the Nougat Glace with Passion Fruit Curd & PIstachio Atayif. It was light and yummy Now I just wish it would be easier to make a reservation at this place!
(5)
Nicole V.
I have very few rules in my life, but I do try to establish some boundaries. Dinner at Oleana has me dying to break these and sending me into a whirling bliss. I don't know if I've fallen in love or been drugged, but either way I like it. Rules broken tonight: 1 ) Only review places after one time if there's no intention of going back or if it was a special circumstance 2 ) Don't review on the same night 3 ) Flirting with waiters is okay, but don't leave them love notes 4 ) If you over order, don't stuff your face; take leftovers 5 ) Don't fall in love too quickly 6 ) Know what something is before putting it in your mouth 7 ) Try not to write novella length reviews on Yelp Arriving nice and early (around 6) we got a seat outside. It was cute, romantic, and full of attractive male waiters. There's no way to really win me over than promises of good food, wine, and boys. This is when my crush began. With the waiter's assistance (and plenty of patience) we decided on our meal of four mezes and an entree. I want to return and try everything else, but I have to admit that each element today was -gasm worthy. Meze 1 : Falafel Mouthgasm - My dining partner looked up at me with her mouth full and stars in her eyes. Unable to wait until she even finished chewing, the words "I think I just had a mouthgasm" escaped her lips. If she had realized there was tahini on her face, she may have waited to use those choice words, but I'm so glad she didn't. Meze 2 : Tuna Unexpectedgasm - The waiter suggested the tuna and I thought he was too attractive to ever disagree with him. Between the accent, truly poetic vocabulary, and the blatant love for food I was at a loss for words at his description of the tuna tartare. I think I just nodded. I didn't believe him that bulgar wheat could make something creamy but ohhhh it did. And ooooohhhhhh was it good. Meze 3 : Sultan's Delight Forkgasm - Just touch it. We weren't sure how to split this chunk o' meat so I went to stab it with my fork (I'm a classy lady). As it melted to show off the phenomenal texture to come, my fork finally got a -gasm of it's own. The smokey eggplant puree with pinenuts was similar to a hummus. We piled it on top of the beef and moaned in delight. Meze 4 : Fried Mussels Guilty-pleasure-gasm : I'm sorry, but did you just combine mussels, a prefect frying batter, and a thick yogurt sauce into one dish? Oh no you didn't Oleana. We thought it sounded too weird, yet appealing. So as we took our first bite the only thing we could think was "Oh. Oh. Oh... yes you did.". My Ohhhhhhh face could not have been smacked off at this point. Entree : Lamb We ordered the lamb because it just felt right. The lamb was in a sausage form with three huge slices on top of "everything green" (I recognized at least kale and broccoli), yogurt sauce, and a flat bread. What started as a crush was now a full blown love. We split the dish between the two of us and finished simultaneously. At this point we were way too full, but still basking in the glory of our food. The waiter's descriptions of everything stayed with us and though we jealously eyed other diner's meals, we knew that levels of pleasure above ours were unobtainable. I enjoyed the eye candy of the male waiters (seriously, it's awesome) and experienced my first disappointment of the night when I realized two things: a) the waiters aren't available for takeout and b) they weren't on the dessert menu. After realizing we were too full for dessert, I got the bill for our overly indulgent meal and it was far less than expected. My love has been solidified. I look forward to my next return but until then I will have many dreamgasms of Oleana (and my waiter).
(5)
Courtney G.
Oleana managed to exceed its wonderful reputation. I can honestly say I experienced flavors and textures I have never experienced before in my life- and they were delectable. All the while, the menu has wonderfully unpretentious items that are prepared extremely well. My entree was a simple dish that had house-made tabouleh and lamb sausage with mashed garlic potatoes and a reduction sauce of some sort... and it was one of the best dishes I have ever tasted. Then for desert we had a very exotic Orchid and tree resin shake with profiteroles- also amazing. Although they have an endless wine list, I recommend the "Sortini' cocktail- it was heaven. Oleana's head chef, Ana Sortun, is married to, and partners with the owner of a local organic farm- so their ingredients are hyper-local and fresh. The service was fantastic to boot.
(5)
Charlie K.
My favorite restaurant in the entire Boston area, perhaps in the entire world. Yes, I like good food, artfully prepared and presented, and the words "farm to table" make me so very happy and hungry, but I'm also a meat -loving, down half a large pizza and a pitcher of beer kinda gal. They seriously work magic in that kitchen of theirs. Sure, on the menu it might say something like "parsnips and feta with honey" but don't be fooled - what comes out to you will be recognizable as these things, but mind-blowlingly different and delicious and yes, magical. Their portions are generous, their staff is warm. If the weather's nice, sit in their backyard.
(5)
Bill C.
Screw this place. They clearly think they're God's gift to diners; well, they're not. I showed up at 8:50 on a Thursday. Not prime dining time and they had, yes, count 'em, five empty tables. Nevertheless, "It will be AT LEAST a 30-minute wait." And they tried to shove me over to this crappy little dark bench. I pressed them and said I really would rather have a table. At that point, it was "We're all booked up until 9:45 at the very, very earliest." And the bar's full too. Both hosts used a simpering, condescending tone. I was about to stalk out right then and there. But for some reason I decided to take a seat at the bar. The bartender didn't give me the time of day. After I waiting for about eight minutes to try to order a drink, he then announced all the specials. When I frowned at one of them he got all pissy and cut the list of specials short. "What was the last special?" I asked. His words: "Oh, you want to listen to it now?" Even the food runners were pretentious. When they'd bring the food they would try to place it directly on top of my book even though there were three empty seats to my right. (Yeah, but "the bar's full too.") The entire time I was at the bar there were ALWAYS two tables open behind me in the bar area, and God knows how many more in the restaurant. It was infuriating. And the food was incredibly pretentious too. So fuck this place. And I left a $5 tip on a $71 tab. You guys want to treat me like shit, well, have it back.
(1)
Susan F.
Date night with the husband was an awesome success here! I have many allergies and they took great care of me! Beautiful restaurant, even had musicians playing IN the restaurant! The food was outragious! sO good! Chef Cara rocked out some awesome braised beef with tamarind. Also, a killer duck dish! We had 3 desserts, all amazing! They make their own almond milk for ice cream, it was amazing! Also their black pansy dessert! Simple and delightful, a experience i wou LOVE to repeat!
(5)
Greg B.
This is one of those cases that I hate this rating system. This place simply deserves 5 stars for food and service, but I simply can't give it to them... The food is probably one of the best culinary experiences I have ever had in the Boston area. Everything from the appetizers to the main until the deserts was simply amazing, also the waiters are great and attentive. You need to reserve a couple of days, if not a week ahead of time in order to have a table. However there is one flaw with this place, the hostesses at the entrance. Yesterday I assisted at a scene which for a restaurant like Oleana was simply absurd. Four costumers that seemed very well educated to me where asked to leave, by one of the hostesses in a very impolite way, after they where assigned a table and seated. I thought this was very unprofessional especially since their table seemed to have been assigned to a hostesses party of friends right after. Having said so the food is simply amazing and the waiters are very professional, too bad that the greeting staff is like this. I plan on going back and give it another chance.
(1)
Lena N.
My roommate told me this was probably one of the best meals of her life. With a review like that, I had to try Oleana. I went there for "I survived grad school" celebration dinner. The restaurant itself has a great atmosphere. I do love restaurants dedicated to locally sourced food. All that being said, this place left me scratching my head about what all the hype was about. Maybe we had the misfortune to choose the most uninspired dishes on the menu. Their vegetable dishes were definitely better than their meat ones. I'd go back and try the vegetarian tasting menu.
(3)
Val I.
So awesome. Probably one of my favorite restaurants in Boston - every dish was incredible. Reservations need to be made well in advance, but it's certainly worth it! Highlights include whipped fava, sultan's delight, chickpea terrine, and the lemon chicken. Soooo good.
(5)
Mark G.
In a word, amazing. Oleana just gets it. If you have not been, you need to make this place a priority for your next night out. There wasn't a single weak link throughout the entire meal. Each dish dazzled with creative flavor combinations and inspired presentation at reasonable prices given the quality. My hat is off to the wait staff and kitchen. I haven't been this thrilled with a Boston restaurant since my first visit to Toro in the South End. Do yourself a favor and go to Oleana as soon as possible and make sure to order the following: 1) Octopus & Artichoke Kalamaki with Favas, Potato Cake & Dill Sauce 2) Vermont Quail with Baharat, Barberries & Pistachio 3) Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets & Crinkled Cress 4) Bittersweet Chocolate Walnut Kadayif with Sheep's Milk Yogurt Sorbet and Chocolate Crème Bruleette A+.
(5)
Maria P.
I went back to Oleana recently and I was delighted with the changes. The patio was beautiful as always but we chose to sit inside because it was a little cold outside. The seating was a little cramped but the restaurant was cozy and warm. They had a new bread basket which contained a pillowy hot bread with za'atar. It was amazing. They had updated the menu since the last time I went so I decided to try a new entree while still ordering the falafel as an appetizer. I learnt that the tahini served with the falafel had beets in it which was an excellent addition. I also ordered the lemon chicken. It was a little too strong tasting and the za'atar/lemon combination overwhelmed the chicken. I did order a side of moussaka that was very good and more than made up for the disappointing entree. I also shared the poached pear for dessert which was delicious. The huckleberries that accompanied the dessert was delectable. Service was great as always; our waiter was friendly and personable. I look forward to coming back and trying more of their mezze options.
(4)
David C.
One of the best meals I've had since I moved to Boston last fall was a dinner at Oleana. My boyfriend and I split the vegetarian tasting menu (which varies nightly) and a few other meze dishes for good measure. Dinner was a while ago now, but I remember loving almost everything I had, especially the beautiful spinach falafel dish that everyone on here raves about. The highlight of the night for me though was definitely one of their specials, a crab and pea dish served inside an avocado, atop a bed of warm pea greens. I don't even like peas, but this dish was phenomenal. I think it should be added to the regular menu. The Sultan's Delight unfortunately left a lot to be desired. It definitely lacked the "wow" factor that the other dishes possessed. Speaking of wow--Oleana's Baked Alaska literally made my jaw drop. We had to pay a little extra to get it instead of the prix fixe dessert, but it was worth every penny. It kind of stunk that the table next to us also got the tasting menu, because they were one step ahead of us in terms of presentation, but that obviously couldn't have been helped. What could have been helped was the stank attitude of our waitress, who refused to look at me when I asked her questions about the menu. I don't know if she thought my boyfriend was paying, but she certainly acted as if he was. When the bill came and I pulled out my credit card, though, it was as if she noticed me for the first time. She's lucky the food was so good.
(4)
Glen W.
Outstanding middle eastern food that evokes Yotam Ottolenghi's book Jerusalem
(4)
Stephanie M.
Visited on a Monday night. First impression wasn't a great one - we were crammed into a corner of the patio on little elephant stools waiting for our table. The bar was *very* slow - I waited while they placed every dirty glass in the dishwasher, completely ignoring me. Once seated though, timing improved. Our waiter was very good and the menu was one of the most interesting I have seen in a long time. Appetizers, baby sole, parmesan crusted pork chop, desserts were all delicious. I don't think there's an item on the menu that would disappoint.
(4)
M M.
Amazing meal. You know a restaurant is doing it right when you want to try everything on the menu. Even something as humble as falafel was absolutely brilliantly executed (not to mention completely ruining any chance of enjoying falafel at any other restaurant). Curse you Anna ;-) Flavors were bold and vibrant in everything we tasted. Bravo. Definitely on the list of "must eat at" places in the country, let alone Boston.
(5)
Erin C.
An absolutely amazing meal! After reading some recommendations I decided to take the BF here for a birthday celebration meal. We were seated immediately in a super busy dining room. It was a Wednesday around 7:30 and we took the last empty table in the smaller front dining room. We started our meal out with the warm buttered hummus and the deviled eggs w/ tuna & black olives. The eggs were so great! We spit up the two eggs you get but I seriously considered stealing his it was so good! The hummus was nice, warm and went perfectly with the bread they serve you. It was just the right amount of food to get us super excited for the main course! My swordfish w/ fried pita, tahini sauce and lentils almost made me cry. The fish was cooked perfectly and everything complimented it so well! Who knew that fried pita could be so tasty?! The BF got the crispy duck. He devoured it! The fun little pumpkin thingy was the perfect little addition to the dish. Service was great. For such a tiny dining room there were about 7 or so people offering service. We never went without water and were brought fresh silverware for each course. The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is because of the chairs. When we went to sit down the fun pillow on the chair kept moving around. As we were adjusting people kept trying to walk by. Just a little awkward, especially in the super tiny dining room. One of the best dining experiences we have had in Boston and we would def go back there!
(4)
Emily F.
Ohmygoodness. Oleana was perfect for my post-graduation dinner. At first I was disappointed that a veganized vegetarian sampler could not be made that night, but our waitress did give me a couple other options: an assortment of sides of other dishes or a giant plate of veggies. I chose a giant plate of veggies (see picture) and what a FANTASTIC choice that was. My sister, who ordered the flattened chicken, admitted that mine was definitely better than hers (yay veggies!). I have never ever had vegetables prepared so fabulously - it was an incredible mix of steamed spinach, asparagus, squash, wild leeks, peppers, vinegared tomatoes, and so much more I can't even remember. The flavors were blended perfectly and it was a wonderfully portioned plate - clearly from someone who understands what it means to eat vegan. The waitress was totally on top of informing me where the breads came from and if they were vegan (one definitely was, the other probably was). They also have one vegan dessert, the almond cremolata, a mouth-watering ice cream-like dessert. I rarely am able to eat desserts at restaurants and was so excited just to be eating dessert that I'm not even sure if it was good or not. It's been awhile so I can't really comment on what my family thought of their entrees or desserts (the baked alaskan was extremely impressive looking), but we were there for over 2 hours and all absolutely loved it, despite the rocky/slow start. Overall I really felt at ease here - it has a casual elegance and food/knowledgeable staff I could trust. I don't usually eat at places of this caliber, but I'm definitely going to look for excuses to return!
(5)
Nicole M.
Oleana is DIVINE. The service: Our waiter described the specials with mouth-watering detail. He checked in on us regularly and was very pleasant. The food: We polished off the fried mussels appetizer, lamb, and pork loin special. For dessert, we had the pumpkin thingie. They were all beyond delicious. The drinks: I had the champagne cocktail, which was sweet and sour at the same time. Boyfriend enjoyed his Sortini. The skinny: An excellent dining experience, but not for the faint of wallet.
(4)
Rebecca P.
I went to Oleana at the suggestion of a friend after having looked desperately for a good Mediterranean restaurant to call my own. I did drive by it 3 times before seeing the sign, but the decor & ambiance are lovely. We sat and were served at the bar, but I'd suggest a reservation. Tried the "happy hour wine special" which was a nice cab franc, but the wine list looked ample & reasonably priced (not particularly exotic). My second drink was the fresh, fruity and dry sangria. DELICIOUS! Because we are both vegetarians, we opted for the vegetable tasting menu with a few supplements. At $40, I'd recommend this menu to any 2 people to split. The flavors were distinct, pungent and exotic. The ingredients of each dish were fresh, healthy and perfectly prepared (braised pumpkin with giganta beans, spinach falafel with beet spread). We enjoyed deciphering the unique flavors & spices in each small plate. The items were each from different countries and cuisines- not simply Greek or Turkish. We added king oyster mushroom suvlaki & salad and opted for the Baked Alaska, which was unforgettable (and legendary- I'm told). It has been a long time since I've left a restaurant with my pallet so... well exercised (?!?). Oleana was a dining experience, as opposed to simply a meal. Can't wait to go back!!
Try the amazing vegetarian tasting menu, a culinary tour of the middle East. One of Cambridge's best restaurants.
(5)
Rona Y.
Definitely one of my favorite restaurants in Boston! You can really taste the quality of their ingredients in each dish. They might not have the most intense flavors or the most creative dishes, but they just have a knack for getting it just right. The glazed beef in the Sultan's Delight is cooked to perfection with a light puree that balances the intensity of the meat. I also had the lamb the other night and my boyfriend had the Pork, both of which we gobbled up immediately! If you're in the mood for dessert, the Baked Alaska is out of this world!! This place is absolutely worth the splurge for a special night out :)
(5)
Kara S.
I have been to Oleana three times: The first two times I had good experiences and loved the food, but didn't feel ready to write about it. I'm ready now. Last night I met up with four friends for a girls night out. We scored a prime spot in the courtyard, which is cozy and hidden and perfect. It was nice because the area we sat in was covered, but still open air. It came in quite handy since the sky couldn't decide if it wanted to rain or shine yesterday. Our server Sean was fantastic and had a great sense of humor, making dinner a delight. He also was really helpful in helping us pick out dishes to try, giving us his honest opinion on the pret a manger and appetizer offerings. And he steered us well, as each of us claimed one dish that we would marry, should Massachusetts ever pass a bill allowing marriage to food products. At first Mary was ready to dump her husband for Spicy Carrot Puree & Egyptian Spice Mix with Nuts & Olive Oil. But then the Pistachio Ice Cream, Warm Pistachio Katmer, Spiced Cherries & Labne swept into the room, they locked eyes, and it was like "spicy carrot puree who?" Carrie would cheat on her fiance for a raunchy love affair with Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers. This might be ok though, since her fiance and the whipped feta are pretty tight. I think it might be what they called an open marriage. BIG LOVE, if you will. Connie was like a giggly school girl for the Everything Green with Finger Bread & Thick Cucumber Yogurt. I myself was ready to go home with the Fried Haloumi Cheese & Spring Onion Dolma with Walnuts, Sesame & Rhubarb. And it was our first date. I'm easy like that. And Beth was picking out a color scheme for her impending wedding to the Tamarind Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Puree with Pinenuts. (Which I was making eyes at all during dinner, so she better watch out!) So yeah. We all left so full and so happy. It's isn't often that food makes me as happy as this meal made me. Part of it was the great company: My amazing girls and a fun waiter. The other part was just such stellar flavor profiles and perfectly cooked food. I think the only thing some of us didn't love was the falafel, and it was more a texture issue than a flavor issue. While I did enjoy my previous visits here (once to have the vegetarian tasting menu, once to just have a regular meal), this meal blew those ones out of the water. It's all about lots of sangria, lots of appetizers, and great friends.
(5)
Shaina P.
Service, atmosphere, taste, and even price went beyond my wildest expectations at Oleana. There's something to say about a restaurant that serves foods that I would ever think to use and flavors that my taste buds have never tasted without being disappointed. I absolutely loved Oleana. SERVICE Dave and I completely lucked out in getting a small table for two immediately upon entering. I can't say that I'd recommend this method of getting seated at Oleana since when I called earlier, they advised me that there was nothing available until 10 PM. However, the patio is open on a first come first serve basis, so worth stopping in if you're willing to take that risk. Our waitress interacted with us like we were having a conversation with someone we'd known for years and she was knowledgeable/helpful in choosing a wine to match Dave's dinner. ATMOSPHERE Like Ligaya mentioned, the decor is understated. Warm tones give the restaurant a relaxed yet formal feel. Texture on the walls, tables, seating, and very low volume music give the space its easy-going feel. Most patrons tonight were 30-something couples or small groups. TASTES Wow. What can I say? The warm buttered hummus with bastuma (Turkish Pastrami) and tomato ($5) immediately melted in my mouth and easily spread over the selection of breads. It was served as two egg-sized dollops wrapped in the bastuma, well seasoned and just heavenly. Rabbit schawarma was served wrapped in a crispy dough roll and drizzled with tahini brown butter (ohh yummy brown butter). It was a moist meat, but I was somewhat surprised to find rabbit not to have a unique flavor. Three triangles of fried haloumi cheese was served in a copper plate and flambeed on the spot. On top of each piece was a roasted onion petal wrapped around a mixture of walnuts, sesame, and rhubarb. This dish was so unique and so good! Scallops were pan fried and served over a mash of sunchoke with gnocchi containing a small chorizo surprise inside. The sunchoke was so flavorful and really highlighted the scallops' richness. The crispy duck was served over a pastry cup filled with rice, eggplant, and chickpeas. All of this sat on a mash of greek yogurt - tangy and bright. This was a heavy dish and unfortunately the crispy duck was compromised by over-dry meat. I was also confused about the pastry. It was thin like parchment, but apparently edible. I had to ask whether it was edible just to be sure. It was and it was good! DRINKS Oleana serves Sangria, which I didn't try, but I will someday. I opted for the Sam Smith Organic Lager ($7), one of many interesting beer choices from the list of offerings. I was surprised to see canned PBR ($3), but I completely respect the choice. Cool! Dave's white wine, Tokai Friuliano, was an Italian wonder. It was well flavored and balanced nicely with his scallops and one of the cheaper offerings ($9/gl). For dessert, I had no room, but would love to come back sometime to try one of many ice cream offerings. Instead I had the Turkish Coffee, which came in an espresso-sized mug and enjoyed without sweet or cream. It had a heavy texture, but when the fine grounds settled down, the flavor was pure coffee. All in all - Oleana, though on the pricey side, was worth every penny. NOTE: I noticed there was a Vegetarian Mezze of 5-courses for $42 per person (or for two as Eve L found). This looks like something I would recommend to someone who was unsure of what to order here.
(5)
Andrea L.
Eat here as often as you can as much as possible. It is pricey, yes, but I don't think you'll ever regret coming here. It's a James Beard Award winner for a reason folks!
(5)
David R.
This cozy and lively resturaunt was the perfect date spot. The food was delicious, the wine was well informed and reasonably priced and the overall decore was nice. We ordered three appetizers one after the other and one entre. Overall delicious and a great evening to remember for just $100. Highly recommend for Inman Square dining
(5)
Lisa R.
One of the best meals I have ever had. I've heard that small plates are the way to go here, and were they ever. I happen to love sampling as many different things in one meal as I can (let's face it, your taste buds don't get bored that way), so this was a DREAM for me. We got an assortment of dishes - the Sultan's Delight, the Spinach Falafel, an Octopus dish, buttered hummus with basturma, a vermicelli and chickpea dish, and deviled eggs with Tuna. We also got a special - figs wrapped in lardo - which was my least favorite, but I think that was just a matter of personal taste (the sauce accompanying it was DELICIOUS). Everything was perfectly seasoned, with complex flavors, and executed perfectly down to the last detail. It was a Monday night and the place was packed, but we lucked out and got seated at a cute four-top in a nook by the windows. I have yet to check out their famous outdoor patio (which you can apparently only get into if you show up RIGHT when they open). As far as service goes, I've heard less than stellar things - the waitstaff not being especially well-informed about the drink selection, for example. In our case, they forgot to bring one of the plates we ordered. But I didn't let that rain on my parade. If you're a foodie who's fascinated by all things flavorful (say that 5 times fast), then GO.
(5)
Jen L.
I can't emphasize how much I like this place. At the time, I was deciding between Oleana and another restaurant, and I now can't even remember what the restaurant was, this place made such an impression on me. First, this place has a huge selection of "little plates" of food. My girlfriend and I opted to try one of their specials of the little plates as an appetizer and also order entrees. The appetizer was outstanding. It was some type of Mediterranean cheese lightly fried, with apricots. Unbelievably tasty. We ordered a bottle of cava, which made the evening feel more festive. It was this past summer, and soft shell crabs were in season. So I ordered those, while she ordered a meat dish (lamb, I believe). The soft shell crabs (my first time having them) were outstanding and the way it was presented was beautiful and so delicious. It came with a pilaf and a mustard that made the flavor really pop. I remember being too stuffed for dessert but was pleasantly surprised when we received the bill - for an appetizer, a bottle of cava wine and 2 entrees, it was less than $100. I thought we did well, especially considering the quality of the food. It's very rare I feel a restaurant truly earns 5 stars - but Oleana did. Some people say the space is too crowded, the tables too close together, but my mouth was experiencing such a joyous explosion of taste that I didn't mind one bit. I almost wanted to comment to my neighbors - you got the cheese dish, too? That was fantastic! =) Oh, and the service was great, too. Not one complaint. ;)
(5)
Heather G.
This is one of my top-5 places to eat in Boston. Easily. Maybe THE top. Who knows. You know the credentials, you've read the accolades, you may have even seen the Top Chef Masters. You should know by now what's up with this place. It's amazing. I won't recommend dishes to try really, because the menu is seasonal and the specials change often. I will say the following, though: 1. I have never been let down by a "special" app or entree. They're always inventive and made with the freshest ingredients. 2. The vegetarian dishes are just as substantial and flavorful and interesting as the meat-dishes, so don't let that deter you when making an entree decision 3. The falafel IS REALLY *that* good. It's a mainstay on the app list, and you have have have have to order it. Really. You will regret it if you don't, or I will regret it for you. 4. Go on Tuesday night during the summer. Wait for an outdoor patio table, dine at dusk or later. This is the best time to experience Oleana. The weather is nice, the band is playing softly, and the trees are outfitted with white twinkle lights under the canopies that add that special *pop* to the ambience. Everything tastes better under these conditions, and your date will quickly get over the fact that you're going out on a non-traditional-date-night and be enamored with your romanticism.
(5)
peggy c.
First things first... YUM! Absolutely loved the food! Make a reservation and check it out. I came here for dinner on a week night but it was pretty much still a full house. Shortly after we got seated, a woman at the next table started choking on something so it was a little crazy for a little bit, but the staff were great and called 911 right away. Someone knew the Heimlich and the woman was ok. She even stayed for desserts. It's nice to know the staff is responsive in case of emergencies. In terms of service, it was pretty good in general. Our waiter was attentive but didn't hover, which is nice. He also answered our questions well. As for the food, we chose a bottle of reisling from Oleana's pretty extensive wine list, the asparagus with goat cheese and leeks for appetizer [large enough to share], the trout spanakopita [think doughy goodness] and duck breast with gnocchi. The asparagus was tender and the goat cheese was gooey and delicious. The spanakopita came with cucumbers and avocado and I really enjoyed the combo of flavors though my personal highlight was the gnocchi. It was soft and fluffy with a crispy/crunchy side. It looks like it might have been tossed into the broiler for a little bit. However it was prepared, the texture was just perfect. For dessert we tried the rhubarb sharbat with a white chocolate pistachio tart. I don't know what a sharbat is supposed to taste like but it was a little too sweet for my preference though the white chocolate tart has a rich [but not overly rich] taste and light consistency. Lastly, the portion sizes were about perfect for me - neither too large nor too small - and the menu is sprinkled with exotic names so I appreciate that there is a glossary section on it. So why just four stars? We got seated in that awkward middle row in the restaurant. While it's not absolute worse thing in the world, I hate being in the middle. My seat was also right against the back of another person's so I had to leave my purse on the floor. The tables off to the side also looked like they're a little too close together. I suppose these details are minor, but it bothers me. That being said, I would definitely come back... but judging by the look of things, I better make a reservation. P.s. give yourself a few minutes to find parking.
(4)
Audrey C.
Oleana is decent but not mindblowing in any way. The portions are tiny for the price too (if not for the bread we would have left hungry). I'm honestly confused by all the rave reviews on Yelp.
(3)
Joanna E.
this place is definitely one of my favorite pricier restaurants in Boston. i split the vegetarian tasting platter with my boyfriend, and for $40 you get to pick a few mezzes and get a dessert. it was really delicious and we left extremely happy and full. i think we even had some leftovers. we didn't get to sit in the patio, but would love to next time.
(5)
Jen R.
This was a good as it gets as far as I'm concerned for food, ambiance, service and wine and beer selection, price and creativity. I loved everything I ate, which was A LOT! We tried the tuna in eggs, the hummus, the feta, the kale salad (so good!), the seared tuna special appetizer, the lamb, chicken, and the moussaka! Yum! I was just so impressed with the depth of flavors in each dish! I work in the business, so I am very attuned to quality and I just thought this was really high quality food that someone put a lot of thought and time into. I'll definitely go back as it was the best meal I've eaten out in a long time.
(5)
polar p.
Great food and very nice atmosphere, if you are sitting outside.
(4)
Emir A.
Must agree that this restaurant is very good. Portions are relatively large. Thus, if you are a skinny anorexic looking person your best bet is to order a glass of water. PROS: great location, excellent food. Good service. Friendly staff. In summary: perfect choice for those hungry yet picky people out there. CONS: bring your wallet. SUMMARY: this place wins 4 stars (just because I'm a jerk). French wine totally matches the food.
(4)
Emily L.
Incredible. Everything on the menu is full of flavor and expertly spiced. Has an awesome back patio and back glass porch with a great view of the patio if its too cold to eat outside. We usually order mostly off the meze menu and split an entree. Favorites include: dukkah & carrot puree, spinach falafal, and sfela cheese saganaki. Sultan's delight is seriously the most melt-in-your-mouth delectable dish I may have ever tasted! If you haven't been here yet, go, and realize you'll want to come back pretty much every time you go out to eat.
(5)
Chris T.
My buddy was always raving about this restaurant, but I was hesitant as I was not familiar with many terms on the menu and I heard of the small portions that were offered. Regardless, we headed there last night on a whim and I was blown away. For appetizers, we got the spinach falafel, which was INCREDIBLE, the Sultans Delight, which came with the most tender beef I have ever had in my life, and the Spicy Fideos, which was good, but not great. For entrees, my friend got Flounder and Moroccan Crab, which was light and tasty. I got the Azuluna Pork with Moorish Spices, which was best part of the night. The everything about this dish was incredible. No other way to put it. We were both blown away and this is my go to dish, as I will most certainly be returning here. Of note, we didn't get any drinks, but the beer/wine list looked expansive and intriguing. A table beside us got the cheese plate, which looked ridiculous and I will be getting that next time. For dessert, I tried not to be a complete fatty so I only opted for an espresso which came out bitter and meh. But every dessert on that menu looked like a winner, so this place will definitely get the better of me. Overall, Oleana was an awesome surprise, and even though the portions were as small as I expected, we both left full, but not overly stuffed and gross like after a sushi buffet. Genuinely content. And for $100 between both of us, that's not bad at all.
Excellent. I think this is one of the best restaurant in Cambridge -- not because it is my favorite food, but because the menu is inventive, changing and always well executed. When I go to Oleana I order dishes that I would not usually order, and it expands my horizons.
(5)
Rae D.
Hands down my favorite place in Boston after 2 years of trying many different restaurants around town. They book up quickly but the outdoor patio is a beautiful place to eat and can sometime be nabbed without reservation. The cooking is innovative and exceptional - try the vegetarian tasting menu!
(5)
Ayyaz C.
My absolute favorite restaurant of all time!
(5)
Alice N.
It is definitely one of the tastiest, most unique places I have been to. It takes some of the most common Middle Eastern ingredients and makes delicious dishes from the most unexpected combinations. The Haloumi and peaches is one of my favorite Meze dishes ever! Definitely worth its price...
(5)
Paula V.
WOW! This place has amazing food and wonderful ambiance. Went for our anniversary. We were seated outside in the back courtyard. Very romantic, private with a water fountain, pear tree shaped like the tree of life. Our server Terry was terrific! She new it was our first time there and spent time to explain the dishes. We chose 5 different Meze plates and Terry chose the order of how they would arrive. They're similar to "tapas" style plates but with more food and no heavy salt! The flavors burst out of each bite. Some dishes had a little hot spice and others were sweet with a little citrus. The combination of ingredients is just amazing There was plenty of food for the two of us and our bill came to $42.00 for a 90 minute meal with no drinks or desert. I am happy we found this place will look forward to going back very soon!
(5)
B L.
I just went here for the second time for my birthday. The meal was, as before fantastic. Everything we ate was spectacular. The waitress was also really really great. My only complaint is that is was soooo HOT in there! Insanely hot and with the seating being a little bit crowded it was uncomfortable. But everything was so great- that I didn't let it ruin my time. TIP: Get their house beer made for them by Cisco. It's awesome!
(4)
Daniel B.
I too loved Oleana. So, why not 5*s? Most of the things that we ate for dinner were incredible. Not necessarily overly complicated, or intricate, but reminded me of what I learned in Berkeley - good fresh ingredients, simply prepared. Personally, I was blown away by the warm olives. But there were some misses. The deviled eggs with tuna... were fine. And I was not a big fan of the spicy vermicelli with chickpea, even though I hear it's a signature dish, it was quite heavy. The other winners in order of preference: Chanterelles with crispy bits and fruity bits Falafel - OMG yes Green salad with green bread and yogurt Creamy smokey baba Whipped Feta with peppers Walnut and bean pate Spiced Carrot Puree The big surprise was the AWESOME dessert with pistachio ice cream and rose water with peaches and peach sorbet. So refreshing, and so on-point flavor/cuisine wise. Ultimately what cost them the 5th * in my book was the pacing of the veggie tasting menu. I am fine with a relaxed pace. I prefer it, in fact. And the first few courses were paced well. Then we got nothing. For a long long time. Until we got our last two hot dishes right on top of each other. While it did not diminish my enjoyment of the meal, and the beautiful back patio, it did not go unnoticed. It would be convenient to blame the service, but I think the fault is really in the kitchen. Regardless. Great place. I am so glad I finally had the chance to go and eat outside on a nice summer evening with my wonderful sister.
(4)
Anna T.
Came here two Fridays ago with my friend. We were sooo looking forward to this place from reading all the great reviews even though I'm not a vegetarian at all. We came here earlier because we didn't make reservations and wanted a table at the patio because it was such a great day out. So stood in line (yes there was a line not too long, we were the 1st there but stayed in the car), didn't mind standing there waiting except the smell of garbage! ewww! The patio is sooo romantic! Inspires me to decorate/design my backyard like that. Didn't really get to check the interior of the restaurant except a glimpse of it while walking to the patio. It looked pretty cool. Service there is great even though our waiter was looking left & right while talking to us but he made it up when he offered to wrap up our desserts so we can sneak it into the movies because I told him we were in a hurry to watch a movie (Eat Pray Love hehehe) He even helped us keep track of time! Superb!!! While we were leaving, there were two people standing there asking us how's the dinner and stuff and bid us a good night. The food: I don't think it's our type of food at all. We really really wanted to enjoy the food. We started off with bread & olive oil. There were 3 kinds, pita, plain french bread?, a bread w/ lots of spice on it. The one w/ all the spices on it was good. We ordered the vegetarian tasting menu and with the exception of the spinach falafel that was good, the others we didn't like. It was not worth the money for us. We had a garden salad (don't see why it's on this menu & it didn't even have a dressing), a yogurt dipping sauce (not our thing at all), the bean tomato soup (didn't pay money for minestrone soup), spinach falafel (very good but too small for the money), spicy fideos (it was okay, my friend didn't like it at all) & dessert. We also ordered the Sultan's Delight which was good but so small and ordered the Moussaka which was only okay. We paid $80 for 2 of us and we left hungry/not satisfied. Hmmmm...
(3)
Liliya M.
DELICIOUS. Really sets the standard for dining. I highly recommend the vegetarian tasting menu. A+++
(5)
Binh L.
The service was attentive to my dietary needs and informative without being pushy. The food was pretty great and gourmet, but there was just something missing here for me. I think I should have stuck with people's advice and just gotten a lot of appetizer dishes. Don't order meat. No really, I don't think it was that extraordinary. I got the fish entree, so so. I got the infamous Sultan's Delight that everyone raved about, but it just tasted like beef jerky. I can get more beef jerky for cheaper. So sum it up: order small dishes, avoid the meat (its specialty is vegetarian!), and get the summer sangria (white wine, yumm).
(4)
Kelsey P.
Great food - low on romance/ambiance. With relation to the ambiance and setting - tables are very close to one another and it's a bit more casual then I expected - I don't think Oleana is the "romantic" restaurant option many make it out to be within other reviews. Skip Oleana for that special romantic meal, but go here for any other dinner date or group dinner. As for the food, Oleana's food is absolutely delicious - it's listed as Turkish but I would describe it as generally Mediterranean. I had dinner for two here and we shared all our dishes. In general the meze and entrees are delicious. I would skip dessert if I were to return. Here is what we ate: [ Meze ] - all delicious, would eat every single one again - Warm Olives with Za'atar - Warm Buttered Hummus with Basturma & Tomato - Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers - Pancetta & Sage Wrapped Parsnip, Ricotta, Pinenuts & Roasted Grape Agrodolce [ Meat ] - delicious chicken and the show-stealer of the night was the turkish cheese pancake that sits under the chicken! - Misty Knoll Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake [ Dessert ] - skipable other than the french pressed coffee which was delicious - French pressed coffee (very good - worth having again) - Baked Alaska; Coconut Ice Cream & Passion Fruit Caramel We also ordered a great bottle of red wine, however our server did knock one of the glasses over mid-meal and it spilled all over the table and onto my date. The server was very apologetic and they quickly came to help out - luckily we somehow escaped the accident unstained. But the restaurant brought us free dessert, coffee, and a business card with an email address for any necessary dry cleaning. Overall, a simple accident and a great response.
(4)
Renuka B.
Nice place. Great outdoor seating. I tried their tastings menu. It had five items... All awesome!!! Loved it....
(4)
Ed H.
I may get flak for only the 3-star rating, but I just wasn't that impressed. OK, the Sultan's Delight was absolutely amazing. As per the server's declaration, the meat did fall apart with a simple pull at the fork and is was delicious. However, it was an itty-bitty little piece of meat. Any sultan that would have been delighted with that had to have been anorexic. As for the rest of the meal, it was decent but nothing really worth tacking on that extra star and giving them a four. The sword fish, I really can't say for sure if it was good sword fish or not as this was my first tasting. It was good... I guess. The flattened chicken dish, not so flat. My fellow dinner, stated the it was very herbed. Not sure if that was a good thing or not but the bite I tried didn't really impress me. The service was slow to start. Our server seemed to only be able to talk to one table at a time and only take one part of an order per visit although we know within moments of walking in as there was a bit of menu research before going. The food, once it was in, did arrive quickly once the order was placed, so that's something. And as a side note, he should take some acting lessons. He used all the right 'buzz' words, but didn't seems to actually believe them. Overall, I wasn't thrilled with the place and would probable go another area restaurant that I would much prefer for that sort of nice dinning experience.
(3)
Heidi L.
What happened?! We've been to Oleana quite a few times during the past year and enjoed every single time until recently...... Last Sunday, we were so disappointed at both the food and the service. I think the food still worths 3.5 to 4 stars but the service....... Perhaps we got a not-so-good server this time. He never once asked us if the food was good or not. Never refilled our water (granted someone else did it for him...but still!) He also did not acknowledge the fact that we had waited for our entree for at least 30-40 mins. Techincally, he was no where to be seen. I couldn't even flag him down to inquire anything. Food was okay, I still love the falafel...but thats pretty much it. We used to LOVE the specials. I was so excited they got the duck breasts as last time I had it was sooooo good. It wasn't bad this time, but the meat was not tender at all and overall we were not impressed. I hope it was just a hiccup and Oleana will be better when we go next time!
(3)
Emily A.
Delicious. Delightful. Worth it. I've eaten at Oleana several times and the food is always very good. The service is typically really solid - I've had some dinners where the waitstaff was really top-notch and other times when it's been good but not spectacular. Either way the hummus and falafel small plates (meze) are just SO tasty. Definitely a great place to celebrate a special event or just when you need a particular pick-me-up. Not the fussiest or the fanciest food (this is a compliment from me!) nor the most elegant ambiance (wish it was a little more quiet),, but clearly a very special place for a great meal! Plus you NEED to get the Baked Alaska (YUM). It should be a requirement for going to the place. (I would give the food 5 stars; the overall ambiance - read: it can be pretty loud - and waitstaff variability knocked the overall experience to a 4).
(4)
Alexis A.
Oh my god! This could be in the running for best restaurant in Boston. Everything on the menu is amazing and absolutely mouth watering! Make sure to try the vegetarian plate for $40. It's the best value and easily a meal for two. Amazing wine list and best yet, it will not break the bank. Win Win Win!
(5)
Curtis W.
I went to Boston a few months back and have been meaning to review this place ever since and haven't had time to get around to it. I have time right now, so here it goes. One of the best meals I have ever had in my life was at Oleana's. I will forever cherish the memory of that night. It's funny how dining out can do that sometimes. Some nights you eat at a restaurant and nothing and others just stay with you. I went to Boston for my birthday to visit my sister who happens to be the wine buyer for Oleana's. The red carpet was rolled out for us there and I think I pretty much sampled everything on the menu. The best part of the night was the food but also my mother who came to town all the way from Virginia as a surprised. I know this is more about my personal shit then about the details of the food, I don't really care. All you need to know is there's not one bad thing offered on that menu. Go and eat in confidence.
(5)
Tommy B.
Ok, it's probably obvious by now, but this place has amazing food. Is it expensive? Yes. But is the food worth it. You bet. The food was so good that I'm giving this place 5 out of 5 even with a few hiccups in the service (at times extremely slow, at other times annoying and pushy). Also, this place is a little trendy in terms of being organic/humane. Our waiter told us about how well/humanely the baby cow (veal) is treated and that it is never separated from its mother. Then she paused awkwardly and literally said "well, until it gets slaughtered, anyways..." Still, despite the price and trendiness, the food here lives up to the hype.
(5)
Hallie C.
RICOTTA AND BREAD DUMPLINGS all the starters- all the mains I love this place Speaks to my california heart in a big way
(5)
Peter C.
Do not pass go on this place. STOP and GO directly to it (and be prepared to pay $200 if you want alcohol with your food...). Truly amazing Mediterranean fare. A friend and I came here on a Friday night (make sure you make a reservation). I had called in late on the day of, but the hostess was kindly able to squeeze us in at the last minute. The best spot in the place? The 2-seater tucked away by the bar. Ask if it's available. It's away from the other tables, and you get all the personalized attention of the bartender, who provided us with fantastic service. The seats are fluffier than you think (they have a slight sinking quality), but it's worth the extra distance away from the other patrons. A reviewer below noted that the staff might ask you to stand while they grab wine bottles from the shelves, which, granted, is a risk -- but it didn't happen to me while I was there, and in truth doesn't seem all that horrible of a possibility. We ordered the 5-meze + dessert vegetarian tasting menu ($40) and 2 other "protein" appetizers. This, along with the bread basket, was certainly enough food for 2. I truthfully couldn't tell you all the things that came with the tasting menu, but they were uniformly fantastic. The highlights among them were grilled baby asparagus with deviled egg, a carrot puree with a sesame seed vinaigrette, fried polenta in a bean-tomato soup, and a candied pecan ice cream dessert. I think the 5-course tasting menu really showcases the true creativity and innovativeness of the chef, Ana Sortun. Get it, and you won't regret it. We also ordered 2 other "meze": first up was the fried mussels and hot peppers. I was generally pleased by this dish (I liked how the kick from the peppers balanced out the mussels), but thought the batter overpowered the very subtle taste of the mussels at times. We also had the octopus salad, which was fantastic. I really liked how the crispness of the toast offset the slight chewiness of the octopus. In sum, don't bother trying to decide among all the different options. The vegetarian tasting menu saves you a lot of hassle, and will have you singing praises. Make a reservation, and the restaurant gods won't be angry when you show up unannounced. In line with the Monopoly theme of this review, if I could build a house on the property, I would. But until then, I will have to trek over from the Central Square T station.
(5)
Nicole M.
No, seriously. How have I lived here for 11 years and never been here before? I should be punished. Finally we went here recently after a fantastic afternoon photographing Cambridge. It was an October night, unseasonably warm so we got to sit outside on the patio, and hardly needed a heat lamp. Let's talk about that patio for a second. You can grow fig and pear trees in the middle of the city?!!!! Amazing. If you come here and don't get the whipped feta and peppers, you should just turn around and walk back out. It's heaven on a plate. I swear my dreams have been filled with whipped feta filled clouds. No meal is complete for us unless there are olives to be ordered. I got a chicken dish encrusted with incredible spices over a potato pancake, and the hubby got a pork dish. I'm pretty sure we uttered a maximum of 2 words throughout the entree portion of the meal. Even though we were stuffed, we were contemplating dessert. The hubby, with a momentary memory loss, asked me to remind him what baked alaska was. A server passing by just calls out "it's amazing!!" as he continued back into the kitchen. hahaha We did not get dessert this time, but I'd be into trying something next time. Oleana has kicked someone out of my list of top 3 restaurants in the area. I cannot WAIT to go back there. One final note - a friend of a colleague of my husband's just got married there. Awesome spot for a small intimate wedding!!!
(5)
Nisha V.
Oleana offers a truly incredible dining experience, something that's hard to come by in the Boston area. The restaurant itself isn't anything spectacular, but when the food tastes like heaven, who cares? When you see and taste the food, you can tell that each dish has been carefully crafted, planned, and executed. The combination of flavors is unique, innovative, and most importantly, insanely delicious. We shared three appetizers: a carrot puree, the falafels, and the lentil & rice stuffed grape leaves. All were delicious, but the falafels stood out the most. Whereas most falafels are just fried balls that are hard/crunchy, these babies were light as pillows. Crispy on the outside, yet delicate and light on the inside, almost like a mashed potato filling. We split the chicken for our entree. As many reviews note, this dish was featured on Food Network's Best Thing I Ever Ate. And, it lived up to the hype. This is what chicken is supposed to taste like but rarely does--juicy, tender, succulent, and flavorful. And the turkish cheese pancake on the side...a delicious crepe stuffed with feta and ricotta cheese. YUM. Finally, the star of the show, dessert. Listen to all of the reviews--you MUST try the Baked Alaska. It is, by far, the best dessert I've ever had in a restaurant. Generally, I'm not a huge fan of Baked Alaska, but this dessert is out of this world on every level--the combination of flavors and textures will never leave your memory. Definitely one of the best dining spots in the Boston/Cambridge area. UPDATE: Went back again this month, and the food was just as good, if not better, than my last dining experience here. Our server was quite knowledgeable about the wine selection, and pointed us in the direction of a very well-priced and light yet flavorful red wine (Picatendro). The two of us shared 6 mezes (2 small, 4 big), which was a bit over-zealous especially since we also ordered the baked alaska. The spicy feta is a great way to start the meal, and the meze plate is a very refreshing palate cleanser. I would definitely ask your server for recommendations if you are unsure about what to order--our servers have always been very helpful and knowledgeable.
(5)
Brian C.
The food and service at Oleana are outstanding. We called on a Friday afternoon to make a reservation for that evening. The only time they had available was at 10:30 PM. Luckily, their beautiful patio doesn't require reservations. The service at the restaurant was excellent and the food was incredible. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, they have a Burrata dish on the menu which is the best I've ever tasted. I hear you have to get there early because they are only able to prepare a limited quantity. Another stand-out favorite was the falafel, which was beautifully presented and included an amazing beet tahini. The relaxing garden setting, the great staff and the awesome food handily earn this restaurant 5 stars.
(5)
Jules C.
The GREAT part: the food, especially the imaginative vegetarian and pescetarian options - the grilled octupus and baby brussel sprout kabob is a good example - wonderful. The Fatoush salad is awesome. The Good part - the service - usually (not always) very friendly and knowledgeable. The part that makes me so SAD - the atmosphere. The tables are so close that you are part of your neighbor's conversation whether you want to be or not. Apparently you have to know someone to get one of the few corner tables - we have had NO luck asking for quiet tables far in advance for special occasions. Same thing with the patio. Despite our requests on multiple visits we have been seated in the middle of the dining room or in the bar. This is really the only thing that keeps Oleana from being our go-to date-night restaurant. As we were wrapping up another ambivalent experience at Oleana in the last few days, it occurred to me how to articulate the problem - there is a restaurant in downtown Boston that has, IMHO, an awesome date-night atmosphere. All booths - darker ambience with table-specific lighting, jazz music that is not too loud, and enough sound-absorbing material that we can easily have a conversation over dinner without feeling like we're screaming, and without feeling like everyone else can hear us. To make it even better, they validate at nearby parking, so it's a low-stress experience to get there. Too bad the food and service are so mediocre. I would pay twice the money at Oleana if they had the other restaurant's atmosphere... Just sayin'...
(3)
Kelly N Z R.
S and I had such a great experience here-- I'm not really sure how non-vegetarians could possibly enjoy Oleana as much as we did. We both ordered the vegetarian tasting menu and each got different dishes-- score! 10 dishes! 2 desserts! They suggested that we ask for anything on the menu we particularly want to try, and inform them of anything we especially dislike. Mezze 1: -Warm cretan olives with oregano and sesame seeds -Whipped feta with garlicky roasted peppers -Spicy carrot puree with cumin, nuts, and olive oil -Bean hummus with tomatoes and olives Mezze 2: -Shredded romaine salad with shaved radish, pecan labne and pita toast with sumac -Fresh mozzarella stuffed with yogurt over lebanese chick pea salad (tasted curryish) Mezze 3: -Spinach falafel over beet tapenade with cinnaminy pickled turnips and mache on lavash Mezze 4: -Lemon egg sauce over a leek and kale dish -Same lemon egg sauce over a brussels sprouts cauliflower dish on cous cous Mezze 5: -Bread and ricotta dumplings with red wine mushroom sauce -Chickpeas in saffron vermicelli Dessert: -Nougat glace with tangerine sections and tangerine sorbet -Frozen meyer lemon souffle with rose petal jam and lemon curd It's very tempting in the first mezze to fill up on bread-- don't do it! My absolute favorite was the lemony egg sauce over the brussels sprouts cauliflower cous cous dish, S's favorite was the bread and ricotta dumplings (which I loved, but would have enjoyed more had I not been so stuffed). A failure of an Israeli, I actually don't really like falafel, but this falafel dish was FABULOUS. I'll probably even order it when we return. Definitely will come back here. Hopefully often.
(5)
Bridget H.
The food at Oleana is really great. The first time I went I was happy but not amazed. But the second time I took the advice of some Yelpers and had the vegetarian tasting menu... Ohmigod... if Oleana cooked the vegetarian tasting menu for everyone, no one would need to eat meat, and we wouldn't have to raise cows, and we could stop climate change and the apocalypse!! It was THAT GOOD, even my vociferously carnivorous boyfriend agreed. Despite its world saving potential, I'm giving it 4 stars because my cocktail, the sake lychee Sortini, was decidedly mediocre, not to mention weak. Oleana, you have solved global warming... just please mix up a couple good drinks and I'll bump you up to a 5. Pretty please?
(4)
Dan L.
Oeana is a vibrant restaurant that has great service. The food is unusual and requires an adventurous spirit. Highly recommended for a night out -- but not appropriate if you're looking for more traditional cuisine.
(3)
B B.
Truly a cut above. Inventive, subtle, and tasty Middle-Eastern inspired food. Many of the best dishes were the simplest: hot pepper labne with mint, warm buttered hummus... Service was attentive. In a town where it is surprisingly difficult to find vegetarian-friendly restaurants, Oleana offers many choices (among the meze, none among the mains, it must be noted). My only complaint is the for a meal consisting of 8 meze between 2 people, the food came too quickly. We were done in an hour, with time to spare. Fair enough in some ways (meze=tapas=quick food). But then the hushed atmosphere seemed at odds with a meal consumed in 45 minutes flat and as a vegetarian I had no choices other than the meze. I would rather have had the same food, standing, at a rollicking bar. My only complaint though. The food is excellent.
(5)
Nicole C.
I know you don't need another great review Oleana and Ana Sortun, but I love you!!! I went for dinner on Tuesday. I wanted to take my parents who were visiting from Erope and prayed there would be a a table on the patio. The gods were smiling on us. We got a seat immediately. The staff is super friendly. And the food as always, superby delicious. I always eat the mezze. My husband and I get a bunch of them and share. This time I had Octopus and Olive Shish and Sultan's Delight. Both are fantastic. I also tried someone's Spicy Fideos. Yummy!
(5)
Blogga B.
I'm amazed ... by the number of really good reviews. So maybe it was just the wrong night and on a regular one the portions would be a little bigger (3 bite sized pieces of octopus on a skewer..), the prices a little lower (that octopus went for 14$), the kitchen a little more cooperative with gf needs and the waiters wouldn't continuously stumble into a chair that's maybe placed a few inches away from the table. Yes, the food itself was good, bread was great; but if you make it expensive, college cafeteria style is not going down so well.
(2)
Juliette K.
There's so many great reviews on here for Oleana already, so I'll try not to repeat (too much) of what everyone has said. Yes, the food is amazing; the restaurant is warm and inviting; the service is welcoming and friendly; the back patio is gorgeous. But, what a lot of people might not know already is that Oleana is the perfect setting for private parties and weddings. I recently hosted my wedding there and had the most wonderful experience working with the team at Oleana. I'll tell you first that I'm a long-time customer of Oleana. When my husband and I were deciding on where to have our wedding, it was on the top of our list. We've been in love with the place for our long time, and it's where we've had many dates so it had a lot of significance to us. We wanted to have a small, intimate wedding focused on great food and spending time with our friends and family. And the back patio - so romantic and beautiful in the summer! I knew that I would love working with Janice from the minute I met her. Unlike other event planners that I met with, she was so quick to respond (anyone that's planned a wedding or event knows how frustrating it can be when you don't hear from people for days/weeks!), eager to hear about how I envisioned our wedding, helpful in her suggestions with things that I hadn't even thought of and was totally committed to making sure the event reflected us. I really couldn't have asked for a better person to work with. She helped me design a fantastic menu and experience that everyone is still talking about. Thank you Oleana!
(5)
Kate S.
I live in Inman Square, so I've tried all the restaurants close by. I was surprised by how Turkish the food is. I mean it is quite noticeably different from your everyday American food. Anyway, I thought all of the food was very good--I also thought it tasted healthy, which is wonderful. The wine + service were also spectacular. My mom paid, so that was good! (It is expensive.) Definitely a tasty and interesting restaurant!
(5)
Joel M.
I've lived right around the corner for about three months, and last night I finally decided to stop in for some food at the bar... GREAT decision! I just had two meze plates for dinner, the pancetta wrapped parsnips and the mango spoon salad... The mango salad was very interesting, served with whole peppers and a sort of bean guacamole that was very tasty. The parnsips were out of this world though, and I'm going to have a really hard time skipping that to try new things the next time I eat here! Save room for dessert... the menu looked fantastic but I wasn't hungry enough to dig in...
(5)
Maria B.
I have to bring it down a few notches this time around as my second experience at Oleana was not as mindblowing as the first unfortunately- when it came to the food anyway. Ambiance and service are still top notch- the waitresses are so genuinely friendly and attentive. However I had the spinach falafel and I was pretty disappointed. Maybe it's because my heart belongs to Falafel King in Downtown Crossing (I'm not ashamed!), but I suppose I was expecting so much more with Oleana's take on it since it's well... Oleana! But the falafel was just too warm... too rich... too intense for my taste. Then I realized, as I felt this way about the other appetizers we ordered that night too... that maybe some of Oleana's creative meze choices are just a little too overloaded with flavors for some tastes. Too rich... so rich that I was full before I knew it. This all being said, I'm definitely ready to give Oleana another chance ;)
(4)
Katelyn M.
I visited Oleana for a birthday dinner. We were seated promptly when we arrived. The serving staff was decent. I felt like she gave me a funny look when all we ordered was the whipped feta for an "appetizer". I guess because we didn't order off the "appetizer" part of the menu. But did that require a nasty look? Nah... Anyway, after that the rest of the evening went well. I appreciated that the wine/beer list notes which are made from organic/biodynamic sources. It definitely factored into my decisions. I wish I had gone with the bottle from the Sigalas winery in Santorini, though. I mean - that's where we went on our honeymoon and loved the wine! And I know it would have paired super with the scallops in quince brown butter. Still, my meal was fantastic. Dh got the steak, which was good medium rare but still a little tough. He didn't feel that it was anything to write home about. I think next time I go I'll do the vegetarian tasting menu. This time I wanted the whipped feta and those sea scallops. It was a good choice. Oh, and there is a parking lot across the street, but it fills up quickly.
(4)
Tom N.
I recently took my daughter (a vegetarian and devoted foodie) here for her 23rd birthday. The service was among the best experiences that I've ever encountered in many decades of dining out. The vegetarian tasting menu was, in a word: awesome. We were seated right across from the kitchen and could see the cook-staff at work which only added to our dining experience. We ordered the fried mussels and whipped feta for appetizers and were delighted with the flavors and the presentation. For an entree I had the lamb steak with fava bean moussaka and the Turkish spices brought out flavors in the lamb that were completely and wonderfully new to my palate. The place is a bit of a splurge but definitely worth it for a special occasion. I rarely give five stars for a yelp restaurant review, but this experience exceeded all of my expectations and we will definitely be back.
(5)
Steve S.
Went there for our Anniversary based on Yelp reviews. The place is phenomenal. Romantic: Check (but definitely not for dates only) Great wait staff: Check Flavor explosions in your mouth: Check My wife and I agreed that it's the best meal we've had in a year ... and we go to a fair number of restaurants. We skipped the entrees and went for multiple Meze (small plates). Yum on a plate all around.
(5)
Heather F.
The BF and I went here following one of the Harvard Science and Cooking lectures - to our surprise, the speaker we had gone to see arrived with his entourage 20 minutes after we were seated. Needless to say, the waitstaff was a little distracted (...and admittedly, so were we :p) - however our servers did a nice job making us feel semi-important :) We split the hummus as an app - FANTASTIC, and a super cute presentation - not at all what we were expecting, but it was perfect for sharing. Would definitely order that again and again. For entrees, we shared a fish dish and a lamb dish (it was a few months ago, I don't remember all the components exactly). The lamb was good, but I wasn't blown away... and the fish was just OK. We split the profiteroles with tahini-brown butter cream and cocoa sorbet for dessert... honestly, it was one of the BEST desserts I have ever had, and I usually don't even have much of a sweet tooth. The cream had a hint of savory to it, which is why I think I enjoyed it so much. The sorbet was a gorgeous almost black color and not overly sweet... it was a fantastic combo. I've literally told at least two dozen people about that dessert since our meal... it was THAT good. Awesome apps, OK main courses, and phenomenal desserts. I'd definitely go back, but like many others have said, I think I'd opt for all-veg dishes or more mezzes and skip entrees/meat altogether.
(4)
Ferit U.
Great food with Turkish infusions
(5)
D P C.
This place is amazing! The combination of flavors are AMAZING! The desserts are out of this world delicious!!!
(5)
Marc S.
Four of us recently went to Oleana on a Saturday night to celebrate our anniversaries. We made reservations for 6:00. We were seated in the back room overlooking the charming patio. It was a pleasant setting and the noise levels were lively, but not noisy. Rather than ordering entrees, we decided to get every "meze" (small plates), 21 total. Each of them sounded too good to not try. Our waiter (Hartley, according to the bill) was prompt and pleasant, but it quickly became clear that he was out of his league and not up to the standards of a restaurant of this caliber. First, we explicitly mentioned that one in the party had a severe nut allergy and we needed to know which plates may contain tree nuts. Most restaurants take this seriously, this waiter treated it casually. Each delivery to the table required us to ask him (over and again) if any had nuts, and he often didn't pay attention enough to know, and repeatedly had to make another visit to the kitchen to find out. [We were twice served by another waiter who had the proper level of care about food allergies... he knew the ingredients and assured us which dishes did and did not have nuts. Hartley often seemed to be guessing. This is a serious enough infraction that it caused frustration to the level of diminishing the experience. But there were several other foibles that, by the end of the meal, had us wondering how this employee could have been hired there. First, the frequent intrusive reaches in front of talking patrons, dripping water (repeatedly) into our shared food plates. The most upsetting of all was the end of the meal when it seemed like we were being told to leave and make room for the next party. It was indeed close to 9:00PM by the time we finished dessert, but not though any overstaying of our welcome. The pace of the plates necessitated it. We weren't rushing, this was a celebration, but we were sensitive to the fact that there was probably another seating scheduled for our table. But it was simply unacceptable for the bill to be placed on the table first, before the desserts (in the same trip, but still) when we didn't ask for it. Worse still, less than 5 minutes after the bill was dropped off, the waiter returned to take the payment. We hadn't yet tended to it, since we were still eating dessert. Once the payment was made, the waiter collected the check before we were ready to leave, which made us even more uncomfortable, [and made me regret the generous tip we left despite the service. It is really unfortunate that the restaurant allowed a substandard server to work in this otherwise great restaurant. I hope that this was an anomaly, and not representative of the level of service by other wait staff, but I think it is a poor reflection on the enterprise that doesn't take better care in selecting the people who interface with the customers. The overall impression (of a potentially excellent experience) was so diminished, that I would hesitate to recommend it or try again. At this price level, the service must not be this deficient. Too bad, this could have been a place that merited many repeat visits.
(3)
Adam B.
In Short: Friendly service in an unremarkable space with a varied and universally well prepared menu. They aren't always booked when they say they are. Honestly, you can't go wrong with this menu. The items are all well done, well proportioned and well plated. The staff is knowledgeable, if not prescient in that 11MP way and the beer/wine list is substantial. We ordered fried mussels (Delicious!) grilled octopus (again, delicious if a bit too small). For a main course my date had the cod (amazing, and I don't typically care for white fish) while I had the lamb (well prepared, but I wish i had read the menu carefully enough to realize I was getting a ground lamb dish. My only beef is that we get shoe-horned into an 8:30 reservation 2 weeks in advance. Then, when we show up, the joint is 60% empty! Maybe they need to keep up the pretension of a waitlist but for me this is just petty showmanship.
(4)
S. M. S.
Amazing flavors, service, experience. Can't believe I just ate at Oleana for the first time! Won't be my last...
(5)
Matt Q.
I can vouch only for the food and the service, and wholeheartedly believe that Oleana offers the best of both. I didn't even get a chance to take in the ambiance because it was V-day and packed. But the food. Me oh my, was it good. The spinach falafel was exquisite. Hands down the best I've ever had, and I'd be surprised if mortal man could fashion something better using chickpeas and spinach. We had the veggie tasting menu for V-day and the falafel was certainly the highlight. The carrot puree smothered on herbed bread kicked off a fancy night of inventively spiced treats. Server was amazing. Can't wait to go back and check out the patio in the summer. New favorite in the Boston area.
(5)
Raymond W.
The best meal I've eaten in Boston to date hands down. Hummus, Falafel, Sulatan's Delight and Lamb entree were all delicious as was the Baked Alaska, which was probably one of the top 3 desserts I've ever had at a restaurant. Service was casual, but very informative and knowledgeable and gave several good recommendations. The space was a little cramped and you had to hand your coat on hooks, so make sure you don't leave anything valuable there. It's a little bit of a walk from the T, but it's close enough to Inman Square so that there are other things to do in the area. If you're not in the area, it's a destination worthy restaurant and if you live in the neighborhood and haven't tried Oleana, then you simply fail.
(5)
Adrienne T.
So, there's no way I can NOT give Oleana 5 stars- it deserves them! There are a few personal minuses, though, so keep reading. First, the staff was gracious, accomodating, and knowledgeable- ALL of them. Thanks especially to Dan. The decor and lighting are beautiful. What a lovely place for a date, IF you are NOT culinary challenged, as I am. I decided to open my mind and try something new with a group a friends. I'd never eaten Mediterranean food before. I'm pretty basic and predictable, and trying new foods isn't one of my most favorite things to do. However, I'd heard SOOOO much about Oleana that I couldn't resist. I had some sort of whipped feta from the Pret a Manger section of the menu, and it was heavenly. It also was one of the things that contained all ingredients I was familiar with-smile. For my entree, I again went with something where I was familiar with "most" of the ingredients, I got the flank steak that was wrapped in a sashimi with some kind of whipped peas and something else. No, I didn't get the chicken, I just HAD to be a little more "adventurous" than that. My 4 friends all enjoyed their exotic dishes. 3 of our group had been to Oleana before and 2 of us hadn't. Overall, it was a lovely dining experience, and I was proud for having tried something "new". Oh! This place ain't cheap. There are no prices on the wine that your server will so seductively offer you. Ours was $54! Dinner for 5 was a little over $200, not including tip. Enjoy!
(5)
Claudia H.
This is a good place for fusion Middle Eastern food, although you can find other international recipes. The food is really good (the lamb, the tuna and the rabbit are delicious in my opinion). The bar is pretty good too, and you can taste really good beers, cocktails and appetizers. The bad news, you might have to stay in the bar for a while, even if you don't want to, as the place gets really busy and it might take a while for you to be seated. A very chic place, with very good service...meaning that it is pricy. The check can go up to around $70 with wine. Overall, a nice restaurant with good (but pricy) food and drinks.
(3)
elizabeth b.
I have lived in Cambridge for 1 year. This week was my first trip to Oleana (I never think of it far enough in advance to make reservations). Oh my heavens, the food was the best I've had BY FAR this past year in Cambridge. We had the Chicken as an entree, the falafel, the asparagus and the moussaka. All, fantastic. The service was low-key and friendly. The wine was affordable and yummy. Overall, a tremendous experience.
(5)
Nicholas A.
Food prepared spectacularly. 4.5 stars... maybe even 5 if I ordered perfectly. Enough said...
(4)
michelle c.
Our dinning experience at Oleana was perfect, start to finish. The ambience is great and the service was outstanding. We started off with a couple small plates: whipped feta, falafel, and sultans delight. The falafel is the clear winner but since then I've been craving that whipped feta...so good with the bread selection. I've even tried to recreate it at home. The small plates are really where Olean shines. Main courses were good but not out of this world. I had the flattened chicken which was rather heavy on the spice and salt but I still enjoyed it. The dessert was really yummy. I never thought I would enjoy vegan ice cream! Go to Oleana. Try everything.
(5)
Stephen L.
Absolutely fantastic. The food is amazing, great atmosphere and every meal we've had has been delicious. Definitely try the Sultan's delight! Reservations needed weeks in advance if you want a Friday / Saturday prime time slot. highly recommended.
(5)
Alex K.
This is, no question, my favorite restaurant. My wife brought me here to celebrate a special occasion some years back and we have been back for birthdays, anniversaries, etc. over the years. I love the lemon chicken with zaatar and the baked alaska is pretty much at the top of my list as far as desserts go. It's been too long - I need to go back!
(5)
Mark W.
If you love meat and think the world would be perfect with just bacon and butter. This place will blow your mind away. The vegetarian tasting menu is awesome and then some. I'd put it up with craigies tasting menu on best things i've eaten in greater boston. First off the service was excellent. We didn't have a reservation which was a stupid thing to do (eating that night was an impulse). There were no tables free for the next 2 hrs but we were able to get two seats at the bar in the back within 20 minutes which was amazing. The bartender was amazing and really helpful. Even the waiters were really nice and chatty when they were waiting around the bar getting drinks for people. Overall the service alone i would give it 5. So the two of us had two tasting menus. The bartender was awesome and told the kitchen to not duplicate the menus when possible. Basically we had two totally different tasting menus. Each course we had two plates. The plates were actually perfectly sized for two people. I've never had vegetarian done so well. Meat lover or not the vegetarian tasting menu can't be beat. And the price is unbelievable. Don't waste your money at other places.
(5)
Nikki Z.
Favorite restaurant in Boston. Favorite mezzes were the fried mussels, the quail (so fragrant and flavorful) and the warm buttered hummus. Skip the entrees - the halibut and the sea bass weren't as well executed as the mezzes.
(5)
Emily M.
Wonderful food. Impressively intricate and very delicious. The service was also nice, as was the dining room. And my knife and water glass were noticeably lovely to hold. Oleana aces the details.
(5)
Danielle B.
Quick Tip: Make reservations a day in advance! Food was amazing, but even on a Wednesday night it was crowded at 5:45pm. Different specials every night and the Sangria was fantastic! I had 2 appetizers, the tuna and falafal and both were wonderfully prepared and the waiter even explained the dish when he brought it out!
(4)
Kelly O.
One of my favorite restaurants, ever. In my 3 visits here, I've been fortunate enough to be able to try a wide range of what Oleana offers- thanks, pharmaceutical company for sponsoring our dinners and allowing us to literally order the whole menu!-, and not a single thing has been bad or even just OK. My own personal highlights include: -the complementary bread with spices: possibly the best starter bread I've ever had at a restaurant. We may or may not have attempted to take some of this home with us (side note, not as good the next day). -the carrot puree with dukkah: really tasty, especially in combination with the bread. A great starter, unique and delicious. Also, the whipped feta is excellent as well. -deviled eggs: I'm a huge fan of deviled eggs anyways, and I like the incorporation of tuna into this version, it's fresh and yummy. -spinach falafel: really nothing like a traditional falafel, IMO. This version is much lighter and more flavorful, and I think the accompaniments really help make this dish (they tell you to make a mini-sandwich out of it with the cress and beets and tahini, it's a great combination). -the chicken entree: za'atar encrusted flat, juicy goodness. The cheese pancake thingie is a nice addition. -the lamb steak: bar none, my absolute favorite dish here, or anywhere for that matter. Cooked to perfection, spiced beautifully, tender, juicy, bloody, and absolutely mouth-wateringly amazing. This is the yardstick to which I compare all my meat-based entrees, and so far it hasn't been beaten (although Bobby Flay's ancho-crusted pork with bourbon glaze at Masa comes very close). I didn't even eat lamb before trying Oleana's version, and now I'm totally hooked, so that should tell you something. I literally dream about this dish, mmmm... -baked alaska: massive signature dessert that you won't be able to eat on your own (definitely split it with someone). Excellent passion fruit sauce, great flavor/texture combos. This dessert tends to be the preferred by most, if not just for the drama of it. But if meringue isn't your thing, any of their other desserts are pretty good as well (I think I've tried all the usuals at this point). -the veg tasting menu: yum yum yum! The delicious dishes just kept coming and coming. Perfect sized portions, each with their own distinct flavor profile and ingredients (no duplicates), and the dessert that was included which was some kind of sesame brittle with ice cream was to die for. Service is impeccable, wine list is excellent (try the Paopao cocktail), ambiance is lovely. How I wish I had the cash to afford more trips here, but alas, it will need to remain a special occasion or dinner's-on-someone-else's-tab... anyone else want to treat me? 8)
(5)
Evelyn I.
How could you not love the story of a chef falling in love with the farmer, getting married, and creating a beautiful beautiful world together? The best money I have ever spent on food. After going several times I have learned to do it well without breaking the bank and still leaving full. Two appetizers, a vegetarian tasting menu split amongst two people, which includes a dessert, and a drink a piece will run you about $80. But you might want to save room for the turkish coffee after. Also I find that you really just need to let go and have them bring you what is fresh and in season. Highlites- falafel, baked alaska, the fresh house made cheeses and aromatic spices. Also, the cookbook, aptly named "Spice", written by the owner Ana Sortun, has been a welcome addition to my collection.
(5)
Kelly S.
Innovative, thoughtful, surprising. You'll find a dozen or more ingredients or preparations that are new to you. Quality of the food and preparation was excellent. The decor, service, and ambiance is stylish, but laid back - some in suits, others in t-shirts. The wine list is diverse and surprisingly good in by the glass options. Had the chef's tasting menu and was overwhelmed - so many flavors, and so much food - by the end I was at my limit. The patio looked nice, but it was closed due to cool weather.
(4)
M J.
OK, being honest. Time for some tough love. I've been several times over the years, and I am a big fan of this fantastic food and the chef - it's fresh, inventive, just damn good. Those folks at the James Beard Awards know their stuff. However, I'm taking off points and just not rushing back for the following reasons: 1. hello, pricey?! did they renovate and am I being charged for it? $27 for brick chicken is what they charge at Hammersley's and Scampo - but those establishments have a plush factor, are in the high rent district, adjacent to a bevy of other eats and amusements and have crowds worthy of watching. this section of Cambridge is not so lovely-has anyone noticed? ditto the people watching factor - there's just nothing, no one to look at here. it's also cramped. sorry, but i'm just not seeing value here, comparatively. 2. no valet?! you know, I can park across the street and walk, but sometimes the weather is lousy, etc. at these prices, your car should be "handled" if that's what you prefer. 3. no alcohol - just beer and wine - sometimes you need a cocktail! a james beard fine dining restaurant with no alcohol? no. this doesn't work for me. 4. wine list - I don't dig the layout, it's a little unclear, and they need more rose. we were seated on their patio on a lovely night (loving the fleece and space heaters) that was just screaming for some light libations - but there were just two roses to choose from. maybe 4 would be nice? espec given there is no vodka or tequila to relax and refresh with. A friend tells me the best take is to sit at the bar and get small plates. Maybe chef will see this and be inspired to do her next place as such!? I'd look forward to that, very much.
(3)
Marisa D.
Dinner at Oleana was certainly the best meal I've had in Boston, and our waiter (Shawn, or maybe Sean?) was outSTANding. He was a true foodie with a thorough, deep understanding of both the food and wine menus. Like the reviewers before me have said: make a reservation; order the small plates; enjoy. This will now be my go-to restaurant!
(5)
Jaime M.
Yes yes & yes in every way. Oleana is such a gem. The food is creative, flavorful and delicious, service is attentive-- and the courtyard is beautiful. I have only been once for dinner and will definitely be back!
(4)
Caterina S.
Their food is very good, but their service is awful. Therefore, given that a dining experience is a combination of the food and service, I give it only one star. They are really hurting their reputation by their horrid service. Their staff is pompous, their waiters are very rude. Their menu is creative, but their wine list is lacking. Overall, my advice to them is that it is not enough to serve Mediterranean food, they need to also learn something about Mediterranean hospitality.
(1)
Jillian M.
I have lived around the corner from the place for ooooo...3 years or so, so it is a major bummer that I never tried it until recently. Couple notes: You definitely want a reservation and you probably don't want to head here when wearing your yoga pants and sweatshirt, it's a bit fancy. First off, the food was amazing. Truly amazing. I feel like I know me some delicious food and this was really great. We had 2 tapas/appetizers and 2 entrees, and all the plates were completely clean, not a morsel left when we were done. Secondly, the service was fantastic... beyond fantastic. Our waiter was lovely, not at all overbearing and not at all Missing in Action. He answered our many questions, offered other suggestions and assisted us with a well timed move of the table when we were trying to leave without hitting our bums on the tables behind us (the tables are VERY close together). I was generally really impressed by our dinner, everything was well played and well timed. The ambiance was perfect for the meal. And it wasn't as pricey as I had anticipated, though a couple glasses of wine certainly would have pushed it into incredibly expensive territory. My one complaint would be that the hostess area is very tight and right in the middle of the flow of traffic, and they take your coat, so there is some major traffic jam situations there that take a little away from the elegance of the rest of the meal.
(5)
Patrick O.
Top notch on Zagat and I agree!
(5)
Jackie S.
My husband and I returned to Oleana to give it another try after a disappointing experience in January. Am I glad we did! We were warmly greeted and seated immediately. We began with a light and refreshing Portuguese white wine, a Loureiro, Quinta do Ameal, from the Minho region. We ordered two meze: the spicy sardines with shaved fennel and Meyer lemon mousse, the spice bursting with flavor and soothed by the perfectly small amount of mousse, and the special fresh crab and spinach wrapped in a light flaky crust with a lovely sauce. Both were superb. Our main courses, which we also shared were the pink trout with cucumber, avocado, and salmon roe all soothing and fresh, and the nightly special of sea bass with an eggplant caponata and pleasantly spicy sauce, our favorite. We ordered one dessert, large enough to be shared by 4 people, which we were unable to finish: Turkish-Style Profiteroles - Brown Butter Creme, Sesame Cashew Caramel & Halva, the halva flaked on top and the caramel and cashews rich and not too sweet, somehow! Our server, a charming, attentive, well informed woman was present when we needed her, but not overly involved. We look forward to going back to Oleana, where creativity and middle-Eastern dishes thrive!
This is really a special restaurant. I took a couple of my directors here for a thank you meal at the suggestion of one of my chefs/professors who knew it would be to my tastes. Our waitress was a little quiet (the restaurant is a little quiet overall), but was lovely and appropriate. We informed her early on that we would be eating quite a bit as it was a late reservation (I think 9pm on a summer Wednesday) and we did end up closing the place. The atmosphere is incredibly inviting - warm tones all around, definitely feels like some place far away. I'd almost venture to say magical. There are a few bottles of wine in the $30 range, but the Greek white that we wanted to order was sold out. :( No matter. The bottle we ended up with was lovely. We started with the warm olives (nothing special), spicy carrot puree (incredibly buttery), and the whipped feta with sweet and hot peppers (ah-mazing). I could eat just this pret a manger every day of my life. The rest of our meal included Fried Mussels (not overcooked), Sultan's Delight (possibly the best thing on the menu), an Everything Green dish (plentiful), and a lamb dish (they do it right). Everything is so flavorful and cooked to the perfect temperature. The entire experience of Oleana is warming, almost indescribably. To be fair, it's just my type of food. I don't like anything too precious or classic so this restaurant is right up my alley. The dessert was also spectacular. I find that a lot of wonderful restaurants drop the ball on dessert and give you only boring options. Not Oleana. Every dessert includes their homemade ice cream or sorbet. My only complaint is that nougat/nectarine glace was a little on too sweet. The best of the bunch was a raspberry and goat's milk ice cream. To die for. I actually have dreams about eating here again. It's that good. Definitely in my top 5 and definitely the best non-French restaurant in the Boston area.
(5)
Brian G.
Very prompt service as we walked in from the rain on a Sunday evening around 8:30pm. There was no wait and the host was very nice and answered my parters question about the parking lots across the street very nicely, and was genuine. We had a small cramped spot, although expected in a smaller densely situated restaurant, which however did make for a cozy atmosphere. The waiter was pretty attentive and accommodating. I ordered the monkfish with dried kale and veggies and it was delicious. The bread basket was full of delicious bread that made me ask for more. The waiter was very confident and answered all questions with informative answers. The atmosphere was quite refreshing from the many low brow eateries of the Boston area, which made me feel like I was in Manhattan. My partner loved his food as well, which was the lamb. I liked it here, I will definitely return!
(5)
Sara G.
After a recent return visit, I am happy to say that the service is much improved. I actually understood what all but one runner/server was saying, and I felt that our server was much more attentive than on other visits. We did the vegetarian tasting. Again, very good. However, I felt that the final 'food' course of twice baked pumpkin was not on the same page as the other courses. Something about the flavor was off, and the side of kale seemed a bit uninspired. I also thought that the falafel wasn't as good as I remembered (still very good, however). Overall, though, I remain VERY impressed as how the kitchen is able to use spices to create unique flavor combinations.
(4)
Natalie B.
I LOVE Oleana. Every time I have gone here for dinner I have been met with excellent service from the waitstaff. The restaurant itself has a romantic ambience and the food is to die for. I loved the whipped feta as an appetizer. I'm also a huge fan of the ricotta dumplings and the wine list is amazing. I love that Ana Sortun selects the wine list based on what tastes good with Olive Oil. Genius!!!! Top your dinner off with the Baked Alaska for dessert. You won't regret it!!!!
I went to Oleana for the first time this week, and it was fantastic. We sat in the back of the restaurant, in the little sun room overlooking the outdoor seating area (which isn't open until May). The waitstaff was knowledgeable, fast and friendly. The food was to die for. I've never seen so many delicious vegetarian dishes on one menu! Some highlights from my family's dinner: 1) Fried Mussels, Hot Peppers & Turkish Tarator Sauce The mussels and hot peppers were perfectly deep fried -- just enough batter to coat, and just long enough in hot oil to get crispy. The flavor/texture combination was incredible; the mussels practically melted in your mouth. 2) Ricotta & Bread Dumplings with Red Wine, Porcini & Black Kale Mmm, ricotta, These dumplings were surprisingly light, and the red wine was unexpectedly broth-like (rather than syrupy) 3) Moroccan Fish Stew--Cod, Potato & Cabbage with Crêpe Top The cod was perfectly cooked. Absolutely perfectly. 4) Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake The "Turkish Cheese Pancake" is a bit like a crispy blintz. There are definitely multiple cheeses involved in "Turkish Cheese", and one of them is definitely goat. Sigh. Summary: I hope I have an excuse to return to Oleana soon!
(5)
Cecilia L.
All day long I had to stop John O. from snacking as we waited for our 8:30 reservation to Oleana. This storied Mediterranean restaurant had been on our list for a while, so we jumped at the chance when friends asked us to join their table. We were famished when we finally arrived, and I was drunk inside my first three sips of sangria ($9.50 for a large glass, excellent). Deviled eggs topped with tuna tartare = incredible. The homemade string cheese with the armenian bean and walnut pate is sharp, the ricotta and bread dumplings with red wine and porcini amazingly complex. A salad special came with a luscious bacon brittle made with almonds and cherries. But my favorite starter, the standout of our meal, was the tender fried mussels drizzled with a creamy sauce and studded with delightful hot peppers. :::swoon::: In comparison, our mains were merely good. The swordfish over lentils and thin, crispy fried pita was somewhat overpowered by a strong tahini sauce. The crispy duck had lovely texture and flavor and came paired with a pleasing pumpkin terrine. All of this was accompanied by a delightful and surprisingly inexpensive bottle of wine, the Pietraluna negroamaro at $32. Atmosphere is just lovely for a celebration meal or hand-holding, fork feeding lovefest. I loved how it's fancy enough for an occasion, yet not too froufrou for sneakers; pricy enough to be special, but not so dear you'll cry when the check comes. A typical dinner for two will run around $100, but the starters are extraordinary here, so I'd recommend ordering three or four appetizers and maybe splitting a main (they don't seem to mind). Too stuffed for dessert, but there will be a next time.
(5)
Drew D.
Our upbeat waitress quickly greeted us and offered drinks, which was much appreciated given the high humidity of a Cambridge summer. She read off several specials from her notebook, which sounded slightly rehearsed; she made sure to emphasis that Oleana's Green meatballs were "much better than ordinary old Greek meatballs." However, at the end of the spiel, she opened up a bit to simply say, "anything with lamb here is a knockout." That's all I needed to hear. We ordered a bottle of Rose, which the restaurant cleverly highlighted on a small insert to make it easier for the diner to find. We picked one from the Loire Valley. At first, the wine was startlingly tight and I questioned my choice. Fortunately, after letting the wine breathe, the wine introduced its flavors of fruit and toned down the acid. After 20 minutes, there was a beautiful wine on the table that was cool, refreshing, and tasty. The menu was frustrating only in the sense that there were so many things to choose. In addition to the standard appetizers and entrees, there was also a category called "Pret a Manger." Basically, pre-appetizers. Small bites meant to be consumed while browsing the menu. My dining companions each chose one as their appetizer, which ended up being a perfect choice because they were well sized, cheap, and came out very quickly. A few minutes after ordering, two carefully crafted deviled eggs and a plate of warm olives doused in Za'atar spice appeared. Za'taar spice, a mixture becoming more popular in modern cuisine, is very tradition Greek and combines ground spices and sesame seeds. They complemented the olives beautifully, and the resulting oil in the dish was the best bread-dipping accompaniment I have had in ages. I can't say much about the deviled eggs because they were gone before I had a chance to even ask to try them! In opposition to my friends, I chose to the do the vegetarian tasting menu. Our waitress was excited to inform us that the tasting was available for a single diner, which many other restaurants are often inflexible on. I started with what may have been the highlight of the meal: A parfait of tzatziki, a salad of cucumber, garlic, and green grapes, and sorrel granite. Upon tasting the granite, neither of my companions could find words to describe it. It was delicate, sweet, savory, airy, and complimentary of every other element in the dish. The tangy yogurt went beautifully with the sharp garlic and sweet grapes. I only wish that they served it in a salad bowl rather than a shot glass. Next, I was brought a briquette of mild cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, arugula, and a lebneh made with lavender and a minty herb. It was perfectly tasty but not nearly as exciting as the previous course. The situation was not helped when I asked my server to tell me a bit more about the puree, and she simply replied "I'm not sure." Moreover, At the point, there was an awkward period in the dining in which I was eating and my compatriots weren't. I had another course to go before our entrees were presented, and I felt a bit self-conscious. Admittedly, I knew that I was flying solo going into the tasting, but a polite warning would have been appreciated. In the grand scheme of the meal, these things were minor. The next course picked up the culinary creativity from the first course. A gourmet take on the falafel, this one came with pickled cucumber, beet and feta puree, organic cress, and spinach falafel. The falafel, rather than crispy and dry, was moist and tender. The beet puree, which added a vibrant magenta to the wrap, was incredibly flavorful. Most importantly, I was allowed to roll it up and eat it like a falafel, and eating with your hands always makes things taste better. The conclusion of my vegetarian tasting menu was ricotta bread dumplings with a savory tomato broth. My companions got lamb steak with fava bean moussaka and grilled swordfish with kohlrabi fritters. The lamb, as promised, was phenomenal. Tender, juicy, slightly gamy, cooked to a perfect medium rare, it was beautiful. The moussaka, though a touch crumbly, was rich and complemented by a smooth, creamy yogurt sauce. The swordfish had beautiful hatch marks and a towering salad of fresh greens; this is a fish for grilled fish aficionados. The fish was delicate but meaty, as good swordfish should be, and the fritters when fantastic. The filling had a unique composition of whole pieces of kohlrabi and a creamy surrounding. Regardless, they were light and complemented the fish beautifully. My dumplings were pillowy, in the best sense of the world. A schmear of dumpling and swab of tomato broth on the fresh bread was a perfect ending to the meal.
(4)
Ligaya T.
Enter the lovely O... Context: It seems that chef Ana Sortun has created the ultimate trifecta-of-sorts by joining hands with farmer, Chris Kurth: an elegant restaurant serving remarkable, innovative food made with fresh ingredients from their organic farm, a devout following of educated, appreciative diners and a darling little child, Siena. Setting & Service: Understated decor, relaxed yet not too casual for the price or a romantic evening. Fairly homogeneous clientele for Cambridge. Server was subtly condescending but I'm getting used to that now. Eats: The roasted pistachios fresh from Turkey, warm and just a tad salted got us salivating. We skipped the pret a mangers and opted for the Sultan's Delight, tamarind glazed beef and smoky eggplant puree with pinenuts. Those of you that have cooked with tamarind are aware of its intensely strong flavor (I don't even know how many pad thais I've botched). But the acidic taste of the pod added complexity to the taste of the tender beef while the eggplant's astringency smoothed and balanced the dish. Just exquisite, a must for the carnivorous or curious. The ricotta and bread dumplings with red wine, porcini and kale followed. Great consistency, good mix of flavors, but a tad bit too salty for my sensitive palate. We finished with the striped bass wrapped in eggplant that had a brininess that again was too much for me. We agreed that the tastes on this dish weren't perfectly matched. Dessert we did not choose wisely. Not knowing what 'cremolata' was we expected a smooth ice cream of sorts, but instead got a creamy but course, crystalline textured frozen dessert almost like granita. The warm chocolate panino was essentially a beautifully layered chocolatine. The man finished with a delightful Ramos Pintos ten year tawny as I sipped the rest of our Felsina sangiovese. In hindsight we should have gotten the more inexpensive Rhone blend from Chateauneuf du Pape. Though certainly there will be a next time. As the adage goes, "I'll try something once, twice if I like it!"
(4)
Munya S.
I ate here earlier this summer when I was in town visiting family. It was one of my best dining experiences to date. Tips- make a reservation because this place gets packed. I made a reservation for the opening time of 5:30, because you can't reserve for the garden patio due to weather. There was already a small line before 5:30. Since we were there at opening, we were able to get a patio seat which was absolutely beautiful- it felt like we were in a little paradise. Now- for the food. I think my mother and I freaked out our friendly waitress because we ordered so many dishes for just the two of us and they were all spectacular. She was shocked when we said quite seriously that we wanted dessert as well. Dishes I recommend- (all of them really) - the hot pepper labne is to die for (I tried to recreate it at home it was that good), the spicy fideos with chickpeas (OMG), corn fatayer, sultan's delight, and for dessert you can't miss the summer melon pop with rose petal jam- to die for. This is one of the few places that has such interesting flavor combinations where it actually works. I wish I lived in the Boston area so I could eat here more regularly (although my wallet is probably happy that is not the case).
(5)
michael l.
Very high quality Middle Eastern cuisine. Their menu does change seasonally but if they have Sultan's Delight, order it. I have never tasted a dish I didn't enjoy. Chef Ana Sortun is brilliant. Great selection of wine and very knowledgeable waitstaff. Make a reservation in advance. This place is always booked up.
(5)
Risotto J.
Hands off the best restaurant in Cambridge, with the Baraka Cafe a close second. Delicious, inventive, and beautifully presented food. It's sometimes slow, and it's more expensive than many other places, and in this case I'm willing to pay the price. Even the blandest options on the menu (uncooked vegetable special) are bound to turn out delicious. Highly recommended.
(5)
Brian C.
This recent dining experience was a disappointment. The wild striped bass came out raw pink and had to be returned to the kitchen. The fish the second time around was perfect, and though the waitress relayed apologies on behalf of the cook, nothing else was offered for the screwup. The spinach falafel was soft and fell apart in its pita wrap and bubble gum pink beet sauce. The final insult was the $26 lamb dish that is misrepresented in the menu and should actually read sliced lamb merguez sausage that I can get in a greek/falafel hole-in-the-wall for $5.75 (see other reviews below about this abomination of a dish). Based on this experience, it is not consistent with James Beard quality.
(2)
Rada K.
My friends raved about this restaurant noting excellent service. We made reservation month in advance. It was a highly anticipated visit. My husband and I came Sunday night for Valentine's dinner. The food was great but the service was poor. Our waiter exhibited sheer indifference and directed all his attention to a bigger group seated at the adjacent table. He never properly welcomed us and was visibly annoyed when was asked questions about dishes on the menu. I applaud Chef Sortun for her creative dishes, its just the whole experience was spoiled by one non-commited individual.
(3)
Kate K.
This is one of my favorite restaurants anywhere. The menu is original and creative and the food fresh and local. We've had very attentive and knowledgable staff each time we've gone.
(5)
Francesca R.
215 reviews with an average of 4.5 stars. Soooo...go here. It's amazing. Al fresco dining at Oleana is like 6 stars. If you can't sit outside, you'll still have a five-star kind of night.
(5)
Joe Y.
NEW FAVORITE restaraunt in Boston. Took my fiancee out last night for her birthday, found Oleana on Yelp.com . Sat out back on the patio at night, which was gorgeous. We thought it would be too chilly but they had these nice little stove/lights that kept the patio nice and warm! Oh, and the food was awesome too. My fiancee is a vegetarian, and Oleana had the best selection of good tasing vegetarian dishes around. We ahd a bottle of red wine, the Spinach Falaffel Appetizer which was so good, the Swordfish which could be one of my best meals of all time (at least in Boston area), and the Vegetable Medley...a plate of assorted vegetables (chef's choice) which were excellent. We also had the Baked laska for dessert....coconut ice cream on top of a coconut cookie surrounded with maragne and baked....AWESOME. We both loved everything and with a nice tip came to about $140, which is what I expected. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
(5)
Cynth F.
We were seated quickly enough at the table (we had rezzies), I with my back to the bar, he facing it, and all of a suddent my co-conspirators eyes were wide as plates -- and he was looking right over my head. I turned and saw a massive flame ball spinning down the bartop. Uhhh. What? No, it was not banana souffle -- instead, it was the Haloumi cheese with a spring onion dolma. Yes, I ordered it, and yep, it was quite tasty indeed (it was a wee bit oily, but what else to expect when you get fried cheese?) It was kind of humid and hot that night, so we both ordered the white wine sangria and it came with a bevvy of fruits -- raspberries, cherries, and the standard orange slice. Very refreshing, but at $9 a pop, I should have limited myself to just one. I got the Halibut -- which flaked wonderfully although the vine leaf was a bit hard to cut. The dude got the special of the evening -- Swordfish and porkbelly with pickled strawberries. He said it was amazing. We followed it -- of course -- with dessert; he got the creme fraiche souffle w/ apricots (awesome!) and I got the bittersweet chocolate parfait with violet sweets. Also pretty awesome (I am on a perfumey food kick). All in all this was a pretty great evening -- I had a hard time choosing my meal since everything looked great, but I think if I went back next time, I'd like to try their Veggie Mezze platter. The service was excellent, but our reservations were for early -- 6:30pm on Friday. It was jam packed (the bar, too) by 7:30.
(4)
Rosalita E.
Before I found Yelp, I relied almost solely on Zagat to guide my culinary endeavors. So, after years of reading Oleana's Zagat's reviews and consistently high scores, I finally tried it. I can't say Zagat misled me, but I wasn't as impressed as I hoped I'd be. We made a 7:30 reservation for 4 on a Saturday night. We arrived on time, but had to wait 15-20 minutes for our table. Not a big deal, especially because we to wait in front of the cozy fireplace. For an appetizer, we had the whipped feta, which was very good. One friend ordered the lamb; 2 of us tried the duck, and my vegetarian friend got a couple of appetizer specials. I really wanted to be wowed. The duck was definitely tasty, but was not as moist as it could have been. Also, the big turn-off for me was the fact there was some gristle in the duck dish. It was taken off the bone and put into a casserole-type dish, so it didn't make sense to me that the gristle was left as an unpleasant surprise. My friend also had gristle in hers, so I know it wasn't just a random mistake. I tried a bite of the lamb and thought it was fantastic, though. Service was great - our knowledgeable waiter answered all of our questions patiently (what's zhoug?). Also, tables feel slightly cramped. It was pricey, but that was to be expected. Overall, I thought it was very good, but just not as good as I wanted it to be.
(4)
aaron t.
I just experienced one of the most unbelievable meals at Oleana in Cambridge MA run by chef and owner Ann Sortun who also has a book "Spice: Flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean". Rustic, warming, vibrant, calming, and damn tasty down to the minuscule details. Chef Sortun's creations are inspired from her travels and experiences from France, Spain, Italy, and Turkey for an Arabic-Mediterranean intersection of surprising flavors along with their superb personal staff in a very charming space! Oleana is located in a quiet residential street side in Inman square with an outdoor porch space many have raved about though my first experience was inside. At first I expected an overly lavish pristine space based on all the reviews and consistency in most high end restaurants in Boston which I personally do not like as much, but Oleana's was my exact cup of tea. Very casual, a humble friendly staff, and a tiled warming environment in a comfy space as if walking into a village side restaurant bustling full of conversations during a sunset somewhere far away from all the chaos most of us are use to. The staff initiated the Oleana experience, servicing a few tables while greeting customers with smiles and stories while never seeming to be rushed allowing me to pester them with curious questions about their ingredients and unique flavor combinations (I'll blame my questions on the cheerful bottle of wine). The menu changes often and the wine list is as diverse as their dishes. Plates were fantastic while the attention to details in sauces, blends, and accents on the sides delighted me the most. I'd usually keep finds like this a secret, but the experience was wonderful and one surely to share with others.
(5)
Kate M.
I came here to try the vegetarian tasting menu. Being a new vegetarian, I wasn't disappointed! The concoctions were creative. Some of my favorite things on the menu were the ricotta and bread dumplings in a red wine sauce (wonderful!) and haloumi wrapped in grape leaves and set on fire with ouzo. And the spinach falafel -- oh my GOD, it was good!!! It came with pickled beets that tasted "like Christmas," as my sister and I said! Also, the bread selection is in a class of its own. Get some of the spreads. The atmosphere was serene and not overwhelming. As for our service, it left a bit to be desired -- our server never introduced herself, nor did she even crack a smile at any point in time. A small caveat, but it made a big impact on our evening. Overall, a great place to try. It isn't as mainstream or incredibly popular as many places in Boston or even Cambridge, and that's why I liked it. Pros: --Wonderful food --Great for vegetarians Cons: --If you sit in a booth, the seats against the wall are uncomfortable -- it's like sitting on a flat board. --Not easily T-accessible
(4)
Julie F.
Not that Oleana needs another review added to the pile, but I finally got a chance to go here last night after it taking up the top spot on my to-go-to list for so long, and I think it warrants yet another 5-star review. We ordered the quail kebab, the spicy fideos, and the veggie tasting menu to split between the two of us. The veggie dishes are listed on a little card attached to the menu, so you know what you're getting, but you really have no idea what you're getting. The presentation is fantastic, and the small dishes come out at various times, accompanied by a very knowledgeable bus-person who tells you what's on your plate, down to the last detail. Each of the veggie dishes were amazing...and each one was so different from the others. There was a lot of pumpkin involved, and beets made an appearance on a few different occasions. I had never had quail before, so I can't compare it to anything, but it was delicious, and my husband loved it as well. And, contrary to many of the reviews on here, I loved the fideos, which is some sort of vermicelli in a sauce with chickpeas and millions of other things, and I devoured it. You get an ample basket of bread, so you can sop up your flavors along the way. And I ordered a peach flower tea, which wasn't the tastiest thing I've ever had, but the presentation was nice...served in a wine glass with something (I guess a peach flower?) resembling a large pine cone in it, that grew as the tea became more flavored. Dessert was a sticky toffee pudding with hazelnuts, which was delicious, but probably not what I would have ordered if it didn't come with the meal. And we got a Turkish Coffee to accompany dessert, which was potent, but I enjoyed it. Yes, this place is small, but it works. It was freezing cold last night, so I didn't really mind the body heat of the tables surrounding us. The service was great - our waitress, Shelley, knew a great deal of detail about everything we asked her, and though there is a glossary at the end of the menu (phew), we still had plenty of questions.
(5)
Renee B.
Great food in cramped quarters is the best way to put it. The food was creative and tasty. I wish they would reorganize the layout to not feel like they jammed every possible table in they could, but maybe it is just the curse of taking over an old place and having to adapt to the environment. It will cost you, but it is worth it.
(4)
Margaret O.
Oleana is good, but not great. The food is interesting, which always gets points from me, but not everything works. We had the nougat for dessert and while well executed it didn't hold together as a dish. It was some flavors on a plate. The falafel on the other hand was excellent, although the beets had more to do with adding color on the plate than adding to the dish. From reading the reviews and from what I saw on my visit I am sure there are dishes here that are superb. Next time I will stick to the ones that reviewers have mentioned. I went for things I didn't know quite what were and my sense is that the chef didn't either. (And yes, I am quite familiar with Mediterranean food).
(3)
Allegra B.
this place is amazing! it is quite expensive but totally worth it. I've been there for my birthday and once i sat at the bar with my mom and had appetizers. the most amazing one is the spinach falafel! service is good and the waitress i had was very knowledgeable about the wine and food.
(5)
Suz B.
Totally delicious, warm, not stuffy, an utter delight.
(5)
Kathryn H.
I am revising my review below. After our terrible experience, they went out of their way to make it up to us. Called to apologize again, changed the way their tables are distributed to servers after our complaints about the service, and gave us our dinner for free after we refused the gift certificate. We will go back again, and if the service is back to normal they may even be upgraded back to five stars. Nice to know they actually listen to their customers, and that they took our complaints to heart. _______________________________________________ Used to be our absolute FAVORITE restaurant in Cambridge. Delicious, inventive food that I feel like I would never be able to cook at home. Unfortunately, had a terrible experience with the service at our visit tonight that has probably turned us off in a more permanent way to this place. We have been here probably about 4 times, each time with impeccable service, great wine recommendations, and almost perfect food. Tonight, sat for 20 minutes without anyone coming by to our table. We ordered in small courses of mezze and waited too long between courses. The warm hummus arrived cold in the middle. And to top it all off, their credit card machine was malfunctioning and it took more than 30 minutes to pay the bill (we were told the card was rejected, but we spoke to the bank and they said it was all on the merchant side). On the plus side, they offered us a free dinner. We didn't even take it because not sure we'll go back. Very sad, and I hope the rest of you have a better experience because the food is usually great.
(4)
Ellen S.
I had heard so many good things about Oleana and when I finally went for the first time I was very pleased that it lived up to its expectations. I went here for my birthday with my family, and would definitely recommend it for special occasions. The food was delicious, it was bursting with different flavors and spices. I would recommend the Lamb & Eggplant Dumpling and the Sultan's delight for appetizers and the Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake for an entree. Usually I get made fun of for ordering chicken at restaurants because it is usually the most boring dish, but not at Oleana! I thought it was the best dish out of five at the table. Incredibly delicious!
(5)
ki s.
One of my best dining experiences in Boston yet! I came here for an anniversary and we both opted for the non-vegetarian tasting menu, which was not on the menu but which they were happy to provide when we asked. It was amazing and a pretty reasonable price considering how many dishes they brought, and how different each dish was (I think they charged $56 a person... and it was a lot of food!). Can't wait to go back!
(5)
John F.
Oleana was magnificent. Even if my food had been poor, the atmosphere of the restaurant (especially on the patio, where we sat) was awesome. The live band, playing some simple, unobtrusive Mediterranean music in the corner was an excellent touch, and the patio itself was comfortable and quiet, despite being essentially in a backyard in Cambridge. That said, the food was also excellent. Filled with spices and flavors, and decent-sized portions. They also offer a vegetarian tasting menu, for those of the no-meat persuasion, and I'm told it was damned good. Being a happy carnivore, I couldn't say from personal experience, but it certainly looked impressive. They also have a great drink list, though I was amused to see Pabst Blue Ribbon (in a can no less) on the beer list. I went with their "house beer," brewed on the Cape. It was a delicious, spiced beer that went well with my dinner. All in all, Oleana is an excellent choice for a nice dinner out, say for a romantic celebration of a birthday, anniversary, etc.
(5)
Ambar B.
Among the best restaurants in Boston. Service, variety of food, and taste are off the charts. Highly recommend the lamb and fish dishes there, as well as the desserts.
(5)
Brian K.
Hands down one of the best resto's in boston area. this place is always packed and very hard to get a reservation. the patio is unreal. love sitting out there sipping some sangria. the best item i had here was on special and was a pork dish with goat cheese, greens and things I cannot remember. you have to go here! also try the helmand right down the street near the cambridgeside galleria! Enjoy!
(5)
Michael C.
From its superb ratings on Yelp and from the Phantom Gourmet, I had high expectations when I headed toward Oleana tonight. Unfortunately, they were not met. Not even close. The frustration actually began when we tried to find the place. They've taken their sign down, so there's no indication of where the restaurant is. We drove by it twice before we finally found the place. Then we had trouble finding parking because, although they have a lot, it's across the street and there's no indication it's their lot. Just a sign saying "private parking only," without saying *whose* private parking. But let's put all that aside. If we hadn't come during the Great Sign Replacement, and had called to ask about parking, we would have avoided these difficulties. Let's get to the restaurant itself. First, it's tiny. Cramped, in fact. They've stuffed as many tables as possible into the small restaurant, which doesn't make for the most pleasant dining experience. And they don't keep the heat high enough. There was a draft in the dining room, and the restroom was downright *freezing*. As for the service, our waiter was polite but nothing special. He sounded either tired or laid back. And when one of us asked what he recommended (three times in different contexts), he always said, "well, any number of things." Not so helpful. But it's the food that really matters. With good portions of great food, I'd be happy. Unfortunately, that's not what we got. To start with, portions are small. The appetizers are downright tiny. And two of our three meals were quite small, too. I was the only one who had a real meal (lemon chicken). And the taste...mediocre. The hummus appetizer was quite good, but my chicken was mediocre at best. Most chicken I've eaten in my lifetime was better. The best part of my dish was the cheese pancake underneath the chicken, which is stuffed with (I think) goat cheese. I didn't have dessert, but tasted a companion's baked Alaska...disappointing, but I guess I just don't like baked Alaska. Finally, the prices are outrageous for what you get. $23 for my chicken was bad, but mid-twenties for my companions' much smaller portions was legalized theft. This place reaffirms that old law of eating out: the more you pay, the less you get. And what we got wasn't even that good. In most respects, then, Oleana was a disappointment. I won't be eating there again.
(2)
Mariangela S.
This is the kind of perfectly seasoned and flavorful Mediterranean food I could eat every single day. The menu is so inspired I couldn't stop ordering - there were 3 of us and here's what we ate: From the Pret a Manger (ready to go - perfect when you arrive starving!): Spicy Carrot Puree & Egyptian Spice Mix with Nuts & Olive Oil Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers Deviled Eggs with Tuna & Black Olives Appetizers: (yum - keep that pumpkin hummus coming!) Spoon Lamb with Pumpkin Hummus, Bibb Lettuce, Pickled Persimmon & Tarragon Moroccan Goat Cheese Fritter, Carrot Soup, Argan Oil & Cilantro Yogurt MEAT (yes it was a meat fest!) Lamb Steak with Turkish Spices & Fava Bean Moussaka Duck Shawarma with Pickled Green Tomatoes & Green Beans with Cardamom-Rose Yogurt Free Range Veal & Parmesan Meatballs with Shitake Ribolitta Sadly we were so gut busting full (in a really good way) we didn't have a single bit of room for dessert....next time!
(5)
Mark G.
This restauarant is known as an excellent place to eat. I think everybody would agree iwth that. I want to point out that this is also an awesome place for those of you who are vegetarians, or lactose intolerant (sorry cannot speak to Vegan). Mywife is lactose intolerant and a vegetarian and every time we go, they have something viable on the menu - but the reason I give it 5 stars is that they always seem to take the time to understand my wife's needs and very often (3 out 4) they seem to just whip up something special for her.
(5)
Keren D.
Very Very Very disappointed. I've lived around the corner for many years, and always heard good things about Oleana. When my boyfriend made a surprise reservation for my birthday, I was all excited. A Saturday night, he was offered either 6pm or 9:30pm, and pick the later one so we'd have more time to enjoy the day. Got there right on time, and looking at the face of the hostess, we knew they forgot to save a table for us. She offers to seat us on the patio (it's 9:30pm mid-may, not summer yet), and we decided to wait for a while. After a long wait and attitude, we finally got seated, and went for 2 of the vegetable degustation menu. We of course had asked the server if we would get twice the same stuff or not, and he said the chef tries to vary because she knows people like to share. 1 course arrived, was good, second arrived, we still had the first almost full. Third arrived again before we finished the 2nd, when I had to ask the server if he could pace the food better because we felt rushed. 4th course was a vegetable stew that was served raw. I had never been served or cooked myself a potato that raw, and they call it a stew? I had to send that back, and after a few minutes got instead anther thing that was covered with the exact same cheese than thing #2. #5 was good, and one through 5, we both got the exact same plates. very disappointing. then came dessert, we thought we could chose, probably a misunderstanding. we also thought we would have a chance to order coffee or tea, or anything else. Nope, we were not even asked. check and out. bottom line, if the manager reads this: if you don't want people to eat late, don't take reservations for 9:30 pm and seat people at 9:45. it was supposed to be a lovely birthday evening, and it was more stressful than anything. I add a second star cause the food (when cooked) was good. I will never go back, and certainly won't recommend Oleana to anyone.
(2)
Matt L.
I met Chef Ana Sortun at the World Of Flavors Conference at the CIA in California in 2004. I was then a culinary student at Napa Valley College in St. Helena. The greatest chefs in the world of Mediterranean cuisine were invited to collectively share their passion that week. Chef Ana's presence that week was no mistake. The same can be said of her ever rising star on the world stage of cooking. Oleana is a beautifully comforting place. The food, the service staff and the guests are masterfully pieced together for a grand-complete sensual experience. Every moment is a reflection of Chef Sortun's loving vision, beautifully executed by her great kitchen staff and service staff. It is a place you can take it all in and let it all hang out. You can forget about the "self" for a while by meditating at the CIMC or you can go experience Oleana. My friend's and I will be back again and again and again. Thank you Chef for pointing me in the right direction.
(5)
Rob B.
Going here makes my wife very happy. That makes my life much easier.
(5)
Kay J.
One of my favorite restaurants in Cambridge - great food, service, ambiance. Make a reservation!!
(5)
Jennifer W.
Hmm... Before going to Oleana, I read review after review stating how amazing it was. Well, I can't say that my review is going to follow suite. My friend and I started with hummus, which was pretty good. The zucchini pancakes that followed were the highlight of the meal! They were very good. Then I had the steak and my friend had the chicken, neither one was impressive. With baked Alaskan for dessert, I thought redemption was in sight, but nope. Still just ok. A meal for 2 runs about $70/person, which was not worth the meal I had. My friend, who is a self-proclaimed foodie, agreed. It is my belief that Oleana is highly overrated.
Went here on a tuesday night for dinner. I ordered several items from the Mezze menu including olives, carrot pureee, King Fish, escargot, and soft crab (special item). For entree we had the Turkish sausage special. For dessert we ordered the almond ice cream and the baklava. I cannot complain about any of the items. They were soo good and healthy. Well maybe not the sausage but it was quite tasty. We sat outside in the patio and there was some cool music being performed. It was really a fantastic environment to dine at. The service was quick and satisfying. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Everything was great and will definitely come here again!
(5)
Ari A.
I think it's funny (as in strange) how many people rave about this place without mentioning the snooty service and really irritating, hovering table bussers. It's like everytime I lift my fork there is someone there to replace it. It borders on ridiculous. The food is really great, without a doubt (though some appetizers are so tiny they are practically non-existent), but I can't say that I would recommend Oleanna to someone without hesitation.
(3)
Jess M.
I have been to Oleana twice, this most recent time for my birthday dinner. Quiet and intimate, tucked away at the far bar table we were offered a view of the kitchen and service by an awesome bartender. I wish I remembered his name... perhaps it was Sean? When asked to recommend one of the Oregon Pinot Noirs he quickly went in to great detail about them individually, showing that he knew exactly what he was doing. That put me at ease when asking for recommendations about the rest of the menu! While he did say that he would not choose menu items for us, his enthusiasm for each individual dish made it easier to be adventurous when selecting our meals. Our starters were delicious. I was particularly partial to the lamb and eggplant dumplings - carefully seasoned lamb filling wrapped in a delicate vegetable casing... mmmm. I chose the Moroccan fish stew which was wild striped bass in a stew of vegetables like potatoes and peppers, and lightly covered by a thin, flaky crepe. Although I did not finish my plate I loved every bite, not to mention the wonderful presentation of the dish itself. The real reason I wanted to return to Oleana for my birthday is that I have had dreams about their amazing baked Alaska. Coconut ice cream with a passion fruit caramel, and all of that fluffy meringue. Paired with a half bottle of a Blanc de Blanc Champagne, I was in heaven. Best birthday meal ever. Another thing I would like to mention about Oleana is their kitchen staff - very dominantly female. Ana Sortun as their exec speaks volumes, but to have a female laden kitchen is something amazing to see. As someone who has worked in many restaurants, most of which with a completely male BOH staff, it makes me proud and privileged to see such amazing women and enjoy the phenomenal food that they produce. My compliments to the restaurant and the amazing women behind the line. While I would not go to Oleana for a lively, fun evening with friends, it is the perfect place to have an amazing quiet evening... and it will satisfy the palate of any culinary snob you may know.
(4)
sally b.
There is no point in writing a review for a place like this, I'll just add my 5-stars to the collection. I went last night, I was amazed, I'll be going back. Eat here, this many people can't be wrong.
(5)
Dave B.
I brought my beautiful Egyptian girlfriend here for her birthday, she had never been, I first was here a year or so ago. The patio is first come first serve, and can be packed, but is well worth the wait, we arrived at 7:45 on a Tuesday evening, (I had made a reservation for 8:30 inside) and were seated outside immediately. There were 2 men playing beautiful Turkish music, one on a string instrument and the other playing a bongo like drum. The ambience was absolutely stunning: just about every table was occupied but it was still quiet enough (with the music) for conversation and really made for an incredibly romantic setting. It is landscaped with ferns and green everywhere and the tables are simply adorned and candle lit, no frills, just simple and pretty. Then the food comes. When I came last year, there were more entrees and fewer "mezze" or smaller plates. That has changed and there are now about 15 or so "mezze" and 3-4 fish entrees, and 3-4 meat entrees. We opted to go for a more tapas style meal and had all mezze. The food is divine, every course seemingly better than the last. What we had: We started w/ deviled eggs that came w/ tuna and black olive in the filling. I love deviled eggs so this was a no-brainer-1 half egg each, not over the top amazing but delicious none-the-less. Next was one of the specials of the evening: A locally prepared burratta mozarella cheese, stuffed w/ Lambde (a turkish yogurt) and accompanied by roasted beats in a black tahini sauce. I could eat about 500 of these dishes. The cheese was firm yet delicate, amazing flavor, and who would think to stuff cheese w/ yogurt, which was a bit tart, not quite sour, but really contrasted well, and then throw in the roasted beets in the sauce and this dish SOARED. Next was the seafood, the mussels, which I had ordered the first time I was here, and a cod-fritter special. These are no ordinary mussels. For one, they are beer-battered and fried-which for me, fried=delicious. And they are HUGE and plump and juicy. They come w/ a hot peppery sauce and some lemon to cut the spice and add some acid. I heart them-my lady who is not a big mussel person, said they could make her a convert. The cod was also excellent, little cod "balls" served over a red pepper romesco on top of some unbelievable pig (prosciutto). Each component was delicious on its own, but together they really sang. Salty cod, peppery rich romesco and smooth and rich prosciutto, another great dish. Then it was time for the meat and falafel. The Sultan's Delight is just that, it's a delight. The short rib is FORK tender, leave the knife on the table, and is prepared with a tamarind glaze, sweet and savory. It's a nice size hunk of meat and comes with an eggplant puree-kinda like babaganoush, another fantastic combo. And then the legendary falafel. 3 little fried balls of chickpeas, creamy but light, served over a PINK beet and yogurt puree with some micro greens all on top of a thin little piece of pita. Each is set up so you can roll them up and eat them individually. It's a must have-my girlfriend returned from a wedding in Egypt last week and commented that these falafel were top middle-eastern quality haha. And last but the greatest course of the night, was desert. They don't come cheap (most are 13 or 14) but I would have paid 20 for ours. Baklava with caramel sauce, caramelized figs and chocolate hazelnut. Sweet, savory, rich, chocolatey, caramelly, nutty, AMAZING. This desert was absolutely amazing, first bite you taste one thing, then another, then another, then you try this with that, or that with this. We licked the plate clean. The service is also very good, prompt, knowledgeable and friendly. They seem to know the quality of the product they are putting out, and let the food speak for itself. This is a special place, Ms. Sortun has taught her kitchen staff well. If you want some fine dining that isn't stuffy and delivers a very different experience, different ingredients, spices, flavors, in a truly beautiful setting, this is the place to go.
(5)
Kate B.
Wow. Just had my bday dinner here. The setting wasn't perfect, but the food was. We were seated in the bar area, which seemed a little strange. I guess they're short on table space so they use every available nook. We had the parmesan fondue to start, which was fantastic. It came with an interesting array of items to dip (radishes, breaded cauliflower, croutons, roasted brussels sprouts...). I had the Free-Range Veal in Yogurt (I know, poor little calf, but it was free range!), which was tender, moist and delicious. For dessert, we shared a baked alaska (coconut ice cream and a macaroon? under a mountain of meringue). Slurp. The have a nice selection of organic and biodynamic wines by the bottle, half bottle or glass. Definitely make reservations. The place was packed on a Sunday night.
(5)
Jocelyn C.
Can I please eat here every single night for the rest of my life? My boyfriend took me here for my birthday a couple of weeks ago, and I cannot get over how perfect it was for a nice, quiet, romantic celebration. The food was sooooo incredible, I'm drooling thinking about it as I type!!! Amazing atmosphere, great wine and beer list, and the service was good as well. No complaints at all. I definitely recommend saving up your pennies and eating here at least once in your life. You certainly won't regret it.
(5)
Eliz G.
I went here on a Friday night for my boyfriend's birthday. We got the vegetarian tasting menu. The food overall was excellent. First course: whipped feta with olives and za'tar served with a focaccia-like bread. Second course: A flatbread pizza Third: Granita of muscat grapes, herbs, cucumber and yogurt. Fourth: Mushrooms, Kale Fifth: ricotta and bread dumplings. One of my absolute favorite restaurants in Cambridge. Really nice space, servers were pleasant. Dessert was not memorable, but the main meal was satisfying enough. The food is really phenomenal. I cannot wait to go back.
(4)
a l.
Love this restaurant! I wasn't sure what to expect initially. I had heard the falafel appetizer was supposed to be one of the best 25 dishes in boston (this year)- from Boston magazine. I went and tried it accordingly. I'm not even close to being a vegetarian, but it was very delicious...The hummus appetizer is amazing-- the kind that you wish could be had on a daily basis from your supermarket (but unfortunately isn't). Fragrant, slightly spicy, and complex. It comes inexplicable with 2 beef rolls! They had night-time special of a fried rock shrimp with coconut dressing which was fantastic! In retrospect, I would have chosen to avoid the entrees and tried more appetizers. I found the appetizers to be much better. The restaurant is unpretentious, as mentioned before. It has the feel of nice neighborhood restaurant with excellent, ethnic (but not overly) food. FYI, I have heard raves about the Baked Alaska, but at least for us, it would not be reason for us to return.
(5)
Beth C.
Went ALL out last Friday at Oleana. Notable mezza dishes: quail, octopus, braised short rib, all juicy and delicious. My boyfriend got the bluefish entree and I went with the scallops. I loved both. The grano in the scallops dish was delicious. Desserts! OMG! The baked alaska and iced caramel something??. Get the iced caramel dish. The ice cream in that dish is some sort of burnt caramel amazingness. Hot damn, this place cranks out consistent, delicious food. Service was equally great. And the patio. You don't even feel like you're in Cambridge anymore. If you love Oleana - check out Sofra as well, Cambridge/Watertown line, get some turkish coffee and the shakshuka, delish!
(5)
Keith H.
We went on Jan 1st. I was skeptical of the Turkish fare. It actually seems to me to be more euro with a Mediterranean fare, but I don't know anything about Turkish food. What I can say is that it was very very good. All five members of the party enjoyed their entrees. I enjoyed the rabbit but it was a little dry - thus four stars instead of five. The accompaniments were very nice. Mine had celery root puree and something else very tasty. The appetizers were great and the wine pairing recommended by the sommolier was perfect for all our meals. It was some obscure French varietal I cannot recall. The thing that makes this place to me however, is the dessert. We had three split by five of us and I would say two were the in the top five I have had. One was a brown butter ice cream with a chocolate tart-like creation. It was unique and delicious and my wife claims the best thing she has ever had. It was a special. The other was a lemon custard or cream-like dish with a pistachio cream or souffle type thing and a pistachio pastry. The lemon thing and the pistachio thing were fantastic and the pastry was OK. We also had an excellent tangerine dessert but it did not compare to the other two even though it was great. The first two desserts were amazing, but a little small. For five of us with two bottles and five cocktails with three appetizers we spent $500. I think it was reasonable for such high quality food. Given the value proposition I feel I am shortchanging with a four but my entree did not merit a five. I will go back here again the next time I happen to be in the area.
I picked out this restaurant over a year ago as the place I wanted my parents to take me when they came to visit. I have to say, I was not at all disappointed. I had the vegetarian tasting menu, at the recommendation of several friends (I am not a vegetarian). You have to be willing to be a teensy bit adventurous, since you don't know what dishes the chef will serve up. Several of the dishes were outstanding - interestingly flavored and full of the freshest produce possible. I'm so very glad I came here in the summer when produce is at its peak. The smaller dishes were more creative than the entrees, and really spoke to the skill the chefs have with fresh ingredients. A chilled grape/sorrel/gazpacho-like dish started off my tasting menu, and a vermicelli with chickpeas and a tasty spice mix ended it. These two dishes really stood out as things I could never have thought of in my own kitchen - it's the sort of inventive cuisine that makes you feel like it's worth it to go out to dinner. A tomato corn stew dish was a little less interesting, but overall, I enjoyed every bite. The restaurant itself is more casual than I expected. If you're going to dine inside, I would recommend requesting a table that isn't in the room with the bar. I wasn't terribly comfortable sitting with my back against a very flat wall. My white sangria was only alright, but the non-alcoholic mint-and-rose beverage that my dad got was pretty interesting. I enjoyed my experience overall, and I would definitely recommend it to people who say Boston is not a town for foodies.
(5)
Korri Leigh C.
Congratulations are due to Oleana which has knocked off Mistral & No9 for my favorite restaurant in Boston. I am vegetarian/mostly vegan and the $40 Vegetarian tasting at Oleana absolutely blew my mind. The presentation was out of this world and the flavors even better. At many restaurants using root veggies instead of broccoli is considered 'innovative vegetarian cuisine' but Ana Sortun constructed a 6 course meal that was complex, unique, and delicious. I honestly cannot say enough this place. My only caveat is that it is practically invisible at night due to its dim street lighting. Keep your eyes peeled or you'll drive right by!
(5)
Shanar R.
This place is quite good. I am rating it A-OK because the food was excellent !! if you like trying different spices. Our server was very knowledgeable. While I enjoyed my meal I can't say I would return. I think they would definitely benefit from losing 1 table per room to allow for a bit more comfort for patrons. **One small thing, we ordered coffees and dessert, however, the dessert arrived, was finished and then about 10 minutes after coffees arrived. I did order coffee to enjoy with the dessert and for spending $170 for two of us ended up being a deal breaker for me. I would recommend this restaurant though and I would recommend making your reservations well in advance!
(3)
Aaron H.
I've tended to gravitate away from adding my two cents on places that have already been extensively reviewed, especially when I agree with the status quo. I think it's actually a potential problem for Yelp --- what happens to reviewer zeal and gusto when there are 131 reviews of a place already? (See Rosamunde Sausage Grill in SF.) You'd better have a really funny story to tell. Will that additional 5 star "mmmm soooo goooood the sausage" review really make any marginal difference whatsoever? Maybe, but part of the appeal of Yelp is that your opinion really has an impact, isn't drowned out, and is an important part of the wisdom of (small) crowds. WTF does this have to do with Oleana, I hear you, impatient reader, beginning to say out loud? Never fear, for I am about to make a segue. Oleana is one of those places that's already been thoroughly lauded, and no doubt about it, it deserves every one of those gushing 5 star reviews. I'm not going to bore you by shift-F7ing the word "delicious" to find 20 different adjectives to describe how "delicious" it really is (had to catch myself there). But, what I do think will resonate with you, patient reader, is that for the first time, I do feel compelled to add my five stars into the big stew. Just bumping up Oleana's average rating ever so slightly is time and effort well spent. They deserve it. It's that good. Get the spinach falafel. My best meal in Boston.
(5)
Sarah C.
The food was absolutely delicious. The ambiance was quaint and romantic. Perfect date night restaurant - just make sure to make reservations!
(4)
Anup A.
Fine atmosphere, superior food....worth the cost. Great attention to detail creates my best dining experience in Cambridge. There is even a sufficient selection for vegitarians. Best to make reservations, but if you don't, you can wait in the bookstore accross the street. My favs: The Felafel appetizer & the Sultan's Delight.
(5)
Adam W.
Simply one of the best meals I've had in Boston, ever. As mentioned elsewhere in these reviews, the vegetarian tasting menu is as delicious as it is creative. Every dish offered unusual flavor combinations (vanilla vermicelli? savory yogurt?) with excellent preparation to create a memorable experience. And the trout spanakopita was staggeringly tasty. Best of all, the food was not just good but abundant. We did not leave hungry. At all. This excellent food is combined with a relaxed atmosphere, with table service that was warmly attentive but not rushed. Adds up to a five-star, memorable meal. I'd bring out-of-town guests here in a flash. p.s. Parking is made much easier by calling the host for tips. Street parking is a nightmare.
(5)
TJ M.
Hands down one of the best dining experiences in Boston / Cambridge. This place is great. This is how we did it. They don't take reservations for the outside patio, so show up around 6:30, put your name in and order a bottle of wine and chill outside. Once you sit down, be friendly with the waitress and have her order for you. There were three of us and we invited her to order us the three best apps, three best entrees and three best deserts. Our server stepped up and didn't miss. Everything that was served to us was unbelievable. She would come over after the runners laid down the plates and would explain the dish to us. B/C she was ordering she went out of her way to ensure we were happy. At the end of the night we were stuffed, the bill was 'healthy' and we were happy. I can't recommend this place enough.
(5)
David S.
Oleana is probably the best restaurant I have been to in the Boston/Cambridge area. My boyfriend, two of his relatives and I went there for dinner this weekend. We had a reservation and were seated promptly when we got there. The decor is sophisticated but subtle and minimalist, and the atmosphere is cozy and would be perfect for a date. For appetizers we shared the fried mussels and hot peppers with Turkish tarator sauce (tasty, but not extraordinary), and the asparagus, green almond pesto and soft-boiled egg (the pesto had an amazing flavor, and the soft-boiled egg was cooked to perfection). I then had the special that night: fried monkfish, which came with potatoes and figs, and a berry sauce. Everything was good, but I was a little disappointed by the fish: I get I was expecting to be wowed but that did not happen. I also got a taste of the tuna, which comes with couscous and spinach salad, and it was also very good. Finally, I couldn't resist and had to order dessert: I got the chocolate marquise, which was accompanied by a little cream custard... small portions but absolutely delicious! The wine list is impressive, but somewhat expensive (very few bottles under $40). The petite syrah that we ordered was pretty good. Service was great and efficient. While the food by itself may deserve five stars, I'm a little reluctant given the prices, which may be a little two high in my opinion (our check was around $220 for four people: not outrageous, but a little too much I think). 4-1/2 stars.
(4)
Liz L.
It pains me to update this review, as the first time I ate here, I thought I had finally found a Boston area restaurant where I could eat vegetarian fare in a fine dining experience. But after returning last night, I have come to the conclusion that my initial experience on a very slow evening was an atypical one for this restaurant, and that last night's experience was more typical. The same dining companion and I returned and again ordered the Vegetarian Tasting Menu. Though we were only the second table seated in the evening service, we were inexplicably seated at the table right by where the waitstaff regularly walks to go to the kitchen and the cash register (and near where they often stand around waiting to go check on tables) and where customers walk to reach the bar. I was so surprised that in a literally nearly empty dining room, we would be given such an undesirable table, that I nearly asked if we could be reseated, and it was for me an uncomfortable enough spot that if I go back, I would not hesitate to ask it. Our waitress kept talking about stuff "at my house"; for example, the first thing that was served was a salad and she said, "Even though I get my greens from them, it's nothing like the salads at my house!" Uh, that's why the chef is the chef and you're the one waiting on my table. But that first course was about all we saw of her. Most of our mezes were served by someone that it seemed was perhaps an assistant in the kitchen. He had a very thick accent and even though we typically asked him to repeat what he said, we still never heard the complete description of any of the mezes he served, and went into them not knowing everything we were eating (sometimes finishing them still not able to identify a key part of the dish). The waitress would just make snappy comments on her way past our table, not actually serving our food, not checking on us at all - no questions, just brief repartee. It was a third person who kept refilling our water glasses. Who knew it took a minimum of three people to serve a single two-person table? Unlike our previous experience, we were served the mezes one at a time (which they would typically not do in the Mediterranean regions on which the cuisine is loosely based), and there were usually long wait times between them. The wait time for our last meze was the longest of all, and by then a couple had been seated at the very next table, even though the several two-person tables in the middle of the restaurant (a row of them between the two rows of tables edging the dining room) were still open. When a fourth person showed up with what he alleged was our meze, we stated that we had already had that one in one of our previous courses. He initially disagreed with us - as if we wouldn 't know what we had eaten! Only when we continued to insist that we had in fact eaten that already did he reluctantly turn and return to the kitchen. (This was not an isolated incident; we heard the couple next to us disagreeing over the bottle of wine with the waitress - who was spending much more time on them, probably because they were doing things like buying a bottle of wine - and she also initially disagreed with them, but at least said she would investigate.) After several more minutes passed, a different dish was brought to us by the man who'd been doing most of the actual serving. I imagine it was probably pretty good when it was just made, but it was clear as soon as we bit into it that it had spent some time sitting around waiting to get to our table. The sauce was already cold and the greens had been waiting so long to be eaten that they were chewy. It was the kind of thing that I would be more likely to reheat or toss in my own house than to actually eat. After yet another very long wait, we were served our dessert (that comes with the four-course meze). Though it was one of the coldest nights yet this autumn, we were served an ice. It had also apparently waited a while to get to us, as the rose petal syrup at the bottom had congealed to the pre-chilled glass and was difficult to scrape off. These were our courses this time, each served independently (instead of two at a time like our previous visit) with long wait times between them (instead of almost none before): First, a salad of greens with a little mold of feta whipped with Lebanese spices on top of a crust made of almond bits and something else. Second, we got one of the same dishes as before, falafel on lavash with tahini and a beet-based condiment, though this time it was served with two pickled somethings instead of the warm greens it had been served with before, and the lavash itself was smaller than previously, such that we could not fully wrap the falafels. Third, a giant single piece of broccoli on top of something we never identified which was on top of a little puddle of pureed pumpkin. Fourth, the aforementioned chewy greens. Finally, the aforementioned ice.
(3)
Tracy S.
The service was fantastic. Our waitress was incredibly attentive. Example: after opening our wine, for some reason a few fruit flies showed up. One found it's way into our bottle. The waitress decanted the wine (we didn't request a new bottle) and then served us an extra appetizer as an apology for the fly. Another example: We were there for a 2nd anniversary. We didn't' order dessert, but when she brought our bill, she had a little treat for us, complete with a candle. It was so sweet and kind. The food was incredible. We were delighted and surprised by all of the wonderful flavors. Only one dish, the spicy fideos, turned us off. Not a lot of flavor and way too salty. But that was it. Everything else was fantastic. We highly recommend it.
(4)
Kate S.
this place is AMAZING. food is unique, delicious, flavorful. Service was fantastic. Great for groups or romance.
(5)
CC S.
My party of two had: 1.) 04 Sauvignon Blanc, Claude Courtois 'Plume d'Ange,' Sologne, Loire Valley, FR 53 2.) Grilled Octopus with Spicy Sicilian-Style Bread Salad & Cauliflower 12 3.) Spinach Falafel, Tahini, Yogurt with Beets & Curly Cress 10 - after being convinced by the waiter that this was Oleana's "signature dish"... 4.) Hake Kibbeh with Basil Brown Butter, Kolrabi & Corn Chowder 25 5.) Softshell Crab Saganak- Stewed Tomato, Fennel & Peppers with Feta & Rice Cake 25 Total: $137 including tip. I took a peek at the outdoor patio and regret not asking for a seat in the garden. We were seated in the corridor where drunken un-reserved guests were loud and debaucherous. The waiter had a thick (??) accent and though he tried very hard, I could not understand a word coming out of his mouth (ie: special dishes for the night.) The appetizers were brilliant (grilled octopus and spinach falafel) but the two main courses were a major disappointment. I would recommend Oleana's vegetarian dishes and appetizers more than their main courses. I have to admit Yelpers, I am disappointed in you! You rave and rave about this place but it missed the mark. Oleana's must have a solid public relations team. I really don't see what the big deal is and will not go out of my way to return.
(3)
Coco P.
Went here for a business dinner. OMG, it was fabulous! I had always wanted to go here to Oleana but somehow hadn't. The food and service were fantastic and I will most definitely go back again!
(5)
plz h.
Vegetarian tasting menu is awesome. Well, to be honest, I wasn't really into the 5th course, but I was too full to really eat much of it anyways, and was saving room for dessert (The tasting menu is 5 courses, PLUS desert!). So 5/6 of my huge meal was amazing! At 42 dollars, it's actually kind of cheap for a restaurant of this caliber. No complaints! Just make sure you set aside over 2 hours if you are planning on doing the tasting menu. I can't recommend the tasting menu, enough. Love the little falafel sandwiches! Nom.
(5)
Nicolas B.
Amazing food, great service. But we had to wait for the table albeit we booked it. The room is small and very noisy.
(4)
Chris M.
I can't believe I haven't reviewed Oleana yet. This place is probably in my top 3 of places to eat in the Boston/Cambridge area. I had my 1st date here with my now wife and it has become our tradition to eat here on our anniversary. Always amazing service, always amazing food and great wine selection too! Get the white sangria and sit outside. You can't make reservations for the outdoor seating area but it is worth the wait. And If you like lamb, get the lamb. The only downside is its location to the T but that doesn't stop us from going.
(5)
Claire W.
Six of us went for a 6 pm "planning dinner" on a Thursday night. Food was great. All the appetizers we tried (from the vegetarian "pret a manger" to "Sultan's Delight" (glazed beef) were great. I had Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake which was excellent (although the portion I took home got swapped with my neighbor's vegetarian entree - moral - check your doggie bags carefully). Food is excellent, eating on the patio was really nice. Caveats: prices are up there; parking is non-existent (put your Cambridge creative parker hat on or take public transportation). I will definitely go back.
(4)
Francis W.
The food at Oleana is hands down amazing. Every single dish we ordered was delicious. The spinach falafel and fried gigante beans with wild mushrooms were particularly good. My only complaint is that when we ordered items "non-dairy", they came with the dairy portion on the side. It would be helpful if they offered non-dairy alternatives for the dressings--such as an oil and lemon or a tahini dressing.
(5)
D W.
I had heard this was a good date place, but the tables are so packed tightly together that you hear the conversations from the tables on each side of you. I won't go back: The Harvard faculty club lunch buffet has better atmosphere and food, and costs less.
(3)
Susan D.
Finding this hole in the wall shall reward you in a variety of ways. First off, lots of residential housing around, very little street lighting, & deserted neighborhood. Not the typical fun, lively, buzzing atmosphere you'd expect for such a beautiful restaurant. So you park on the street, walk up and ask for a table. If you can get pass the rude host (who flat-out told me that there was absolutely no alternative seating besides the bar - then continued to patronize me by assuring me that the food still tastes as good. However once we sat down, I noticed a table for 2 open up within five minutes and remain empty the entire late dinner I had. I would have slapped him.) Anyways, rudeness aside, please relax with a white sangria cocktail with real blueberries, cherry floating about. Jump into their complimentary warm breads basket with woodsy extra virgin olive oil and enjoy the glowing Mediterranean feel that you would think could only exist in Greece. I felt the bartender and bus-guys were very nice, informative with a sly sense of humor noticing how well my boyfriend and I cleaned our plates. ha! We shared the walnut pate and roast chicken seated on top of filo wrapped home-made seasoned cheese. A sort of feta, goat cheese, ricotta mixture of flavors. Delicous. I recommend sharing because the portions are well enough for two medium-hungry adults, plus it can get a tad expensive. Most entrees were mid-$20 to low-$30s. With drinks, you could easily run into a $70-80 meal for two. I would return, but only for special occasions.
(4)
Paul B.
Tonight was my first, and last, visit. I found this highly (over?) rated restaurant very disappointing. To call it Turkish, Middle Eastern or Moroccan is far from the mark. This was none of the above. Real Turkish, Middle Eastern & Moroccan food is well spiced - this was bland. There was a hint of some spices, but you could barely taste it. We started with the Pret a Table deviled eggs - two eggs with a tuna filling. Aside from being made with tuna in olive oil, his was 2 hard boiled eggs with tuna salad. Big deal. We made a meal of 3 appetizers. First, the "Crab Kadayif, Haloumi Cheese, Pistachio,Fennel & Persimmon Salad". I don't know where most of these ingredients were hiding, but aside from the crab & persimmon, I couldn't find the rest. This was actually a small souffle (and I do mean small). It had barely any flavor at all. Next, the "Moroccan Lamb Kefta & Egg Tagine with 19 Spices". This is 6 meatballs in a sauce with a cooked egg (I would not call it a tagine). This was the tastiest of all of the dishes, but I can hardly believe that she used 19 spices in this recipe. It was OK, but not great. Lastly, we had the "Tamarind Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Puree with Pinenuts". A small 3" square of some sort of stringy, fatty beef with the tamarind glaze (which was actually quite good), and very smoky eggplant puree. Well, it wasn't bad. The "Sicilian Almond Cremolata & Warm Chocolate Panino" we shared for desert was actually the tastiest item. The place was nicely decorated. Yes, it's a bit tight, as others have mentioned, but once seated it was fine. I wish that there had been a bit more light - I could barely read the menu. Fortunately, the bar was behind me, and I got some light from there. The service was fine. Our waiter was friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. We ordered and enjoyed a pleasant bottle of Barbera (from the Piedmont in northern Italy). So why only 2 stars? Because it just wasn't that special. I'm sorry, but I've had better Moroccan food at Tangierino in Charlestown, better Turkish food at numerous places around town, and better Middle Eastern food in Watertown (try Shiraz Cuisine). I don't think that this place lived up to it's hype, and I definitely think that the price points are WAY too high. And I must point out that Ana Sortun was in the kitchen tonight, as we were seated close enough to see her. Sorry, I just can't recommend this place to you.
(2)
Lindsay L.
There are quite a few lengthy reviews, so I don't have too much extra to say... A few quick comments: the falafel appetizer and whipped feta w/peppers are excellent. Definitely make a reservation if you want to sit inside or you will probably end up sitting at the bar, which isn't all bad but can be annoying if you're on a date. Also, the outside garden is really what Oleana's ambience is all about, it's beautiful. It's been closed (for construction?) so I would definitely call ahead to make sure it's open. Otherwise you will be heartbroken as I was last time I went at having to sit inside. They don't take reservations for the garden, but there's a nice seating area out there to have drinks while you wait.
(4)
sally m.
This was the best meal I've ever eaten in the Boston area in the 3 years I've lived here. Granted, I've lived a thrifty life here, but I can't imagine this experience being topped anywhere else I've seen or heard of around here. To over-sweeten the deal, Ana buys local ingredients and stocks organic & biodynamic wine. I don't remember which one we had, but it was white and it was fantastic. She also buys fresh mozzarella, burrata, and string-cheese from a local cheesemaker I happen to know and has created a tea with cacao nibs from Somerville's very own chocolate company, Taza Chocolate. One thing we ate was seared eggplant with some kind of carmelized orange and sesame seed sauce with the aforementioned burrata. I said "Oh my god" after every bite - no joke.
(5)
Barney B.
Continues to impress
(5)
Daniel H.
This is a comfortable neighhood restaurant that serves world class food. You won't be disappointed with this place. Outdoor garden area during summer months and quaint dining inside with a small bar but only wine and beer Food Rating = 5 Stars Service Rating = 4 Stars Decor = 4 Stars
(5)
Lex B.
I have always been a semi-adventurous eater, but I sometimes still get scared looking at a menu where the only clearly distinguishable words are "served with," "and," and the such. That probably sounds really lame, but there are definitely some interesting ingredients on this menu. That said, this restaurant was nothing short of INCREDIBLE. I guess I can chalk it up to my unfamiliarity with creative Turkish/Arabic food, but I had NO idea what to order or what I was ordering when I thought I knew what I might want to order. The service, however, was incredible. Our server (went with Mom) was extremely helpful, he explained everything! Finally, I felt confident in making some decisions... We started off with the warm, buttered hummus. Need I say more? It was awesome, although when I go back I will have to try other things because they all look so good. For dinner I had some type of fish "en papillote" with a tahini sauce and sauteed onions and peppers that were really spicy, served with a "spoon salad" which was kind of like a sweet, cold, salsa that couldn't have balanced more perfectly with the meal. This was seriously to die for, so much so that I have dreams about it to this day - like a month later. Mom had flattened lemon chicken (I saw a picture of it on here somewhere) with some Turkish cheese pancake - also to die for. I usually try really hard to stop myself so I can fit dessert, but I ended up eating all of mine AND half of Mom's...oops...Needless to say, no room for dessert, but you MUST go to Oleana if you are in the area. From the service, to the food, to the ambiance, it was absolutely perfect! I honestly can't wait to go back ASAP.
(5)
Christopher K.
I go here pretty much any special event I can come up with to go to. The food is always wonderful (get the tasting menu for the first visit). And I always love the wine list. No complaints and cant say enough great things. I also own the chef's cookbook and its equally as wonderful.
(5)
Stephen Y.
Pret a Manger not bad but would have been better if the kalamata olives were warmed. Nevertheless, the delicious olive oil was awesome. We loved the crispy fried squid appy (which was actually crispy on the outside and not perfectly cooked on the inside), Sultan's Delight was pretty good too. Crispy duck with gnocchi, delicious but quite rich (it was an appetizer). The veal entree was also quite rich but and quite balanced by the accompanying fava bean salad (it was a bit salty). They however saved the best for last.... the nougat glace was awesome and alone worth revisiting the restaurant. However, we plan to return anyways to sample the rest of the menu. Do book ahead. Sunday dinner was quite full ! There's an great table at the corner by the clay wine rack....almost semi- private- worth asking for...
(4)
Stephen G.
Summary: poor seating arrangements, long wait for food and very ordinary entrees given the price and reputation. After reading so many great reviews and even getting rave recommendations from friends, this place was such a disappointment. We were sat at the table by the end of the bar with wine bottles along the walls, at first we thought 'oh, this is so cute and cozy' until my date was asked TWICE to get out of her seat so someone could rummage for a bottle of something in the racks behind her. First time we made light of it, and this was before our food came, but the second time interrupted our entrees! The waiter was fine and polite enough, but it is an absolute horrible place to seat patrons and extremely rude and unprofessional to have them move mid-meal. Not to sound greedy, but we weren't even offered anything for the inconvenience and embarrassment of making a young lady stand for a few minutes on her birthday while her entree was getting cold. The scallops dish she had was just OK, very hot yet unimpressive, and the lamb I ordered was cold when it arrived and just very plain, no hint of any spices it claimed to have. This place is not inexpensive and for what I paid and had expected to receive... just so disappointing. I have been to many places who charge less than half the amount for much more spectacular food. Actually I'm very frustrated as well given what most everyone else has written. This was a special occasion! Why me, Oleana? Was this a freak occurrence? I do have to say that the bread was delicious and the octopus appetizer was AMAZING. We were really hoping for so much more from this place.
(2)
Cindy C.
Excellent food with beautiful presentation and attentive service. Food was bursting with flavor & loved its creativity. Baked Alaska is a must, as is the super yummy and refreshing white sangria! I really enjoyed my flattened lemon chicken dish, and everyone else was equally content with their dishes. The price tag will set you back however, not inexpensive but worth it for a nice occasion.
(4)
Ethan C.
As most have mentioned, and most know by now - the food is very very good. The service is perhaps a bit overbearing and the layout of the tables a bit cramped in places. very good vegetarian choices.
(4)
Thor T.
It is certainly a great pleasure to find a restaurant like Oleana, with an interesting menu and ingredients sourced locally and seasonally. The food is very tasty, full of robust flavors, and the wine list is interesting and fairly priced. An extra bonus: a small beer selection with some excellent bottles that match the plates very well. For my taste, the plates are overly fussy, with one or two ingredients too many (our friendly waitress recited three specials with such a lengthy list of ingredients that I had forgotten the first description by the end of her litany) and the food feels very heavy (we were unable to try the interesting -but very expensive - desserts because of this). Case in point: an appetizer of soft shell crab was dominated by a heavy sauce, caramelized onions, chorizo, potatoes - all wonderful to eat but leaving the small crab as a lonely side-kick at the edge of the plate (also: the first law of fried crab crispodynamics is that covering the crab with sauce will lead to immediate loss of crunchy perfection and increased mushiness). These are subjective quibbles. Oleana is a fine restaurant that deservedly attracts a large and loyal following. I will go back and next time I will leave room for dessert.
(4)
Mo M.
My heart sings when I eat at Oleana. Though portions to some might be considered small, the spices and flavor are so vivid you can't really take more than what's served, and I mean this in the best way imaginable. If you want to take me out, then this is where we should go!
(5)
Jennifer L.
I've been to Oleana twice for business dinners. The restaurant is very cozy and the food is very good! A nice change from downtown Boston.
(4)
Todd L.
Dinner last Friday. 8:30 reservation but didn't get seated until 8:50. Food was very good as well as the wait staff. Only complaint was it's a little dark.
(5)
Shan C.
I came here with 4 other people and we all said Yum.. the best was the Parsnip Hummus & Spicy Cilantro Tabouleh with Homemade Pita Bread. For dinner I had the Cod, Pepita Crumbs, White Beans with Chorizo & Catalan-Style Escarole. I tried bites from all the plates and they were all very tasty.
(5)
J D.
I'd rate 0 stars if I could!! Again worst service ever.. why? because there was NO Service/Hospitality from staff or management!! 1 week has passed since I wrote a letter & email complaint to the Management Team @Oleana Restaurant. Nobody from Oleana has replied nor responded to my written complaints. I guess they don't care to rectify the situation, nor offer an apology. Yelpers -- please DO NOT EAT or WASTE YOUR TIME WAITING at this place, its not worth the hassle or $$$.
(1)
sally w.
I didn't expect the tapas to be very filling but after eating the bread, sharing 3 tapas and a desert, I was surprisingly full. We started with the buttered hummus, bbq octopus, and prosciutto wrapped parsnips and ended with the chocolate creme brulee desert. I realized that you need to be adventurous with food in order to truly enjoy the different flavors infused in each dish. Each dish had their own unique flavor and so the experience was rather fun. The menu looked amazing and I can only hope to go back and try the rest of it!
(4)
Candid R.
Fantastic! Literally the freshness, flavors, and creativity of the food combined make for an unforgetable culinary experience. While meat eaters will be satisfied, Vegans and Vegetarians are in restaurant heaven. Finally, a place that doesn't serve boring salads and pasta dishes. Seriously, a great, consistent dining choice. A little hint: plan for a weekday dinner, weekends are very busy and I find the weekday meals to be a bit more relaxed. Enjoy!
My favorite restaurant in cambridge/boston! The appetizers are fantastic -- and their menu changes depending on what is in season. They happen to have a zucchini pancake they are serving right now. It comes on halumi cheese and a tomato salad. Fabulous. Also, they have their own home-made string cheese. In general, i say the appetizers are better than the main dishes, so we always get two appetizers to split and 1 main dish (for two people). Their ice creams are home made and delicious! I never leave here disappointed.
(5)
M D.
So I would describe this place as cozy--small intimate setting. The food is pretty good...good flavors. It has lots of options for vegetarians. I would describe the food as Turkish comfort food taken up a knotch w/o losing the essence of the dish (not over done). Overall no dishes that I disliked. Parking maybe the only drawback but definitely among the top restaurants in town.
(4)
Rebecca C.
What a wonderful experience! My husband and I went there for an early valentine's day dinner, and it was one of the best experiences we've had eating out in a while. Not only was the food fabulous, but our waitress made our night perfect! I have a feeling that they do veggies even better than meat. We both had fish dishes, and they were unusual and yummy. Our waitress gave us very detailed descriptions of the entrees before we ordered, and for us, that was perfect, since we really were having a hard time deciding (everything looked so good!) I highly recommend the spinach falafel as an appetizer. We also had the Tuna Carpaccio, which was good, but nothing in comparison to the falafel. Truly it was a great experience.
(5)
Shannon M.
Let me start off by saying, the BEST restaurant i have ever had the pleasure of eating at. Our server ("Hartley" is what it stated on the check) was very knowledgeable about the menu, which was great because we were clueless as to where to begin!! The service was great, the server's assistants were right on point, and were really impressing me at their ability to keep up with the diners needs. You MUST have reservations to eat here, on an early thursday night, it didn't take long before they were at capacity and there was a line. I've been blessed to have tasted some really delicious food in my time, but this place just blew me away. We were out for a birthday dinner, my husband and fathers, and it's our tradition to try a different cuisine every year since my husband is a cook. The flavor combinations were like nothing i've ever had before, i can't even describe it, just amazing!! You must try this place first hand. This would be a great place for a date, it's intimate and small and the outside dining area looked like a good time in the summer. We were lucky enough to have the head chefs and the owner in the kitchen tonight so the food was just right on. Food came out on time, perfectly temp'd and just wonderfully executed all together. I cannot WAIT for another special ocassion where we can make it down to cambridge again, i will be dreaming of their food until then!!
(5)
Eve L.
Great date place! It's pricey, but the ambiance is relaxed but classy. We ordered the vegetarian mezze, which is basically a chef's pick of five courses, all of which are small in size, but plenty of food for 2 people. Everything was spectacular and delicious. The whole thing came to $81, including tip and 2 beers, so like I said, it's spendy, but worth it if you want and can afford a nice night out sometime.
(5)
Tessa C.
ana sortun is a master - hands down. oleana never misses when it comes to food. i haven't been a big fan of mediterranean cuisine, but she has converted me. reservations are highly recommended. this is an excellent place to impress your foodie friends who are visiting from out-of-town. during the warmer months, make a reservation for the outside patio - it's beautiful and lush. i've eaten here quite a few times - if you don't have a reservation, then see if you can sit at the bar. parking is not convenient here - you're in the middle of residential cambridge - and it's not near a T stop for those without a vehicle.
(5)
lance c.
Panchetta wrapped buttered humus was amazing and unique. Definitely a white table cloth dining experience with the presentation and creativity of food. Patio was sublime. Service was great. I can't say anything bad about this place. Definitely one of my Boston area favorites.
(4)
Alex H.
this is as close to food perfection as you are going to get in boston. the food is creative and out of this world delicious. although totally worth the price, the cost does makes this more of a special occasion type of restaurant, which is a shame because i wish i could eat there every week. if you really want a culinary experience try the vegetarian tasting menu - i love meat but didn't miss it one bit during that meal.
(5)
Carole H.
So tasty. Had no reservation so was seated at the bar immediately. A good date-night adtomsphere and friendly, prompt service from the bartender (who was clearly on stimulants, the only distracting part of the evening). The menu had a nice variety and everything was unbelievably flavorful without being heavy. I'm drooling just thinking about the flatbread with haloumi and grilled peaches, spinach felafel, hummos...Tuna spanakopita was very good also, but if (when) I go again will split the chef's choice mezza and add a couple extras for variety. Solid drink list to keep you entertained while waiting during the (arguably long) pauses between dishes. This won't be the cheapest night out ever, but is a good value for the high quality of food and was an excellent place for a somewhat upscale night out.
(5)
Alexandra L.
I ate at Oleana a few months ago with one of my good friends, and we had an incredible meal. From before dinner drinks, appetizers, our main, dessert, and wines throughout it was perfect. Our waiter made excellent recommendations both for food and wine (we didn't go with all of them but he def. knew what he was talking about). Simply put - really fantastic experience.
(4)
Jessie H.
If you are a meat eater I would recommend this restaurant - vegetarians beware of the hype! Oleana is a great restaurant - but I don't think it deserves a vegetarian award. Being a vegetarian - this menu does not provide too many options. Whoever awarded it the vegetarian award from Yelp must be a meat eater. What vegetarian would be satisifed with 5 varieties of hummus for dinner? Granted I've never had the tasting menu. The dips are great - but who craves dips for dinner? The menu only has 2 veg entrees (nothing that I would choose to eat). For some reason I have ordered the fideos entree more than once - and I didn't like it the first time. It is insanely rich. You would desire tiny noodles in a super rich creamy sauce? Other points....drinks and dessert deserve an A+
(4)
Lena B.
this is my favorite restaurant in the city of boston...i feel so lucky that it is just down the street!!! very romantic for two and also good for a night out with friends.
(5)
Matthias J.
When a restaurant has over 300 reviews, the majority giving it 5 stars, you end up having high expectations for the place. When you read the comments, and people praise everything from the free bread to the French pressed coffee, you go in wanting to have your sox blown off. When you are prepared to make a reservation 1-2 weeks in advance and spend on average $150 per couple (including wine), anything short of absolute excellence is a disappointment. Keep this in mind when you come to Oleana. Everything my wife and I had, was very good. But remember, it's just a restaurant. Go in with that attitude and you are likely to come out elated. By the way: kudos for having a free parking lot conveniently located across the street.
(4)
Travis M.
If you are able to get past the expense your in for a meal that will not be forgotten. There wasn't a bad meal on the menu and everything was extremely fresh. Went there on a nice evening and sat in there backyard garden. Will definitely go back for a special occasion.
(5)
starbuck d.
I thought the food was uninspired. Beautifully presented, but none of the flavor combinations surprised me or caught my interest. Given the average ambience and wait-staff, I would have thought that the prices would have been lower. Alas, as a cat, I don't make as much as the rest of you do, so I have to watch the budget.
(2)
Chance X.
Both food and service are excellent! You have to try the beef appetizer and the baked Alaska. I saw lots of people ordered a flamable cheese dish too. Sadly my friend doesn't eat cheese so we didn't order it. I bet it much be delicious too. Love it, will definitely go back~ :-)
(5)
Sam S.
Wow, you have to call wayyyyy ahead to even sit in here. The devil eggs app was scrumptious, but the lamb main course wasn't too impressive. I ordered it medium rare, and it came out medium well. I liked the way they blend all these Mediterranean a together to create luscious flavors you never knew existed. A very exotic meal. Dessert was my favorite part. I got the passion fruit ice cream. WOW. my date got the strawberry and rhubarb. WOW again. In-house pastry chef = incredible dessert dishes.
(4)
Leah S.
we love it here! always a really special meal and mostly great service. make a reservation way ahead would be my advice.
(4)
Deanna B.
Love Oleana! When you can sit outside, it is by far the best outdoor dinning in the area. The food is fantastic, but the best is the wine menu! Great ecclectic varietals, but classics as well, that pair perfectly with the cuisine and environment.
(5)
olivia s.
Great for vegetarians. I consider Oleana to be my favorite restaurant in Boston/Cambridge. I love the vegetarian tasting menu and the chocolate panini/almond ice cream (no dairy!) dessert. I cannot wait to return.
(5)
C. N.
I've been waiting to write a quick review after a few more visits, and Oleana has slid back a few stars from my first visit, unfortunately. The first time I went was one of the best meals I've ever had. Full stop. Most recently I've had some brusque service, and my vegetarian friend has been disappointed with the food. The desserts are bizarre and far more for visual show than for anything else, and that does disappoint. My carnivore entrees have been great, and the appetizers/meze plates as well. (edit after another visit) And now down another star after a clunker of a meal. Entree (a special) was terrible, and even though it wasn't a busy night, it took an hour and a half from the time we sat down to the time we got our food. Now, they were appropriately apologetic and comped half the meal, but the point is, when you go to the trouble of going to a restaurant this expensive, you aren't looking for a bargain, you're looking for a memorable evening. I think this place is dangerously on the verge of falling off. I'm done chasing that first perfect meal that they gave me. I'm not Proust. Three strikes, you're out.
(2)
S B.
The carrot puree appetizer is great!! The atmosphere is nice, but was a bit crowded when I was there. I could barely hear the person I was with from across the (small) table. The tuna roll is such a good combination of flavors - it was original and delicious!
(4)
Maria R.
The food here is transcendent. Really. I never say that- but if you're going to go out and spluge- to someplace that makes you think, OMG- how did they MAKE this?! It is that good.
(5)
Harry H.
Drop everything and run to Oleana, or her little cousin Sofra.
(5)
Inci K.
We went to Oleana's for our wedding anniversary after reading lots of good reviews about it. We're picky with our restaurants when we go out for special occasions and want to make sure that the money we spend is on something worthwhile, original, tasty and special...Oleana's did not disappoint - would highly recommend the basturma appetizer with some sort of hummus rolled up inside, and also the skirt steak is absolutely wonderful - you will be tempted to pass on dessert just so you can hold on to the flavors in your mouth! (Of course we didn't pass on dessert!) If you like Helmand, or Lala Rokh, chances are you'll love Oleana's - a cool and interesting mixture of Turkish food with North African/European flare. Very tasty, wonderful for special occasions and romantic dates. Not cheap but every bite is worth it.!
(5)
Jungmin L.
This is the best falafel that I have had since I moved to the US, after being used to the unforgettable crunchy, nutty ones in Paris. The Cremolata dessert is very good - ice cream that tastes so refreshing but without any tartness of a sorbet. Other dishes to recommend: anything lamb, sultan's delight, the Moussaka (re-interpreted as whipped fava beans).
(4)
Brandon H.
Awesome. Had a 8:30 reservation on Thursday for 4. Didn't get seated until 9 which was a little frustrating but given the food I can't co plain. I started with the Vermont quail with spices and pistachios. It was amazing. Perfect amount of spice. For my main I had the venison special which was also out of this world. My wife had the sausage kebob with syrup and she loved it although I found it a little plain. Others at the table had the grilled squid which was raved about as was the sultans delight and the pork. Be sure to save room for dessert because it's great. We got the baked Alaska and the caramel bread pudding the bread pudding was crazy good. Can't wait to go back.
(5)
Ken L.
This place is simply, outstanding. I've only been there once, but it is by far one of my favorite restaurants that I've been to over the last 5 years. Tough to get a rezie, so plan ahead.
(5)
Josephine P.
I have been wanting to eat here for the longest time so when I finally got the chance I jumped at it and had really high expectations. I was not disappointed. It is amazing what they do with spices and how flavorful everything is without being overwhelming. I ordered their vegetarian tasting menu and every dish was really great. My favorite dish had to be their dessert. The baked Alaskan is such a deal. Also, their sticky toffee pudding is to die for.
(5)
Gardenbeth I.
Terrific food, great flavors, and large portions. Went with 3 friends, and we all enjoyed the appetizers (hummus, deviled eggs, peppers with cheese) and our entrees (duck, halibut with clams, and chicken). And the dessert! Profiteroles were the best dessert I've had in a long time. Excellent service too.
Yum! Reserve your table early (like as in a week ahead for a weeknight, a month for a weekend) and get the mezze. Our waitress was very good. For example, my husband and I did not order meat, though the other two people at our table did. We inadvertently ordered the hummus dish, which comes with a meat with a Middle Eastern name. She asked if we ate meat to avoid accidentally serving meat to vegetarians. This is the kind of attention to details you expect at this price point, but don't always get. Sharp and well done! Tables are very close together. So close that my table mates were shocked when they heard someone advising the woman at the next table not to listen to her date's claims that he was moving to Kuwait as he was just trying to get into her pants. But I maintain that this was good advice.
(5)
Sara F.
I guess it's kind of silly to write a review where there are already 248 of them, but I wanted to put in a word for the excellent service I had at Oleana a couple of weeks ago. First, we were 20 minutes late because my wife was having a hell of a time finding parking (anyone who's tried to have dinner in this area- you know what I'm talking about.) Expecting a problem, because it was a Friday night and the place was pretty packed, I apologized to the hostess- she was so nice and gave some parking suggestions and assured me we'd still have our reservation. Next, we had made an Open Table reservation because it was my birthday...both the hostess and the server said happy birthday to me, and our server went through some trouble to put a candle in my ice cream (first lighter didn't work, so he went back into the kitchen for another one.) I guess I was expecting impersonal service because Oleana is such a well-known place (i.e. they certainly don't need our business) but instead the excellent service added to a very lovely evening. ps- the special dessert- heirloom apple and huckleberry crisp with bay leaf ice cream- was OUT OF CONTROL delicious.
(5)
Jim D.
Delicious. Plain and simple. What more could be said about the charming and delightful dining experience I just had at Oleana on Friday night? Thanks to my fellow yelpers, my party arrived early in order to get a seat in the ever so cute outdoor courtyard. Intimate, cozy and tranquil are the immediate words that come to mind. It was definitely worth the half hour early arrival time and I can't recommend it more. The food, as I hoped, was phenomenal. I started with the calamari which was prepared in such a unique, creative way and turned out to be absolutely tender, flavorful and mouthwatering. I ordered the lamb steak as my entree which was brought to me perfectly rare (the only way to enjoy red meat, I think) and delectable. My friend ordered the much talked about vegetarian tasting menu which was all very yummy and fresh. Freshly dug up potatoes that were cooked in the most perfect way? Yes, please!! They also have an extensive wine and decent beer selection to please most palates. Prices are surprisingly reasonable, especially for the crazy notoriety this place has garnered. Portions were definitely modest in size. Service was impeccable. Our waitress was extremely attentive, personable and described everything. What more could ya want? My single gripe is that the parking situation sucks over at Inman Square so it can be a bit of a hassle to find a convenient space, especially during the really busy dinner times. Oleana definitely ranks up there with the best of Boston, no question. It's so laid back and casual here that I could easily come back here regularly. Eggscellent job, Oleana!
(5)
Robert K.
I brought my girlfriend to Oleana for her birthday and we had THE best experience. From the seat on the patio under a heat lamp, to our server's attentiveness, to the chef's willingness to work around my girlfriend's dairy allergy, to the AMAZING food, the night couldn't have been better. We ordered the vegetable tasting menu, which included five meze and a dessert and the scallops with pistachio, fig and spiced tomato yarma. The best way to explain the meal is this: I've been unable to think of anything besides those scallops for the last two days. Combined with the meze and sangria - not to mention the dairy-free ice cream they brought out with a candle at the end of the meal - this was literally a PERFECT dining experience.
(5)
Angel D.
The food here is unbelievable from the appetizer right down to the dessert. Recommendations: Appertizer: Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets & Crinkled Cress Entree: Tuna with Pomegranate Spoon Salad & Coconut Rice Wrapped in Collard Dessert: Baked Alaska; Coconut Ice Cream & Passion Fruit Caramel Wine: 09 Assyrtiko / Athiri, Sigalas, Ia, Santorini, Greece - if you have ever been to Santorini, it really brings you back! yum
(5)
Johnny K.
One of my favorite Boston-area restaurants of all time. Go in the Spring/Summer/Fall and sit in the beautiful courtyard. The food is indescribably yummy. My faves: the tuna deviled eggs, the milk soaked pork, the turkish steak app. But above all: the Baked Alaska. Oh. My. God. Everytime i've eaten it, I've actually wept it's so good. Fantastic, professional service. Go go Go!
(5)
Tom S.
I have been to Oleana about 20 times in the past 3 years. I love it so much. It is my birthday and valentines day gift every year The food is wonderful I highly recommend the vegetarian tasting menu. I am not a vegetarian myself but I love the food they send out. Always so creative. I also recommend the Whipped feta and the chicken salad they had as a special last time i went. Amazing!!!! It was all out of this world good. The staff is great. very knowledgeable. Cannot recommend this place enough!
(5)
Foodie B.
I heard so many good things about this place. Unfortunately, when I finally did try it, it just didn't do it for me. I had the rabbit for entree and the food was just bland. Maybe I ordered the wrong dish. But for the price that I was paying I expected better.
(2)
Maya S.
This restaurant is definitely a MUST visit if you are in Boston or in the Cambridge area! We tried the vegetarian tasting menu and an appetizer. Do not be fooled by the dainty looking portions...cos looks can be deceptive. We were full by the end of the meal. The spinach falafel was heavenly..so soft that it actually melts in your mouth. This place has a great ambiance and the service was prompt and quite friendly. If you are thinking of stepping out for a date/anniversary night...this place is it!
(5)
Christopher S.
"Woohoo! As good as it gets!" pretty much sums up how I feel about Oleana. I've been there a few times now, and each time everything has been amazing and on point. There is a wonderful selection of meze and entrees, all of which are jammed packed with a wonderful mix of flavors. The bread and olive oil that you are given to start the meal is delicious. Some notable dishes are the soft shell crab, flounder and moroccan spiced crab, the fatoush salad, the quail, the spicy squid, the clams, and all the desserts. There's also a great beer and wine menu. I don't care what other people say about The Hungry Mother and other restaurants in Boston metropolitan area, this is the best one hands down.
(5)
wolf t.
Mezze (tapas) are the way to go here. There are many pleasant surprises buried in there. The lamb sausage special with cherries was my favorite, but almost all were excellent in their own way. (The nettle/halloumi salad wasn't quite what I was expecting and the sangria was oversweet.) The chocolate baklava dessert is heavenly, but you can get that any day at sofra. Branch out and try the olive oil ice cream instead. Warning: costs can escalate quickly. Watch your orders or be prepared to pay dearly for the experience.
(4)
Tiffany C.
If I could give this place ten stars, I would. I've been several times now and it's never been anything less than delicious. The food is fresh, creative, with interesting & perfectly balanced flavors. I don't even feel like I need to review individual dishes here because everything is always so good, however I'll recommend the spinach falafel and the tamarind glazed beef because they are favorites. Make a meal of meze, you won't regret it. But make sure to leave room for dessert, because Oleana's really stand out. I never thought I'd say that a Mediterranean style restaurant served some of the best desserts I've ever had! A bit of a splurge, but worth it. Make sure to make reservations well in advance! (I'm talking 2-3 weeks at least!)
(5)
Suki S.
This place is pretty good. The food was good and very fresh. To be honest, I don't have too much to say about it nothing really stood out. This place is good but pretty forgettable. One thing that did stand out was the fact that the hostess was annoyed that we didn't have a reservation but she sat us down in a decent area like 2 seconds later anyway and the place was not crowded at all. So basically, they want you to make a reservation just because, whatever... I get the sense they are a little pretentious just based on the hostesses, they somehow think that just because they're wearing heels and designer clothes to seat people gives them some sort of status,(what does status mean anyway? no such thing.) Get a grip ladies, the whole point of the hostess is to be very nice and accommodating to people and make them feel okay about spending their hard earned money. Probably won't go back, there are a handful of really good restaurants in Cambridge that I would rather go to where the staff doesn't make me feel like I don't belong there. I give it a Meh!
(3)
David K.
Simply amazing food. It was worth every penny. This was the perfect balance of flavors and ingredients. We had the Salmon appetizer that was amazing, flat lemon chicken and the pork belly dish. All were perfectly balanced and the the right amount of flavor / taste. All cooked to perfection. The deserts were equally amazing. The place is quite tight and can be noisy but it is worth it.
Low key, meticulous, and a patio that is a must-do on a beautiful night. The sommelier and chef work together to create delicious dishes and combinations like I have never had before. A stop for anyone who prides themselves on knowing the restaurant scene in Boston.
(5)
Des Esseintes I.
I am against grade inflation. Thus, when a restaurant gets 4 stars, you can trust that it's really good. This restaurant has many hallmarks of quality-- -The food is delicious -Service is excellent -Wine list a little annoying (many blends when I want straight up Cabernet) -Reasonably quiet A great choice is you are stuck in Boston!
(4)
PT R.
So strangely enough, I had never been to Oleana in the summer before! I knew the menu changes seasonally, but I didn't realize what a stark difference there is from winter to summer. I MUCH prefer the fall/winter menu to the summer menu! For some reason, the summer entrees just tasted saltier to me and not as fresh. So as much as it hurts me to do this, I must admit that my experience was just average this time around. That said -- the appetizers and desserts seem to be the same from season to season and were delicious as ever. Baked Alaska all the way! And of course, the service remains superb.
(3)
Nikolina E.
I've eaten the food. It's really good. You should eat at Oleana. More importantly, you need to eat the Baked Alaska for dessert. Easily one of the best desserts in the country. Please. Just do yourself a favor and fill your mouth with heaven for a few short moments.
(5)
Frank D.
I really LOVE Oleana and I'm finally getting around to sharing my experiences there. I've only been 3 times, mostly because I find it too expensive to indulge in on a regular basis. Overall, everything here is full of flavor. The ingredients are fresh, the menu is interested and changes (not sure how often). The food is Mediterranean and not heavy (at least not what I've had). The ambiance is fantastic and I find myself completely enthralled by the meals I've eaten here thus far. If you feel like splurging, or if money is no object for you anyway, don't miss out on this place.
(5)
Scott S.
So nice a visit So many fives already Will mine matter?
(5)
pat m.
Oleana serves inspired, well prepared food from the best possible ingredients. The menu is well priced for the quality. The wine list is very food friendly, includes many organic and bio-dynamic wines, and is also reasonably priced. It's a great place for vegetarians. A vegetarian tasting menu was available the night I went - it was superb and plentiful (I could not finish it). The service is friendly, prompt, and helpful. The space is relaxing and casually elegant. I was there on a Tuesday evening when two men were quietly playing lovely world music. As I was visiting the Boston area with my family, we brought along our children (8&10). While I would not call Oleana family-friendly, they were accommodating of our children. I should note one of my children is a highly selective eater, but they are both used to eating in high-end restaurants and a very well behaved in nice restaurants (or so we are told). Given that I live in the San Francisco Bay Area, I'm spoiled by excellent vegetarian friendly restaurants. Now I have a spot to return to in the Boston area that meets expectations.
(5)
Chris O.
This place is amazing. The chicken, was an explosion of flavors! Her spice combinations are inventive whimsical and life changing came with this cheese like creation that was fabulous a silky feta almost with a buttery crust. But the lamb. Tender. Succulent. The way a lamb should be slayed and served even those who oppose feeding on animal would approve of this dish because if humans could taste this good we'd have a case for cannabolism. To finish- the baked alaska. Hold judgement. How could such a dated dessert be appeasing? It was airy, pleasant, and surprisingly creative. Take a Macroon with cloud like texture that packs sweet aromatic flavors and voila: oleanas baked Alaska.
(5)
Chris M.
If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all. Oleana uses fresh ingredients. That is all.
(2)
d f.
Had my birthday dinner here. 5 stars! In the top 5 restaurants of Boston: (1) food was especially flavorful, (2) portions were good, (3) service was attentive and informed, (4) atmosphere and lighting was cohesive, balanced, and nice, and (5) awesome beers and wine selections. Thank you!
(5)
Samantha S.
This year on Halloween, we treated ourselves to dinner here. I made the reservations several weeks in advance, and very glad I did. Everything was phenomenal, and as a vege / omni couple, my boyfriend and I were both very pleased with our dinners. The waitress was great, attentive but not too chatty. The atmosphere was fine, despite the set up of a long shared bench seat on one side of a row of tables and chairs on the other--I usually don't like that set up, feeling far away from your partner, but in this case the other tables were far enough away that we still had privacy. The food was so delicious. I had a greens salad which was good, until I found a hidden treasure of some nut crumble topped with cheese, which made it divine. I also had a feta red pepper starter, which was the best trick of my Halloween, since I hate red peppers, which were in this case, delicious! I can't wait to go back!
(5)
Ani H.
Oleana is the rare mix of class, accessibility, affordability, delicious cuisine and neighborhood feel. Seriously, it is hard to pull all that off! People come here dressed up or in whatever. Young 20-ish couples and boisterous groups of friends sit right next to middle-aged married couples. What brings them all in is the warm, lively ambience, beautiful decor, and above all, CREATIVE Medi cuisine. Mediterranean is overdone these days but Oleana has a fresh, delicious spin on it. Take for instance the lamb the whipped feta and spinach falafel. Different, yet the authentic flavors, and above all: local and delicious. What a great restaurant concept, dishes, and attitude. I thoroughly enjoyed my meal experience here and will return ASAP.
(5)
F A.
AMAZING food. Great for special occasions because it can be a bit pricey, but overall a wonderful meal and atmosphere. Very fresh and unique creations as well. Definitely the place to go to celebrate or with someone special.
(5)
Stephanie S.
Good food albeit slightly overrated. Service, on the other hand, was terrible. Despite having arrived on time for our 8:30pm reservation we were made to wait 1/2 hour for a table. This was inexcusable given that there were empty tables in the restaurant! When I pointed this out to the owner I got a snotty response about needing to keep those tables open because they didn't want to keep guests with 9:00 reservations waiting. WHAT?? When we finally were seated at 9, the waittress very kindly said she would bring complimentary mezzes to the table as an apology for our long wait. This was very nice, but we noticed on our bill that she charged us for these 'complimentary' mezzes we didn't order, didn't want, and didn't even like!
(3)
Shirley Y.
i feel bad. sooo bad. everyone loves this place. and i wanted to love it too. but i couldn't. maybe it was the amount of spices used in the food. the menu was certainly inventive. the food was beautifully presented. the decor and the outdoor patio is elegant. but something just did not agree with me...and i have not been back since.
(3)
Pete P.
how can i give one of my favorite restaurants in town 2 stars? because they would not let my wife, who is in her early 30s drink with out her ID! i had mine, i am 34 so its not like i look 19 or anything. blasphemy i tell you. please gimme this "its the law" bullshit... we are certainly "of age" and it would have not been a problem if the cambridge police decided to raid oleana. this is not the BHP or harvard gardens for crying out loud. it's one of the nicest restaurants in the city where one in their 30s or 40s would expect to be able to have a glass of wine even if they forgot their ID. wow this enrages me. FU to the manager there. i should have asked anna in the kitchen. how was the food? amazing, divine, my favorite by far in all of cambridge. how is the wine list? incredible - especially since they have more organic and/or biodynamic wines than any other place i have been to. how is the staff? really nice and polite except the gutless bar tender that called the manager over because we didnt have both of our IDs. i dont think i will be going back for a while. not like they care, they are fully booked every night. but, for me, i am going to be heading to Craigie Street Bistrot for a while for my taste of decadent, rich food.
(2)
Anna f.
Anna Sortun is the most creative and complete chef . She uses exotic seeds, nuts and fresh herbs . All this creates dishes like her crispy lemon flattened chicken (with z'aatar and Turkish cheese pancakes) and cod cassoulet (with walnut oil and garlicky escarole). In the winter there is a warm fireplace. The experience is sublime and it is not as expensive as you may think.
(5)
Melissa M.
I was compelled to write a review after my dinner at Oleana last night. I have never experienced such great service and generosity from a restaurant and I dine out 4x/week! After a mix up with my entree, they apologized profusely, brought me out several treats including a full size entree special, for me to eat while waiting for my meal. In addition, they comped my entree. I was truly blown away by their service. It is appreciated and I will continue to be a loyal patron, as I have been!
(4)
Rachel C.
I've been here for two or three meals and my food has been good, the atmosphere is lovely and the wines are nice. I did the vegetarian tasting menu once, and the next time I opted to put my own meal together. You save a few dollars on the tasting menu, but I think it is worth a few dollars to design your own meal. A nice place.
(4)
Mohamed A.
Do they serve a tasting menu over there? Because thats what I would do if I visit again. Everything was fantastic. Too bad I live 3000 miles away.
(5)
Blair P.
Truly one of the best meals I've had in Boston - I loved the mix and subtlety of the spicing, the innovative cross over from middle eastern to modern American and the adventurous wine list. When my party arrived with much anticipation, our table wasn't ready. As we were an 8:30 reservation, it was getting late when we finally sat down at almost 9 but our attentive host delivered some comliamentary dips to make up for our wait. Much appreciated! The rare Lebanese cabernet blend was a reat treat - 1992 vintage (really should have been decanted!) - It just got better and better during the dinner. We loved the veggie pancakes with hallooumi and braised ridiccio and the tuna kibbeh. All the mains were excellent - my pork dish - essentially meatballs with lots of garlic and a side of potatoes, leeks and chanterelle mushrooms, was real winter fare. Others in my party had both of the fish dishes and the lamb. We were all very happy and loved the flavours. My only complaint was the Kasseri cheese melted over my flavourful side vegetables - the dish was so large and rich that it didn't need cheese on top, which weighed it down and left me eating only half. We all tasted dessert and it was unusual and delicious - for me the salted butter ice cream with pumpkin jam crêpe & pumpkin seed granola was the stand out. Wow! I'd come back again and again to try the rest of the menu and hope I get the chance. Boston is a lucky city to have Ana Sortun creating such tastes.
(5)
Leon B.
I have been to Oleana twice. The first time I ordered a special, a pasta dish with shrimp and mango and other yummy things, and it was pretty good (though I had made something very similar at home the week before which was just was good). I tried to get a reservation, but they said they were booked 2 weeks in advance, but I could show up and try for outdoor seating, which I did (and was immediately successful). Again, the first visit went ok, probably 4 stars. The second time I went (again, no reservation) we sat inside at a tiny tiny table in the middle of the room, with people squeezing by us all the time. Everything I tried this time was meh...very unimpressive. The weird-pizza type appetizer with all sorts of exotic stuff on top had zero taste, and was overly chewy. My entree was forgettable. I ordered the lamb with Turkish spices, and received what was in fact a gyro, just dissected and arranged on my plate. The menu said "lamb with spices", not "ground lamb made into strips", yet what I received was in fact ground lamb made into strips, gyro-style. The fancy description of greens and sauce and such ended up meaning some pita, tzasiki, and typical gyro-filling on the side. The meal my mother ordered was even worse. Overcooked fish mush cooked in paper, with no taste, horrible texture, pretty unexciting. This second experience at Oleana makes me think that the first experience was a fluke, and I probably don't need to go here again...
(3)
Erik K.
The best restaurant in the Boston area, with inventive Middle eastern food that is light and satisfying. There are always great appetizers and interesting wine selections. The service is outstanding.
(5)
David H.
I've eaten at Oleana over twenty times and the food is always great. The food has Turkish accent and is very unique to other restaurants. The atmosphere is subdued artsy; small tables; small bar with about six stools; nice garden in the summer. If you are a vegetarian you'll find ample to chose from. The service is friendly and casual and its good for casual dining. The wine list includes organic and biodynamic wines which are very good. You need to make a reservation if plan to go pretty much any day of the week.
(5)
Brian M.
So, every now and then I tear myself away from the dive bars and PBR and go somewhere Nice, with nice people. So it was the other night, I went and checked out Oleana. And it is. Nice. The food was Nice. Our waiter was Nice (and efficient). The ambience and decor are Nice. Overall it was a Nice experience. The food was everything it should have been, although the dessert, Sicilian Cremolata, teetered on the edge of blandness. I can't quite give it the five stars though, cos on some fundamental level it just didn't have that 'wow' factor.
(4)
Richard S.
Go when the weather's nice and sit out back and just drink it in. The grapes and other goodies growing off the fence and the live guitarist (or whatever musical variant is there that night) will take you far from the gritty world of triple deckers and street noise. And that's before the food comes. Ana Sortun works some genuine magic in that kitchen. Go get some of it.
(4)
Ellie P.
It's the inventive flavor combinations and dining in the charming backyard garden that keep me coming back year after year for special occasions.
(5)
Courtney C.
The vegetarian tasting menu is the best way to go here. You will not miss any of the tastes of the kitchen. So good. I would stay away from the entrees and create your own tasting menu from the small plates if you are a meat eater. The sultan's delight is the best! And the Falafel. The service is wonderful.
(5)
Melissa B.
Oleana is one of the few restaurants in Boston that absolutely never disappoints. Food is fabulous and consistently so. As a tried and true carnivore, I've even been delighted with the vegetarian tasting menu. You still see Ana in the kitchen, too, that's cool. Don't miss the Egyptian carrot puree amuse, the fried mussels with Turkish Tarator, and oh my I had the most ridiculously fabulous pork chop of my life there, never mind the monkfish. Dessert is meant to be fab, too, but I'm always too full.
(5)
Alyson L.
This restaurant was unbelievable. The food was unique and absolutely delicious. I ate outside and it was like being in a backyard. I didn't feel like I was in the city at all. There are trees and live music. Really out of this world experience!
(5)
Brandon L.
This place is not Turkish/Greek/....Med but it's an American interpretation of Med cooking. It's fusion cooking at best and the chef does whatever she wants to...and in my opinion does not succeed most of the time but she gets a bright star for trying since most restaurants in Boston serve just about the same food. So Oleana gets an A for effort and C for taste and B overall since it's truly one of the original places in Boston/Cambridge area. You're more likely to be impressed if you didn't know any better, never travelled to Middle East and North Africa but...this is as good as it gets without an airplane ticket for American taste. If you're looking for a more authentic Greek place try Desfina's in the neighbourhood.
(3)
Liza H.
Excellent place winter or summer. Cozy interior, nifty bar and wonderful garden in summer. East Mediterranean fare served here. Appetizers: Sultans Delight: beef and apricot, traditional Turkish recipe is lovely. I adore the grilled Haloumi cheese in ouzo, dont be afraid to try this at home either. The chicken under a brick is juicy and delightful. And desserts....if I could be a dessert, I would wish to be their Baked Alaska with passion fruit coulis. I shiver just thinking about it!
(4)
Deepa C.
i wont be saying anything that hasn't ben said before, but am putting my 2 cents in anyway:) from reading the reveiws, it looks like oleana has good nights and off nights, and luckily, we hit it on a good night. the only reservation i could get on a sunday was for 5:30 (when the place opens), so it was nice and quiet when our meal started. by the time we were into our meal, the place had filled up but never got too loud, which was also good. i liked the spacing of the tables, where it was full but you weren't in anyone's lap. the service was very good, even though our second appetizer came in late and we had to ask for it twice. the bread and water kept coming and everyone had smiles. the food was superb. whipped feta (so good - who knew!), spicy fried mussels and shrimp in filo dough to start. two of us had the duck special (i usually dont like duck, but all crispy with pears and flour gnocci was a perfect way to serve it). the lamb and steak got good reviews as well. dessert was rich but the portions were small. chocolate hazelnut baklava and chestnut souffle. so good. and the coffee lovers at the table wiere impressed with the turkish coffee, which came in a huge french press. we left satisfied but not stuffed and happy. i would DEF reccomend this place to anyone who likes to try new things or just wants funky med/turkish food with a twist.
(5)
Chris Y.
I went here a while back with my girlfriend with high expectations, and, for the most part, they were met. Intriguing, new flavors prepared by a chef who knows how to use them. We had the vegtarian tasting menu. I wish I could tell you what each course was, but sadly the people bringing the food rattled off the ingredients in mumbled voices and just walked away. Now, as a restaurant worker myself, I love our friends from south-of-the-border; they are hard workers, and without them the restaurant industry would collapse, but, if their language skills aren't there, they shouldn't be running food in a nice restaurant, especially given that there are many esoteric spices and preparations used. Also, on several occasion, tried to clear our plates while we were clearly still eating, the waiter never offered help with the wine list, never once checked to see how things were, and manhandled the plates and silverware loudly and awkwardly. All he did was take our order, open the wine, and drop the check. He was too busy chatting at the bar right next to us. The one service exception was dessert, when the waitress eloquently and lucidly described what we had in front of us (Some sort of bread soaked in honey that was cloyingly sweet). I would still recommend this place to anyone who isn't deterred by bad service, but I was appalled by the lack of attention to detail. Very nice aesthetics, particularly the porch, great wine list, the tasting menu is a bargain ($42!), and perfect for a classy first date or an anniversary. Also, we sat in the very corner by the wine racks, and they have to occasionally reach behind the table to get bottles.....a little strange, but bearable.
(4)
Abigail D.
I've been here twice - once with someone who decided to treat us both to the tasting menu, and asked for the chef to make whatever he wanted. Nothing disappointed. My only complaint is that I walk past Oleana on my way home from work, and I always want to go in for dinner (sadly, my wallet can't handle that).
(5)
Vivek S.
Dinner at Oleana was a fantastic experience. I had made a reservation through opentable and made a note that it was my wife's B'Day and we were vegetarians. The maître d' took us to our table and wished my wife a Happy B'Day... We are both vegetarians and after reading some reviews on Yelp, I decided to not order two vegetarian tasting entrees. We picked the Goat cheese fritter and Parsnip hummus from the appetizers and ordered one vegetarian tasting entree. The waitress told us that they could serve us with two dishes at once so that we'd enjoy things rather than overcrowding our table. The olives with zatar and spicy feta cheese spread was a nice way to start...wish the olives were pitted though. The goat cheese fritter was perfect and the carrot soup that accompanied it was delicious...and the parsnip hummus was very creative and tasty. We also had the Prosecco which I thought went will with everything we had. We then had the Spinach falafel and romaine, beet salad with lebneh. The falafel was moist and delicious...definitely not dry like one's that are re fried. The salad was okay but the almond crusted lebneh was fantastic. It was followed by spicy fideos and polenta topped with mushroom caponata. While the fideos which is just like vermicelli (we make it often at home) was not a huge hit, the polenta was. The polenta was perfectly done and had a nice crust to it..no mushy at all and the touch of honey enhanced it. The dessert was a pistachio mascarpone ice cream on shredded filo and candied blood orange. The dessert had a cute lil' candle on it...so my wife was flattered! It's possibly one of the best dinners we've had in a while and the service was outstanding. It's been duly added to "My Favorites" list!!
(5)
Katy T.
I came here with my fiancee, my daughter and one of her friends. Little did we know, but her friend was not an adventurous eater at all. I was groaning inside, wondering if we were going to have a miserable time, but Anna Sortun's staff were FANTASTIC. They were able to explain the food to her, and she was very willing to try it! We all had marvelous food. My only complaints are that the marvelous empanada that I had is going off the menu ( It was so amazing and the flavors were perfect together. I guess that I'm going to have to try the chicken or the beef next time.) And, the table we had, although near the fireplace, was freaking freezing. Best to call for a reservation and ask for a table in a warm spot not close to the door. It's a very small restaurant.
(5)
Emily M.
The food is delicious. My Mom and I both got the vegetarian tasting menu but still recieved different courses. It was a lot of food. Overall good but not worth the price.
(3)
Bridget D.
Hi Oleana! I have been thinking about you for a while since my best friend Yelp mentioned you to me. I think you really have a lot to offer me. I have to admit, I go on bostonchefs.com to look at your pictures. It makes me feel a little naughty sometimes when I stare at your lusciousness while I am supposed to be working. I can't help myself. You are really cute. I am soooo glad that we finally got to meet last night. Since my sister Kry moved to the east side, I knew it was the perfect opportunity for our paths to cross O. Do you mind if I call you "O"? I brought her to meet you as well because I felt like you two would get along and I wanted to show you off. You made a great first impression. We arrived precisely when I told you we would. I wasn't nervous at all. I was excited to finally experience you. I caught your welcoming gaze from across the street and when we approached, your pleasant host offered us our choice of indoor or outdoor seating for the evening ahead of us. Although it was a lovely night and I knew you would look enchanting under a starry sky, I chose to remain in your inner sanctum because it is closest to your heart. You are warm and comforting, cozy but not too cramped. The air was filled with your enchanting aroma. I thought your outfit looked great on you with the clean lines, subtle tones and minimal glitz to allow your natural beauty to shine. The kind server who greeted it us at our table described you as "Arabesque Mediterranean." So exotic! My sister and I are vegetarians and your server was quite accomodating. He pointed out all of your scrumptious offerings and that you would even create an entire vegetarian plate just for us. I wanted all you had to offer, but as this was our first time, I didn't want to appear to eager. A bread basket with squares of tasty breads dusted with za'atar and oil were brought to us and I was pleased to have this nibble as my hunger for your plates was growing. We selected a few items to share (my sister told me that she had snuck in a quick ice cream stop just a bit before I met with her. I can't blame her, the sweet tooth runs in the family.) Your spinach falafel and fried haloumi cheese were our appetizers of choice. The falafel arrived not too long after our order was placed and instantly my senses tingled. Beautifully displayed on a wooden board were three perfectly round orbs drizzled with tahini and placed lovingly on top of a thin lavash bread smothered in magenta colored beets and lush curly cress greens. Two slices of pickled green tomatoes flavored with a hint of aromatic spices peeked out at me and I brought one to my lips to savor. We were instructed to slice through the lavash and roll it up and I was eager to oblige. As I rolled up my first spinach orb, I knew that the moment would be memorable. I brought the package to my mouth and the flavors mingled on my tongue. The sweet beets, the nutty tahini, the soft texture of your orbs... Is this love? Next came your fried haloumi cheese and as a liquid was poured over it and flame was applied, I knew you were out to impress me. Topped with a green tomato jam and accompanied by a squash blossom stuffed with walnuts and sesame, the haloumi cheese squeaked in my mouth as I savored the texture of the cheese and the sweetness of the jam. But O, I must admit, the taste of the flammable liquid remained on the haloumi and detracted from my complete enjoyment. Finally, we selected the vegetarian plate with your choice of offerings. After a bit of a wait ( I understood, beauty and art take time), a plate was presented before us with an impressive array of creative and enticing elements. Fried feta, turkish spiced rice, leek salad, oven roasted potatoes, black kale, heirloom tomato filled with labne... Each flavor was unique and satisfying. Thank you O. I must say, our first encounter was all I could have hoped for. I want to see you again, and give you the full five stars that I know you deserve. I hold back for now just so you will remember me and lure me once more into your heart. I didn't get to try your sweets to cap off the night, but I know they will be delectable. Until then, B
(4)
Christina C.
I went here this past weekend with a group of friends and everything was amazing. The service was fantastic, our waiter was very friendly and knowledgeable. We ordered a bunch of plates and shared everything. We had them space out the food and everything was timed perfectly so we weren't overwhelmed. I will give you my favorites and least favorites ( just keep in mind my least favorites were still good!) The Spinach Falafel, by far, best falafel I have ever had!! We also had two of the special mezze's, Fried clams w/ artichokes and garlic aioli and a Shrimp Fritatta. Both of these were delicious. And for a main dish we split the Flattened lemon chicken over a cheese pancake. Amazing! My least favorite were the Spicy Fideos. It just wasn't my kind of dish, although other people at the table loved it. We also had the Poached Pear and Pot de Creme for dessert. Both were fantastic and light, which was nice after eating a big meal. I would highly recommend Oleana!
(5)
L R.
great presentation. don't really like this genre of food, but I'd go here again.
(4)
Jessica G.
Absolutely adore Oleana. The food is out of this world and so fresh and made with locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Their wine and beer selections are great. The service is friendly and incredibly helpful. Try the vegetarian tasting menu even if you're not vegetarian. The food is so flavorful and each bite is an awesome experience. The pret a manger options are really great too, especially the red pepper with feta and the bean pate with string cheese. It's on the pricey side, but leaves nothing to be desired.
(5)
Steve N.
the four stars are just for their dessert menu. i've eaten a bunch of times here and while very impressed, it's the dessert offerings that do it for me. the bread pudding on the winter menu is to die for, i only wish they offered it year round. the bar side can get crazy busy but there's a tall two top that's sweet if you can snag it.
(4)
erin e.
This five-star rating is my summer rating, due mostly to the absolutely beautiful patio in the back. I'd take away one star for the winter time (the indoor seating is not nearly as beautiful), but this is still a delicious place for a date or even a meal with your adventurously-palated parents. Wine list is extensive and as a result there are some pretty decent wines at affordable prices. Eat on the patio. You simply must. It's beautiful.
(5)
liam f.
Before I get attached , see my reasoning. Food--good service-very good Price--absolutely too high The price does not fit the food. A beef brisket and only be soo good--so how can you charge $32 . I feel the price should be between 1/2 and 1/3 as much as it is. To spend over a hundred dollars for some pork medallions and beef brsket is ridiculous. Therefore--my conclusion is "OVERRATED", but the food and service was good. the one star is to off-set all the overraters that get warm and fuzzy from eating ethnic food and paying way to much because it makes them feel ecclectic.
(1)
Emily O.
I found out about this place through a feature in the Boston Sunday Globe - the best restaurants for vegetarians in Boston. They offer a $40/person, five course plus dessert vegetarian tasting menu. You feel like a vegetarian king/queen! Each person gets a different dish (except for a course or two that you share) to sample and share if you're generous. One particular feta cheese/red pepper spread was hard to give up even a drop of. The outdoor patio is lovely and my only complaint were the bug bites I found later that night. The dessert was tremendous, the wine menu extensive and the servers weren't pretentious (though the food is, thankfully). For a fine dinner, I wouldn't go anywhere else.
(5)
Alison E.
definitely one of the best restaurants i've been to in boston. we first ordered a sampler of the small starters which i highly recommend doing...lots of different spices and textures. the beef short rib was meat-candy. the patio was gorgeous on a balmy summer night. and, i'm not sure if they treat everyone like royalty but that's how we were treated. the only drawback was that our waitress, though very sweet and full of information about the food was a bit flaky. i'll let it slide though because it was a very special dinner to remember. when i got home, i ordered their cook book on-line. we didn't get to try the bakery this time but we'll be back!
(5)
Felipe G.
Olenea is definitely one of my favorite places to eat in Cambridge/Boston. The Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean flavors in the dishes are simply amazing. Every-time I've been here I've had the vegetarian tasting degustation and it has always been delicious. One thing that is great if you go as a couple and both get the vegetarian tasting menu they will alternate some courses so you get almost double the flavors and get to eat and share a wider variety of food. My only bad word to say is that the space can be cramp. I have only dined during the winter and never during the summer when the patio would be open. I would describe the place as cozy and the tables are kind of cramped so just hope you don't have to listen to some inane or unusual conversations from your neighbors. A good wine list and knowledge staff will take good care of you, and vegetarians will have much to be excited about eating here. You have to try the falafel, it is amazing!
(5)
Seafoodie R.
Excellent but pricey, Mediterranean influenced Turkish, great atmosphere. The deviled eggs with Tuna and black olives were spectacular, could have eaten 100 of em' The flattened lemon chicken is excellent, so was the skirt steak. Try this place out if you'd like to stray from the beaten path, very different flavors than any other place in Boston/Cambridge.
(4)
Aleta R.
This is hands down one of the best dining experiences in the Boston area. The food is all organic ingredients and chef ana sortun has carefully blended the spices in all of her recipes to creat sinfully delicious flavors. It is perfect if you are looking to treat yourself to exotic food and a soft warm atmosphere. The service is also excellent. In the summer, the outdoor patio is perfecto, and on chilly nights they even have heat lanterns to keep it comfortable. Can you tell I love it here :)
(5)
Roberto C.
I was deeply depressed when Daddy-Os closed several years ago, but this little seedling that sprouted into Oleana is phenomenal. The food is spectacular, wine list extensive & you cannot beat the outdoor dining in the summertime (beware: first come first serve outdoors). You cannot get a better quality meal/food for the price... the deviled eggs w/tuna are a delight - save some room for the baked alaska as well. One word, "awesome".
(5)
Alex Z.
Arguably my favorite restaurant (though I think Garden at the Cellar wins out) . Consistently good with rare disappointments. I spend over $50,000 a year on meals and entertainment, sampling the best restaurants all over the world, and this simple Cambridge restaurants is still, definitely in my top 5 Worldwide. Bravo Anna, Gary, Cassie, and everyone else! You and your staff, kept the magic going this long....we're grateful and impressed!
(5)
Kai L.
very good meals, a bit on the pricy side. great atmosphere, especially if you can get the outdoor seating. the food is delicious (sorry, can't remember exactly what i ate), but we had appetizer, entrees, as well as desserts. All of them were good. Haven't had traditional Turkish food, don't know how it measures up to its original roots, but the dishes are mostly delicious regardless of the roots.
(4)
Lynda M.
Always have a good experience here, food is unique and staff very helpful. I love the outdoor heated patio!
(5)
Rally P.
This is an outstanding, high end restaurant just outside of Inman Square. The food is amazing as are the desserts. It's a small place and it fills up so you'll want to make reservations. It's also pretty expensive, but you are certainly paying for what you get. It's the kind of place I'll go to for special occasions.
(5)
Andres M.
I went there about two years ago. Maybe it was not a good restaurant back then. The food was average. the ratio of flavor to price was definitely too low. I might go back to see if I can experience what the other reviewers are talking about.
(3)
Tim B.
We love Oleana. The vegetarian tasting menu is probably our favorite meal, but the brisket is also delicious, and the sultan's delight is an amazing appetizer. We love the unique tastes in the food here, it's a great place to get something unusual. The menu always has an item or two that needs explanation, and the waitstaff is always very knowledgeable. The restaurant setting is great for dates or a small group of friends. The outdoor seating is really nice as well. We'd go here all the time if we could!
(5)
Cary L.
Completely awesome. A cozy yet lively place...that isn't pretentious. Great for a special occasion. The food is inspiring. Vegetarian tasting menu is so delicious, you might cry. Their desserts are really special.
(5)
Kate S.
Really a FANTASTIC restaurant. I highly recommend the vegetarian dishes (particularly the vegetarian tasting menu if you can afford it) - they will blow you away. My only word of caution is that they like to keep the doors to their beautiful patio open well into fall when (in my opinion) it is a tad too chilly. You may want to dress in layers or request a seat by the fireplace if you get cold easily.
(5)
Ellen B.
Oleana is one of my favorite special occasion restaurants..the tables are a little close but the food/wine/sangria/specialty drinks are ALL SO AMAZING. The menu remains pretty consistent but that's great because all of the items are unbelievable. You really can't go wrong. And make sure to save room for dessert and not eat too much bread (even though the bread is ALSO amazing)...the baked alaska is to die for.
(5)
G G.
I agree with the majority..this place is awesome. The food and service was great. I learned that I don't like turkish coffee.
(5)
bella c.
this place lives up to its reputation! the food was amazing, i had the Heirloom Tomato Kibbeh with Heirloom Tomato Dolma & Labne, which was out of this world bursting with flavor! and for my main dish Halibut in Vine Leaf with Pinenuts, Currants, Nasturtium Butter, Green Beans & Rice Cake , which again was delicious, i couldn't finish my entree the portion of fish was on the larger size. definitely recommend checking this place out!
(5)
Sarah B.
One of my very favorite restaurants in Boston (and this is coming from someone who eats out in Boston A LOT)! My husband and I went here for the first time for my birthday and we had a wonderful time. To drink, I ordered a sangria (it was good, but it was the least memorable part of the meal) and my husband ordered a beer. We decided to spring for two mezze AND two appetizers, since it was a special occasion. For the mezze, we ordered two specials they had that night: burrata stuffed with herbs and some kind of fritters (can't remember what they were now). Both were out-of-this-world! For the main course, I ordered the monkfish in a lentil curry, which is probably one of the best dishes (if not the best dish) I've had in my life. The fish was excellent, the sauce was flavorful without being overpowering, and the lentils and veggies were fresh and tasty. My husband order the saffron pork with polenta, which was also delicious. Neither of us could decide which dish we liked better. The presentation of all four dishes was inventive and pleasing. Our waiter was attentive and helpful as well. All in all, a wonderful birthday and a wonderful restaurant!
(5)
Cheri S.
Wow. I am forever indebted to the friend who recommended this restaurant to me when she heard I'd be visiting Boston. Six of us went together, with three of us ordering the Vegetarian Tasting option and the other three ordering a la carte, and we all shared. Even things that sounded ordinary tasted extraordinary -- I mean, who would have thought you could improve on classic hummus? We loved the kibbeh, the spiced feta, and the spinach falafel especially, but it's hard to pick a standout when everything is a star. The flavors are beautifully balanced and absolutely nothing detracts from the overall effect of each dish -- the main ingredients, the seasonings, the presentation, all combine for amazing results. Three couples went in, and three happy couples came out, each carrying the chef's cookbook, Spices. Great recipes and beautifully written -- spent the rest of the vacation reading that instead of my novel!
(5)
HJ U.
My favorite restaurant in Boston! A few things to add to the other glowing reviews: I recommend the white sangria when available, the baked alaska for dessert, and if you're chilly while sitting on the patio, they have lovely fleece blankets to keep you warm! I love this place.
(5)
Anna S.
Oleana has great food, a fine dining atmosphere and attentive staff. However if you are looking for variety, comfort and price, this may not be your first choice. While the food is absolutely cooked to perfection, the restaurant menu offers little to pick from. The prices are mighty high, so only come here if a) your pockets are loaded or b) you have a very fancy occasion. But it is worth a try is you want to go out for a fancy, nice dinner.
(4)
Anonymous P.
Had one average meal here, one great one. Seems like the great meal is more representative. Not exactly exotic, but more interesting than your average upscale restaurant.
(5)
Heather B.
Sadly, I hit this place on a bad night. From what I hear from my friends and other Yelpers, it was a fluke. My fish was undercooked (it was not the type of fish best served undercooked...), my service was terrible and for me it was a huge disappointment. I might try it again as it has been over a year and I still hear great things. I liked Ana Sortun when she was at Casablanca and I know she is a good chef.
(2)
Peter P.
Jumping on the bandwagon with the good reviews.....nothing to say that wasn't said before me. If I wanted to marry the princess of monaco and needed a place to take her mom to impress her, it would be here. Everything was WAY above what I expected. The steak came to me and I said "this is tiny....how am I going to get full off this" I was wrong, it filled me up, and left me VERY satisfied. This was without a doubt one of the best meals of my life!
(5)
Lindsey B.
It has all been said before, but I rarely find a restaurant that has it all from beginning to (almost end..too full for dessert this time). Unfortunately, we waited almost 25 minutes past our reservation to be seated, but the hostess was very apologetic and sent over complimentary tastes to begin our meal. We got to try the deviled eggs, buttered hummus, whipped feta, and a carrot spread. All very good. Then we got the falafel for an appetizer and everyone was extremely impressed. My fiance ate a lot of it in Israel and enjoyed every bite. I got the swordfish and it was great, although I was a bit jealous of another diner's sea bass in a stew that was wonderful. We had two great and reasonably priced bottles of wine and enjoyed immensely! I am also excited to go back in the warmer weather...
(5)
charles m.
Among my favorite restaurants in the greater Boston area, Oleana has been a choice spot for dates and family dinners for years. The Ouzo-flambe Haloumi cheese is a don't-miss appetizer, and following it up with a parmesean-encrusted pork chop washed down with a Syrah from their extensive wine list will be nothing short of exquisite. If you actually have room for dessert, ha ha ha, try them all. In fact, there are so many options worth trying that I encourage you to visit Oleana with a large, adventurous party, such that you might all order something different and share.
(5)
Kim D.
holy sh*(&(*&t! this place was out of control. can't believe it took me so long to finally make it to oleana. went on a whim on a friday night after work. figured there was no way we were getting in but thought we might as well give it a try...luckily there were two seats at the bar. the bartender was super friendly and helpful...she was very patient with us and answered all our questions about the menu. i had the ricotta and bread dumplings for app. omg, these were incredible. melt in your mouth good...super rich but i still wanted a million more. this was an excellent recommendation from the bartender. for my main i had the seared tuna with pomegranate salad and coconut rice wrapped in a collard green. now that was a little bundle of joy. it was pretty much one of the best entrees i've ever had in my entire life. and the dessert...ridiculous. i've never had a dessert where you really notice not only the flavors but the textures and temperatures. it was out of this world. french macaroon w/ satsuma oranges and cocoa sherbert. my explanation wouldn't give this masterpiece any justice. incredible. i will be DEFINITELY be back. this was a wonderful, romantic restaurant that is worth every penny for a special occasion meal. go there.
(5)
J S.
fantastic. truly works of art. I heard good things about this place, and have to say it is the first place in cambridge that has lived up to its reputation in my mind. It's not overpriced in my mind for such creative and flavorful food. You hear words like complex and complementing on cooking shows, but I never had it until oleana, and it wasn't even a dish over about 25$.
(5)
Nina W.
My ALL time favorite restaurant, and my experiences there keep getting better and better because we have gotten to be good friends with the amazing staff and owner, Ana Sortun. Its just delicious, eclectic food...and the best part is that it is classy, reasonable, and the portions are generous. Also voted number one for Al Fresco dining. A table outside is perfect in the summer - not a fly in sight. If you like Lebanese wine, Oleana is the only place I know of that carries the award winning Chateau Musar. Everything on the menu is delicious, so go ahead and don't think twice. My only suggestion for people is this: Consider that the deer entree is rather gamy tasting...I am a total meat lover, but the natural flavor that comes with deer did not sit well with me. And please order the Baked Alaska - its too good, especially if you have had an aching sweet tooth in a while. Indulge and think of me!
(5)
Emily L.
I have been to Oleana 3 times - and I usually would MUCH rather try somewhere new than go back to an "old" place. But Oleana is just too good! I've always gone with pretty big groups that like to share, so I've managed to have just about all the appetizers and we usually order most of the entrees (which have been different each time). I have never eaten something there that I haven't loved. The Sultan's Delight is TO DIE FOR and the falafel is out-of-this-world (I usually don't really like falafel - a little too sawdust-y for me). My dad ordered the special last night, which was a rib-eye that was hands-down the best thing on the table. But it feels a little silly to highlight things because everything I've ever had there is delicious! Plus it's got a great wine list, yummy desserts, and a lovely little patio. Definitely one of my favorite restaurants in Boston (maybe, possibly the favorite??)
(5)
Joanna S.
food: i've only been here for desserts and they're amazing. i highly recommend the baked alaska ambiance: romantic. a great date place. it's small - you should make a reservation. price: on the pricey side but the food is definitely worth it
(4)
Sarah S.
echoing many reviews here...fantastic. i made a reservation for two for an early dinner and was able to get a table in the Gorgeous outdoor area. our waiter was just the right amount of attentive and letting me and my friend have a pleasant conversation. the meal was fantastic...my lamb was beautifully medium rare but the highlight of the meal was the falaffle appetizer (deep complex layered flavors...just amazing. the woman who served it to us suggested how to eat it and i'm glad she did! it's sort of deconstructed on the plate and she suggested how to put it together) and the baked alaska dessert. *SO GOOD*. the passion fruit syrup around the plate really made it stand out. the other dessert we shared wasn't really anything to write home about (the chocolate was very good but the sesame brittle and creme pudding type stuff was really bland compared to the baked alaska) but the atmosphere was lovely, service was great, and it was totally worth every penny.
(4)
Elena Z.
One of the best and unknown places in Boston - the owner is the chef and she fuses French with Turkish, never failing to deliver a perfect blend of flavors and textures. And, it's right down the street from my place!
(5)
Tiff C.
TASTY! This chef is definitely not afraid to use those spices. To me it's always a good sign when the restaurant gives you yummy bread to start. We love variety so MW and I each ordered 2 vegetarian tasting menus and EC decided on a chicken dish. Tasting menu included 5 tapas-style dishes and dessert. The first two dishes were quite varied. The Chopped Romaine Salad with Celery Root, Homemade Yogurt, Walnuts & Herbs - very refreshing and this was my favorite. Warm Olives with Summer Savory & Sesame Seeds - EC and MW were devouring the spicy cheese with bread. Warm Buttered Hummus with Basturma & Tomato - appetizing and great with bread. Too bad I had laryngitis but I could still taste the complex flavors. The other dishes were very loaded with exotic spices and the third & fourth dishes were cheese concoctions. Not a real fan of these but maybe I was getting full. Dessert was a homemade ice cream Nougat Glace with Pistachio Kadayif & Blood Orange Granite that tasted like candy and we had a Chocolate Hazelnut Baklava, Pear Caramel & Muhulabeya. EC digested with a tangy apple tea. It was an adventure, but I would say it's definitely a must try! About a 15 minute drive from Newbury St. area. Service was excellent! Decor was nice - could be a little less dark inside. I would totally come here again.
(4)
mister f.
mmm. mmm. so good we wanted the cookbook (and our friends got it for us!). outside seating is key on a sumer day. my wife liked the quail. i liked the flat bread. the eggplant was divinely buttery. the only big miss was the vegetable crudite. i'd go back here in a heartbeat.
(4)
Amy C.
my favorite place to eat in Boston.
(5)
steve p.
One of my favorite restaurants in the area. The food at Oleana is always amazing. Very cozy indoors space and a beautiful backyard dining area when the weather is nice.
(5)
Ashley M.
my parents took me here for my birthday and i just loved the food and the outdoor patio. no one seems to have mentioned that they don't take reservations for the patio. you need to show up early (i think the open at 5pm) and wait.
(5)
Kristie P.
spending your 30th birthday in braintree, ma for work is not the best thing to have happen to you. however, my week in braintree was made brighter by eating at oleana on the night of my birthday. i hade the veggie tasting menu and it was wonderful. the menu changes nightly so i won't bother with the details. i will say everything was very fresh and it was nice not eating at a crappy chain restaurant for one night of my work trip (please if anyone knows any good places to eat near or around braintree tell me!). i can comment on the pumpkin falafel, an extra appetizer i ordered, which was perfect. the falafel melted in my mouth and the pumpkin puree-the falafel were placed on-reminded me that even though i was spending my week in braintree, at least i was getting to enjoy some real fall weather on the east coast.
(4)
Rico B.
I read a lot of review about Oleana before deciding to go there for my girlfriend's birthday. People say the place has its on and off days. Sadly, I probably come on an off day. We got the table by the bar, with high chair and small table. (My girlfriend is vertically challenged, so its not a comfortable setting). Servers are not very attentive, often just pick up plates without any word. I called in for reservation before and tell them if they can do something since its my girlfriend's birthday. They say they will put a dessert with candles on it. Nope. Didn't happen either. Foods are good though, but not really impressive. The only saving grace was the baked alaska. The only romantic part of the restaurant was the patio, but they don't accept reservation. Oh, and its a very casual place. I would wear jeans and blend in with the crowd better.
(3)
Joey M.
I had pretty high expectations for Oleana and they were met for the most part. The za'tar on the warm olives was nice and I loved the spice served with the spicy carrot puree, which was delicious. I also got the warm buttered hummus (without the basturma), which was decent but nothing impressive. The bread they serve with the pret a mangers was kind of just average, crappy white bread. The best thing of the night was the spinach falafels. It was attractively presented on a very thin flat bread with an interesting pink beet sauce. It was much chunkier than most falafels, but in a good way. I would come here just for that again. I had a bite of the ricotto and bread dumpling and they were also very good, but very rich. The spicy fideos were dissapointing, it was just think spaghetti noodles in a strange but tasteless sauce with like 4 chickpeas and a gross orange juice falvored aioli. I didn't think we ordered that much since we just ordered all appetizer portions but it was very filling. I would've liked to try the almond cremolata. We also had white wine sangria and a sake martini which were both good. The outside patio is nice but I wish they played more music. I would definately come here again sometime.
(4)
Eli G.
Even though i went here a year and a half ago, seeing the featured review today inspired me to write about my bad experience. It was my second date with my now long term girlfriend and we were still getting to know each other. We decided to goto Oleana, because one of my old friends used to work here, unfortunately he was not working on the night in question and our waitress had a really terrible attitude. I really hate when restaurant staff make the assumption that because people look young they know nothing about food and will probably tip badly. To add to the problem, the wine we ordered was bad, like un-drinkable bad and after we tasted it and sent it back she tried to give us a lecture on wine, which only aggravated us more. Needless to say, I don't even remember the food because I was so angry about the situation. I should probably get over it and try Oleana again since most Yelpers love it here. I will update if I return.
(2)
Akilesh A.
Gourmet mediterranean food in an intimate atmosphere with attentive service. I have only a couple of caveats. One, the food here really is gourmet in the half-way pejorative sense. Exciting, interesting taste combinations, and tasty, but not the kind of food I want to eat day in, day out. Two, I thought the food could use a little salt. Perhaps that was deliberate, but I am not the kind of person who usually craves salt, and the flavors seemed to lack the necessary kick. I am a vegetarian, and I ordered the vegetarian tasting menu. It was five courses + dessert. Plenty. The first course was bread with a pungent whipped orange-colored feta, and warm olives on the side that melted in your mouth (though not, unfortunately, the pits). The second course was a refreshing salad with a sauce made of yogurt and a certain middle eastern chile whose name evades me. The third course was a striking falafel dish covered with tahini, sitting on a bed of red vegetable itself drenched in tzatsiki, paired with some greens and pickled vegetable, all lying on a bed of lavash bread. Tender, warm, cold -- this dish had it all. Then there was a cheese bread dish served with a long slender variety of chile and an eggplant cut to a cube and cooked almost to a sugary-bitter, chewy consistency. Finally there was a turnip puree dish with escarole and a dressing. The dressing was a little too acrid for my taste, though this was clearly an intentional flavor to offset the sweetness of the local turnip used for the puree. Finally, dessert was a toffee pudding with candied kumquart. The pudding was mild and satisfying -- a dignified comfort food. The latter was a happy flavor, vaguely reminiscent of marmalade. All in all, I would certainly go back again -- but only for a special occasion, not least because of the unfortunately steep price.
(5)
nancy l.
I had one of my best meals in the Boston area at Oleana. It was about a year ago, so I don't remember what I had, but I was a very satisfied customer when I left.
(5)
Stella S.
This is one of my favorite restaurants in the Boston area. Have to wait until I've visiting home and my parents take me out, because it's pretty expensive, but wowww. I am especially in love with the Baked Alaska with a tropical twist. Overall awesome.
(5)
laura l.
I've been a couple times now and I must say this place is great. Inside and outside seating is lovely. Service is friendly and attentive without being overbearing. There are classics and really unique seasonal dishes on the menu. The wine list is nice and fits the food perfectly, the cocktails are absolutely delicious, even the sangria is great. The menu has the depth to go back to over and over for carnivores and vegetarians alike. My mouth is still watering over the lamb I had last week. To answer the review who said: " it's one of those places where you wonder if the more traditional, and cheaper turkish/middle eastern foods aren't comparable for much less money. There's no question that the food at Oleana is different from Brookline Family Restaurant or Falafel Palace, but to say that it's definitively better is difficult. " -- this person is being ridiculous. The quality of the ingredients, inventiveness of the menu, the way the meat is cooked... everything is better -- and I've been to plenty of family middle eastern joints in Boston and New York.
(5)
Barrett G.
try the hummus
(5)
Juliette V.
I had a fantastic New Years Eve meal here last year. I highly reccomend the deviled eggs and if it resurfaces on the menu again, the brie soup!
(4)
Nicole D.
Oleana is my all-time favorite restaurant! I first went there a few years ago for my birthday. I chose it based on a review which gave the restaurant top honors for al fresco dining. It was one of the best birthday dinners ever, and my family and I have been going ever since. The cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean dishes from Turkey, North Africa, and the Arab world. Chef and owner Ana Sortun fuses old world recipes with modern flair. Everything is delicious and the service is great. The garden is beautiful and serene, making you forget you're in Massachusetts.
(5)
Alejandra C.
Lovely experience at Oleana! I have tried a couple of times to get in without reservation and this past Wednesday we were lucky to get i! We loved the distinctive flavors of a variety of meze dishes and the chicken on the pancake. The Moussaka was exquisite as well as the octopus and a special for that day o scallops and shrimp nested on a phyllo dough with a distinctive dill and other herbs and or spices! This last one was my favorite. Great variety and defined flavors for all dishes! I ended up getting the book which I "devoured" on my way back to California. Cannot wait to go back! I should make a list of the dishes we tasted so next time I don't repeat them! It doesn't matter they were all yummy. Service was great, friendly and there were a lot of "unexpected very pleasant details from the waitress and managers!
(5)
Dr. H.
Last evening: Cacik Falafel Quail Kebobs Moussaka ...and six other dishes between the four of us OMG!! nuff said.
(5)
Michael J.
This place completely lives up to its reputation. We decided to order exclusively off the smaller meze section of the menu, which allows everyone to just get a taste of each appetizer (we had four people with us). With the sole exception of the pita bread we started with, which tasted a bit bland, every single dish was excellent. Stand ours were the octopus, a lamb special, the moussaka, the quail, and an eggplant dish. Alas, I wish I could say more about the individual way each was prepared, but all feature a very well balanced assortment of middle eastern flavors, especially cumin and coriander. Tahini was also in there. And lots of hummus and yogurt based sauces. Take advantage of their eclectic mixed drinks. We especially liked the "hestia's remedy," the rose hip cocktail and the sangria. Wed certainly come back. Seating on the patio is first come first served. We got there at 6 on a Monday and got the last table. It's popularity is well deserved. The service was also impeccable. Parking is limited, it being Cambridge, but there's a lot across the street with some spots they have access to at the fitness center. Wonderful experience and the back patio is very well laid out.
(5)
Laleh J.
This place is excellent. The food is delicious, the ambience is wonderful, and it is a great restaurant. Highly recommended!
(5)
Dina C.
Pros: Food is beautifully presented and the combinations of ingredients are truly artistic to the palette. They really pay attention to the details. Nice wine list Intimate and warm ambiance Cons: Friendly service, but surprisingly slow and confused service at times. Mezze plates came out at an odd sequence and multiple servers delivered dishes. The wrong mezze was brought to our table once. Drinks were very slow in coming and we had to wait too long for our server to check on us so that we could order more drinks Bread served with dishes came out slow and it was weighed down and saturated with oil. Some crispy pita crackers would add a nice touch for the whipped feta The whipped feta was delicious with a light kick, but the approximate 1 tbs serving of this plate for appx $10+ was a bit stingy. Tiny short rib mezze plate was overly sweet and our short rib was more fat than meat
(4)
Barnali D.
Oleana was quite good, but I felt it didn't quite live up to all the hype. Good food, great service, nice ambiance...but not exactly out of this world. My friend and I shared the vegetarian tasting menu and 3 additional mezze plates: Tasting Menu: - greens beans and corn with a kick (tasty) - mixed greens salad with cherries, labne, and sweet nutty morsels (excellent) - bulgur served with cucumber (very good) - fideos (vermicelli) with greens (not very good - too many unusual flavors at once) - milk pudding with fruit (just okay) Mezze plates: - spinach falafel (delicious!) - casik - garlic yogurt with cucumber and mint (very good!) - deviled eggs (very flavorful) Dessert: - baked Alaska with coconut ice cream and passion fruit syrup (okay - not as amazing as everyone said it was) The service was excellent, and our waiter was friendly, polite, informative, and non-intrusive. The food came out quickly, which was nice. Overall, we had a lovely meal, but I was not blown away.
(4)
Raina B.
Ah, Oleana. I had heard about for 4 years before I finally made it there - and it was everything I heard and more! Reservations are hard to get - but bar seating and the outdoor patio (depending on the weather) are first come first serve. In the fall you can show up early and get a table outside - they have heat lamps and blankets. Tons of vegetarian options. I don't even remember everything we ordered, but it was pretty good! spinach falafel, the potatoes, baked alaska, borek - everything. The falafel is tiny though. Definitely very good food! They've since changed their wine list, but I had the best wine I've ever had here. Pretty sure it was a Gewurztraminer? Had never heard of it before but I loved it!!
(4)
Sophie P.
GREAT FOR MEZE / SMALL PLATES AT A DATE --------------------------------------------------Â----- I booked a reservation for an 8:15 dinner on a Sunday night two weeks in advance. Even in the dead of winter with all these snowstorms, Oleana is still packed! PARKING Free parking at 139-145 Hampshire Street. AMBIANCE Casual, yet classic. Nothing is pretentious about the restaurant, which I appreciate. There is a rustic but modern feel to the restaurant. The layout of the restaurant is definitely catered towards parties of 2, making this an ideal place to take a date. I have heard great things about their patio, so I will definitely return in the summer. FOOD + Fatoush: The pomegranate seeds, grapefruit, and crispy pita pieces really made this one of the best and most flavorful salads I have ever had. 5/5 + Dinner special: Cheese fondue with shrimp, beef, and onions. Although this was a great fondue to dip our complimentary bread with, I expected a classic fondue with skewers where we could cook the meats in the cheese fondue. 3/5 + Spinach Falafel: The presentation of the falafel on a bed of beet yogurt and pita bread was fantastic. We were able to wrap the pita around the falafel like a wrap, and all the flavors came together with a finishing bite of the softest and most tender falafel I have ever eaten. 5/5 + Quail kebob: Definitely my favorite of the night. The quail was so tender and tasted like a mix between chicken thigh and lamb.The pistachio and barberries added sweet and nutty tastes to the meat and it was amazing. 5/5 + Octopus coca: Essentially an octopus pizza, this was a very unique dish. The octopus was so tender that it almost didn't taste like octopus. 4/5 + Sultan's delight: This tamarind beef was so soft that I did not need to cut it at all. It literally broke into pieces the minute you put your fork into it! 5/5 + Baked Alaska: Literally the best dessert ever. The browned meringue meshed perfectly with the coconut ice cream and passion fruit caramel (which I was nervous about). 5/5 SERVICE Our waters were never empty, our courses came one dish at a time, and we were never left looking for our waiter. Overall, this was an excellent experience and I now have an obsession with Turkish/Mediterranean tapas!
(5)
Catherine V.
Great food, presentation and ambiance. Mediterranean dishes tapas style. Great place for a romantic dinner or just with a group to try different tapas.
(4)
Billy S.
The decor was wonderfully done inside and out, the wait staff was well trained and very knowledgeable about the food and the specials and the pairings. The chef was extremely creative. it's not your mother's Mediterranean food. Everything had a unique taste and contrasting textures, good seasoning and flavor. Delivered in a manner that showed that they understood that the customer was the center of their attention.
(5)
Jane L.
I always wanted to try the dishes here as I always see the great Zagat and Yelp reviews of this restaurant. Unfortunately, I grew up in Asia so I don't know how authentic this place this. But the sure thing is that the food here is amazing. Even the bread is great. Dessert is heavenly. We tried the special dessert and I though it was better than the Baked Alaska.
(5)
Maria L.
I am embarrassed to say, I almost didn't eat here because I was so sure it was too good to be true. Actually, I still think it might be too good to be true, that's how good it was! Thank you to my boyfriend for stopping me, because I would have eaten until I died. Ok, I'm gushing. But really the food is outstanding. And very authentic. My family is Syrian and I didn't think Za'atar existed in America outside of my Sitto's kitchen. It does and if you haven't you should try any dish that has it. Have the sultan's delight and the lamb and grape leaf tart. You won't be disappointed. I'm not a huge fan of falafel, but my boyfriend is and he loved them. And drink whatever they tell you to. Wine pairings were perfect. Also, do not skip desert. The profiteroles. To die for. Enjoy!
(5)
Christina T.
DELICIOUS. Fun alternative to tapas, especially if you're into Mediterranean food. It will be crowded so definitely get ready for more of a casual, lively feel. Bread basket was very flavorful. Our favorite dishes were: -Baked Alaska: Very, very delectable and lots of layers! The amount of dessert is actually perfect for splitting between 2 or 3 at the end of the meal - Eggplant pita with pomegranate sauce: My friend really enjoyed this one, but I thought it was ok - Fried Cauliflower: this was hands down my favorite dish. I could probably eat a whole tub of this by myself. Super flavorful and not overly fried. - Quail kebob: More like quail meatballs rather than a kebob. I really liked the crispy rice at the bottom. - Sultan's delight: Also a solid choice, especially if you like short rib. - Fried mussels: Probably my least favorite of the night -- nothing too special, half of the dish was peppers. Drinks: Sangria was nice, A-75 was refreshing
(5)
Tuli S.
I was expecting greatness after everything I heard about this place. I enjoyed everything but wasn't wowed by any particular dish except the spinach falafel. I came for a work dinner so we had a pre-fixe menu. Whipped Feta with sweet and hot peppers- Good..but it's just cheese Olives- did not enjoy these, nothing special Grilled Pita- normal Falafel- Out of this world. I've never had falafel this moist and delicious. Apple fatoush- cute salad but that's about it Quail Kebob- tasty! I liked these and found them to be very unique. Lamb and cabbage Sarma- Had this as as my main, it was a bit heavy and the lamb tasted kind of gamey to me. Striped Bass- super fresh, wish I got this as my main dish..nibbled on it :) Profiteroles- eh Baked Alaska- MMMM get this Nightingale nest- good Almond ice cream- this came with one of the desserts but I'm not sure which one (we ordered 1 of each). Delicious! So overall it was good. The ingredients were fresh and everything came together nicely, I enjoyed the apps/desserts the most. It was about 65pp + extra for the desserts so the price was fair. I would come back and order some of the other items! But be prepared to drop $$$.
(3)
Chew B.
Lovely setting, outdoors in the garden. Food didn't live up to the hype and it's expensive.
(3)
Kevin J.
Food: 4.5 / 5 Service: 4.5 / 5 I came here to celebrate my ladyfriend's birthday and it was amazing! My ladyfriend is vegetarian so we wanted to try the vegetarian tasting menu (priced at $40 it's a great deal!). Unfortunately, we found out that a lot of the items were made with onions and garlic (which does not suit my friend's delicate palette), so I ended up ordering it and she got some custom dishes that were made without garlic/onions. Our waittress was very informative, forthcoming and accomodating in explaining the dishes which could be made without onions or garlic which we really appreciated! (very much so) One of the highlights of the meal: the complimentary bread. There two different kinds, but both with interesting spices - one more sweet, and the other more savory. From the tasting menu, I would say the falafels were my favorite. It was delicately produced, super fresh, and a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and veggies! The presentation was also magnificent. The nomer of tasting menu is a little bit deceptive in my opinion as the dishes themselves, came not one at a time as traditional tasting menus would, but I was still very satisfied by it, as there was a great deal of versatility and I really enjoyed the variety. Perhaps it would be possible to actually have all of the different courses come at once as a platter? The meze that both me and my ladyfriend enjoyed a lot is their cauliflower, it was very interesting! Quite nutty coated in some layer of sauce, lightly crisp and so delicious. I'd highly recommend it!
(5)
Yasmin E.
Ambiance: very romantic with dimly lot indoor and outdoor lighting. We sat in the outdoor space which was a bit in the crowded side . Tables are close together. Service is ok, they could be friendlier but they're not rude. Food: excellent food! A bit on the oily side but the favors are incredible. Eating recs: meze - sultan delight, hummus wrapped in pastirma; dinner - lemon and zaatar chicken on bureg and scallop on saffron leak musakhan with almonds and sumac. Will be coming back! Bon apetit!
(4)
Nancy A.
OMG so so so good!! Tapas-ish meze dishes are the name of the game. I got the vegetarian meal which came with 4 mezes and 1 dessert. I want to do that again for the rest of my life. My friend got the goat meatballs, the whipped feta and spinach falafel. Can I just say the spinach falafel is everything to me... go here, eat that and then you will remember all the ways that life is worth living.
(5)
Jasmine C.
If you come, you MUST try and get a table at the patio. The inside of the restaurant is nice but quite dark, and the patio is a wonderland of its own. Especially now that the weather is better, it makes for an absolutely magical evening. The individual plates were truly delicious - most people get the vegetable tasting menu but I realize its not because its more delicious but because its more value for money: I suggest getting one vegetable tasting menu for the table, but getting a few specialty dishes off the regular menu as well. Expensive, but so worth it and the tapas-sharing style is one in which you get such a variety of tastes. The only reason why I didn't give it a 5 was because I do reserve my 5s for truly exceptional places, and I felt like this restaurant was too similar to Sarma (given that they're both owned by the same person, it makes sense) for it to be unique. What to get: - Falafel (comes with the vegetable tasting menu) - MOST DEFINITELY the lamb goat cheese tart - There were crab rollups the night we were there, but I think that was a special of the night - Try to get something meaty as well, because I think it's quite acknowledged that their vegetables are delicious, but that's also where they really shine What to miss: - There was only one unremarkable dish, which was the collard greens with hummus/lime. - The dessert was a lavender cheesecake the day I went, and I must say it tasted more like a bar of soap because the lavender wasn't quite so subtle.
(4)
Leigh S.
We have been coming here for years and without exception the food and drink have been dependably exceptional. Tonight, the service was worth another star. Keep up the good work Ole!
(5)
Humoud A.
One of the best restaurants I have had in a while. From my experience I would recommend to just order from the appetizers (I tried a couple of the mains they were okay). From the appetizers the sultan delight, Spanish falafel and moussaka. Oh and waiting to sit in the patio is worth it!
(5)
Tressa S.
We came to Oleana with some friends after hearing about it for several months. My boyfriend was especially excited because he'd been hearing from other people how great this place is. Those people definitely weren't wrong. The entire experience was great, and the food was phenomenal. We went on a Friday night without a reservation, and were told there would be about a 20 minute wait. We were seated in the patio area where they had a small seating arrangement for waiting patrons. We got the chance to order drinks while waiting. About 20 or so minutes later, we were shown to our table. Our sever was very nice and attentive, and he was more than happy to offer recommendations and answer questions for us. We started with a few of the meze plates, which included deviled eggs (a must try!), pan-fried kalamata olives, the sultan's delight and one other tasty dish that is escaping me right now. At the start of our meal, we thought that perhaps we would just settle for a few of the meze and order more as needed (we had four people in our party), but after realizing how incredible the smaller dishes were, our curiousity was piqued to discover how the main dishes were. We had the scallops and duck shawarma plates, and they were amazing. Lots of flavors without going overboard. Oleana sure knows its stuff when it comes to concocting delectable dishes. We definitely recommend locals and tourists alike make a stop here.
(5)
Salil J.
Food is food (we tried guacamole and soft tacos). Sangria was good. Service is fast and servers are professional. The indoor ambience is great. When we were there, soft tango music was playing.
(4)
Leila L.
Sultan's Delight, Lamb Tajine, Duck Fatteh. Everything was perfectly cooked. We will definitely come back for more of those mouth-watering mezes and save some stomach room for the dessert!
(5)
Lisa R.
The man friend and I were looking for a birthday dessert and Oleana's baked Alaska fit the bill. Celebratory and delicious. The seating outside was so whimsical. A refuge from the city life of Boston. The passion fruit sauce, the ice cream, coconut macaroon, meringue-it was pastry perfection!
(5)
D S.
The decor looked so authentic. Staff was extremely helpful since it was our first time there. The food was filled with so many flavors! I'd love to go back again but they're always booked up! DEFINITELY make a reservation if you plan on going !!
(4)
Dee C.
Nice atmosphere , creative dishes , the waitress was a bit bossy and did not like when i kept asking to repeat the specials which sounded like she was talking a foreign language when describing them !! Like I am supposed to know what Shishitos and Nigella Seeds are !! hahah It is not really REAL Turkish food, maybe the idea is based on some Turkish dishes but each plate took a life of its own :-) Different and mixed of many tastes , I enjoyed the experience but if you like this new concept of meze restaurants, make sure to try Sarma in Somerville !
(3)
Tara S.
Amazing food, great atmosphere and best server ever! Don't let the small portions sway you; the food fills you up and has great spices. Highly recommend, but make reservations if you mind eating at the bar or a half hour wait...totally worth the wait!!!
(5)
Annabel T.
Happy to report that the food here is as good as people have been saying! My partner and I came here for our anniversary dinner. We are both fans of Turkish food, and so were excited to learn that the chef had trained in Turkey. The dishes were innovative and blended all the great flavours of the Middle East and Mediterranean wonderfully. We got the octopus saganaki, vermont quail kebab, lamb and grape leaf tart soppressata pancake as meze (appetisers). The octopus was cooked to perfection and was charred in the perfect places. For the mains, we shared a lamb tagine that comes with 6 meatballs. The lamb was of extremely high quality. I only wish that we could have ordered everything on the menu. This is food that is well worth the high price point. Kudos to the chef!
(5)
David D.
Wow, I just had a FANTASTIC dinner at Oleana. The vibe here is so cool and comfortable, and since the menu features a number of smaller items (meezes) in addition to traditional entrees, one's able to sample the exotic in Cambridge. I ordered a bevy of mezzes and was in love from first bite. 1) Avocado and Dukkah -- lovely, creamy, sophisticated. Nice way to start 2) Chickpea Terrine -- this may have been the highlight for me, since I have a soft spot for sweets and matching the chickpeas, apricots and pistachos was pure bliss 3) Fatoush + Spinach Falafel -- everyone was recommending the falafel and combined with the fatoush, which was very sophisticated, I was in foodie paradise. This could have been a stop to the meal but since I wanted to try more (and skip dessert), I had... 4) Octopus Shish + Greens w/ Toum side -- very good flavors, I loved the tomatoes and fava beans. The octopus was cooked well, but didn't match O Ya's masterpiece last night! The greens were a very sizable portion and will please the kale krowd. Keep in mind there's a strong touch of garlic to a lot of these items I opted to skip dessert, since I was feeling quite full. One ding to Oleana was that the service, while pleasant, was a major step down from L'Espalier, which I had enjoyed for lunch earlier. There were long gaps in service, my waitor seemed rushed (I noticed he asked the table next to me to "wait a minute" before placing their order), and my utensils were never refreshed. That said, the price point is very reasonable and the vibe is fun but loud. There was a boisterous guy telling a story, through which everyone in the dining room had to suffer. It was unbearable for his table-mates, I'm sure, and all the more worse for us strangers!
(5)
Hannah R.
Allow me to heap praise onto an already towering monolith of good vibes for Oleana. I can certainly be a bit of a skeptic about expensive and hyped dining experiences, but in honor of my anniversary with the old man I decided to dive right in and try a local place with nearly 1000 positive reviews on Yelp. I was not disappointed. In fact, I was the polar opposite of disappointed. My reservation experience was simple--I reserved online a couple months out with a note about our special day and received a confirmation call two days before the dinner. When I arrived (before my handsome man-some), I was greeted warmly and wished a happy anniversary! We were seated immediately and given water options (ooh, water options! fancy!). Our server, as well as all other staff we encountered, was friendly, polite, and very helpful. Having never been there before, she was happy to explain the menu to us and to give us meal and beverage suggestions. I'm not going to break down every dish we had--I'm keeping that in my happy place--but I will say that the two of us split a vegetarian tasting menu, a few other meze's, and a dessert. We each had two drinks. It was the absolute perfect amount, and everything we tasted was thoughtful and complex. I love to eat, but my oh my, this food went above and beyond. I forgot/never knew food could be like this. 100 stars!! Well worth it!
(5)
Karin W.
Amazing meze plates to share! Definitely need to make reservations at least a week or 2 beforehand, not at the last minute. But three of us were able to sit at the bar immediately. We ordered 6 meze plates and 2 desserts. We are so happily stuffed! Oh and the cocktails were refreshing. And bartender was awesome and gave great recommendations. Do plan your visit here!
(5)
William M.
Good, but I was expecting greatness with the incredible reviews of this place. It is quite inconspicuous, in a quiet part of Cambridge. The place itself is very small, and you have to slide by waiters and tables to get to your seat and to the restroom. The service was very welcoming, and we had no issues getting a table for two on a Friday night. I went with the vegetarian tasting menu, based on the solid reviews. In addition, we ordered a few other items. The burrata was not the best I've had. It was a bit too creamy, and it didn't have a ton of flavor in my opinion. On the other hand, the spinach falafel was outstanding. Possibly the best falafel I have ever had. Seriously unreal! The other items were largely forgettable: one was a salad with pomegranate seeds and some other little items, but the lettuce itself was iceberg and not that appetizing. I would return, but I wasn't blown away by this place, particularly given the glowing reviews.
(3)
Rachel D.
Delicious and definitely worth the hype. I'm going to start off by saying that I had the best cappuccino here. The minute we walked through the door at 9:30p for our 9:45p reservations I knew I needed a pick me up to get through dinner (especially with the low lighting). The hostess delivered me one of the best cappuccinos ever and with two brown sugar cubes plopped in, I was in heaven. After about 15 min. of waiting over on the bench we were seated. It's a small space but everyone is quite pleasant. We started off with 6 mezze's (1 was a special) and then 1 lamb entree dish. We shared it all. The stand outs were definitely the falafel (I could eat this dish every day) and the Sultan's Delight. Even if I had only ordered those two dishes alone I would have been satisfied! The Sultan's Delight melts in your mouth and the creamy dill sauce goes exquisitely with the meat. I paired the meal with a glass of red wine and enjoyed every bite. I highly recommend this spot. We didn't save any room for dessert but their dessert menu sounded out of this world.
Had a wonderful experience at Oleana this summer! A family friend was in town and we met at Oleana to sit out on the patio. We started the evening with cool cocktails and then were shown to a table outside by a very gracious hostess. The food is incredibly unique and delicious, and you can make an entire meal out of small plates. Don't miss the deviled eggs or the Sultan's Delight! The patio has twinkle lights and beautiful flowers and terrariums hanging from the trees. You feel transported to another world even though you are just steps from Central Square.
(5)
Lindsay L.
My husband and I had a lunch reception here after our city hall wedding. Stellar service! They went above and beyond. I was touched by the attention the staff gave to us and our guests. The food and atmosphere on the lush green patio were also killer. Our friends and family kept telling us how beautiful the event was. Total home run. You can't go wrong with this place.
(5)
Aanchal J.
I finally made it Oleana this weekend after waiting for a whole year, the reservations are pretty hard to get. And it was totally worth it. For the two of us (we are vegetarians) we shared five of the meze and two desserts. The spinach falafel were the the best - I would keep going back for those. The whipped feta was pretty nice too!! Their home bread is delicious, but I wasn't a big fan of the pita - was a bit on the drier side. For the desserts - the blueberry and pistachio was heavenly, the profiteroles were good but a bit too sweet for my liking. We did not save a lot by not going for the tasting menu, so it may be a better idea to just go for the tasting menu.
(4)
M L.
Oleana most definitely lived up to its hype. I had been trying to get a reasonably timed reservation here for months, so when I finally landed one, I was thrilled. Our waitress walked us through the different ways to order (e.g. all small plates vs 2 small plates per person and a shared main course vs. each get a main course and share an appetizer), and since all the appetizers sounded so amazing, we decided to go four 4 small plates and then share a main. We tried the sultan's delight, lamb and grape leaf tart, octopus, and a soft shell crab special, and then split the chicken. Everything was fantastic, with multiple layers of complex flavors ranging from sweet to savory. The sultan's delight and soft shell crab stole the show though - the sultan's delight was a tender, fruit glazed short rib, paired with a fantastic whipped dip, and the soft shell crab had this incredible fruit and tahini salad that it came with. Delicious. We were practically licking the plate. While the octopus and lamb and grape tart were good, they just didn't have the same effect on us. The octopus was actually a little salty for my liking, and I love salt. The lemon chicken was also delicious, and the zaatar seasoning was great. The meat was served on top of a rich, feta stuffed crepe that still tasted light and refreshing despite being anything but a "light" component. My dining companion never orders chicken and she loved it. The only thing that left us a bit unsatisfied was the service - while it was great at the beginning, we started feeling very rushed and as though we were being shoved out the door by the time we were finishing up our main course. While I understand how busy the restaurant is, when you have people paying a decent amount to dine at your establishment, you shouldn't be grabbing plates left and right and hustling for the check to be paid so that you can get the next people in...
(4)
Baris C.
You can't go wrong with Turkish food. The food was very delicious. however the service was slow. we ordered our drinks while waiting and our order was just sparkling water. another party that arrived after us got their cocktails.. when I reminded the waitress about our water she said we are very busy at the bar:/ the dining experience didn't start off well for us but the food was great. Sultan's delight was our favorite as well as the moussaka.
(3)
Sonia S.
This restaurant never disappoints. Food and service have been impeccable every time we have visited. One of the best restaurants in Boston!
(5)
Mark S.
This place was fantastic. I am not usually vegetarian, but I have trying to eat less and less meat. After coming to Oleana I almost want to be exclusively veggie if all the veggie food I ate tasted like it does here. I had the vegetarian tasting menu which is not preset, so you do not know what you are getting, but I am telling you you can't go wrong!
(5)
Shanthi P.
Loved everything about our experience at Oleana! The three of us (9yo foodie son included) sat in their magical patio on a perfect August night. The waitress was very knowledgeable and helpful, suggesting appetizers and a main course to share since we could not decide what to order. Was a great way to try many of their creations. Thank you for a delicious meal and beautiful outdoor experience!
(5)
Cindy C.
I went to this restaurant quite a few years ago, because I kept reading rave reviews. I found out since then that when I went there, the chef was on leave, so my bad experience may have been a fluke. When we arrived at our reserved table on the lovely patio, a waitress and a waiter promptly had a prolonged, ugly fight about who was going to serve us table side. Needless to say, we didn't get our orders taken for quite some time until this kerfuffle was ironed out. No one apologized for the unseemly, uncomfortable, and unprofessional spectacle. I was underwhelmed by what I ordered, but it was at least edible. My companion, who likes to appear as a good sport in public situations asked me to taste his meal, because he was concerned that there was something wrong with it. I took a forkful and said that I thought that it clearly had gone bad and that he should ask them to get him something else, but he soldiered on and ate the whole, nasty thing, because he doesn't like to make waves in public situations. He got very, very sick. The next morning I called the restaurant, and the person who answered accused me of making up my complaint to scam a comp meal. Talk about adding insult to injury! Seriously, it was such a terrible set of experiences, that I never went back to Oleana. I did think the patio was lovely, and I do like Sofra, but Oleana was an expensive kick in the wallet, stomach, and sensibilities from start to finish.
(2)
Ruth K.
Delicious food! We ordered a bunch of mezes (not knowing what many of them were) and one fish entree to treat as a small plate. Everything was delicious and the presentation was beautiful. One complaint--We ate on the patio and as it got dark we truly couldn't see the food unless we turned on the iPhone flashlight. So--totally delicious, but a little more light would be a good thing.
(5)
Elif K.
One of the most best Mediterranean restaurants I have ever tried. The food is unbelievable. Very tasty and the meat is very tender. We order several small plates instead of getting a main dish and we get to try all the food they have! You should absolutely try this place.
(5)
Christine C.
As a disclaimer, this is the first restaurant that I've been to that I think truly deserves 5 stars for great food, service, atmosphere. Came here last night on a friday evening. Usually you would need reservations but they have a patio outback and have a few tables there that are first come first serve. We got there around 6 and did not wait more than 5 minutes to get a table. would definitely try to get there right when it opens to avoid a wait. Tip for PARKING (which street parking sucks in cambridge apparently): they have a small lot available to customers after 5:30pm that is unadvertised- we found out by calling the restaurant prior. the decor of the patio was adorable. they have 3 heat lamps outside and the staff will kindly adjust it for you if you ask. (it was maybe 60 degrees, but we were kept warm). They even provide blankets for you if that's not enough. they also have little lights hanging in the back. the atmosphere is very quiet and the noise level isn't loud at all. you're able to get absorbed into the atmosphere. oh right..and the food! favorite dishes: swordfish scallopini ( yummmm), and the Sultan's Delight!! the other dishes were delicious as well: spinach falafel, duck shish. Did not get a chance to try the fried oysters but that will be on my list for next time. We had trouble picking the dessert because we wanted everything, but ended up getting the baked alaska which is a must-try here. delicious, texture with toasted meringue that cuts right through with coconut ice cream and passion fruit caramel. HOW delicious does that sound? overall, loved this place. lives up to the hype of 900+ reviews. Will be back in the future for sure.
(5)
Carla B.
Definitely recommend to order from the appetizer list and save room for dessert! The wine list was great with several excellent European wines to choose from and received help to select those to match best with the food ordered and our personal taste. The Sultan delight and spinach falafel were excellent. The dessert special which was a mascarpone crepe served with raspberry gelato and blueberries was delicious.
(4)
Laura O.
This place has incredible food. My boyfriend and I went here for my birthday dinner. He chose this restaurant since I am a vegetarian and it was a great choice. We had so many dishes but the ones that stand out are the shakshuka, felafel, and fried cauliflower. To be honest, everything we ate here was delicious. The only thing I could have gone without was the fatoush. It was still great, just not my favorite (too fruity for me). We also got drinks. I got a red sangria and was disappointed that there was no fruit and kind of tasted like it came out of a bottle. The only reason I am not giving this 5 stars is because of the atmosphere. I really liked the lighting and fireplace, but it was just way too crowded in there and I felt like I was sitting on top of the people next to me. I couldn't get out of my seat without my butt touching our neighbors table and I'm not a big girl. I also felt like our server was frazzled and because of that, came off as unfriendly. He wasn't that great at explaining the dishes to us, but there is a much-needed glossary at the bottom of the menu to help you figure out what is what. Between the 2 of us, with about 2 alcoholic drinks each and way too much food, the bill came to about $125. I'll definitely come back.
(4)
Jeanie P.
The food, service, and setting are just perfection at Oleanna. Two of us shared the vegetable tasting menu and 4 additional mezze plates. Highlights included snap peas in a tahini sauce, greens with figs, goat cheese and pistachios, and grilled haloumi cheese in a minted pea sauce. Wines were gorgeous. A memorable meal!
One of the best restaurants in Boston for Mediterranean food strongly recommended but with reservation in advance have fun
(5)
Mary P.
Y-U-M! My husband and I have been here a couple times and have not been disappointed. Both times we ordered an array of mezes, mostly vegetarian ones, even though we're not actual vegetarians. Wish I could remember without seeing the menu what we actually ordered. Outside seating is great, if you can get a table. Definitely will be returning!
(5)
Hana A.
Spinach falafel came with tahini sauce, beet yogurt and cress- it's an appetizer course and came in the form of meatballs over thin pita bread Sultan`s delight was the clear winner of the day- tamarind beef with smokey eggplant puree and pine nuts Duck fatteh with crushed beets, hazelnuts, garlic yogurt, and fiddle heads Local burrata cheese- I actually didn't like as much. I liked the yogurt inside but I thought the cheese was not as creamy. Baked Alaska- not my favorite as I didn't realize there was coconut ice cream inside a marshmallow type of layer with drizzling of passion fruit caramel Peppermint tea- actual tea leaves and very soothing after a long day of traveling and jet lag The hostess was super accommodating- she stored our luggage while we ate. All the others were super nice except for our own waiter. He totally forgot our dessert and we were waiting for at least twenty minutes. When I asked about it, he told us it takes time because it's baked in a condescending tone. He was not very friendly and we didn't see much of him.
(4)
Annie S.
This is one of those restaurants that makes me want to completely change my profession and career path to one that makes a whooooole lotta money so that I could at places like this EVERY NIGHT. Oleana is DELICIOUS. My parents gave me a gift card here for Christmas, and I went with two of my friends. Boy o boy were we happy campers!!!! Honestly I think we still dream about the Sultan's Delight. It was the most tender, flavorful piece of meat I've ever had. Would do anything to come back here. Also, Top Chef was just filmed in Boston and one of the judges, Gail Simmons, went here and also loved it. So you KNOW it's good, not just for my amateur palette :). bostonglobe.com/lifestyl…
(5)
Otis M.
Oleana didn't come together for me, which is especially disappointing because it was highly praised by friends whose opinion I respect. The concept is Middle Eastern meets farm-to-table, right? I think of the first as characterized by sharp bitter herbs, pickles and sour sauces and the second by bright fresh tastes and maybe a bit of cream and butter. So there's the potential for conflict but also some exciting juxtapositions. But in two of the three mezzes I tried the tastes were too dialed back. The first was an evening special, a "fondue" with melted cheese (feta and kasseri I believe), battered and fried eggplant and squash strips, some radish and turnip pickles and roasted corn topped with popcorn dusted with spice. The corn was a misfire and the popcorn was squishy; would have been better with more cheese, the tasty squash spears sticking out of it, more pickle and no corn. Next was the octopus coca. I'm a sucker for octopus but this was just disappointing--basically a few bits of grilled octopus in tomato sauce atop a mini pizza. I finished with the Sultan's Delight which was actually pretty good: a square of very tender short rib in what I thought was a pomegranate syrup but turned out to be tamarind, next to a mound of baba ganoush. I had already finished my bread (an excellent foccacia, two varieties, served with some unassuming olive dipping oil) which was too bad because I could have made a couple of nice sliders. These items plus a couple of somewhat tight pours of the house Greek white came to $70 with tax. The atmosphere was pleasant, service was fine and everybody seemed to be having a good time. But not the destination restaurant I expected.
(3)
Alex M.
My girlfriend and I went to Oleana for her Birthday dinner, which was also the monday after Valentines day. When we arrived at 8:45 the restaurant was still packed. I love the decor and the ambience is extremely romantic, which is what we expected from reading other reviews. I'll get the couple nitpicky things out of the way first; the tables are VERY close together; we felt a bit like we were sitting on top of the couple next to us. In addition, one weird thing was that the servers were all wearing red tee-shirts. Not sure if it was due to Valentine's day weekend but it's such a lovely restaurant that one would expect the servers to be similarly well-dressed. Service was quite decent but we expected a little more knowledge in terms of describing the dishes. -1 star for these little issues, and now... on to the food! Amazing. Delightful. An absolute experience. I could go on and on. My girlfriend is a vegetarian and was delighted at the selections available for her. We got a number of small plates including the falafel and shakshuka which were both incredible. The cauliflower was also divine, bursting with flavor but not overwhelming. I got a lamb tagine, which was incredible and the meat was great quality and perfectly cooked. A good drink selection, albeit a bit pricey. We each had a cocktail, a main, and split some meze (small plates) as well as a dessert each and the bill came to about $150. We came away full and satisfied. I would definitely recommend Oleana for couples wanting a romantic night out or for a special occasion. Great for Vegetarians!
(4)
Cami F.
The food here is amazing!! Derek...goes above and beyond to accommodate the guest's every wish. He was able to provide me specific recommendations and also obliged by my detailed dessert requests. I cannot recommend this place enough and hope every server is as dedicated and kind as Derek. Favorites were the Sultan's delight and the Quail kabob. Really cannot go wrong this place is fabulous!
(5)
Lina F.
This place has a very interesting menu! The flavors of all there entrees are very fresh. The staff was incredibly helpful in fitting our growing dinner group. Though it was a bit pricey for just an entree and drink, I did enjoy my halibut and the favors. Others at the table order falafels, but I don't know if was that memorable. It does get packed in the evening so I recommend reservations!
(3)
James H.
Food and table service is quite good and worth a visit as reported...unfortunately, hostess was not helpful or polite with our issue with the wait list/queue. Told us they would call us on our cell when table was ready, never did..and when they tracked 1 member of the party down they threatened to give the table away unless everyone was present ...even though they failed to call the person in our party who put us on the list as agreed. Stressful experience.
(3)
Michelle P.
We had a reservation here but still had to wait 20 minutes to be seated... But it was worth the wait. We were visiting Boston and needed to find a place that my vegetarian son could eat at but that my non-vegetarians would also enjoy and this was the spot! The vegetarian sampler platter was a wonderful sampling of what they had to offer and I would recommend it if it is your first time here.
(5)
Toddi N.
After probably 45 visits to this restaurant over the past 10 years for anniversaries and other special occasions, (almost always 4 to 5 stars) I have to say my most recent visit was really mediocre. We sat on the patio which was overfilled and jammed with people and the servers were clearly too busy. On a typical visit, you got a much better description of the dishes than we had last night...and for the first time there, I felt that the quality of the service was spread thin. On every other visit there, you felt that you might be the only person the waiter was attending to. On this visit, we wondered if our orders even got put in. We got our meze (appetizers/small dishes) quickly but waited forever on our food and deserts. Maybe it had to do with it being one of very few perfectly beautiful New England evenings, but it was completely packed for a Monday evening; and we got there at 5:50. I don't think anyone was seated inside. And they couldn't find the reservation we made. My dish of soft shell crab was definitely not its usual either; not as crispy fried or flavorful as usual. My husband had the duck shawarma, which was really good. The deviled eggs were fabulous but the hot buttered humus seemed dry, like it sat too long under a warmer; no extra bread was served with it. Our dessert was good, but tiny. That has never been the case before. Prices here are steep; I'm not sure I would return after our dinner last night. It was really a mixed experience and not up to its usual.
(2)
Andrew L.
We started our night of our 1 year anniversary with drinks at their bar because there was a bit of a wait. Drinking the refreshing "hip rose" and a local Somerville cider ended being quite nice at the outdoor patio. The patio is outfitted with lovely greenery and Mediterranean ornaments. We got seated early and ordered the vegetable tasting menu, crudite, moussaka, and duck shawarma. Highlights for us were definitely the falafel (came with the tasting menu) and duck shawarma. Falafel was slightly crisped while soft and crumbly on the inside-- and packed with flavor! The duck shawarma had great balance and really came together as a dish. There was a bit of a mixup when my girlfriend asked the waitress if we could choose our dessert in the tasting menu after being told the tasting menu "comes with a dessert." We felt as though the waitress could have been more patient answering our question/misunderstanding but we were happy with the dessert. All in all a good meal with a great environment. The vegetable tasting menu is pretty savory so be prepared. Thanks Oleana!
(4)
Anchisa P.
4.5 stars. Really good entree - we ordered a bunch of Tapas and everything was good. Dessert was too sweet though. Great service and ambience. Definitely one of the best Mediterranean places in Cambridge/Boston
(4)
Jeff D.
Great restaurant for some different and definitely a great special occasion place. As most people say, the way to go is to get a few Mezze and share; I'd say 5 are good for 2 ppl. The highlights include the spinach falafel (I could've eaten 12 of them), the quail, and the Sultan's delight. Also, the hummus was pleasant surprise in that I wasn't expecting anything more than nice quality hummus, but it was much better than expected! One nice thing as well, is that when ordering the mezze they bring them out one at a time and pace them so you can enjoy each as opposed to a tapas joint which bring all at once and then they sit and get cold and you feel the need to scarf them all down. With drinks, the tab can definitely add up quickly, but worth it.
(4)
Chenkai L.
I came here with my girlfriend for our 3 month anniversary and we decided to try this place due to recommendations from both friends and Yelp. Oleana offered some of the most unique and creative dishes I have ever seen so it gets a star just from the innovative options. The bread and olive oil came first, we also got some tomato cheese spread that was absolutely delicious to go along with the bread. The sultan's delight was cooked to perfection and very moist and tender. The use of spices (tamarind) in this dish made it especially unique. We also got the deviled eggs, which was stuffed with creamy tuna and packed with flavors. The Vermont Quail had one of my favorite spices in it - cumin, which is traditionally found in Indian cuisines. This dish definitely stood out in my mind and is a must try for someone with a curious palette. For dessert, we had the classic Baked Alaska, an item I have never seen before but nevertheless found it very delightful, especially the passion fruit flavors mingled with the coconut ice cream. The atmosphere is also quite intimate , great place for a celebratory dinner or perhaps a romantic dinner with that special someone :)
(5)
Miwako S.
It is a perfect place to come if you feel like Mediterranean food in Boston. My husband has been praising about this place as the best food he ever had since we moved to the US. I finally had a chance to try it tonight. Everything we had was full of flavors with the right salt level. I recommend ordering many different kinds of appetizers.
(5)
Emily D.
Get the Vermont quail kebob! The food here is delicious and the service is good too. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu, which can be a little overwhelming when everything sounds good. The only gripe I have is the small, squished seating, but it doesn't prevent me from enjoying my meal.
(5)
Rosie A.
Awesome experience. Quail kebab was phenomenal. Special carrot salad was exceptional. Lemon chicken was remarkably good. Both the chard sarma and profiteroles were great, but not quite as special in my opinion. Our server was helpful and gave great recommendations.
(5)
Julia D.
So absolutely amazing!! *** The food that is.... The restaurant itself is sooo cramped, which would be fine if they brought their prices down a little. You literally couldn't bend your arms without the fear of smacking the wine glass off your neighbors table and this was at 10:30 at night! For the prices and reputation they have garnered they should just: TAKE OUT THOSE EXTRA TABLES!!! Come on! I'm surprised they don't have ppl just standing and eating, heck as long as you can squeeze in I guess they'll serve you. At the expense and enjoyment of everyone else. OK, now I'll start with the FOOD!! I don't remember the exact names but I'll do my best to describe them: Quail: This was my boyfriends favorite dish, perfectly cooked and spiced. There was a red berry (?) sprinkled on top that added a touch of sweetness to the savory spices that made this dish hard to forget. Octopus: This was my FAV dish. The octopus was cooked perfectly and the flavoring was slightly sour/tangy which made my tongue sing! Sultans Delight: This was my OTHER FAV dish. The meat was soooooooo tender it just surrendered as your fork closed in. Melt in your mouth mixed with the pine nuts... yummm Carrot soup: Very good, the goat cheese was such a surprise and the spices were nice and heavy. This was the dish I was least excited about (not a big fan of carrot soup) but their interpretation was mouth watering. I would absolutely get it again. Service was good and attentive, almost knocked us over a few times... but you can't blame them when there are mere inches between tables. GRRR... Parking was in an unmarked lot across the street. very convenient.
(3)
Lana T.
Outside of the seafood, I have generally found food to be pretty disappointing in Boston. Oleana was an amazing surprise. Firstly, Mediterranean is my least favorite type of food. After being let down by Craigie on Main and Hungry Mother, I agreed reluctantly to check out Oleana with my friend. We tried: -Whipped feta: honestly I thought this was overrated. I know this is one of their most famous dishes but it was just... like a regular spread. It was pretty good, but nothing spectacular. Probably wouldn't order again. -Sultan's delight: amazing. I don't even like eggplant but this was delicious, the softest, most tender beef I've ever had, succulent and savory. Must get. -Vermont quail kebab: very good but not AS good as the other dishes we ordered, which I guess is the sole minus of everything generally being stellar. Although I wouldn't order it again, I think it's worth a try once to sample quail. -Spinach falafel: best falafel I've ever had. At first I was kind of hesitant to order this because I thought... well it's falafel... but the falafel here is truly unique. It's very light and airy, almost melts in your mouth. Must order. -Oxtail and orzo: this was a special that night that was just so so. It just tasted like a regular pasta dish. Would not get again. -Lamb tagine: the waiter actually told us to stick with the small plates instead of the entrees, but my friend LOVES lamb and wanted to get an entree of it. This was actually some of the best lamb I've ever had and I would definitely recommend it. The yogurt sauce was perfectly tart and creamy. No knife needed. We were too full by the end to try dessert, and also a passionfruit baked Alaska sounded kind of odd to me, but maybe next time! The bill ended up being 40/pp which I thought was great considering how much food we got as well as its caliber. The only thing is that Oleana is not really T accessible--about 0.7 miles from the closest T stop. Still, I would definitely brave the weather to come back here again. Thank you Oleana for giving me something to be excited about food-wise in Boston!
(5)
Mister M.
My favorite restaurant in the Boston area, this would be my only 6 star review if that was possible. Every part of each course is deep - the sauces, crispy things, drizzles, etc are all complex in and of themselves. Lots of variety for all types of eaters, and they are into the Local Food thing, as well as local BEER. I love beer. The baked alaska is great - burned meringue, lemon ice cream i think, some kind of coconut flavor, one of the only desserts that I'd spend more than $10 on and feel like it was more than worth it. Pricey, but worth putting on your "special occasion" list, unless you're one of the 1%, which there are, unfortunately, more and more of in the area...
(5)
Lea V.
Very good food & wine, but nothing particularly mindblowing.
(4)
Elica Y.
My first time trying Turkish food and I loved it. Every dish was perfectly executed and service was great as well. I loved the ambiance at Oleana. There is plenty of seating, both indoors and outdoors, and the interior makes it feel more authentic. We were seated immediately but within 30 minutes the entire restaurant was packed. I definitely suggest that you get reservations before coming here. The food was innovative and delicious. I love the mezes because they are perfect to share amongst a group of people. (That way you can try as many dishes as you want) We ordered: 1. Whipped Feta - a nice cheesy and creamy cheese to compliment the bread. A nice appetizer. 2. Sultan's Delight - Extremely tender/fall off the bone meat and paired with an eggplant puree. One of the favorites of the night. 3. Falafels - My favorite dish!! You have to get this. Paired with a tahini sauce and pickles which added a tangy and refreshing finish to the dish 4. Some special (I forgot the name) but it was a zucchini pancake served with spinach and shrimp. Amazing. The shrimp was juicy and very flavorful 5. Lamb - Tender, juicy, succulent, and delicious lamb. Much different than a Greek style lamb but still cooked to a perfect medium rare and did not taste gamey whatsoever 6. Baked Alaska- A huge dessert. Definitely share this with someone. Kind of got sick of this halfway into the dish Overall, had a great time at Oleana. I will definitely come back here.
(5)
Lily F.
More than a year later I return and left even more impressed. The octopus meze BLEW my mind! Next time I will attempt to order three of them plated together as my entree. Lovely wine list- chose a French chard from a discontinued produced that held up spectacularly with each of the six dishes I enjoyed. Our server (Alex?) was very helpful in explaining and displaying the specials featured that evening, and had a lovely attitude. Only less than perfect comment was that we had essentially 4 courses, and EACH of them arrived maybe a minute early. That could have been the server firing early for the kitchens speed, or it could have been intentional. That itself was not what bothered me, but that the food runner dropped them with a hasty explanation and did not offer to clear our dishes from the previous course or replace our silverware. Then again, he's running food and not selling us on wine. Understood. Perhaps more teamwork, but overall, an excellent and VERY memorable Monday dinner!
(5)
Gene L.
When they get it right, it's some of the best food I've ever had. The sultan's delight and the farm egg were two stand out dishes. The falafel was ok, not texturally very interesting. The octopus shish was cooked really tender but the flavors weren't memorable. Overall the food was great. The lows were above average for most places and the highs were high above other restaurants. The service is also great. I'm amazed at the number of staff they have. The server we had was also very direct, which I tend to like.
(5)
Laura L.
I have been here a couple of times, and I am still impressed. Here, don't skip the veggies (cauliflower). The dessert was beautifully complex and my favorite part of my last meal.
(5)
Carol M.
I have visited Oleana periodically when I come to Cambridge. I have always looked forward to the inventive menus, beautifully layered tastes, perfectly cooked food, and friendly attentive service. A few months ago, my husband visited Oleana. He hadn't been before but came on my recommendation and I was shocked to hear that he was disappointed with the dinner. Tonight, I was back in town and decided to go. I was shocked. From beginning to end, the experience was disappointing. I was alone, walked in sort of early (6 pm) and asked to sit in the bar for dinner. the hostess told me there were seats available and I should seat myself. I proceeded to take off my coat, hat, scarf, gloves, and stow them and hang them up. The hostess asked me if I was indeed going to the bar. I said yes - just getting the coat off. She walked away and I decided to visit the rest room prior to sitting down. When I came out, she asked me again - "are you going to the bar?" in a strange tone. What is up? I didn't think I looked sketchy. I went in and took a seat. The bartender ignored me for quite a while. Finally he came over and asked me if I wanted bottled water. No - just tap. He slapped down a wine list. Finally he came back - I ordered a glass. He asked me if I'd like some bottled water. No - just tap. about 10 minutes go by, and finally my glass of wine came. I was left to myself for another 10 before he asked for my order. I selected an Octopus appetizer (I'd had their grilled octopus before and it was phenomenal), a Monkfish dish, and a side of greens. By the way, ordering was a real challenge. The bar is so dark that where I was sitting, at the end of the bar, it was impossible to read the menu. I kept having to take out my phone for light. The octopus came and it was a "taco". Meh. Very little flavor. One of the joys of octopus is its beautiful texture. this was like mush. Overly soft, very little flavor, with a tomato sauce on some sort of buttery crust. what were they thinking. I wasn't in love with my wine, so I ordered a trebbiano (white) to go with my Monkfish. Quite a bit of time goes by and the bartender comes over and pours Trebbiolo (red) and walks away. When I am able to get his attention, we have a discussion - he sort of begrudgingly pours me a trebbiano. My main dish comes. More overcooked fish! Monkfish is another fish with a beautiful, robust texture. This fish tasted old and fishy. the sauce and other parts of the dish were okay, although probably a little overwhelming. But it is hard to say because the fish itself was so disappointing. My side of greens didn't come. I was slowly eating, while reading, and I waited and waited. I had eaten half of my dish when I finally decided to ask the bartender about my greens. He told me he was sure they would bring it soon. They didn't. Eventually it came, about 15 minutes later. It makes me sad to write this review, as I have had some truly beautiful meals there. But I don't think I will be back. The food is no longer of the caliber I expected (and loved).
(2)
John I.
A fantastic restaurant located in Cambridge, I highly recommend you visit Oleana Restaurant. From start to finish, the restaurant delivered on my expectations. A very busy establishment, I would highly recommend reservations to secure a seat. Service was excellent with solid knowledge of each of the dishes and drink offerings. The wine/cocktail list was excellent and fairly priced. It was incredibly nice to see a sherry section, which only added to the charm of the restaurant. In terms of ambiance, the restaurant has a unique decorative and intimate style. A bit close between tables and although noisy at times, it didn't seem to distract from my dining experience. Here are a few of the dishes sampled: Whipped feta with sweet and hot peppers - amazing starter with fresh ingredients and great flavor. Sultan's Delight - A very popular dish. I loved the flavor connection between the eggplant and the beef. Kohlrabi Pancake - a potato pancake with shaved cabbage and a thick yogurt and tangy peppers. Loved the middle eastern yogurt flavor. Amazing. Lemon chicken, za'atar and Turkish cheese pancake - The lemon chicken is subtle and the medley of spices compliment the chicken. A highly recommended dish and from what I know has been on the menu since the restaurant's opening! The cheese pancake is similar to a spanokopita less the spinach. A true delight. I highly recommend you visit Oleana Restaurant. Best of luck in Boston and Cambridge!!!
(5)
Xiao Z.
5 stars, 5 stars, 5 stars. Stop reading this review and put your name down immediately! Thank you babe for bringing me here! Still reading? Alright, then I'll do everything I can to convince you non-believers. First of all, the decor is really awesome: really nicely lit place, it has a nice romantic vibe to it, and there are plenty of available parking spots around the establishment. The service? Terrific, if it weren't for our waiter, I would not have had as an amazing culinary experience. I don't usually buy the whole "oh, everything is good here," but he was right, and I'm glad I got more appetizers than main courses. Food: alright, I want to focus a lot of time here. Each meal was like an artistic design and took both of us by surprise. Dish by dish, we were pleasantly surprised by how the chef took a creative twist to common dishes and it felt like being a judge on Iron Chef. Not only that, the portions were perfect and we barely had room to move by the time we were done. Warm buttered hummus - it come in a pair, wrapped by some form of meat jerky and lightly fried? I don't know, the flavor was amazing and I thought it was just gonna be a dip. Octopus - my girlfriend loooved this dish. The octopus was so tender and fresh and it paired so well with the lightly sauteed hot peppers. The base of the tart may have been a little soggy, but it was still delicious. Vermont quail - two little wonderfully marinated and seasoned bird breasts over rice. It was the only thing I recognized, but my taste palate was still blown away. Msakahn - I think it was mushroom? I don't know, it was my favorite. End of story. Wild striped Bass - one of the main course meal, very unique, comes in a bowl and excellent sauce. Overall, I had an amazing time and I strongly recommend all food lovers to experience it. Food/Service/Price - 5 stars
(5)
Ryan J.
My experience here was a memorable one, My first taste of Boston and I enjoyed every bit of it. Located in the Inman Square neighborhood in Cambridge lies Oleana, it was either this or Jody Adams Restaurant Rialto for our dinner (I chose this because there are tons of Italian restaurants in Boston and I wanted to be adventurous and try a cuisine I've never tried). We walked in, hung up our jackets and we were led to our table by the front door, they put us in the corner next to the Wine shelf (don't mind if we help ourselves) it was hard for me to shift my weight cuz I didn't have a lot of Space. The Atmosphere is Rustic and the lighting is a little dim and the Patio looks nice out back. The restaurant showcases Mediterranean Cuisine with Turkish, Arabic and North African Influences and likes to highlight exotic spices. Our waiter Ryan (what a coincidence) brought us a pouch of Bread for us to snack on while we decided what we wanted to Order. My dad decided to get himself a beer, called a Bohemian Pilsner (he liked it), then we shared an appetizer from the specials: it was a Butternut Squash Kibbeh with Roasted Brussel Sprouts, a Black Garlic Yogurt and topped with a Hazelnut Dukkah (Kibbeh is made of Bulgur Wheat, it was light and crispy and had a nice nuttiness, Sprouts were Delicious, Black Garlic Yogurt, it sounds odd when you think about it but it had a lemony Tang to it and the Dukkah which is a Blend of Hazelnuts, Fenugreek, Caraway, Cumin and Mint added some Crunch, Nice start). The Meze (Turkish word for Appetizers) are more Popular here I'm guessing, choosing from 21 Appetizers and only 6 Entrees, Its nice for everyone to get a different Appetizer and share it amongst each other. We asked if Ana Sortun (the Executive Chef/Owner and Genius behind all this was here, but Ryan said she was in Istanbul, oh well). Next my Dad got another Appetizer Fried Mussels with a Turkish Tarator Sauce (It was light and crispy and the Mussels were Plump and Tender, the Sauce which is made from Almonds and Garlic (it wasn't overpowering it was Sweet, Nutty and a bit Tart). The dish I got was the Reason I wanted to dine Here, the dish that Gabriella Gerhenson (Food Editor of Saveur Magazine recommended on the Best Thing I Ever Ate episode: Bird is the Word) Lemon Chicken with Za'atar and a Turkish Cheese Pancake. Its both Dark and Light meat with Lemon Confit and Butter stuffed in the Center and the 2 are folded together and Cooked under a Brick to get that Crispy skin then coated with Za'atar (a wild Thyme mixed with Sesame Seeds and a Lemony Herb called Sumac over a Pancake (which is a cross between a Crepe/Tortilla (which was Crispy) filled with 3 cheeses (Basseri, Feta and Ricotta). I like the contrast of both Light and Dark Meat so Juicy and Moist, some acidity from the Lemon Confit, that Herbaceous scent from the Za'atar, I loved the Nuttiness and creamy mixture of all 3 cheeses plus a bit of Diced Onion for some Crunch and some Arugula). For Dessert we had the Baked Alaska (my first time eating one) which had Coconut Ice Cream inside and with a Passionfruit Caramel (You take your spoon and you dive into that Meringue and get that Toasty, Nutty, Bruleed, Marshmallow Texture, that Sweetness from the Coconut Ice Cream and some Tartness from the Passionfruit, just a little bit at a time it can be overpowering) also they brought over another Dessert: Turkish Style Profiteroles (which were filled with a Brown Butter Creme, topped with a Sesame Caramel and finished with Cashews and Halva (which is a Sweet Confectioner) Sweet, Rich, Nutty (I actually like the Cashews). Wow I used the word Nutty like 5 or 6 times, I think I'm Nutty myself sometimes. Me and my Dad both enjoyed our time here and Ryan did a good job, The People, Atmosphere, Food and Service were all Outstanding. Thank you Oleana for making my 1st meal in Boston something to Remember !!!
(5)
Michael C.
For my 1,000th review I wanted to revisit one of my first truly great culinary adventures. Made a reservation about a week in advance and was able to get an early seating on a Sunday, even though this place has been a staple of Inman Square for more than a decade this James Beard award winning restaurant has not slowed down a bit. I have been here well over a dozen times and the service has been impeccable on every experience, never once has there even been a mediocre visit. The menu is seasonal here which helps this place stay fresh. The outdoor seating makes this place perfect for any occasion Rose Sangria - Their sangria is seasonal and while I think the red or white I've had is better than the rose it was still pretty good. Deviled Eggs - On par with some of the best deviled eggs I've ever had Sultan's Delight - This is some of the most tender flavorful beef you have ever had. This appears to be a slow cooked short rib. Only a few bites but you wish it could be your entire meal. These are always on the menu Fried Mussels - Another item that is always on the menu. I've never had such a light and fluffy fried mussel. The fried peppers give the dish a good kick while the yogurt sauce offsets it. Hangar Steak - This item was on special. It was good, very good actually and cooked perfectly but it was a little too boring for me. When dining here it is best to go a little outside your comfort zone. Duck Musakhan - I tried duck for the first time here many moons ago so I'm always willing to try their latest incantation. The duck meat was served on a flat bread with a medley of veggies. Great flavor combination Baked Alaska - The holy grail of Boston desserts. I'm going to go ahead and unofficially crown this Boston's best dessert. The combination of meringue, ice cream and coconut macaroon drizzled with a passion fruit sauce is so much more than the individual components. I have come here to the bar just to have this. It alone is worth the trip.
(5)
Stefan B.
I get that it's really acclaimed and everything and that a lot of people go in with super high expectations... but this was so bad. If I went into a restaurant in a strip mall or a cave or like a basement and I was served this stuff I'd be annoyed. My boyfriend visited me in Boston and chose nice places to eat the four nights we were here... and this was the last one because of all the acclaim. This was the worst place we ate at on our trip. (We ate at Orinoco, Myers + Chang, Toro, Alden & Harlow, Row 34, Saus, and here.) Everything was just... so boring. The sultan's delight just tasted like a soft piece of meat, the SINGLE puny cheap shitty looking lamb kebab tasted like nothing, the fideos was just weird and not good, and the bay scallops dish was so boring and weird... I just picked out all the scallops and left everything else. I don't understand why this place has acclaim and why people say the flavors and shit pop. The food didn't taste like ANYTHING. Seriously. My boyfriend makes fun of me for being super Asian and saying everything is too salty... so if I say that something is bland it's SUPER bland. The service was weird, the place was cramped. Huge gap between meze and entree... which was annoying. The servers lacked polish and seemed like they belonged at a $$ restaurant, not a $$$.... The place has no justification for the prices they charge. Shitty tasteless food, weird service, shitty location not in high rent part of town, cramped... And tacky as fuck decor. Like Applebee's trying to be ethnic. The only memorable things were how bad it was, and how awkward the couple next to us was being. Some guy was trying to impress this girl who had a really bad attitude about life and it was fucking hilarious.
(1)
Kristen M.
Enjoyed dinner with a friend here at the bar. Restaurant was busy the whole time on a Wednesday. Great place to share some small plates. Bartender was nice and had some good food.
(4)
Heidi L.
Definitely a favorite, the food is always amazing and the atmosphere is fantastic. LOVE the Sultan's Delight, whipped feta and falafel, just to name a few. Highly, highly, highly recommend this restaurant.
(5)
Jack C.
This is easily five stars. From the friendly staff to the delicious, creative dishes, I cannot be more pleased with my experience. I highly recommend the sultan's delight (tamarin beef that melts in your mouth), the Turkish fondue (Brussels sprouts and other veggies delicious on their own but phenomenal in a sea of cheese), and OUTSTANDINGLY perfect the octopus empanada. Just get it. I'll save the gustatory surprise for you to find out. The quail kabob is yummy, just a bit too chewy. Their sangria is also large and fruity, aptly captioned with "drink me."
(5)
Ramy N.
Had trouble securing a reservation for 6 - the place is in high demand and for good reason. Our table ordered a wide array of dishes to share, and they were all phenomenal. The flavors were both distinct and intense. The most outstanding was the short rib. We have our waitress to thank for many spot-on recommendations. I look forward to coming again.
(5)
Michelle B.
Um, what? If all three Ana Sortun Camberville restaurants are sisters, Oleana is the oldest and wisest. Her flavors are solid and confident, and she knows herself like a world traveled, Ulysses-memorizing, farm-share buying, journal-writing, effortlessly beautiful and calm knower-of-all-things. Sarma is the punchy new kid, and Sofra is the middle sibling peddling food and killer pantry items so everyone will like her. And we do! (Also, where else can I get Aleppo?) Oleana is serious. Not stuffy, but also not pandering to the "grab a drink and a small plate" crowd (Sarma) and not bowing down to the brunchers and pastry munchers (Sofra). All three offer similar flavor profiles but at Oleana, the execution feels inherent. You want to eat in the garden surrounded by fig and pear trees. You want to hear people talking and listening and the clink of glasses and low murmurs of satisfaction through bites of moussaka and perfectly seared scallops. You can taste the love. The service is great. This was our first visit, and we were treated like familiar friends. Our waiter had excellent suggestions, and we left happy and cared for. Which, is hard to get these days at a casual-ish eating establishment. I love each of the above mentioned establishments for different reasons and will continue to frequent all three, but Oleana, keep setting that bar high for your sisters, it's working for you!
(5)
Anand S.
Was finally able to get a reservation here, but had to make one 2 weeks in advance for a Thursday, so make sure to call way ahead if you want a weekend day. We had been trying to come here for a long time, especially because it's one of the better vegetarian friendly restaurants in the area, and by and large, the food did not disappoint (nor did the service). We told our waiter ahead of time and he was very good about suggesting what we could have, and also explained to us the chef could make an entree based on what was in the kitchen (although he explained it was at the chef's whim and thus he couldn't actually tell us what would be on that plate - more on that in a second) Between 4 of us, we ended up ordering one vegetarian tasting menu and adding on a few additional items and were more than satisfied. Our vegetarian menu started off with the fried cauliflower with moroccan style almond butter, and I think that ended up being the hit of the night. The cauliflower were cooked just about perfectly and went so well with the almond and spice mix. Just a really great dish that everyone was happy with. Next came the pita with red pepper, pomegranate molasses, and nigella seed. This one was fine, but sorta boring. Just didn't get enthused by it, even though there wasn't really anything wrong with it. Next came the spinach falafel (the tasting menu came with 2, we ordered a standard meze plate with another 3), another highlight. The falafel had a nice crisp outer layer and a creamy inside (though I would've preferred it be just a tad less soft). It was served on a thin pita with cress, beet yogurt (surprisingly good, I don't normally enjoy beets, but this didn't overwhelm with beet flavor), and tahini. Next on the menu was flattened potatoes with herbs and lemon. It was served with some sort of sauce that I just can't remember. Either way though, a pretty standard dish, tasted sorta like high quality home fries, but I did really like the touch of lemon. The menu also included dark greens with an eggplant puree of sorts - nothing to write home about, but another quality item. One of the specials the night we were there was a grilled asparagus flatbread (the word I'm calling it, I forget what the term was at the restaurant) with bechamel, haloumi, a mint-asparagus puree, and a fried egg. The flatbread portion was just a touch on the soft side, but besides that, I really loved this dish. We also ended up ordering the chef's special entree I mentioned above. This was kinda meh. It ended up being a large plate consisting of 4 smaller items, 2 of which we'd already had (the greens and the potatoes). It also came with a chickpea dish served with whipped goat cheese which tasted fantastic. The 4th dish was unmemorable. The lowlight on the menu was probably the spicy fideos. The menu described them as toasted vermicelli, which made me thing there would be some sort of crunch (maybe my mistake). In the end, just ended up being a sort of not very spicy, not very appealing dish. Dessert on the tasting menu was a dark chocolate ganache tort and we also ordered the pistachio white chocolate bar, both hits.
(4)
Allen P.
Obviously this contender for one of Boston's top restaurants doesn't need my approval, but nevertheless, Oleana warrants all the praise it's been given. The service was very good---we were seated quickly and comfortably, and our waiter knew a lot about the menu (and wine list---which is a plus for this guy!). The food is also excellent, very well-done Mediterranean blend with flavored and spices you won't find elsewhere readily---even more, they use them WELL, and not just as a novelty. Great experience, will definitely go back. I'd recommend any first-time patrons to order 3-5 small plates rather than going for one of the larger entrees...half the fun is trying the breadth and variety of their dishes...
This is my favorite restaurant in Boston. I have eaten here about 10 times and each time it feels like a warm hug. The first time I went I was a vegetarian and went with the tasting menu which was excellent. Now that I am eating meat again, I can honestly say the sultans delight is the best piece of beef I've ever had. Personally I would stick with ordering a few mezes. They are all so good. If they offer specials for mezes get them all as the special is always what is fresh on that night. Last night I had the pork belly and it was wonderful. If you can, definitely sit outside as soon as they open the back porch. It's the kind of place I would want to get married. There's a pear tree, heat lamps, a little fountain and seating area. I really can't say enough about this place. I'm on my way to creating a separate review for Sofra, the breakfast place linked with Oleana, but if you haven't been there, go right now. Overall, Oleana is the best of Boston. Oh yeah, and make sure to end the night with profiteroles. You won't regret it.
(5)
Nicole B.
After hearing all the buzz around Oleana I figured I had to try it! We went for an anniversary meal and had a unique/wonderful dining experience. Finding this restaurant can be tricky if you are not alert so make sure you know where to find it. We sat outside in the courtyard area and enjoyed a nice summer evening. The wait staff was knowledgeable and seemed to really care about the food that was being served. We started the meal off with a bottle of white wine and decided to order a selection of the small plates as dinner. We ordered the following: Whipped Feta with Hot Pepper: the portion was smaller than I expected, but the actual dish is delicious nonetheless. You first taste the saltiness of feta with a secondary wave of hot spice. Fried Mussels: Again, this portion was smaller than I expected. On a small dish fried mussels are intermingled with fried spicy peppers and a neutralizing lemony Turkish tarator sauce. Spinach Falafel: This dish is one of the "must haves" here. This falafel is the creamiest I've ever tasted. Very yummy, but a little difficult to eat with the wrap and the generous tahini. Walnut Muhammara, Beet Tabouleh & Spicy Cheese Sarma: This dish was as pleasing to the eye as it was to the mouth. Everything tasted amazingly fresh and clean. Bread & Cheese Dumplings: This dish was also quite tasty, but not one of the "must haves" if you are only getting a small number of meze. Sultan's Delight Beef: This was the star of the night. The beef was cooked to perfection and fall apart tender. The flavor had a sweet savoryness too it. Anyone who enjoys meat in any capacity should order this meze. The eggplant accompanying the beef was also great, super smooth and melted in your mouth. To round out the meal we ordered the baked Alaska with coconut ice cream and passion fruit sauce. This was light, fruity, and delicious. I can't wait to go back.
(5)
David B.
One of my top 5 restaurants in the Boston area. Everything is beyond flavorful and so well prepared. The amount of important that goes into the quality of the food reaffirms any price a dish is. You cannot find something bad on the menu. The summer time is best, when almost everything on the menu is local and fresher than anything you can buy at a grocery store.
(5)
Shalin D.
One of the reasons to leave your kitchen and head out to a $30 per entree restaurant is the expectation of good food and good service. Oleana is five stars on the former, it's about negative four stars on the second. We arrived for Sunday dinner around 7 PM. We were seated immediately and then sat... and sat... and sat... waiting for 25 minutes until our server stopped by, filled up our water glasses, and took our drink order. We waited another 20 minutes until our drinks - glasses of wine for the table - arrived. After another 20 minutes, the waiter took our order. Mind you, at this point we'd been at Oleana for more than an hour and our order was only at this point taken. It broke down even further from there. The kitchen must have been backed up. My table and a few neighboring tables received complimentary meze dishes while we waited for what we actually ordered. Two hours into our meal, we were only one course in. Needless to say, we left Oleana around 9:45, immediately after we finished our last course. Worse, the server was unapologetic. No apologies for the wait. No welcoming words. Not once did he stop by to ask how the meal was going. It was terrible service for what is ostensibly a fine dining restaurant. The only redeeming factor was the food. Yummy fatoush. Delicious fried green tomatoes, sprinkled liberally with sumak. Monkfish that was hearty but also prepared with little fuss. All so yummy. I want to go back, but given the service, I wouldn't recommend this place to anyone.
(1)
Amy R.
This was absolutely amazing from start to finish! I am visiting a friend in Boston and haven't lived here in years...to start, the hostesses were SO SWEET and helpful. They got us two delish glasses of wine while we waited and promptly seated us asap even though we didn't have a reservation. We sat at the bar and the service was great. The ambiance is awesome. The food was the best part...got 5 mezes, one better than the next!!! GO TO THIS RESTAURANT.
Really delicious and a wonderful restaurant to dine at. Service wasn't as good as the food but decent still.. A completely different taste that you will not forget.
(5)
Daniel B.
One of the best meals I've had this year. My family selected just from the small plates (called "Meze") on the menu. We began with an Apple Fatoush (salad) with sumac which was interestingly spiced... I'd not had sumac before. Then came the Fried Cauliflower, Moroccan-Style, dipped in almond butter and spices, which was absolutely delicious: I actually said "Wow" out loud on my first taste. This was followed by a chickpea terrine (very good), Sultan's Delight (meat was outstanding, babaganoush was only so-so), Cigar Borek (vegetable roll-ups in the shape of cigars, which were terrific), and a special fried calamari with peppers that was yummy. The only disappointment of the night was the Octopus Coca, which was served too hot, making the octopus taste mushy. For dessert we had the Baked Alaska with cashew ice cream, which my teenager pronounced excellent, and a white chocolate + apricot dessert that we all liked as well. The service was friendly and efficient. Our table was near a window and a bit cold, but we warmed up as the evening went on. This was my first time dining at Oleana; my wife has been before and said I had to try it. I'm glad I did. A terrific meal overall... my mouth was very happy.
(5)
Kerri Y.
This place is ALWAYS busy. I have tried on many occasions to get reservations on weeknights- only to be provided with inconvenient times like 530 or after 930pm or no availability at all. Finally ... finally with persistence, I got a reservation. Was it fantastic? - yup! The atmosphere is perfect for a date- very romantic. Lamb Shish Kebab and Vermont Quail Kebob were exceptionally tasty. Pan-Fried Kalamata Olives melted in your mouth. Beef Kebob was good, but not my favorite. Vegetarian menu looked tasty- maybe next time. Wine list is lacking if you don't get a bottle (half bottles are available)- there are only a few options for wine by the glass and i heard that they do not have a full liquor license. Its a pricey- but on par with what you would expect to pay at a tapas or small plate place. Overall worth the wait- yes.
(4)
Ricky M.
Our family's experience to Oleana was superb. The beautiful lighting gave an amazing mood to the calming environment. It is a comfortable place for couples, but for our 4-person family it still met our expectations. Also the beautiful paintings and chandeliers were inspiring and beautiful. The Mediterranean cuisine was brought to an indescribable level. Even ordering quite a number of mezzes could be appetizing, with an optional entree. One of the most decadent mezze was the tender quail. Biting into that succulent meat was a heavenly taste with their tenderness and succulence.
(5)
Gonen M.
The food is amazing. The best restaurant in town without a doubt. However, the ambience is not all that great for such fine dining experience (except their cute patio). Make sure that you have a reservation at least a week in advance. There's a good chance that you won't get a table for dinner if you just walk in.
(5)
Phil B.
This is arguably one the best restaurants in the Boston area. All the mezes we tried (~10) were flavorful, very well prepared. Also, you can tell that every ingredient used was fresh and high quality. Nice ambiance and the outside patio is wonderful.
(5)
Laura R.
Amazing food! Great selection and diversity. The service was wonderful and quick. The only odd thing was alcohol - it's wine or beer only. I would definitely return!
(5)
Maureen D.
Made a reservation weeks in advance for a weekday at 6pm. Was promptly seated but, as usual, squeezed like sardines next to the 2 other parties already seated. The staff was constantly whizzing past my table and brushing me each time. I ordered 2 mezes at the approval of the waitress but found these to be unsatisfying . In particular, the chick pea terrine was cold hummus surrounding stringy spinach. The mushroom dish was at least warm but also lacking enough stick-to-your-ribs quality. My dining companion did enjoy the striped bass on sweet potato pancakes which had more flavor and texture variation!
(3)
Ashley D.
I love oleana!!! I came here with a friend on a Monday and it was great. I did not know if I would be able to get in but called the day of and they had room for us. I usually can never get a reservation so I must of been lucky. They were pretty busy but not full. Our waitress came over and she was very knowledgable about the menu. She thought we were ordering too much food so she told us to order 4 plates and if we are hungry, then we could order another dish. I thought this was very honest. She explained each dish and gave us some great recommendations. We ordered the octopus, lamb and grape leaf tart, hummus and eggplant. My favorite was def the lamb and grape leaf tart. The lamb was so tender and delicious. It was also a pretty big size. I do not usually like tapas food because I eat a lot and usually need a huge pizza when I leave HAHA but I was actually full. The portions were a pretty good size and I was full when I left. Oleana is pretty small inside so you def need a reservation if you go. They have a garden that you can sit outside but that is first come first serve. I would of eaten in the garden when I went but it was too hot out. Next time, I will def eat in the garden. They do a very good job here and will recommend this place to all my friends. Enjoy!!
(5)
H. A.
Yet another enjoyable experience here! It's very difficult to get a reservation, though. Recommended: Sultan's Delight (tender beef) Whipped feta spread Moussaka Whatever the baked potato dish was The awesome breads & olive oil Was great, but not my favorite: Spinach falafel (too dense) Finish it off with the Baked Alaska-- it's great!
(5)
Liz B.
Have to echo Hailey L's review. After hearing so many fantastic things about this restaurant, I chose it as the place to celebrate my recent birthday. I was seriously dreaming about how great this meal would be, particularly since I had been living abroad the past few months in a place with few decent restaurant options. Sadly, the beyond terrible service obliterated any chance of enjoying the experience at this restaurant. From having to wait for over half an hour after our reservation to be seated (the "waiting area" is in a really sad, depressing, dim corner of the patio) to the surly and apathetic attitude of our server to the disjointed arrival of our dishes, my initial excitement deflated like a balloon poked with a needle over the course of the evening. I actually decided not to get dessert there or celebrate my birthday at all, so I'd be less disappointed by thinking of the dinner as a regular dinner instead of my birthday dinner. We went elsewhere for the candles, cake, and singing. The food was good but not spectacular, and certainly didn't make up for the crappy impersonal service. I'm pretty shocked that such a highly regarded restaurant could overlook so many basic service details. After our long wait, we were hungry and irritated, but could have easily been won over by a drink or appetizer or some gesture that indicated we mattered. Unfortunately Oleana couldn't be bothered. They really made me feel like my party did not matter, and they didn't care about making our experience pleasant in the least. Won't be back unless someone else forces me to return. I can't recommend that anyone come here to celebrate anything. Come for the food and nothing else.
(2)
Alixandra M.
I almost want to give this hidden gem a bad review just to keep people away because it is already incredibly hard to get a table!! Hands down one of the best restaurants in the Boston Area. I have only good things to say.
(5)
Dolphia N.
I heard so much about Oleana and it took 3 weeks for me to get a reservation there for my family. Food was okay, but I expected more from there. First, they tell themselves as Turkish restaurant and they do not have Turkish black tea or lentil soup. Seriously?! Waiters were very rude. Portion was small, food was okay. Their food is very far from Turkish or mediterranean. Starters were very much delicious but main-course I found was uninteresting. If I want to have Mediterranean, I will go to other places - not here.
(3)
Katrina N.
I don't know how this place doesn't have five stars right now. It was epic. Ehhh-pic. We sat in a cozy corner high table surrounded by bottles of wine, and shared delicious and decadent apps, mains, and dessert. The spinach falafel was a fun presentation of what I normally consider street food, and the fried cauliflower was very tasty. It is pan fried - not battered and deep fried, so it was a good starter. I ordered the lamb kofta and enjoyed every bit. The spices were true to the restaurant's Mediterranean theme. C had the zatar chicken, which was quite good though a little heavy on the zatar for my taste. We finished with the baked Alaska. There are some pictures on Yelp, so you can see what you will get. It was very sweet, and a nice birthday treat. Plus: Great wine selection! It's pricey, but worth it for foodies and special occasions. We can't wait to go back and sit at the small bar to try all of the other appetizers. You should go immediately. (To my friends at Oleana - I saw another person comment on the staff at your restaurant wearing t-shirts. It's something I noticed as well...)
(5)
Brian W.
Just as incredible the second time, as the first time! My wife and I had one of the first seatings of the evening which made seating easy compared to the last time we were here. The restaurant was jam packed the last time, but was filling up as the evening went on this time. Parking is easy with choices either on the street or in a parking lot adjacent to the restaurant. Make sure you park in the spots without any "warning" signs as there are threats of towing. The restaurant decor is very fitting of the style of food, everything from the choice of light fixtures to the chairs. Ana Sortun who is the Executive Chef/Owner has a few other places that she owns that are also really great. The staff was friendly, and the waitress did a good job. Nothing amazing, but she came when she needed to and stayed away when she was supposed to. Meze Courses - Delicious! The beef is fall apart at the touch tender. Spinach Falafel, Tahini Sauce, Beet Yogurt & Cress Sultan's Delight - Tamarind Beef, Smokey Eggplant Puree & Pinenut Main Courses - The lamb stew was really good. I'd never tried Fried Quinoa before, but it was the perfect, subtle addition to the dish. The duck soup broth was so good, I wish I could buy it by the can. The duck skin is cooked crispy and had a slight "burnt" taste to it that I didn't love. I'm not sure if that was intended or not, but I wasn't a big fan. Outside of the skin on the duck, the rest of the meat was moist and tasted great. And like I said, the broth was AMAZING! Lamb Tagine - Sweet Potato, Preserved Lemon, Fried Quinoa & Almond Duck & Iranian Noodle Soup - Blacked Eyed Peas, Lentils, Spinach, Herbs & Yogurt Sides - The Flattened Potatoes with Lemon and Oregano were excellent. The potatoes themselves did not have a note of dryness to them. Very well seasoned! Dessert - The Turkish Style Profiteroles, Brown Butter Creme, Sesame Cashew Caramel & Halva was very good. The sesame cashew caramels were really, really good. I good eat a bowl of just that! The profiteroles themselves were a little dry in the middle to me. I didn't love the creme portion of them. They were missing some of the "puff" that I was expecting. Great meal! We'll definitely be back!
(5)
Devorah G.
We won't be back here. This place has alot of hype going for it and thrives on a celebrity chef. The food is good but the service is terrible. We've been probably 5 times in the past year and I've held out writing a review because we used to know a few employees and as I've said, the food is good. But the food isn't great. I think the restaurant is going off the fumes of great success of years past. In early January we had the vegetarian tasting menu and they forgot a course...so when we reminded them, they brought it after dessert. Not when I want a savory dish. In March, we made a reservation and arrived 10 minutes early but weren't seated until one HOUR after our reservation. Several people were seated ahead of our party of three...which I realize needs a different table than a party of 2 but we did make a reservation, were not offered a cocktail or complimentary snacks in the meantime. Poor service. We then waited 20 minutes to order. The burrata was tasty, we had a fish and it was good and the spinach falafel is fun but I'm so over it. Sarma is definitely a better pick if you want this mediterranean food. If this was unusual, I wouldn't complain but we have had poor service before. We tried them again just recently because the garden is spectacular but after 40 minutes without of first mezze, we just left.
(1)
Murilo S.
Amazing service, knowledgable staff when it comes to wine, tasty food (you must try the Feta Pie) and great atmosphere. Make sure you make reservations as the place is always packed.
(5)
Andrea L.
I can't find a thing to not like about Oleana. I wasn't trying, but I'm not particularly generous with the stars in most cases. It was a beautiful night in early October (day after my birthday). My brother and his family were visiting my neice at MIT (from the Philly area) and recommended this place for my birthday dinner. They had already been there at least once before, and anywhere I mentioned it around town, the reactions were similarly thrilled and impressed. They have a rep! From the outside,this place is nothing to write home about - hard to even place where you see it, but you know you've driven past a million times. Inside and out back in the "garden", the place is quite nice - a bit squishy, but beautifully, tastefully if not a tad lavishly decorated. We stood and sat out back with cocktails while we waited for our table (yes, we had to wait about 15 minutes even though we had reservations). There were 6 of us, and we had a little of everything. I can't exactly remember names, but everyone loved their food. I had a duck entree, and the lamb entree was also great and two of the larger dishes. Many are quite small. The eggplant and veggie dishes were great. We even had a whipped dessert that I can't recall and isn't on the online menu - bakes alaska? maybe - but it had a flamy caramel topping and was delicious! The place has a lovely and romantic feel. The service is good and not stuffy, the food is wonderful and the price is dear - but worth it - especially when it's your birthday!
(5)
Jeff F.
I headed into Oleana last night after having it on my short list for the last six years. I'm glad I experienced Oleana and would highly recommend it, but didn't share the genuine love everyone has for this Cambridge gem. Great atmosphere. Here's the rundown on the grub: - (A+) Carrot Soup - (B) Spinach Falafel - good, but I found it a little odd - (A-) Octopus, Persian Lime, Spicy Greens & Mougrabieh - really good, but Craigie still owns best Octopus in Cambridge - (A+) Vermont Quail Kebob, Baharat Spice, Barberries & Pistachio - ridiculous, I would go back just for this - (B) Chick Pea Terrine - Unique, but I couldn't appreciate this one - (B+) Lamb Tagine - somewhat average, I should have ordered a different main
(4)
Alex Y.
Oleana deserves five stars. It goes beyond the typical restaurant experience by treating you with unique dishes. Every part of the meal stands out for me because it was so different than anything I have had before. Not only were the tastes unique, but the experience of eating the foods was unique as well. Flavors and foods that I typically do not associate with one another join forces in many of the dishes, for better or worse. The wait staff is helpful every step of the way as well. Oleana's effort to make the dining experience so memorable is how it earns five stars. Continue on if you want details on the dishes we had at our meal. + Breads The breads come out first, and they are a sesame bread and spiced dense and dark bread, both of which pair well with the olive oil (and balsamic if you ask for it). + Farmer Chris' crudites This dish is fun. You take raw vegetables, dip them in the almond butter, and then cover the almond butter in the dukkah crushed nut mix. It's a party putting all the pieces together, and then it's a party in your mouth shortly after. + Sultan's delight WAAAH! The tamarind beef is so tender and flavorful. I cut pieces off and wanted to forgo putting on the accompanying eggplant and pinenut puree because of how delicious it looked. Good thing I didn't because that dip worked well with the short rib. + Lamb and grape leaf tart This is a rather large tart. The cumin flavor is quite strong, and it overpowers the grape leaves flavor. Nevertheless, the tart overall is a tasty dish. + Special: Carrot puree and hummus with fried cheese This was a special dish that was off the menu. As a whole, I don't like cheese, but I really liked this dish. Fried anything is appetizing to me, and the unique combination of carrot, hummus, and cheese flavors was great. - Crispy duck entree Of the five dishes, I liked this one the least. It came out last (as it was an entree), and at that point, I was pretty full already; my review of it may consequently be slightly biased. The dish is soupy with a strong mint flavor (too strong, in my opinion). The duck was prepared to be quite crispy, but it still had a tough texture after the crispiness. The flavor overall was too minty, and I don't think I was able to appreciate the duck flavor because of that.
(5)
Kiki P.
Oleana is a cute Mediterranean restaurant located near Inman Square. Each of the dishes is a filled with creative bursts of Eastern Mediterranean flavor. Most of the dishes have Turkish spices and blends, but some have an added hint of lebanese and armenian ingredients. The food is really amazing and unique. You will not find these dishes anywhere else!! The ambiance is also quite cozy with a fireplace right in the center of the dining room. During my visit to Oleana, I started off my evening with the chickpea terrine served with apricots, pistachio and tahini sauce...an absolute delight! For dinner I tried the scallops with parsnip kadayif, brown butter, tahini and curry spices. This dish was filled with oh so much flavor!! One of the best scallop dishes I have ever tasted. My boyfriend ordered the tamarack tunis lamb with turkish spices and he really enjoyed his dish as well. The portion sizes are generous, which left me little room for dessert. I would really love to make a trip back here just to try the dessert! Overall, I had an awesome dining experience. You MUST check out Oleana!
(4)
Ojus P.
Shared a bunch of small plates and while there were some superstars, the majority were mediocre. The cacik was great but overall it was disappointing given the reviews.
(3)
Felicia C.
This is one of my top #1 restaurant in Boston so far. My husband and I decided to go on a monday night, an hr before they close. (We expected less ppl cus it is monday night) we passed by the front and found it pretty packed. We got excited and went in threw their ramp. (Good idea for strollers and wheelchair) Sat down by a friendly host to a table for 2 into a cozy space which was decorated in middle eastern decor. My husband wanted a bigger table and we were able to move to a 4 ppl table. The table was behind a wall which gave us some privacy but the waitress that served us was very tentative. She was very friendly and formative and checked on us at the right times. She also took time to explain dishes we wanted to know about. What we ordered: 2 x deviled egg Tonight special pork belly Fried mussels Entree crispy duck Entree lamb The mezzes were rich and flavorable. The entrees were not as rich, which made the whole experience better cus we didn't feel so stuffed after the richness. 5 stars for amazing food, flavor and service.
(5)
Rebecca L.
The service was amazing. Hostess updated us regularly about status of our table (we were walk-ins), food was phenomenal (mezes: haloumi, falafel, octopus, cauliflower, kumpir). Best food I've had in a long time.
We came here for our anniversary and it was amazing. We had a reservation and although we arrived 15 minutes early they were able to seat us right away. We shared two meze (the melt in your mouth Sultan's Delight and whipped feta). I had the lamb meatball tangine and my partner had the special hanger steak. Both dishes were outstanding. For dessert we had the Baked Alaska. That was the best meringue I have ever tasted! Only four stars for two reasons: it is hard to find a reasonably priced bottle of wine on their list (although we did love the way they categorized them according the flavors) and the coconut ice cream in the Baked Alaska was really hard, meaning it was also not as flavorful as I would have like. We would definitely come back though.
(4)
Andrew M.
The vegetarian tasting menu is a great feature, but looking over some of the other reviews here I feel a bit cheated -- the lineup on the night I went wasn't as spectacular as some of the ones described below. I did enjoy the fideos and chick pea dish, but one or two of the more salad-like meze felt a little bit like filler. Came with a great mascarpone-based dessert as well. Also, is there a better or more varied pre-meal bread basket in greater Boston?
My favorite dining destination in Cambridge thus far. From the outside Oleana looks rather plaid, but dining in the wonderful little outdoor space was perhaps one of the most charming things about this mediterreanean gem tucked away in Cambridge. Waiting is pleasant too - sipping some splendid Moroccan mint tea while waiting in a private area overlooking the patio, prepares one for the flavors to follow! And if you needed help picking out those flavors - the Oleana menu provides a very smart and thoughtful glossary of ingredients to help sift through some pretty cool menu options. The tables are tiny, even for a steady flow of small plates - perhaps it's an effective way to control the supply and consumption and keep the crowds moving? I lingered...for a pleasant dinner...and definitely intend to get back there sometime!
I love this restaurant. We come here whenever we have something to celebrate and we have never been disappointed. I recommend the Lamb Tagine and the Baked Alaska.
(5)
Tina D.
The meat was so "tender" "fall off the bone" succulent"...whatever, these are the most common phrases idiots use on yelp! Don't need to describe the food, everything kn the menu was good. Just eat here! Hands down one of the best restaurants in Boston! Book reservation at least a week in advance if you want a table on Fridays or Saturdays. Easy to book, open table
(5)
G G.
literally one of the best meals I have ever had. great drinks, amazing food, great atmosphere. everything was delicious, especially the lamb mezze special. will certainly be back.
(5)
Adam B.
Sat down at 1030 after making reservation on open table. Ordered some shareable starters and drinks. Food was good but not spectacular.,humus tasted like nothing, broccoli dish was good, octopus as well. Consensus was that the drinks were the best part. Went to order a couple other things at 1103 and were told the kitchen was closed! So you seat us at 1030 but tell us nothing about this important fact. Told the manager about this and he said sorry .. But really didn't seem to care. Even bragged that they seat till 1045. Heard such rave reviews but won't be returning. Suggestion. 1) don't seat that late 2) tell you customers this information 3) respond in an appropriate manner when your customers give you feed back
MOST OVERRATED PLACE IN THE WORLD and I know FOOD & RESTAURANTS. I just moved to boston from nyc and come from a long line of family owned Italian northern cuisine restaurants in nyc. So I'm a foodie. Everyone in Boston said I must try this place so when my parents came into town I made a rez for us. ***WORST EXPERIENCE IN RESTAURANT HISTORY. #1 we were forced to eat in the cold rain under a leaking umbrella (it was 5:30 pm. We said we'd be out before the next table showed. They said no) they then offered a fleece blanket three times by three different employees. Not one employee followed through, so I took the liberty to get up and get my own. Fine, the food was okay. If I knew the Meze was that small we would've ordered 10 not 6. #2 the staff kept TALKING about how busy they are. Meanwhile we were in the cold rain staring into the window of the restaurant at empty tables. A busy restaurant never talks about how "busy" they are. After buying an expensive wine, we apparently bought our way into the indoors and out of the rain after our apps and in time for out ice cold (not exaggerating) ice cold chewy duck that tasted like chicken. Everyone's main dish was cold actually. The dessert was great. Overall this place was awful. The appetizers came out one by one in small butter plates every 20 minutes. And of course wet as well, since we were eating in the rain. Oh and the pita bread was the last thing to arrive AFTER we finished all the dips etc. Doesn't make sense at all. Never going back here.
(1)
Bianca Z.
This place may or may not have redefined my idea of good food. I exaggerate but a few dishes definitely stood out. I agree with everyone - the sultan's delight has the most tender meat. The chickpea tartin had a great combo of flavors and textures. The lamb manti was disappointing - obnoxiously tiny "ravioli" or whatever you call it. All the sharing plates are pretty small. The drinks were also unique!
(4)
Priya G.
Great for vegetarians! The dishes are a little on the small side (tapas style). We got the olives with za'atar, the whipped feta, the spinach falafel, and something else that I can't remember. The whipped feta is good but it's too small, they should serve bigger portions. The olives were good but I ordered them because I thought they came with the za'atar bread and they don't.. they just have that spice. The spinach falafel was our favorite dish but again it's relatively small (3 pieces). Luckily they give you all the pita you can ask for to eat with the dishes. I loved how flavorful the dishes were though. Ambience is date night-ish (intimate and classy). Pretty elegant and nicely decorated. I'm rating it 4 stars because our waitress wasn't great (she was kind of rude and didn't really answer our questions). They served us despite being about to close which was kind of them but I really wish the serving sizes were bigger because its hard to share the dishes. I would rate it 5 stars if the serving sizes were larger and our waitress was nicer.
(4)
Gauravi P.
This restaurant deserves 10 stars. Hands down best restaurant in Cambridge. We sat at the bar and had such a fun time with the bartender! She made me The Isla which was a very yummy drink. Some of the dishes we ordered that I would recommend: fried mussels, octopus coca, baked Alaskan!
Overpriced with very small portions. Some of the items are really good, but others are sorta gamey. Our waitress was snobby. Won't be going back here.
(1)
Jiashen H.
Perfect outside table to have dinner. Beautiful environment. We were sitting next to a tree with long and many blanches.
(4)
Julie V.
Had a lovely meal here tonight, even though I'm not a huge fan overall of Mediterranean cuisine. My favorite part was the Vermont quail kebob with baharat spice, barberries, and pistachio -- quail cooked to perfection, perfectly balanced spices. For entrees, my bf and I split two dishes, the scallop dish and the grilled lamb. The scallops were tasty, but not particularly memorable in terms of flavor. The lamb, however, was tender and paired well with the pomegranate glaze. I also especially enjoyed the farm veg chips. For dessert, we had the palace bread, which consists of caramelized bread pudding, white chocolate creme, pistachio granite, and hibiscus. It was a particularly unique dessert, and the rich caramel and creme went well with the lighter flavors of the hibiscus and passionfruit. I would note that service was not great. Dinner took nearly two and a half hours, from waiting to be served appetizers and then finally waiting for the main courses, it seemed like the kitchen must have been very busy. I have been here before, though, and also had a similar experience. Worth a try. However, I personally would prefer going to Craigie on Main, which has a similar price point (referring to the Chef's Whim).
(4)
E M.
We ordered seven dishes. With the exception of the somewhat dry spinach falafels (tasty though) and a not too inspiring salad, the others were most delicious: kale and mussels fried to a light crispy perfection, juicy tender meat in the sultan delight, deviled eggs with fantastic texture and flavor. I also enjoyed very much the baked Alaska desert. The service was attentive and courteous.
(4)
Eyal R.
I had the sea Bass and it was delicious. The restaurant is cosy and pleasant. Prices are a bit too high than expected from the kind of dishes and menu. Smell of the kitchen is too strong, at least in the bar section which is next to the kitchen.
(3)
Lee H.
We had a great meal at Oleana. If you want to eat on a Saturday, you'd better book a reservation a month in advance. We got a table for 5:30, which is when they open. This turned out to be fine, since they don't rush you and the meal moved at a nice pace. We sat in the courtyard on a nice day, which also helped. The food was delicious. I started with the octopus - very tender on a bed of chickpeas. The lamb main course was very good, although perhaps it could have been more highly marinated. My wife's scallops were about as good as it gets. The baked Alaska was uncharacteristically large, although my wife found it a little too sweet (I disagreed). Portions are modest, but prices are reasonable so it turns out to be a good value for such high quality. Service is exemplary - friendly and attentive, but not overbearing. Finally, for a Cambridge restaurant parking is remarkably easy, due to available free parking across the street (for patrons), as well as some parking on the street (it's far enough from Inman Square that there are some spaces. Oleana is a new addition to my top 10 list.
(5)
A E.
(Would be 3.5 stars...) Oh, Oleana. I loved you for so long; now I just like you (as Pee-wee would say, "I LIKE like you." But still. It's not the same.) I've been coming here since the very beginning, and while it's still such a special experience, there's a sense of "We're #1; we don't try as hard" that seems to have infected the place. It's recent (my last two visits over the last few months) and it's sad. The food isn't as amazing across the board as it used to be. The portions of the mezze are much smaller (even from back in the heyday of the tiny pret-a-manger menu.) No more z'aatar bread. (And speaking of bread, the grouchy bread guy is no longer charming, just grouchy; so please, just give us a basket-full at the beginning...) The chicken was fatty. And even my favorite of favorites- the spinach falafel- was dry- no tahini...just dry. Yeah- I know these seem like picky criticisms, but the thing is...It used to be so, so special, such a 'wow' dinner experience, and now it's just really good.
(3)
Danielle S.
I'd go so far as to call this the best restaurant I have been to in Boston. My boyfriend took me here for my birthday. Everything was delicious, but the Sultan's Delight (meat was super tender) and Baked Alaska were highlights. The place is tough to get into and a little cramped, so it's ideal for smaller groups.
(5)
Emily G.
There are a lot of restaurants I love in Boston (Or the greater Boston area) but when people ask me to name a favorite I have to say Oleana. Now having been there multiple times and having been consistently blown away by the quality and creativity of the food, Oleana has cemented itself as number one for me.
(5)
merqurious z.
1. Not kid friendly. They went in search of a kids menu and never found it. 2. Have your dinner else where and come here for socializing / drinks. The portions and extremely small. The portions are smaller than appetizer plates at other places. 3.$$$ expensive for very small portions
Ah, this might be my favorite restaurant. But I only went here once.. I went right when they opened for the day so I was lucky and didn't have to wait. All I can say is, I can't wait to go back!
(5)
Alon R.
Ambiance is super cute! The bread with sesame seeds on it reminded me of bread I would get on the beach in Israel as a child. The falafel is a necessity but it is a bit mushy and not as crunchy as regular falafel. The moussaka is a must! Non traditional and broken down but super tasty and filling! The olives are great but not a must get. Expensive for the amount of food you get. The sultans delight is good but basically tastes like short rib - wasn't life changing at all. Overall great experience and with some of the best Mediterranean food in cambridge/Somerville. Sarma however is better.
(4)
Sari C.
I love Oleana, we go about 2-3 times per year. We tend to order 2-3 appetizers and one main to share, and if we're feeling it, a dessert to share with coffee. The staff is always extremely friendly and helpful, and they don't mind the sharing requests or charge extra. Their coffee is totally amazing, definitely recommend. I love that they organize their wine menu not by region but by flavors. I've definitely greatly expanded my palate at Oleana by ordering this way. Their wine people really know their stuff and always make fab recommendations. Some recent favs include: * The monkfish main OMG so savory and delicious (Monkfish, Carrot Kibbeh, Black Garlic Tahini, Orange, Pinenut - the black garlic tahini I could just pour directly into my mouth) * The kohlrabi pancake with hot pepper labne :) :) :) * Chickpea terrine!! * Sultan's delight (tamarind beef... drool) Always great are their fish dishes, and their vegetarian dishes are unparalleled. I would be a vegetarian in a heartbeat if I could cook as good as Oleana! A few years ago they had an amazing beef stew-like dish on their menu that my mom got... that was insane. The salmon spanikopita is not currently on the menu but you can get the recipe in Ana Sortun's cookbook! I made it a few months ago and it was wonderful. anyway quit reading this review and go make a reservation! You won't regret it.
(5)
Hailey L.
Came to Oleana for a special graduation dinner, expecting a special, memorable meal. The majority of the food does not disappoint -- the world's best hummus. They even provided a special order of muhammara and crudite. The octopus shish is amazing. However, the tables in the dining room are SO PACKED IN TOGETHER!!! We could hear every word from the tables on either side of us, making it impossible to have an intimate dinner with friends and family. Good thing we knew two other foreign languages to chat in, so we could converse comfortably without feeling awkward about everybody around us listening in. Having to go past the tables to go to the restroom is a true struggle, having to be excessively careful not to topple a table or the one next, not to bump your arse into the person squeezed next to you. The service was more of a let down. The waiters make you feel very rushed. Since the tables are jam packed together, there are also waiters rushing around everywhere, making the diners feel flustered. Not a calm, welcoming environment to enjoy a nice celebratory dinner. When I asked my waiter about the makings of the spicy fideos dish -- my least favorite of the night -- the waiter spoke in a very demeaning and impatient manner. The service does not do the food justice. A serious damper to a potentially lovely meal. For the price you pay here, especially for a special celebration dinner where we are there to eat and drink to our heart's content, we should have been greeted with something far better.
(3)
Sim S.
It's a really good restaurant with great service and food. It's very gourmet
(4)
Jeff N.
Dined here recently with a business colleague. Pleasant space and unique wine list. The stripped bass wasn't all that exciting, but had a lamb chop meze portion that was delicious.
(4)
Jessica B.
I'm a little intimidated to review a restaurant with over 700 reviews, but here it goes! First, there's parking in a lot across the street. Very civilized. When I came in I was surprised how small the space was, and how close our dining neighbors were, but it was fine. No screaming kids to be found, it was all a quiet, adult crowd. We started looking over the menu and the waiter came to take our drink order. I asked if they had a Retsina, which is a resinated white Greek wine. It's a bit of an acquired taste, but I love it with Mediterranean food. The waiter responded that they didn't have hard alcohol, so I told him what it was. I ordered another drink and then the wine director came over with the best bottle of Retsina I'd ever had. I don't think it's on the menu and we had a nice talk about Greek wine. I was very impressed, not only that they had it, but that the waiter bothered to tell her I had asked about it. The food was just fantastic. Of course. Chick Pea Terrine with Apricot, Pistachio & Tahini Sauce was like a sublime hummus cake that melted in my mouth. The Trout Spanakopita with Cucumber, Avocado & Roe was also delicious. It does not have the phyllo dough I associate with spanakopita and is delicious fish and spinach. We had to get the side of Moussaka--Minced Lamb & Eggplant Pie with Whipped Fava, because of course we did. It was the best I'd ever had with a unique green tint to the top layer. It's a bit lost as a side, I think I would put it with the Meze. Of the three things I tried, the Chick Pea Terrine was the most out of this world. The next time we visit I think we will stick to the Mezes because they were incredible. But it's going to be a little while. Because my pants don't fit. We didn't have dessert because I was so full, but they looked amazing. As a dining experience, from the food to the personalized service, this was hands down one of my favorite meals in the greater Boston area.
(5)
John M.
My wife took me here for my birthday and it was exceptional. An intimate dining room with great food and service. Baked Alaska for dessert, yum yum yummy!
(5)
Erin S.
Filtered Cambridge tap water came ice cold in medium size glasses and was refilled often without my request. Just fantastic. Initially it came with a few more ice cubes than I would have liked, but was delicately refilled without spilling more ice into the glass. Perfect for a cool August evening.
(5)
Ece A.
I went to this place with great expectations to have a Mediterranean fusion food after i have read and heard so many good things about Oleana. I have nothing against the place, but I couldn't feel the Mediterranean taste as much as i hope. BTW, i am Turkish. So maybe i was slightly prejudiced. The place is quite pricey. Portions were very small. Everything was pretty fresh. Meat was very well cooked. Very friendly waitresses. Only shakshuka surprised me a lot, because it has egg in it.
(4)
Candy W.
So disappointed! The food was fine, just didn't match the expectations from reading all the rave reviews. My partner and I went to try the vegetarian tasting menu. From other reviewers, we thought the dishes would be different for both of us, so we could try more plates. However, this was not the case and we ended up ordering one tasting menu and other a la carte items. I'm a vegetable lover so the disappointment definitely wasn't about the lack of meat or fish. The flavors were too heavy in some dishes and just didn't work well together in others. Mainly, I felt overwhelm with the taste of heavy cheese without balance from other ingredients in the dish. Perhaps we got unlucky but our waitress wasn't the friendliest either. She seemed very strict and authoritative with how we should proceed with our meal. We felt afraid to ask her for anything because of her demeanor. Sadly, I don't recommend this restaurant and would not be coming back.
(2)
Marie W.
Came here for the vegetarian tasting menu, which did not disappoint. Great flavors, lots of variety, and dessert! Other dishes that were tried by my companions: Short ribs appetizer - by far the best dish of the night. Next time we're going to order a few of these to eat as an entree, it's that good. Pork appetizer wrapped in leaves - 4 stars Hummus - nondescript Entree - Halibut - 3 stars, a little bland and a little disappointing. Flavors all came from the lentil sauce. The fish itself was not impressive. Overall a good experience, though their overall attitude is a little snobby so that's one of the downsides. Food was very good and I would come back again for a special occasion.
(4)
Z D.
Go with friends, sit out on the patio, sip on one of their refreshing wine-based cocktails, and share your fill of small plates. You could not hope for a more delightful evening.
(5)
Stephanie R.
Great place! The only reason I'm not giving 5 stars is because we made a Friday night reservation for 830 and they didn't seat us until around 9pm. The restaurant is quite small and the table before us was taking their time. Looking back our meal took around 2 1/2 hours...but it was well worth the experience. All the Mezos were to die for. Their red sangria was perfectly spiced and not too sweet like most sangrias are. The red pepper whipped feta, eggplant, shrimp special, braised beef...we ordered so many little plates. The main courses (the lamb with yogurt) and the swordfish skewer were delicious mains. This restaurant is unlike anywhere else in Boston. This place is perfect for a larger group or romantic, yet casual date outing. Order lots of small plates and be sure to share!
(4)
Chris C.
Perfection. Just go, and be amazed.
(5)
Amy P.
Surprisingly casual, expectedly delicious. Every single small plate, big plate, drink, bread, and dip I ordered I would order again (and again, and again). This is a truly unique restaurant perfect for a date or a family outing. I was too full (and fulfilled) to try dessert, but I'm sure it would not have disappointed. One thing I really appreciated was the server's knowledge about the cuisine and wine pairings. She was casual, friendly, and not overbearing. Oh! And the women's bathroom is darling!
(5)
Cindy S.
Oleana, you're the best, and one of the few restaurants in Cambridge I actually enjoy. Fantastic ambiance and even better food. Lots of vegetarian options, good wines, and delicious desserts. It's a pain in the neck to get a reservation, but they have some spots usually free at the bar and it gets a bit easier in the summer when the outdoor seating is open. The dishes are on the small side, so get a bunch to share.
(5)
Ziyan C.
The vegetarian tasting menu (got this a year ago) was DELICIOUS. And they aren't like other snobby restaurants that make everyone at the table buy the tasting menu - my boyfriend and I were able to share one serving. On a Saturday night.. you pretty much HAVE to have reservations. But we were fine with sitting at the bar as it was just the two of us, and the bartender was very knowledgeable and nice. I thought he had a good NPR voice..
(5)
Jocelyn W.
Not really impressed. Started with the spinach falafel - just eh. Needed more taste. Also had the fried peppers and home-made string cheese: pretty good. Entrees: we had the lamb and the lemon-pressed chicken. Lamb: okay, really not much meat at all; Chicken: good, moist. Wait staff: though friendly, seemed very harried.
(3)
Lauren D.
I know there are already so many good reviews, but this place really is a food-lover's dream. I wouldn't necessarily say it's a Foodie's dream-- for small portions of delicious exotic things, head to Bondir, but if you want exceptionally delicious reasonable portions in a great atmosphere, you can't go wrong with Oleana. I've been here several times now and recently had the pleasure of experiencing the passion fruit baked alaska with a candle on top for my birthday. It was fabulous. I really loved the coconut base in combination with the passionfruit ice cream. You really can't go wrong with the entres. I've had chicken, beef, lamb and seafood here and all were worth having. One thing you have to try is the Muhammara. It is a pepper dip (very mildly spiced, promise) and words cannot describe how good it is. I would kill for the recipe. Also, the Maneesh bread is the best. They give you an assortment of bread to try (pita, breadsticks, etc.), but usually we ask for a second basked of bread that only has Maneesh in it. It's that good. Don't doubt. Don't question the price. Just go! Oh, and one time we saw Julia Stiles here. That was cool. :)
(5)
modhu s.
One more acclaimed Boston restaurant that sucks. The Spinach falafel tasted doughy and awful. The humus felt it was sitting in an oven for hours. The octopus was just awful. But I must say all the sauces that went with the food was very well made. I am completely dissappointed with this city.
(1)
Anne W.
I went here with giddy anticipation as this place was impossible to book.. I needed about a month in advance to get a table for six on a weekend. I am not a fan of Mediterranean food... so you can probably guess, that's one of the reasons why I don't appreciate this place as much as many people do. I do think I can recognize good food.. but I do think what you order is a hit or miss... I would stick very close to the recommendations. So first off... I really didn't like the parking situation. There is no parking available really and you simply need a permit to park on side streets. There is no valet.. no lot nearby.. nothing. I ended up finding some parking on a side street and parking illegally sans permit. I looked at the Yelp reviews at the table as we tried to decide what to order for the six of us. I didn't try everything.. but I can tell you what I did try.. Bread basket: It is plentiful and of course free.. the bread isn't awesome mind you nor warm. But it's good for any of the appetizers you might try. The olive oil was very good.. definitely had a flavor then what you buy at stores. Carrot Puree: I thought it was good.. not great.. it's grated carrots and then some spices on the side you mix together and put on your bread. It was interesting but the portion is very tiny.. a small dish. Sultan's Delight: I read this dish was awesome.. so we ordered two for our table as the waiter warned us it was very small. Of course.. this is an expensive restaurant. No problem.. so we ordered two of them. Indeed, it was quite small.. one plop of hummus.. and then tender beef. The hummus was standard. The beef was quite tender but I'd like to comment.. also, quite sweet. I also thought there was eggplant in this.. but there was none. Duck Breast Special: This was only available the time I was there. Omg.. the breast was cooked very tenderly. So.. I will give them this that it was done very well. I also liked the veggies underneath but I thought the tomato cream sauce they serve underneath the entire plate was too rich.. and too plentiful for this dish. Lamb Dish: I can't recall the exact name... but I'll just point out that it was bad. Probably the worst lamb dish I have ever had in all the Mediterranean restaurants I have ever been to. It was ground up lamb meat that was placed in sausage form and cooked. Served on top of a cold pita with some yogurt on top and veggies. The yogurt and veggies were okay but the lamb dish was very dissapointing. My friends also got the soft shell crab.. I didn't try it.. I heard it was okay.. less than spectacular.. not too much crab meat more shell. We skipped dessert as everything had underwhelmed us at this point. Perhaps it is good.. but I think this place is a bit overhyped.
(3)
I M.
I have been to this unhidden gem two times and while they say three times is the charm, one was enough for me. The place reminds me of spanish tapas but instead you get Mediterranean themed cuisine. The apps come quickly so if you come hungry you won't find yourself ogling passing by plates as you await yours. Wether it's spinach falafel, eggplant or olives, it all comes out just right. Their side of potatoes rich with thyme and whatever else are wonderful. For the main course I ordered sea bass and it was very well done, with flavors perfectly complementing each other rather than competing. Our waiter was nice and knowledgable even though it was really busy. He took the time to stop by regularly and see if we needed anything after our food arrived. To add the cherry on top, they were able to oblige my girlfriend who is vegan with an off the menu dish that was really well done. Coming back here soon!
(5)
Lauren P.
My best friend was in town and I made reservations far in advance to take her to Oleana. I had taken my parents here months ago and it was hands down some of the best food I'd had since living in Boston. Unfortunately I was disappointed with my second experience. We loved our moroccan spiced fluke nayeh but were disappointed in the seafood stew. And the worst part - our sticky toffee pudding (you know I live for desserts) was so dry we didn't eat it. I had to stop at 7-11 on the way home for a pint of ice cream. I'm hoping it was just an off night because I really wanted to love Oleana.
(3)
Stacey D.
The food here is like Mediterranean/Turkish food on crack! It's so good, fantastic for vegetarians and omnivores. Service is eh, we had a reservation and was lead out to the garden to find out our table was not available. Twice. Sad to see a glimpse of the soft lights and trees only to be denied. Oleana, that was just cruel, you are such a tease. Our server was efficient, but I don't think he cracked a smile once, and seemed slightly annoyed when I ask for details about the drinks. They could work on the whole service thing a bit.
(4)
Paloma M.
I was thinking that this place would be big and fancy, but that's not the case. It's really small and not that fancy. I didn't like the tables and chairs at all, very uncomfortable! The decor is kinda meh, not my type, and I have to admit that mediterranean food is not my favorite either. But the food was good, hummus was very good, bread with olive oil was amazing, and the cheese pancake was also very good. I ordered the sultans delight as an appetizer and I didn't like the beef, was too sweet for me, but my lemon chicken with cheese pancake was great. For dessert I had the baked alaska (so famous, everyone seems to love it) and it was ok. Super sweet, could be a little less sweet. The french pressed coffee was really good. Service was also very good, the waitress was very nice and friendly. It's a good restaurant, but overall, too expensive for what it is. It could have been a better experience for 100$ (2 people).
(3)
Denise M.
Ode to Oleana's... O-orgasmic L-luscious E-elegantly A-astonishing N-notoriously A-authentic Oleana...you had me at the O!!! The warm olive plate and the quail appetizer are my favorites. The lemon chicken with potatoes was delicious. I've been here several times and have not been disappointed. If your looking for a seat at the bar, you'll have to wait a bit. Get there early!! Don't expect a reservation of convenience if your trying last minute. I do believe the staff appreciate reservations more than guest appearances. The bar was scantly crowded and remained so for the night. Surprise appearances were ushered to a bench seat or to the patio. Luckily I ushered myself to the bar. Either way...I think everyone should come here at least once. Great place to celebrate or have a romantic dinner! Enjoy!!!
(5)
Jamie Y.
I WUVV Oleana! Their homemade string CHEESE is soo good! And the mozzarella and haloumi with spiced figs! I would suggest just getting a bunch of meze plates to share. Last time I went with one other girlfriend and we split 5 dishes. Each meze is small but we left totally satisfied! OH AND DON'T FORGET to order the Baked Alaska for dessert!!! Umm..don't even try to come here without a reservation...you'll sadly end up eating a second-rate restaurant down the street. I speak from experience.
(4)
Nick S.
Finally made it to Oleana for my birthday dinner this year. We made a reservation for 8 on a Thursday as there were no early reservations for the weekend. Parking was easy as there are two lots across the street. It may be tough to get one on the weekend but it was the easiest time I've ever had parking in Cambridge (for free, that is). We were seated promptly and our waiter was very nice. The ambiance inside is dark, but with character. My girlfriend and I weren't sure how much food to order, so we went with 5 Mezes and split an entree. 5/6 dishes were great. We got the whipped feta, which was a great start and has a nice balance of hot and sweet from the peppers, along with the creamy texture of the feta cheese. Next was the grilled octopus carpaccio, which was delicious. The octopus was meaty and tender, with a nice balance coming from the salad it is served with. After that was the lamb manti, which was a food experience I had not tasted before. The lamb manti was served with confit tomatoes, yogurt/chilies, all brought together with a perfect runny farm fresh egg. The creaminess of the yogurt went well with the lamb manti (think: tiny dumplings), and the punch of the acidity kept me wanting more. This was a really interesting dish that I thoroughly enjoyed. A special Meze of the night was an artichoke and chorizo croquette, which was lovely as well. It was served with mushrooms, and the crunch on the fried ball of goodness was perfect. Finally, for the Mezes, was the great equalizer. We ordered the spicy sardines (with shaved fennel and meyer lemon mousse) which I was genuinely looking forward to. As the plate hit the table I was smacked in the face with the pungent, fishy, oily aroma. Now I will eat just about anything, and have eaten fishy fishes (and 'like' but not 'love' them). However I could barely get one bite of this down. It is probably a personal preference (and I just don't know enough about cooking sardines to make an overarching judgment), but it was rough to say the least. My girlfriend (who is Jewish and likes that fishy flavor) barely got one down. The flavor profile was not for me, and the bones got stuck in my girlfriends throat. A rare dish that we both thoroughly disliked. But anyways, onto the entree. It was also a special: hangar steak with cucumber, pickled cabbage and what I'm calling tiropita (Greek for cheese pie). The steak was served on a skewer and had a nice char and cooked medium-rare (a little over in some spots). That with the cheese pie, and the acidity from the slaw to cut through it all was great. Oleana was a great experience with some really interesting Mediterranean flavors. I'd love to come back and try out some more dishes, but I'll stay away from the sardines.
(4)
James S.
Nice and friendly wait staff. Great atmosphere , the food is delish tasty and nice presentation you got a 5 *****
(5)
Traci K.
Happiness is labne. My heaven will include unlimited baskets full of delicious rusk and all the labne I can imagine. Focacia type bread dipped in a thick, creamy, crazy flavorful yogurt? How can you not want that all the time? Let me eat. Come into my belly. Jess W. & I went to Oleana for a lady dinner date. We had the vegetarian tasting menu (5 meze plates and a dessert). We assumed since we were both ordered the tasting menu, we'd receive five plates total with larger portions for sharing. This is not how Oleana rolls. Ten plates. Let me repeat that for you people, TEN DIFFERENT PLATES (and two desserts). Each meze was different and interesting and delicious! Turkish cheese pancake topped with arugla. Crudite with Mahamara (red pepper and walnut dip). Heirloom tomato on top of green beans and farro. Hot pepper labne with olive oil and mint. The hits keep coming! The dishes were so tasty and what's more? They were beautiful! The spinach falafel came topped with a little tahini and perched atop a flat bread that was slathered with beet tzatziki! The tzatziki was a hot pink that couldn't possibly exists in nature (but obviously does!). In.cred.ible. The food alone is 5+ stars - so adding in the lovely, relaxed atmosphere and the incredible service? Oleana is unbeatable!
(5)
Matt L.
Exceptional service and an amazing find. A friend and I were visiting from out of town and were looking for something low key and solid. Definitely has the appeal of a local that I feel out of towners won't usually know about unless they make the track and do some research. We ordered a variety of small dishes and each dish had a fresh, rich quality to it. Their seafood selection was top notch, accompanied by a rich smooth scotch. If I ever find myself in Boston, this is the place to check out for a nice meal.
(5)
Rachel F.
Wow the vegetarian tasting menu. And the baked Alaska. Every dish was flavorful and fresh. The tasting menu is great too because, I probably never would have chosen the 'braised greens with Israeli garlic sauce with pine nut baba ganoush' and yet it was my favorite. The place itself was dim and full of people but quiet enough to have a conversation.
(5)
Harry H.
My absolute FAVORITE restaurant in the Boston-Cambridge area! Everything they make is absolutely delicious. Love the flavor profiles, and the attention to details that clearly shows through. Decor and service and nice and efficient, but also allow for the food to be the biggest star. Bread salad was a winner and the most memorable dish...though their baked Alaska dessert was also awesome.
(5)
Big S.
this place lived up to the hype. every dish we got was great, and our server was awesome. he had great recommendations about all the dishes and was super friendly. the quality of each dish was also great. we got the vegetarian dish and a few other small plates. we got the fried cauliflower, spinach falafel, vermont quail, whipped fava, little lamb, spicy fideos and a crispy pastry cheese dish. everything was incredible. We didn't love the spicy fideos, but would get everything else again. for dessert we got the profiterole, which was the best choice. we were really happy here and for being as nice as it is, the price isn't over the top, especially compared to bondir down the street. we loved it here
(5)
Sarah T.
If you have a small-ish private party or celebration, it's a no-brainer to have Oleana be part of it. It's not expensive (for a wedding). You can book lunchtime any day of the week, choose the menu and drinks you want, and pay with credit card. We actually only had a lunchtime wedding reception here, but couples have the ceremony here too. When the weather's nice, they set up on the patio, and we got really lucky with the weather. It was gorgeous. There were a few not-wonderful things, that were just ok. Service was fine, but the event coordinator was not very present, and I had to frequently ask someone to go find her so I could ask a question. I would have thought she would have been on-hand, very close by the whole time. Oddly, they were definitely giving us the vibe when it was time to head out (which I understand, because they have to prep for Saturday dinner), but there was a fairly long lag before dessert, during which we were wondering if something was wrong in the kitchen, and guests were wondering if the meal was over. The experience could have been more seamless. The email exchanges leading up to the day included a fairly nasty one *the day before* about how I lowered the headcount too close to the event, even though it was more than the required 48 hours out. They do have parking across the street, which is no small factor for Cambridge. My biggest tip, though, is to stick to what Oleana does best, which is mezze and vegetarian. We tried to incorporate the Chinese tradition of a steamed fish dish, done Oleana-style with harissa. It was ok -- people said they liked it, but it wasn't up to our expected Oleana standard, if you know what I mean. I would rather have had a double (or triple) helping of spinach falafel. We were also steered to some side dishes we didn't think were very interesting (potatoes and greens), and they weren't very interesting. Chances are you know what you like at Oleana, so just go with that.
(4)
J B.
I have been to Oleana more times than I can count, most recently I went a month or so ago. I miss the way you used to be. The small plates are still great (the carrot, the labneh, oh my) but I got the bread dumplings and they were terrible (nothing like the incredible ricotta dumplings you used to make). Fideos are always the same, really good. Desert is always a disapointment (I stopped getting it a while ago).
(3)
Lin Z.
Will definitely get the sultans delight again. Also enjoyed the grilled octopus. The plate though small is very filling. The four of us came very hungry. We ordered two entrees and 3 small plates each and was stuffed with no room for desert.
(4)
Abhishek J.
Excellent food. There are some places that are really good and a place like this is above all the best place for food. The chef takes real care to make it food for all eaters. The only difficulty is getting reservations. You need to book early. I guess everyone loves this place.
(5)
Vincent D.
This place is excellent. I like to eat, as does my girlfriend. I particularly like Mediterranean food. Im also a New Yorker who has yet to find good Mediterranean in Boston. After a number of recommendations, Im really glad my gf and I went here the other night. The small plates were all interesting, unique, varying in flavors and textures. The food came out hot every time. The drinks we tried were balanced and delicious. I would recommend the falafel, which were crispy on the outside and doughy on the inside, and were awesome. As was the Shakshuka, the Burrata and the lamb dish we got. All in, it was about $60 each which I found extremely reasonable for this level of quality. This place would kill it in Soho or the West Village, which to me makes it a real stand out up here.
(5)
Cheryl D.
Husband and I went here for my belated birthday dinner, and I approve. (Well, I may have been the one to choose the place...) I ordered the vegetable tasting menu, and he ordered three non-vegetarian mezze. This was plenty to share between the two of us, and even though he is very much a carnivore, we both thoroughly enjoyed all the dishes. In fact, some of my vegetarian dishes were almost too rich for me, which I don't even know how that happens, but I will just accept the deliciousness. The atmosphere was nice, but just a tad dim. I like how it looked like it used to be a house, kind of a cozy feeling, with interesting decor. Actually, with the tables spaced as closely as they were, it was a little too cozy. I could easily have jumped in on conversations at the next table. But eh, it's Cambridge, I can deal with a little too cozy.
(4)
Laura S.
YUM! Went here and was slightly worried I wouldn't be able to eat anything (vegan and gluten free right here) - I was wrong! I ate many delicious things including the falafel, collard greens and potatoes and they were all really tasty! No complaints. Yes, it's expensive. If you're young, try to go here with parents :) The cost is absolutely worth it.
In a word: amazing. I've been here three times and each time it's been a wonderful experience. I've been here three times, and each time, everything is just pitch-perfect, from the service to the food to the ambience. The servers are really knowledgeable about the food, and what wines pair well. The atmosphere is good for nights out with that special someone - candlelit, cozy and intimate. Everything I have had here is simply mouth-watering. On occasion, I have dreams of their labne with hot pepper. Whoever thought that someone could transform a yogurt dip into something so transcendent? The spinach falafel is deep-fried perfection, too; the perfect blend of flavors: sweet, spicy, with a light, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Make sure to bring your appetite so you don't miss their baked Alaska with coconut ice cream and passionfruit sauce - it's an absolute must-have. The entrees are on the pricey side, so you would probably get the most "bang for your buck" by bringing a group of people and splitting a bunch of meze in between yourselves. That way, you get a sampling of everything, and trust me - you *will* leave full. A word of caution: sometimes it's quite difficult to get a reservation. Simply walking in, however, will sometimes earn you a wait of upwards of half an hour (even their bar gets full), so getting a reservation a couple weeks in advance is the way to go.
(5)
Mal S.
I absolutely loved this place and since I last ate here, I am fiending for more. I loved the salad with the beets and limey dressing, the falafel, sultans delight, labne, hummus, and every tapa like dish that we ordered. The only thing I did not like was the actual entree. I got the chicken and was not into it. I will return and order several of the small bites. Wines are great. Nice intimate ambiance. Get it!
(5)
Xavier M.
Great dinner with a friend. Always difficult to get a table, made a reservation a week in advance. We ordered one entree for each of us: 1) Tamarack Tunis Lamb with Turkish Spices, Pita & Everything Green with Garlic & Yogurt: great flavours for this piece of meat. I don't know how to describe it, but it was like minced lamb with spices and put together link in a large sausage 2) Crispy Pork Roll with Artichokes, Celery, Giant Beans & Avgolemono Sauce: my favorite for the sauce, the crispy roll, the pork inside, the artichokes. Really good On the down side, the place is packed and even though people sound very civilized, there is some noise. Beautiful toilet mirrors
(4)
Kartik S.
Oleana is fantastic! It is as good as it can get, really! The food is a delightful mix of diverse flavors, their wines are delicious and complement the food well and their service is impeccable. We got the Spinach Falafel and the Sfela Cheese Saganaki to start with. Both were really good. My partner and I shared the Tamarack Tunis Lamb which was cooked just right and the Estate Riesling I got seemed to match well with it. We topped it off with the Turkish-Style Profiteroles, which was ironically the biggest portion on the entire menu. We left happy and content notwithstanding the $$$ we had just splurged. I agree this restaurant is a bit pricy but it is perfect for those special occasions.
(5)
SuzaBanana A.
We recently visited Oleana a few times over the past couple months & have been very pleasantly surprised each time. The food is beautifully prepared, wonderfully interesting flavor combinations & nothing like anything else I've found locally. I never need worry about bringing a friend with dietary restrictions as they are extremely accommodating. Favorite dishes include: Whipped Feta, warm Buttered Hummus, Spicy Fideos, Fried Cauliflower, Spinach Falafel, Sultan's Delight, Crispy Duck & Lemon Chicken, They have Lambrusco by the glass which always makes me happy & some lovely sparkling cocktails. Service is always knowledgeable, efficient, attentive but never intrusive. Food is always surprising, well seasoned & often something I crave or wish I could make at home. For anyone who is looking for a beautiful & interesting meal that isn't too fancy, I highly recommend Oleana. Can't wait for an excuse to return!
(5)
Steve M.
Hostess has no hospitality. It has been my husband's dream to go here for his birthday for a year. I called to make reservations for a party of eight, and the hostess told me that they don't make reservations for that size on the weekend. I told her that's fine, and then asked if I could just make two four party reservations. She said that they couldn't guarantee that we'd be near each other. I told her I understood that, but that it wouldn't matter so long as we all could go. She then told me that she just wouldn't do that. Then she told me she would only make me a reservation for six. I told her that would be fine, and she responded immediately (obviously faster than it would take to look something up she didn't already know) that there is no availability for six and that she could only put me down for a waiting list. She asked for my name and I gave it to her, after which she said thank you and bye. That was odd because she never confirmed the spelling of my name. Literally everywhere I go confirms the spelling of my name, so it was pretty clear that she was likely not even recording the information. She was unbelievably rude. Why string me along constantly and be so dismissive? Why be so cold hearted? What side of the bed did she wake up on? I will never go here.
(1)
Bobby C.
For an appetizer, we had the Octopus and Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Cranberry Beans, Pancetta & Pepperoncini. I really liked the flavors. However, if you don't like salty dishes, this appetizer might not be for you. For entrees, we got the seared scallops (special of the day) and the lamb dish. We finished off with the Baked Alaska. A definite must try. I really liked the coconut at the bottom and the fruit caramel. Service was ok. Disliked that we sat along the wall near the hostess when you walk in. It was a bit cramped. The party next to us kept getting up and bumping into our table or our bowl of bread. Liked like live music. It wasn't too loud, just right. The owner/manager would come out occasionally to speak with the customers. Looking forward to going back!
(4)
sasha h.
If there is any place I probably frequent too much it's Oleana...but it's sooo good. This place is great for everything - a date, dinner with friends, clients or family, you name it. This place is the destination as nothing is really near it. I usually take a cab there and uber it back - sometimes cab come by but not frequently. Service is quick, food is delicious and ambiance is cute but not stuffy. There are many great dishes here but to name a few: Spinach Falafel, Whipped Feta, Fried Mussels, Chick Pea Terrine, Quail, Monkfish, scallops, baked alaska These dishes are OK but not as good as their other dishes: Deviled Eggs, Hummus, Grilled Seafood Zarzuela This is probably the only place i'd ever suggest getting a vegetarian tasting, even if you are a meat eater. Desserts are probably my least favorite this - they are good but not necessarily as unique as the rest of the menu
(5)
Elizabeth S.
Oh god... it hurts so good. Do you want to be treated like shit and eat like a king? Please come to Oleana, where the food is SO GOOD that they can pack their tiny restaurant via numerous combinatorics without including your dignity. Birthday cake? Hell to the no. Birthday candle? Are you kidding me? This is not a place for celebrations or special occasions. This is not a place to be coddled and feel super swell. This is a place to feast, quickly, and skedaddle out of there. Anything with pumpkin: A+ Sultan's delight (beef+egglant): A+ Any of their specials (I had a marvelous duck with pomegranate seeds and eggplant lasagna): A+ Hummus wrapped in tender beef: A+ Service: not too shabby, maybe a B- Host: perfectly pleasant, B+ The owner is probably a swell gal, and the service is perfectly fine. But reservations and management... definitely needs improvement. But they don't need to, because the food is, again, SO GOOD, and the restaurant is, accordingly, so popular, that who gives a fig what I think anyway? Desserts leave something to be desired... I would've preferred my birthday cake.
(4)
Irina T.
We were visiting Boston from LA. LOVED this restaurant! It was actually good that we got to sit at the bar, our waiter/bartender (Donnie I think) was amazingly helpful, suggested the best dishes and gave us a free glass of wine. We got 5 meze dishes to share for 2 people and that was plenty! Falafel balls were so amazingly tender - they melt in your mouth. The fish carpaccio dish was awesome. Duck salad was their special tonight, really good and pretty big portion. Sultan's delight was also really good but if picking one meat I'd suggest the quail kebobs. Falafel balls are a must though :)
(5)
Suruchi K.
The best restaurant EVER. And I've eaten at a lot (too many!) The spinach falafel is to die for. All the meat dishes are always perfect. And the bread pudding...out of this world!
(5)
Ira H.
I should have read the review from Eric F. in more detail. I'll do this review as a pro/con list. I will mention right away that if you don't enjoy powdered spices sprinkled all over everything you order, you should either request that they don't do it or.. head elsewhere. pros: Nice outside entrance. We were seated promptly. We met a nice couple at the very close adjacent table. The Chick Pea Terrine with Apricot, Pistachio & Tahini Sauce was very good. cons: -Sommelier was rude and obnoxious. -Restaurant is crowded and loud which was unexpected at this price point. -The Kalamatta olives although tasty were sprinkled with a powder of spice. -The Sultans delight was fine but the serving was too small for a $16 dish. The beef was very tender but tasted too sweet. - The Fatoush bread salad was ruined with the sprinkling of a powder all over it. It made it taste gritty. I will comment on the Sommelier. Maybe she was having a bad night. We asked the waiter about a glass of wine. He offered us a taste of it. We said we didn't care for it and he sent the sommelier over to help us find something. We were perfectly happy to skip the wine. She kept coming over with new tastes of wine that we didn't care for. She was challenging us to describe the wine we liked. At one point my wife described a wine she tasted as too oaky or too tannicy. This women quipped out that it was impossible that it was oaky because it was steel aged. Really? Saying that to a customer? I ended up taking one of the glasses of wine that the sommeilier offered. It was marginal tasting but I wanted to diffuse the tension. It was added to my bill at $16. The other wines by the glass were ~$8-9. Nice. We wont return.
(2)
Andrew K.
After hearing about all the rave about Oleana's, I decided to make a special date of it and booked reservations. Protip: Make a reservation in at least a MONTH in advance. I called three weeks ahead and was only able to get a late night dinner. I took my girlfriend and her friend and decided to try a little bit of everything. But alas, I was very disappointed. Now, I'm not some foodie who nitpicks at food. Food is food to me. If it tastes ok and it fills me up, that's great. However, I was more than disappointed at Oleana's. Ambience: Very crowded, where you're virtually shoulder to shoulder with the table next to you. The decor is nice and comfy, and the noise level is quiet enough to have a conversation without yelling. Food: If I had ordered pizza, or wings, or even Chinese, I would have had a better experience. - Fideo: the only redeeming portion of our meal. - Hummus: Exactly 5 tablespoons of hummus that isn't very flavorful. I've had better hummus at a foodtruck. Also, and this isn't related to flavor, but, Oleana, what's the deal with no pitas with hummus? C'mon. - Lemon chicken: The chicken was very very dry. Almost as if it'd been sitting out all day. - Duck: I feel that it should be explained in the menu that it's...a soup? It's my mistake, entirely, but I expected a plate, not a bowl of soup with duck. The menu stated: Crispy Duck, Persian-Style Black Eyed Peas, Lentils, Spinach & Verjus Butter. The meat portion was cooked well, but the soup was VERY sour. I just picked the meat portions and left the rest. - Paella: I usually love paella, but this was very bland and unflavorful. Service: Ehh. It wasn't anything special. The server seemed a bit "off." Maybe he/she was uninterested, or just had a long day, but he/she was attentive and checked in on us regularly. Overall, we all went there very hungry, and we spent about $160 on a meal that we didn't finish. We went home and ordered wings. At least I can say that I've tried it.
(2)
Sara C.
Delicious food and dessert, friendly service, inviting environment. My husband loved the baked Alaska (I did too but it was so sweet I couldn't bear more than a few bites). Only challenge was sitting right on top of our neighbors.
(4)
Brittany T.
The food here is out of this world! My friend and I split 4 small plates and could have probably just done 3. Everything was so good. I recommend the falafel. I will be back in the warmer weather to enjoy the patio.
(5)
David L.
Across the board, the food and drink are consistently outstanding. Ditto for the service...not to single out anyone, but Donnie is not only knowledgeable but attentive and uber-friendly. Our preferred/favorite table is next to the bar in the rear of the restaurant. An inviting and cozy setting with no hint of pretense. Even for my unsophisticated palate, all the dishes here seem to burst with unique flavors. We highly recommend the avocado & dukkah, cacik, spinach falafel, sultan's delight, lemon sole, brown butter bread pudding. For wine, I keep it simple - the Assyrtiko (white wine) or Xinomavro (red wine). Oleana is unequivocally worth the price of admission.
(5)
Kaitlyn O.
First of all I love Inman Square - I just think its a great neighborhood. Additionally, I love the decor and atmosphere of Oleana. The food is definitely on the very good and I am usually a harsh critic. Unfortunately, I can't remember exactly what I ordered.
(4)
Arielle A.
The food here is very good - we shared a number of mezze, the sultan's delight is amazing, the spicy fideos, on the other hand, not very good. I would not recommend ordering it. The falafel was really great, the lamb quite good, the labne as well. Baked alaska is super delicious. Overall tasty food for sure. However, the service was just OK - we ordered a bottle of wine that when I tasted it, was very acidic and I believe had turned. When I told the waitress I did not like it and thought it was not good, she did not apologize and become helpful, but rather seemed offended and became a bit rude, walking away quickly to find a manager and not asking immediately if there was something else she could get for us. It then took about 15 minutes for someone to come over to the table to get us a different wine. We ended up ordering another wine and we enjoyed it, the manager who helped us with the wine was accommodating, but also seemed a bit abrasive about the whole situation. It was a bit of an unpleasant way to start the evening and almost ruined the night. I've sent back a bottle once before, in another restaurant where the waiter immediately apologized, poured himself a taste and agreed with me that it had turned. He then immediately got us the list again and made sure we got a new bottle. It was just a much better way to react to the situation, instead of seemingly blaming us for sending back the wine, and making the situation uncomfortable - What is the taste there for, if not to verify that the wine is good? perhaps no one had ever sent a wine back before at Oleana, however the waitstaff should be trained to properly deal with the situation.
(3)
Lynette M.
Yummy
(5)
Alicia Z.
Without a doubt one of the best meals I have had in Boston in a cozy atmosphere. Personal favorites were the tamarack tunis lamb and spinach falafel!
(5)
Lisa F.
OMG the octopus here is DELICIOUS - a must order if you come here! I had the duck dish, and I thought it was cooked perfectly. The staff is great, friendly and knowledgable. You should definitely make a reservation if you come here though.
(5)
Evan D.
I have been to Oleana around 5 times and have noticed a decline over time. On my last visit, we arrived on time for our reservation and then were directed to an uncomfortable bench to wait for "our" table and told that it wouldn't be more than 5 minutes. We sat there for 20 minutes, 3 feet from other diners, looking at no less than 6 open tables. During this time we also watched a couple that arrived ten minutes later get seated. We finally were seated in the area around the bar and walked past two empty tables in that area. I am unsure how they do their seating but it seems that if you have an open table for a reservation, you seat it and let the table that is being turned go to the next people especially in a situation where there are no less than 20 open seats. The food was hit or miss but again a distinct decline from previous visits. The falafel were gummy/gooey almost as if undercooked. The quail was quite over salted. I found most of the staff to be somewhat cold/aloof and this was confirmed by my dinner partner unprompted. It really didn't feel like a welcoming atmosphere at all. The gentleman bringing out the food and busing was extremely nice. To justify my rating of two stars, I feel that the food was a 3 and that the other parts were a definite one.
(2)
Andrea A.
I visited this restaurant over the weekend and have to say it was amazing. The restaurant itself is beautiful, especially the green, spacious back yard. The food was perfect. I am from the middle east and was already familiar with many of the ingredients on the menu. I was really impressed with how the chef was able to transform so many popular dishes and with how innovative the food was. We ordered the asparagus fatteh, the zaatar marinated chicken, and the baked alaska and enjoyed every bite!
(5)
Tia S.
I wanted to like this place. It was recommended by the owner of the B&B we were staying in. I hated to tell her the next day that this place failed to meet basic expectations. It was loud, crowded and cold. We were sat at a two top beside the LOUDEST table EVER! We sat in the back and I don't know what was going on, but staff kept coming in and out of the side door. I had the Spanish-Style Pork Empanada and my partner ordered the Misty Knoll Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake. Both were so salty that we were unable to really enjoy them. Our waiter boxed them but we threw them out as soon as we got back to our B&B. Cold air on my legs, salty food and an extremely loud party makes for a ruined dining experience. Wait there was ONE good thing: the bread!!
(2)
L M.
The food and drink here is excellent overall. Some meze dishes are better than others, but I've not been disappointed in any of them. Same for entrees. The baked alaska is one of the best desserts going anywhere. The only negative thing I have to report after my last visit is that with popularity the level of service seems to have gone down. Individual waiters I've had recently aren't up to the same standard as they used to be - and not up to the standard I expect from JBF award winning restaurants. Tableside manner (being very loud) and not spacing out dishes in an efficient way (bring everything at once) were features of my last visit. Some of the best food I've ever had, but it seems like the success has stretched the staff a bit. Success also brings a different clientele. There are usually loud venture capitalists only a table away.
(4)
Elizabeth L.
I loved Oleana. It was a bit of a surprise for me, especially since the restaurant doesn't have any sign (that I could notice at night, anyway), so was very happy to eat here. It also helped that the food was wonderful! From the meze menu, we ordered the Sultan's Delight (tamarind glazed beef with eggplant), the fried mussels, vegetable tagine, and octopus with butternut squash puree. The octopus and Sultan's Delight were the highlights here -- don't order the vegetable tagine. Mostly root vegetables, green beans, and carrots in a white, watery broth. Something one might make with frozen vegetables during a blizzard. But everything else was wonderful. Shared an entree of lamb = I thought it'd be too much food, but it was the perfect number of dishes for our party. Dessert was extremely tempting, but skipping out will be a reason to go back. Also heard that Oleana recently opened a bakery -- Sofra, so will definitely check that out!
(5)
Brianna B.
"And how are those flavors?" This was the question of the night. Every time one of our mezze dishes came out (much bigger than I expected, by the way--two for two people could definitely be enough if you can hold yourself back from wanting to sample everything!), our waiter would stop by and inquire about our tasting experience. And what flavors! Saffron infusions, whipped feta, cheese dumplings--everything was amazing. As a vegetarian, I was also really impressed with the huge variety of options available from the mezze menu, and there is even a vegetarian tasting menu available. Other highlights include the french press coffee. We didn't make it all the way to dessert--motivation for another visit? Also, I should add that I showed up thirty minutes late for our reservation and they held our table for us even though it was extremely crowded and the whole party wasn't there. We ended up in the corner with the wine racks, which felt so private and comfortable in the busy restaurant (very romantic!). The aesthetic is perfect--awesome textiles, a wood stove, and tiled tables. Wonderful for a cold winter night in Inman Square.
Most of the food was dang good (appetizers were stellar, entrees were pretty great, dessert was hideously plated and weird) but it gets only 3 stars bc it's just so expensive. $100 a person (with wine) is just crazy for what is essentially simple food.
(3)
Alex S.
The best and most unique restaurant in the Boston area. Oleana is an upscale casual experience where waiters are in t-shirts but they know absolutely everything about their complex and tasty menu. The veggie tasting menu is our favorite thing to order.
(5)
Le N.
Been here twice and had a pleasant experience both times. If you want to come here, make your reservations week in advance, they do get packed! What I did both times were order a bunch of the meze (think tapas like portion) and one entree to share with my party - that way we got to try more food. :) Of all the things I tried both times, most noteworthy are the sultan's delight (the beef seriously melts in your mouth! sooooo good!), spinach falafel, and the scallop entree. And if you still have room by the end of your meal, the baked alaskan is a real treat - it's very big, so don't forget to share!
(4)
Vlad W.
I would give them 6 stars if I could. Had their vegetarian tasting menu as an entree , plus Vermont Quail kebobs as an appetizer , accompanied by a Louriere - an unusual Portuguese vinho verde by the glass. One of the best meals of my life. Enough said.
Tonight I shared the best dinner at Oleanna. This is the first time I ever left a restaurant and felt rejuvenated from the fresh ingredients, great service, and warm atmosphere. Every restaurant should take notes from this gem. I highly recommend the falafel and beef sultan. The number one ingredient is most definitely love.
(5)
Alice Y.
Went to Oleana recently with my significant other on our date night and we were very happy with our dining experience. Our server was really nice and attentive and the food was good. For me the standout mezze dishes were the quail kebob and moussaka. My significant other was a huge fan of Sultan's Delight as well as our main course, the lamb shawarma.
(5)
Nicolay S.
Order a large assortment of meze and skip the entrees altogether. Middle Eastern cuisine is all about small appetizers that can be shared with people, and this restaurant is no exception. Most meze are delicious, some are truly exceptional (whipped feta, sultan's delight, meatballs, hummus). By contrast, the fish entree we ordered was average at best, as the fish was overcooked. The lamb entree is actually reminiscent of a lamb sausage spiced to high hell. The pork was OK - nothing to write home about. The service was knowledgeable and polite. They have a nice assortment of wines.
(4)
Cathy S.
Second time here, back for the vegetarian tasting menu. For anyone that doesn't like ordering on a whim and worries about not being able to see the VT menu online, rest assured since the frequently-changed VT menu will be clipped to their main menu handed to you in the restaurant. Also the servers there (not all though) have good patience explaining everything to new-comers. Being a pescetarian i find the VT menu very satisfying, both quantity-wise and quality-wise. Although i find the menu revolves mainly around peas and i wish it paid more attention to leafy greens. The dessert here is always divine. Will be back for a main entree soon.
(4)
Marilyn C.
Ooo Oleana, you are what a restaurant should be. You are a gem, a jewel, and I heart you. I heart your outdoor patio and your sangria. Your amazing service and ooo your food, the mezes, ooo the mezes - especially the spinach falafel. This place is classy, yet friendly, unpretentious and low key. The atmosphere is great inside or outside. The service is wonderful. One of my favorite restaurants for sure.
(5)
Andrew L.
I came here for a birthday dinner with pretty high expectations. They were not met. Pros: Great service Free parking Cons: 5 dishes, all mediocre. I ate there last week, and I can barely remember a single dish, only that I was hungry after ordering 4 small plates and an entree for two people. In all honesty, you could go to your local Stop and Shop and get some hummus, then buy a white fish from the market and bake it yourself and you'd have a comparable, and much cheaper meal than what you'd get at Oleana. In Cambridge's amazing food scene, Oleana is an ugly sister to places like Salts and Tupelo's.
(2)
Varun S.
Phenomenal food especially the falafel dish. Certainly is vegetarian friendly. I didn't let the rude waitress spoil our night and neither should you.
(5)
Victoria K.
I had been looking forward to dining at Oleana for quite some time. Overall it was a very pleasant experience with just a few little kinks. We were unable to get reservations on such short notice but were seated outside in the beautiful garden area without them, which may even be a better experience than sitting indoors (weather permitting). My friend and I started with a delicious whipped feta pret a manger which was served with French bread and za'atar bread. So delicious! Next we tried the appetizer special, which was a fried green tomato parmesan. Again, really great. We both loved it a lot. Onto the entrees, mine was the special, a pan seared scallop dish with a Brussels sprout gratin, while my friend tried the duck gyro. She was left seriously disappointed in her dish, which I'll agree was seriously lacking in flavor. Mine was good, and the service was excellent (I had asked our waitress to write down the specials we had ordered so I could remember exactly what they were for future reference) and I even purchased the Spice cookbook signed by the chef. I'm sure there are superior menu items that may have saved us from the unpleasant experience of having to tell the waitstaff that a particular dish was unsatisfactory, but I can see myself giving Oleana another shot. We'll just have to avoid those duck gyros!
(4)
Graham S.
I love this place. Its among my top 5 in Boston/Cambridge, but yet it seems like not all that many people know about it... definitely under appreciated. The vibe in the outside area is wonderful - there's a garden and occasionally Turkish music being performed. They also have a nice liquor free cocktail menu, including a sangria which varies greatly but is never anything short of "good".
(5)
Rachel G.
We've been here multiple times, but our last visit (to celebrate my birthday) was reason enough to stay away for the foreseeable future. The service was some of the worst either my fiance or I had ever experienced from a restaurant--let alone one typically so outstanding. Our server was incredibly rude (she didn't ask us if we wanted entrees, dessert, coffee, water, drinks... we had to ask for every single thing brought to the table that evening) and uttered only one-word answers to pretty much every question we asked. At the end of the meal, she silently plopped the check down on the table and walked away. From the 25-minute wait from when we sat down until when we finally acknowledged that we had no server and I flagged someone down, to her absentminded "oh, has anyone told you about the specials yet?" to having to AGAIN flag someone down to actually order entrees (because no, three appetizers did not suffice as a birthday meal), to the 45 minute wait for said entrees to be presented, to being handed a check before even being asked if we wanted dessert...the experience was not one I care to have again. Oleana has long been one of my absolute favorite restaurants in Boston--both the food and the attentive service made it a stand-out choice for any occasion. They've helped us celebrate anniversaries, birthdays, and promotions alike--in fact, we were even considering having our rehearsal dinner there! But, in light of my recent experiences there, I won't be going back any time soon. Post-script: assuming that our negative experience was an anomaly, I recommended this restaurant to a co-worker to celebrate his anniversary. Unfortunately, he reported receiving similarly atrocious service from another server and won't be returning.
(2)
Armin F.
So bummed about this place, admittedly I didn't order their best dish but this place had so great reviews that our expectations were through the roof. Also having been to a much better middle Eastern place (zahav in philadelphia,pa) didn't make it easy on oleana. The service was mediocre at best, the starters were really good and the entree (pork chop with vegetables and feta) was just a regular piece of pork from the grill, nothing special whatsoever. Overall, this a good place but when you pay 100+ $ for 2 people, it needs to be more than just a good place. There are definitely a lot better places in Cambridge and Boston with a lower price tag.
(3)
Jonathan G.
We had very high expectations. I've been to Sofra a bajillion times and been won over by the pastries. I've cooked several a fussy meal out of the "Spice" cookbook, been introduced to spice mixes I'd never heard of, all to the delight of my belly. Now it was time to go the the Sortun center of universe, and I would have been disappointed with anything other than mind-blowing. And it was just that. The recommended wine was delicious, and I realized how poorly I'd been doing cooking out of her cookbook. We enjoyed every morsel. Thanks, Oleana!
(5)
Conor S.
Best restaurant I've ever been to. Intimate atmosphere, eclectic food offerings, friendly waitstaff. 100% recommended. Stop reading and book a table.
(5)
Amy S.
The pleasures of fine dining are generally wasted upon me. I really like food, but simpler (and cheaper) preparations generally suit me just fine. However, after two celebration dinners at Oleana, I'm at last starting to "get it." Key tips from a vulgar plebeian... 1) Baked Alaska - Save room and share between your party of four. It is a beautiful tower of merengue, encasing fancy ice-cream and a crunchy cookie, encircled with a ring of tangy passionfruit caramel. This alone, is worth a return visit. Probably the best dessert I've ever had in my life, and I don't usually order dessert. 2) Sultan's Delight - amazing, tender, perfectly spiced and stewed bites of short rib. A beef eater's orgasm. 3) Muhammara - a party on the palate. Elevates the concept of "dip" to an unthinkable level of sophistication. So many flavors. It seems impossible to replicate. 4) The mezze specials - whatever they are, just order them. I promise they will be the best part of your meal. The August 2012 corncake with honey/date was out of this world. 5) Choose your wine carefully. Only twice in my entire life has someone in my dinner party tried to refuse a bottle of wine after first tasting. Both times, it happened at Oleana. What does it mean? Bad cellar? Odd sommolier? I don't know, but lightening seems to have struck twice here, so I think it's worth noting.
(4)
Rebecca W.
Food was decent. Nothing super special about it. I expected it to blow me away based on the reviews. For the 90 dollar bill for two people with no alcohol, I also would have expected to have more food than we got. Overall, an overpriced OK meal.
(3)
Allen Y.
The flavor combination here are delicious. My favorite two things were: -the spicy mint labne was a really interesting, but tasty -The pork belly dish with my favorite -the octopus was the most tender octopus I'd ever had. Its texture was similar to cheese, and the grilled flavor was really delicious Advice: go with the meze so you can try more things!
(5)
T. B.
I am a foodie who eats out a lot, and Oleana has consistently been my favorite restaurant in the greater Boston area since my first visit years ago. Simply amazing. Chef Ana Sortun, sommelier Lauren Friel, and pastry chef Maura Kilpatrick are all geniuses - the food, wine, and dessert are suberb - and the service follows suit - servers are always down to earth and fun to talk with. I have been taking most out of town guests here for years and everyone has universally raved. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu, but I would recommend getting a few small plates per person and sharing (or not) in lieu of entrees. I won't belittle the experience by suggesting what to get because everything really is that good. For vegetarians and omnivores alike, the vegetarian tasting menu is a good introduction. Honestly, please stop reading reviews on Yelp and just go. You won't regret it. If you are in town for one night only, go to Oleana. If you have only one night left to live, go to Oleana. If you like being happy, go to Oleana. If you hate yourself and want to be sad, maybe you should avoid Oleana. Perfect fit for foodies. Excellent selection for vegetarians and vegans. Just go.
(5)
Gunther F.
I have been to Oleana at least 10 times, and used to consider it my favorite place in Cambridge. I still believe their food is great, but must say that the place has become quite expensive and that the service has definitely deteriorated. On our last visit, we were asked for our table in the little seating area outside. We had to ask 3 times to be able to order drinks while waiting, which I found rather annoying (sorry, it is hot these days). When we were finally seated, our waiter had apparently disappeared; after sitting idle for about 15 minutes a kind waiter from a neighboring table finally took pity on us and brought us some food. The food was good, but the overall experience very disappointing.
(2)
Kenneth R.
This short review will state simply that i'm in agreement with the 400+ yelpers who have liked their experiences at Oleana: I was at the restaurant two nights ago with a good friend. The place has totally great vibes! It was hopping at 8:30 on a Sunday evening when we arrived and still going strong an hour or two later when we left. Everyone around us seemed to be having a fine time; at the table adjacent to ours, one of the diners seemed to be a food blogger -- he was taking photos of each of his dishes with his Android phone. (Maybe he posted those photos to yelp!) We shared four appetizers, two 22-ounce bottles of Cisco Oleana 3C Ale (3C = cumin, coriander, and cardamom), and one of the daily special main dishes -- which included beef tenderloin, spinach and sweet potato fritters. The menu begins with a long list of interesting-looking appetizers (small plates) that are easy to share with a friend. I would be easy to have a large meal at Oleana and never get into their main dishes. It's clear that the kitchen likes to work with lamb, and I'll certainly go for a lamb dish when I'm next in town. Oleana was described to me as "one of the best restaurants in Boston." It's a great place that I'm happy to recommend.
(4)
Carolina N.
As a huge fan of Sofra, I had been dying to try this place. We did not start off well, because they seated us half an hour late. The hostess was very apologetic, though, and brought out 4 complimentary meze. Meze: We had the warm olives, spiced carrot puree, whipped feta with peppers, and hot pepper labne. They were all delicious, but the labne really stood out. It is a thick yogurt flavored with peppers and olive oil. Entrees: The lamb with spinach and yogurt was delicious. They change their preparation nightly, and this night it was ground kebab. We also had a scallop, porkbelly, and orzo special that was amazing. Definitely the best thing we had. Dessert: Brown butter bread pudding, which was very good. Ambiance: The restaurant is beautiful, and much bigger than I was expecting, since Sofra is so small. It has a separate bar area, and the dining room is a good size.
(4)
Edwin M.
The food is delish. Wife and I both had lamb. I had spicy fried mussels for app, she had goat cheese, cilantro, etc. Two tips. Don't order entrees. Order a few appetizers and share them. The entrees aren't any bigger than the apps but are twice the price. And don't order glasses of wine! They are half size--I'm talking 3 ounces and they cost $12.00. Order a bottle of wine instead. I complained but our waiter ignored me. He wasn't much help when ordering either.
(4)
Lauren H.
Oh....My....God.....Becky! This is going to be short and sweet. The food was amazing! We had many small plates (mezes) to experience as much as we could. The food and service was amazing. The only reason I did not give 5 stars is because the tables are so crammed together in every available space in the restaurant, you couldn't have a private conversation, nor avoid your neighbors. Our neighbors were "like" totally "like" Valley Girls, "like". I didn't realize dinner came with a free show, and the sad part was I believe these women were of professional working age and working in a real business. I totally "like" hope, they don't "like" speak like that at work. *eyeroll*. I realize the content of the conversation was not under control of the restaurant but the 4 inch space between tables was. But you will totally LIKE Oleana. Go!
(4)
Thomas G.
I've experienced the extraordinary vegetable. My boss and I were in Boston for a conference and Oleana was recommended highly by the sales rep of the host company. His recommendation was primarily based on the fact that my boss is a vegetarian. I'm not, mind you, but was told it was the most unusual, awesome vegetarian restaurant around. I like unusual very much, so I was game (no pun intended). It was exotic and wonderful. I could not even remember all the combinations of ingredients and flavors, nor the names of the dishes. We each got a different multi-course sampler. It was a tasting frenzy. When the weather is nice, dine out back under the trees and listen to a duo perform persian music. It adds that little something special.
(5)
Jeff S.
Can't say I have too much to add beyond what has already been said. One of the best places in Boston. Be sure to get a reservation and it tends to book out a ways.
(5)
Thomas S.
Delightful. Thrilling. Perfect. After a rainstorm the evening cleared up and we arrived early enough to find an open table on the patio. All we expected were some well-crafted, delicious appetizers to fill some space in our empty bellies before going out for a drink. What we got were some of the most beautiful, well thought out and tasty plates we'd had in memory. Some of the dishes were so good, and so perfectly constructed that it was a thrill to devour them. I began to giggle and realized I was getting a food high. All the while we were tended to with subtle, layered, warm service. At the moment the restaurant is participating in Summer of Riesling, promoting the versatile, food-friendly grape in several of its many guises. Very tasty juice to wash down simply fantastic food. Grilled avocado, and octopus with carrot and fennel were definite highlights, and the spinach falafel is consistently the best falafel there is. We were still talking the next day about how perfect our meal was. We're stlll talking about it now. What a gem of a restaurant.
Little hard find, but boy it's more than worth it. A top notch establishment in Boston. Go.
(5)
Nick K.
My girlfriend was nice and took me her for my birthday. We had the vegetarian tasting menu along with four other dishes. cheeses plate - delicious Sultan's delight - As delicious as it is famous on here Spinach falafel - Fantastic Whipped feta - Our favorite Vegetarian plate - Constantly changing but when we had it we loved all of the dishes. and the bread pudding was fantastic. Be prepared to spend a bit of course - our entire meal with a beer was a little over $100.
(5)
NCNY N.
Id have to disagree that it's an amazing meal for vegetarians. I had the vegetarian tasting menu and was a little disappointed with the under seasoned food, you're better off at boston kabob in allston or evoo. Anyway, I mooches off my companions and the meat and fish options were some if the best food I've had ever. Swordfish, pork, it goes on. The wine is what makes it 5 stars, we had an amazing red for $40, or less . The best bottle if wine I've had in a long time.
(5)
Christina G.
Although Oleana is listed as serving Turkish food, to me it seemed more a pleasant mash-up of various mediterranean cuisines. The menu is exotic and inspired. The space is tightly packed, but the atmosphere is warm and inviting. I had the champagne cocktail, which was simple but very delicious. We tried the fried mussels and spinach falafel for our meze and then the Lamb and Swordfish Involtini for entrees. Each dish left us "oohing" and "aahing" and helped secure Oleana a "Top 3" spot among my boyfriends favorite Boston restaurants. Now that is impressive. For dessert we tried the Cremolata on a recommendation from a friend. It was light and refreshing, but probably won't satisfy if you prefer a more decadent dessert. I hear there is live music on Tuesdays so I will definitely be back to sample more of the goods!
(4)
Kristin N.
Seriously good. Five small plates are plenty for two people. The Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets and Crinkled Cress is mouthwatering and if I could just get a lifetime supply of the Haloumi (part of the cheese platter), I'd be a happy girl. Wait staff running around everywhere but I attribute that to the spectacular service. We ended up getting our own desserts which isn't necessary since those portions are bigger than some of the Meze. Make reservations! The restaurant is right on Hampshire Street but seems hidden behind it's garden fence and parking can be an issue (street only with a ton of permit parking only side streets), so get there a little bit early. The one con about Oleana is the expensive wine list. By-the-glass options are limited and start at $10. It's more affordable to get a bottle for the table, but if you're with a non-drinker, you might have to stick to the beer menu. Similar restaurants include Casa B and Dali.
(4)
Spencer E.
This is our favorite restaurant in Boston & surround. I highy recommend the vegetarian tasting menu for veg and non-veg eaters alike. It's a feast for the senses and you'll leave feeling not only full but also savoring the flavors for days...
(5)
Sarah G.
Oleana you get 3.5 stars from me, but since I can't give half stars, I rounded down since the recommendations from our server may have led us astray... We were excited to eat here. This small, local turkish spot. But after eating here I'm not really sure if it is actually Turkish food based on my knowledge of it. Thoughts from anyone else? We started with their "Spicy Fideos & Chick Peas with Green Chard & Orange Aioli" which sounded amazing and our server told us there were almost 20 spices in this dish meaning we thought it would be bursting with flavor, but with all of those spices there was no bursting to be had. It was pretty good, but it definitely did not live up to our server's words about the dish. Then I ordered their roasted fish dish that came wrapped in this paper and that fish dish was pretty tasty. The fish was maybe a hair cooked too long, but that is easy to do when roasting fish, so I would have preferred it maybe less cooked for a minute or two. But the flavors were all there. Matt J. got their "Azuluna Lamb with Turkish Spices, Pide & Everything Green with Garlic & Yogurt" and it was just another average dish...For how expensive these entrees are, we kind of expected much better food. We even had a gift certificate thanks to a good friend and even paying with that we wish we had ordered other dishes and that our server's suggestions hadn't led us to her favorite dishes which definitely were not our favorite dishes.
(3)
Lou C. H.
Unlike any cuisine/restaurant most of us have ever tried, the menu has a glossary so you can decipher what you might be ordering. Super expensive, tiny portions, cramped seating. It failed to live up to the hype, and the price points.
(3)
Connie S.
Modern Turkish dinner spot found nestled within hanging vines-- seasonal ingredients and creative flavors, nice ambiance, and ultra-attentive service. The Vegetable Tasting Menu (5 vegetarian Meze plus Dessert for $40-- a preset menu, though it changes all the time) is a good bet for at least one person at the table. The dessert is Meze-sized, but for $5 extra you can "upgrade" to any full-size dessert off the menu. Between two people, one of us got the Vegetarian Tasting Menu, and the other ordered a meze and an entree-- this ended up being plenty to share (especially with the delicious complimentary bread basket you get). Everything was supremely delicious and beautifully presented, but the highlights: - Spinach Falafel: pillowy spinach balls, served with beet yogurt spread and cress on top of a pita cracker - Sultan's Delight: absurdly tender tamarind glazed beef with eggplant puree) - Sea Bass: perfectly cooked, served atop lentil spread with purple cauliflower - Petit Caramel Souffle: served with salted caramel ice cream and cashew crisp; absolute heaven It was a really special dining experience-- I can't wait to go back.
(5)
Silvia V.
Yes, really, Oleana is that good. I made reservations for 8:15PM, but we managed to be 30 minutes late (I called to give them a heads up) and as soon as we rolled in, our table was still waiting. Thank you. I've read 78% of all the Oleana reviews on Yelp and thanks to them hubby and I had a fantastic dinner date. I recommend the 2007 French Syrah, it complemented our meal nicely. For meze we had the spinach falafel (delicious!!!) and Sultan's Delight - fall-apart most delicious beef with eggplant. The bread and olive oil were fabulous too. I had the monkfish which was very tasty and hubby had the lamb which was out of this world good (that's what I'm having next time). We had the Baked Alaska for dessert, which was very good, but a little too sweet for my taste. The decor is very simple with a few Turkish accessories. We were seated inside and the tables were too close to each other, so we could hear our neighbors' conversations. We'll most definitely be back as the food was fabulous. Our waitress was excellent too. Oh, and all the food is local, which deserves an extra star.
(5)
Andrew S.
Food is quite good, though a bit overpriced. The menu is precious, with a glossary of terms at the bottom. If you aren't into restaurants that require translation, this may not be for you.
(4)
Brian R.
Seriously, as good as it gets. Lovingly prepared and artfully plated fresh eastern Mediterranean food. You won't be disappointed, I promise. Our party of 6 were floored from the first plate to the last. Still thinking about it 10 days later, necessitating a purchase of Chef Sortun's book, hopefully I'll be able to bring a little bit of Oleana love to my backyard soon! I would recommend reservations of course, and that your whole party show up on time or even early so you can snag an outside table. Magical.
(5)
Josh R.
Great restaurant. Awesome ambiance.
(5)
Jennifer S.
Oleana is blocks from my house and adds a certain charm to my Cambridge neighborhood. I have always wanted to try it so one friday night my boyfriend and I, and another couple, made a 5:30 pm reservation. we were excited when we were greeted at the host stand and led to an intimate table in the back of the restaurant. It was cold so the patio was not open. From the minute the service started I was put off and frankly dissapointed. I have worked in the restaurant industry most of my life and I know when I'm being rushed. Frankly, when I sit down with the intent to spend over $100 per couple I don't want to be told how to order. Our waitress was extremely rude. The menu at Oleana is full of small, or 'meze' plates, as well as larger ones. It is perfect for sitting back and relaxing and ordering a couple at a time. OUr waitress however had the intent of getting us in and out and it was apparent from the very beginning she came to the table. Our waitress insisted we order everything at once. After we asked if we could order a couple appetizers at a time while we made up our minds about the entrees, she insisted she had to put the entire order in 'for the benefit of the kitchen'. Our waitress basically refused to put in anything until we had 'completed' our order. She wasn't even suggesting how we order, she was telling us that there was only one way of ordering. She went so far as to say the kitchen only takes one complete order at a time. After my friends and I left, we came up with a tag line for Oleana that still sticks in my head, months after this experience; "Oleana; Where Everything's Your Fault."
(2)
L. B.
My absolute favorite in the Boston Area...! Got invited there as a wedding present and fell in love with this cuisine. Don't wait any longer, just make a reservation! (I wish there was more room though, it was very tight at the table and we could hear absolutely every word from the people's conversation next to us...:\)
Went here with my husband and he got the vegetarian tasting menu. He said it was the best falafel he's ever had. I went with a duck special and it was very good. The outdoor seating was great. Went without a reservation on a weekday and got seated right away. As my personal preference, I like food to be a little simpler and without so many spices, but my husband loved it.
(4)
Joe P.
Had an amazing dinner here. The whipped feta with peppers is great to start with and the lamb is also great. Amazing meal all around.
(5)
Kaitlin M.
I've been wanting to go to Oleana for ages--but was kind of nervous b/c everyone says it's super romantic and I'm perpetually single. I went with 2 friends a couple weeks ago and whoa. Best food I've had in AGES. There was a grilled broccoli greek salad that I could literally eat every day for the rest of my life and still want more of. There was a great drink and wine selection. The falafel was just SO good. Every bite we had made me sad b/c it meant I was getting closer to the end of the meal. I can't wait to go back again. The garden was gorgeous. It was romantic, but it wasn't weird to be there with friends. :) Also, I was with a friend who frequently travels to Israel, and she said the food was really authentic and amazing.
(5)
Lisa E.
Oleana was truly one of the best meals I've had in my life. It's a true must-try. The atmosphere is so comfortable - its casual and relaxed yet the service is attentive. The food is so creative and was unlike anything I'd tried before. We ordered four small plates to start and shared each. I think my favorite was a special of lamb sausage with manchego cheese - a special. Even the little nubs of multigrain bread was delicious, not to mention the new batch young olive oil it came with. I had a bite of each entree and all were delicious, we couldn't stop raving. Finally we ended the meal with their well-known baked alaska that was to die for. I didn't think I'd like it but we couldn't stop eating it. I'll be back for sure!
(5)
Benjamin O.
This place tries, and obviously uses high quality ingredients, but a couple factors really detracted from our evening. First, we arrived, admittedly as walk-ins, and were told 30-40 minute wait. That's fine, places are busy. We made a drink order which took about 15 minutes to arrive. Then we sat for another 35 minutes...50 minutes total. Nobody brought us a complimentary snack or even a kind word, as other places have done when estimated wait time is longer than expected, they just left us hanging in the waiting zone outside and the temperature dropped. Finally were were seated. It was freezing. My 70 year old mother was rubbing her hands together to keep warm. We had noticed the temperature drop but reassured ourselves by noting all the attractive heat lamps on the patio. Imagine our surprise when we were seated and the heat lamps were off. "Could we turn one of these on?" we asked. "Sorry, were are not turning them on...some patrons find them too hot. Would you like some blankets?" Sorry? What are the heat lamps doing there then? This was 9pm, it was cold, it was windy, my older parents were freezing, no other patrons were under the lamp that was right by our table, and they want us to wrap ourselves in one of their smelly unwashed blankets???? Food and service took FOREVER...had to order a pot of tea just to warm up. Food was made of high quality ingredients but a bit uneven. Lamb kabob was not seared sufficiently so was sort of chewy rather than with a caramelized exterior and moist interior, and the meat was bland and underseasoned, though accompanying spinach feta crepe was tasty. Their version of gin and tonic (paopao) was also underflavored and weak. Some sides were tasty, such as mussels, and imam fainted, though very small. Falafal were a bit gummy without the nice crunch exterior and light, fluffy exterior that characterize the best. Anyway, this place obviously can provide a very good experience if you are comfortable and the ingredients are high quality and flavors are good, but I think it's overpriced, and if you're going to be overpriced, then you should go out of your way to provide an exceptional customer experience.
(2)
Jolene S.
A new favorite! #1. The hosts seated us almost immediately (even though we didn't have a reservation on a Friday night). #2. The food was amazing (N.B. the bread in the basket goes really well with the warmed, spiced olive oil from one of our meze plates), We had the olives w/ za'atar (a lot for two people, $5), quail kebabs (delicious, tender, spicy, 2 for $13), monkfish curry (yummy, $26) and a tea-ser dessert with sour cherries that tastes a lot like vermicelli/milk dessert (12). #3. The service was excellent--perfectly timed plates, etc. #4. Ana Sortun was there! She's awesome and she was hands-on--adding things to dishes, etc. I would go back--I still like the hummus at Sofra and wasn't sure that Oleana would be more impressive--but it was excellent. Great place for a special occasion meal or a night out with tourists.
I alway say that Oleana is one of my favorite places in Boston, and I'm ashamed to admit that after living in San Francisco for a year, my tastebuds have been spoiled enough and made my most recent meal less memorable than those that had come previously. The flavors are still inventive and the presentation is lovely, but fewer things made me want to say, "just put it all in my mouth NOW", which is the mark by which I measure truly delicious nosh. However, it should be noted that the labneh starter is like crack. Creamy, supple yogurty crack.
(4)
Dahlia B.
So, I've been living in Boston almost 5 years, and in Cambridge for 3 of those. Believe it or not, last night was my first trip ever to Oleana even though everyone I know has been raving about it & suggesting I go. So my review? The patio is GORGEOUS! Worth a trip in beautiful weather just to sit there. Literally you feel like you're in another city. Get there early though because it fills up quick and they don't take reservations for outside. The wine list is good but expensive. The sommelier is wonderful, and extremely helpful, so if you're gonna throw down you at least know you're in good hands. The reason this place isn't getting 4 or 5 stars from me is because the food was just ok. That being said,I grew up eating Middle Eastern cuisine as my father is from Lebanon and a chef to boot, so I feel like if you're going to try and make traditional different, it needs to be better than the original and almost all of it wasn't. I found their meat dishes to be their best dishes, where they really shined. (In fairness, we ordered almost all of their mezze plates and no main entrees) However, their desserts are phenomenal! If you're gonna go, def save some room! All in all, worth a try in good weather.
We got into this restaurant on luck...Patio is normally not reservable but because a colleage knew a chef working there, they made an exception. Service was exceptional--our waitress knew the ins and outs of the menu--but the wait was LONG. 7:30 appointment? We had to wait till 8:30 to sit. Then if you want food, well it takes a while.Luckily we just kept imbibing on the wine. The appetizers were very tasty and the desserts were fairly good, except the Turkish whatever (ball-shaped stuff). Our entree was well prepared. My only complaint was that from 8:30 seating to eating, it took forever to get food....the kitchen closed early and they missed one of our entrees. So, 3 stars for now.
(3)
Jerry B.
I do not know where to begin, I talk a lot and i am absolutely speechless... this place AH-MAZING! First, make a reservation, my friend and I did not make a reservation and had to wait a hour and 1/2, but that is okay because my food was absolutely divine! I reviewed the menu online and had my heart set on "flounder and crab dish" advertise online, but oleana's discontinued this menu instead I got the salmon corn chowder dish....absolutely delicious. The Salmon literally melted in my mouth! I highly highly recommend this place!
(5)
Jessie C.
I love love love love love this restaurant. I didn't eat all day long because I knew we were coming to dinner! Yay! First off - the service is awesome. I've never had better - the staff is well versed in the menu and does a fantastic job of providing interesting and informative information on the menu items. In addition - they are all super nice which is a bonus. Plus when you leave the table, they fold your napkin! yay! Food - oh goodness, where to begin... i have to say in advance that i suck at spelling so i apologize if i miss spell something in this review. we started off with barata (it was a special mozz cheese stuffed with something creamy) and fideos which were killer. Then i had the swordfish for dinner - it was really thin swordfish stuffed with pine nuts i believe. and we ordered three desserts - the crepe with pumpkin jam and salted butter ice cream was bar far the best, the bread pudding was ok and you can't go wrong with Baked Alaska.
(5)
Liz G.
Besides having a great selection of vegetarian options, Oleana also offers a menu that changes seasonally. So, you'll always be eating the freshest ingredients. The restaurant even gets all of its produce from a local, independently owned farm out in Western Massachusetts. At this progressive restaurant, your inner-hippie will dine in peace, knowing that your produce grew pesticide-free! I went with the vegetarian 5 tapas sized-course tasting menu for only about 36 bucks. Seems a bit pricey, but it's completely worth it for the innovative food that your evening has in store. If you're a picky eater, this might not be the best option as your dinner is entirely up to the chef's whim.
(5)
Wonder W.
Amazing, aromatic and flavorful food - one of the best meals I've ever had in Boston. We had the whipped Fetta with peppers and the octopus & olive shish to start. Both delicious. Followed with the flat chicken and salmon with corn chowder. Serving sizes are perfect. Wine list eclectic - wines from Portugal, Lebanon, Austria etc Service was good although a little sporadic at times. Maybe given it was 8.30pm on a Saturday night - staff looked run off their feet. highly recommended!
(4)
Carrie P.
Was incredibly excited to try this place after all the rave reviews. Fantastic! If you have a couple extra bucks to spend, this is definitely a great place in Cambridge to do it. MAKE A RESERVATION! This is a popular joint, and everyone knows how great it is, so people show up quickly. I sat at the bar, and enjoyed every moment of my food. Three people split 4 appetizers and an entree, along with a bunch of drinks (homemade sangria is definitely worth it!). The food here is emphasized to be fresh and local, so the menu is always changing with the seasons and the availability. The sustainability factor makes the food more expensive, but the quality far surpasses other restaurants. The appetizers were brought out one-by-one, by a friendly server, and we were kept company by a friendly bartenter. I have zero complaints about the food at this place, I only wish it had more seating! Looks like a great date night place.
(5)
Jason O.
Great place! Food is unreal. Beer selection is great!, wish it was warm year round ,the outside seating is wonderful for a date or group of friends. If you like rich flavors then this is the place.
(4)
Veggie L.
Wow - this place was INCREDIBLE. Expensive, but so worth it. Seriously delicious. I shared 4 appetizers and a dessert with one other person and left stuffed and in awe. The falafel - SO yummy. Never tasted better. The chick pea terrine was amazing, and the pistachios were the perfect accent. Those were the best appetizers we had, although the others were wonderful too. Baked Alaska was incredible - my first time eating it, and so worth the $14 that it cost. Also a huge portion. The atmosphere was great - cozy and welcoming, and the waitstaff was amazingly accommodating and sweet. Perfect combination of attentiveness and space. I only wish it was cheaper so I could go more often!!
(5)
Snowdrops C.
we celebrated a special occasion there. It has good ambiance and the service was great. Food was quite good and not too pricey for the quality. Strongly recommend it. We had a great time there.
(4)
Jen P.
I won't go into much detail since the many virtues of Oleana have been extolled by hundreds of yelpers already, but I will say that it certainly lived up to the hype. My dinner was one of the best meals I've ever had--literally every item we ordered was incredible. Falafel elsewhere has been ruined for me since my visit. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Firat Y.
I had read about Ana Sortun in NYT and other food magazines. Being Turkish and an avid cook, I'm always curious to try restaurants successful at promoting the delightful cuisines of Eastern Mediterranean. So, here we went to Oleana. The restaurant is formed by three small, intimate rooms interconnected with narrow passageways. We stopped at the bar to have a drink (wine and beer, only) and perched on the one available stool to wait for our table. The bartender didn't have a problem with this, but the hostess quickly informed us that the bar was only for diners and the lone seat would have to be taken by someone on the wait list. So, we had to stand in a very tight corner by the bar to have a glass of champagne. We sent it as soon as we took a sip. Yes, it wasn't champagne, we were forewarned, but soda pop flavored grossness, we did not expect. We were then showed to our table in the back room, looking out to a yard, which, at first, I thought, was the Siberia. Quickly, though, I changed my mind, as this was the quietest area of the restaurant, a bit more brightly lit with a comfortably padded wall. We ordered a bottle of bubbly from the Anderson Valley, realizing quickly that the flavor profile was akin to the soda pop disaster. Thankfully, our server hadn't yet popped open the bottle. She was kind enough to have us sample all of the white wines by the glass and we picked an Assiritiko from Santorini, pleasantly crisp and mineral. And now, the food. Sortun is a maximalist, piling flavor upon flavor, trying different techniques in one dish. She often repeats herself, as in the ubiquitous yogurt that adorned a lackluster shell bean pilaki, too watery and bland, and the pita bread served under the many kebabs. Perhaps, this is how she thinks she can elevate the simple, clean taste of the Eastern Mediterranean cuisines and parlay them into dishes she can market at prices that can sustain a more elegant and upper scale venue. The result, I'm afraid, is a muddied, gloppy texture in most of the dishes. Among the meze platters, nothing I ordered was deserving of the accolades this restaurant has garnered. A minuscule mound of feta whipped with red pepper paste and sprinkled with spices, a child's play, was passable. The warm hummus wrapped with a slice of basturma intrigued me on the paper. However, the texture of the hummus when served warm brought to mind a mishap that is best not to mention in a food review. The basturma was crisp and wonderful and I would have been happier if it were served just by itself, yet, this is not Ana's style. Another big disappointment was the fried mussels served with an unusually smooth tarator that tasted suspiciously like yogurt, as opposed to the textured, wonderful almond or walnut spread that it is. The mussels are battered and fried and served next to fried green peppers. In Kinaliada, where my family vacations in the summer, I go to a stand that only sells fried mussels with tarator. It's a sacred dish for me and I was appalled at how badly it was rendered here. The mussels were way too small and their delicate taste obliterated with the spicy peppers and the amateurish batter. Carrot soup with raisins and spices wasn't any better and unexciting, something one can get at a food court at Whole Foods on a lunch break. The bread plate looked messy with sweet corn bread, crumbling into the other assortment, though I appreciated the savory sable batons with nigella seeds. The flattened lemon chicken was the winner among the mains. Yet, the over spicing of the bird led to a monotonous palate, thrilling at first, but quickly tiresome after a few bites. Ditto, the lamb kebab overpowered with cinnamon and a most unwholesome greasy, oniony taste after taste. The wild sea bass seasoned with z'aatar had an unattractive blackened look. It was served atop of an overcooked poached egg buried in a slice of pain de mie layered over a gloppy cacik (yogurt, again!, blended with mixed greens, instead of the traditional cucumber). A very upsetting sight, indeed. Ms. Sortun must have traveled extensively all over the Eastern Mediterranean as her menu jumps from Spain to Morocco to Turkey and Lebanon, etc. The problem is none of the dishes she serves has any provenance and no auteur behind them. They have no roots, respect no tradition, a jumble of spices and gloppy layers. Very mystifying, and sadly, a predictable interpretation of the cuisines of the Near East from a Western chef. She needs to learn to respect the ingredients she is working with. It is not enough to procure the organic local produce and write it so on the menu. I'm still looking for that one Near Eastern restaurant and chef, who can translate the vast repertoire of dishes full of fascinating flavors and textures into a Western format.
(1)
Meka A.
Oleana exemplifies everything I like in a restaurant - fabulous food, unpretentious, classy but not fancy, understated but not underwhelming. This is the perfect place for a date, to bring your relatives when they're in town, for a special occasion, or just for a solid night out. The menu covers a lot of the Mediterranean, so you can find Turkish, Moroccan, or Greek influences across the menu. That being said, it's not overwhelming or unfocused as all the flavors seem to meld together perfectly. I'd highly recommend the hummus to start and the lamb for an entree. One of my friends also ordered the vegetarian tasting menu which looked fantastic (a huge compliment coming from a carnivore like me).
(5)
Alex C.
In all my dining experiences never have I encountered such a variety of flavors, textures, and aromas in one meal. It's incredible how something as simple as hummus can be so different and superior to the other 100 times I've eaten it before. The trout spanikopita was delicious beyond words. I think they used red trout that has a color and texture similar to salmon but with a milder flavor. For the last 20 years I have spent the majority of my disposable income on gourmet dinners and wine. The food at this restaurant is the tastiest I've had that i can remember. Its all about flavor here. They can serve you Florida stone crabs or tofu and it won't matter because the flavor is decided by the chef. Do not miss this restaurant.
(5)
Abe S.
Went here with the girlfriend to celebrate her birthday, and I must say, this had to be one of the best restaurant experiences I've had! (I'd like to think I have some experience in this space as I lived in NYC for a while). We sat on a cozy little corner high-top by the bar, and the bartender made some excellent recommendations. We did all meze - the deviled eggs, cheese platter, spinach falafel, hummus and mandarin orange salad special were all unique in both taste profiles and presentation. We loved everything! Atmosphere is nice and casual. I'm definitely going back, and recommending to everyone I know!
(5)
Tammie P.
I enjoyed the food and the ambiance, but the baked Alaska was way too sweet and not the best choice for dessert after a filling meal. I will have to come back here soon so that I can write a more detailed review!
(4)
Jeffrey B.
One of the best meals I have ever eaten. Just get the vegetarian pre fixe menu. Meat doesn't matter when the chef is this good and it is ridiculously fun to have course after course pass in front of you. Anyway, maybe they will bring you out a spare plate of duck wings like they did for me. This is also an incredible deal. You can expect to to pay at least twice as much for restaurants of similar caliber. $40 for a 6 course meal like this (including dessert) just can't be beat. Also, our service was fantastic. I checked Zagat while passing through a bookstore before I went. No other restaurant in the city has a higher food rating. I agree, it really is that good.
(5)
Trick D.
Tried warm squid salad, two mezze, and trout. One of the mezze (quail) was not very memorable, but nevertheless well done. The other dishes were outstanding culinary experiences and paired nicely with a very reasonably priced bottle of white wine (Melon de Bourgogne).
(5)
Molly W.
Couldn't wait to go back here for my birthday and had a HORRIBLE experience. I don't want to bother you with the details but whatever you do - please do not order the chef's tasting menu. What a huge disappointment! I'm used to tasting menus being the best of the best of the menu, and we were served some seriously uninspired food. The service was also Completely uncoordinated. Maybe it was an "off" day but WOW. What a hot mess. Gotta give 'em a 1 star for not making things right after several polite complaints to management. I know that it may seem unfair (I hate when people give places bad reviews for getting a snotty waitress, or some other fluke experience) but all I'm really trying to say is... go with what you know, and don't let them choose your meal for you.
(1)
Rachel P.
Wow... just... wow. I had one of the best meals of my life here. I would definitely recommend the vegetarian tasting menu. The food was a great blend of familiar and new flavors and everything was delicious. It was almost too much food, but I got through it. The service was also extremely good - our waitress seemed really pleased that we got the tasting menu and was clearly super happy that we were enjoying it so much. My boyfriend was brought a free extra course of duck wings. Eating a meal like this is probably the best possible way to spend two and a half hours or so.
(5)
Gladys D.
Oleana was a part of my very tediously planned trip to Boston and, after reading reviews of it, I expected a truly unique and genuine Turkish/Mediterranean restaurant. Due to my origins, I know pretty well what this cuisine is about, so, I was very, very excited. Paying bill at Oleana in the end of our dinner, both my husband and I felt very disappointed. First of all, one of appetizers, braised beef, had hummus as its side: well, hummus had a really wrong smell and aftertaste. Braised beef was good though. I got spinach falafel and that was well done. For the main course, I got trout spanakopita. All I saw was trout. I know chefs often give "artistic" names to their creations but in this case name was misleading. There was not even a sign of phyllo dough: there was a huge trout on my plate covered with cucumbers, avocado and a bit of caviar with some spinach in the bottom. Good dish bot nothing to be dying for. My husband had Tunis lamb. When we hear the word "lamb" in context of Turkish/Lebanese/Mediterranean cuisine, we automatically assume chunks of young lamb, or lamb chops, or lamb saddle -- bot most definitely not ground lamb, which, moreover, did not even taste as young one. It tasted like they took a lamb of retiring age, and put lots of spices to cover its taste. Finally, we decided to try a dessert: eh. We had Turkish profiteroles. Nothing special. Conclusion: "Oleana" acts as a Turkish place, but only coffee was truly Turkish there. We later read that chef is American, and, I guess, that explains a lot. I gave 3 stars, not 2 because we loved spinach falafel.
(3)
Marilyn T.
This was probably my 6th or 7th visit there, and it remains one of my favorites. My mom is a vegetarian, so we always get the $42 5 course + dessert vegetarian tasting, and we've never been disappointed. We started with the whipped feta with sweet/hot peppers and spicy carrot puree with dukkah spice blend. The feta was nice and savory with a hint of spiciness, and the dukkah blend was a unique mix of cumin, coriander, and some other strong spices. I love the focaccia-like bread with Turkish spices on it for dipping. Next was the special salad of apple, thinly shaved fennel, muscat grapes, and a special grape (?) gastrique and mint sauce, accompanied by soft goat cheese and a refreshing apple fennel sorbet. It was a wonderful combination, and the saltiness and creaminess of the goat cheese went so well with the fruit, and the sorbet was light and cool over the shaved fennel and apple. This was definitely my favorite. We also had the spinach falafel with tahini, beets, and mache, which I always roll up and bite - fried chickpea goodness. For the mains, the vegetarian tasting had spicy fideos with chickpeas and green chard (like stir fried vermicelli), then a special stewed tomato/fig casserole with fried bread crumbs and olives, which was warm and very complex in a cast iron dish. It had so many interesting textures and flavors - not boring at all! It's another dish that highlights Oleana's ability to be creative and skilled with grains and vegetables. We also had lamb steak with fava bean moussaka. The moussaka was a tad salty but very tasty, and the creamy sauce over it matched it well. The pork loin was very tender and juicy, cooked perfectly, topped with melted pecorino. The melted cheese added a chewy texture to the pork, and it complimented the honey and celery root polenta underneath the pork. For dessert, we had the chocolate hazelnut torte with chocolate sorbet and ganache. I'm not a huge baked alaska fan, though I know many people love that at Oleana. I like dense and dark chocolate, so the dessert was perfect. As usual, we got the turkish coffee to go with it - too bad I didn't have someone who could read the coffee grinds at the bottom of the cup for me. The atmosphere was warm, as always, and the server was knowledgeable about the dishes. As always, the kitchen is very accommodating to dietary preferences and likes/dislikes in the tasting menu. I usually park on the street, but I just found out it's ok to park in the lot across the street, as long as you park along the middle road. Oleana never disappoints :)
(5)
Moomin T.
This place is a lot of hype-- if you really judge food on the taste and not on the decorating or trendiness, then you know this joint isn't worth your time. There is a lot of careful attention here to making you think you're getting something more than you're getting: this is actually quite cunning.
(1)
Julie M.
one of my favorite restaurants... EVER. the vegetarian tasting menu is amazing. one of my favorite restaurant meals I've ever had! Patio is lovely! Whenever I'm in Cambridge for business, I make a point to have dinner here!
(5)
A V.
i left this place thinking to myself, damn that shit was good.
(5)
luke b.
I wish I could give this place 800 stars. AMAZING food, AMAZING service. I'm shocked by some of the reviews here. "Not many choices"... uhh, yeah when you're used to dining at TGIFriday's or The Cheesecake factory, Oleana may seem limited in its choices. RIDICULOUS! I had a hard time choosing, everything looked so good. "Too many spices used" I hate people... YOU'RE AT A TURKISH/MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT DUMB ASS!!! If you're not into different flavors, why did you go to Oleana? And sure some people go on off nights, but i feel it's worth another try. EVERY restaurant has off nights. OH, and to the guy who wasn't let in because of what he was wearing, You must've been dressed pretty poorly because the place was full of sneakers, jeans and baseball hats. Anyway... i love this place. The food is amazing, so well done and creative, the staff was MORE than helpful especially the sommelier who talked to us at length about an amazing wine and then suggested another one to try AND brought us complimentary digestifs. amazing. I couldn't say a bad thing about Oleana. And if you DID give this place a bad review, i suggest you give it another try. Oh, the only complaint i did have was the over privileged JACK ASS sitting next to us who was splayed on his chair like he owned the place and then complained that his "dish" wasn't as good as it had been that Thursday... when we had ordered the exact same thing and found it perfectly done. I love people who will complain just to complain. Just another little note: Ok, you go to a restaurant you KNOW is expensive and complain? WTF? Yes... good food in ANY city is overpriced. But 1. think about the quality of food you're getting and 2. think about the preparation and time that goes into what you're getting. If you want cheap meat, go to stop and shop and cook it your damned self! Don't ruin a yelp review just because you're too cheap to enjoy a nice meal. You don't like the prices? Move to a cheaper city... or don't go out. Easy as that. Oh, and i DON'T eat at places like Oleana because it makes me feel ecclectic or warm and fuzzy 'cause i'm a dumb hick and i's eatin' ethnic food for the first time ever... NO! I go to places like Oleana because i KNOW i'll get good food, good service and have a great time all around.
(5)
Ken C.
OK, so I've been hearing about how this place is just the jam. I've always wanted to go, and my lady suggested it for her birthday so I figgerd is was as good of an excuse as any. So off we went, after a hot tub and massage at Inman Oasis. We started with a bottle of Greek wine and two appetizers, Lamb Ribs with Carob Molasses, Brown Butter Carrot Cake & Smoked Cashews - and a special: Fritters with Shrimp, Chorico and somethin' else I can't remember. The Lamb came out first and was really good - i was getting psyched! The fritters were pretty good, didn't blow me away. They looked cool in their little bowl. Entrees: Crispy Duck with Pumpkin Bisteeya-- Leeks, Moroccan Spices & Sugared Almonds 26 Pork Loin, Pecorino & Honey with Celery Root Polenta & Mushroom Caponata 24 Decent portions (you know how some of these fancy schmancy places can be) and nice presentation. I thought the duck was a bit over cooked (more overdone and dry than "crispy") the Bisteeya was a nice touch, complimented the dish well, but overall I was looking for more flavor and excitement out of this entree. The pork dish was great - nice, thick slice of pork loin was cooked perfectly, just a hint of pink on the inside. This entree was bursting with flavor, I think in large part due to the delicious slice of Pecorino cheese on top. This was my date's meal, so I had some serious food envy! We got the Baked Alaska as a dessert to share, once again, great presentation - they even put a candle in it in honor of the birthday girl. It was pretty yummy, maybe better than yummy, but i was pretty full and drunk at this point so I dunno if I enjoyed it as much as I could have... Great service, beautiful decor, very laid back - not stuffy at all. I just was not "blown away" by the food. I wouldn't argue if someone wanted to take me there for my birthday, though!
(3)
Christine C.
FABULOUS. Took my turkish friend here on a Friday night and ended up sitting at the bar, this place is packed! The food was AMAZING. I ordered the scallops and my friend had the vegetarian chef special courses. They were both wonderful as I picked at some of her specially crafted treats. The portions were decent and you get an amazing quality meal for the price. This is one of my favorite restaurants in the Boston area.
(4)
Maggie B.
Oleana is my absolute favorite restaurant in Boston. Sure, Oleana is actually in Cambridge. But, for me, Oleana beats out all of those far fancier spots in downtown Boston and beyond. Oleana's menu is far more interesting and inventive than most menus in town. The flavors are amazing and unique, even for eastern Mediterranean cuisine (which is unique to begin with!) But the fine, flavorful food is one mere advantage to this hot spot. I've rarely dined in such a delightful atmosphere. The hosts are accommodating, the servers are both super knowledgeable and friendly and the energy in the air is electric and inviting. Oleana feels like a great party with loads of friends. I loved the atmosphere so much that during some down time last year, I opted to host there and really loved the experience. (That's my disclaimer: I worked there for 3 months. But still, I dined there before and after my work experience and the service and food have never faltered.) My favorite dishes: the Sultan's Delight, the Falafel (truly amazing!) and the Baked Alaska (enough for 2). Make sure to ask for the sommelier (she's there most nights) as she'll help you find the perfect wine, in a reasonable price range, for your meal.
(5)
KoreanSoup S.
Love it! A very thoughtful menu. Well put together. Extremely well sourced ingredients. Our dishes were complex and delicious. The outdoor patio was great! Service was non-pretentious and friendly.
(5)
Mike Y.
Went here for my birthday and we had high expectations after reading all the reviews online. I would say for the most part, it lived up to expectation. We got the homemade cheese plate, olives, sweet potato croquettes (special) and the monkfish with lentils (special). All where excellent. We also got a couple of drinks. The Sake with Quince was really good although my wife's wasnt that great - champagne with lemons and bitters. It kind of tasted like flat ginger ale. The service was very good and the atmosphere was very comfortable. Definitely make a reservation because this place fills up every night of the week.
(4)
Bhuvana H.
I've been here several times and have always enjoyed the food, drinks, service, and ambience. I've eaten inside and outside; both are nice, obviously depending on the season and the weather. As other reviewers have noted, the prices are high so I've only gone to Oleana for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries, or when I've got a gift cert! Of special note are the vegetarian dishes on their menu; as a herbivore, rarely do I have so many options on a menu at a fancy restaurant. The food is clearly made with amazingly fresh ingredients; the farms where they get food are prominently noted on the menu and in other parts of the restaurant. And they have fun little touches that make the restaurant totally charming and unpretentious. For example, there's a sign in the bathroom that says something like "Employees Must Wash Hands.. and It's a Good Idea for Everyone Else to Do Too."
(5)
Rachel G.
The only thing better than a dinner out is a celebratory dinner out: I dined here for my sister's college graduation, in a party of eight seated on their beautiful patio. Because it was a celebration, we ordered one or two of basically everything, and everything my fork touched was utterly magnificent; as other reviewers have suggested, the Sultan's Delight and the falafel made me want to lick the plate. Perhaps the best dessert I've every eaten in a restaurant--the Baked Alaska. I'd fill my suitcase with this pile of coconut, macaroons, and tropical fruits.
(5)
Nupur L.
I can't rave enough about this place. For reasonable prices you get incredibly delicious, inventive food, very attentive and caring service and a warm, sophisticated atmosphere. This has been by far one of the most pleasurable dining experiences I can remember. Oleana elevates the mundane to the unforgettable. Their falafel and roast chicken were just incredible in their mixes of texture and flavor. I normally hate feta but found myself scraping it off the plate in their feta and roast red pepper dip. And the passion fruit baked alaska is the restaurant dessert by which I measure all others. The service is also worth mention here. My bf was torn between their special (pork loin with blood orange Israeli couscous) and their duck. The server convinced the kitchen to make an appetizer portion of duck for him so he wouldn't have to choose! For the food and experience, Oleana is a steal. Just go now.
(5)
Adelina H.
Absolutely perfect. Everything at Oleana is so memorable, even the complimentary bread and olive oil. We had the Spicy Squid (complemented wonderfully with almonds), Fatoush (the golden beets are amazing), and the Vermont Quail (so incredibly tender). I only wish we had more room in our bellies to try more meze dishes. We also ordered the Flounder & Moroccan Spiced Crab and the Soft-Shell Crab, both cooked and flavored to perfection. I had mentioned in the reservation that it was my birthday, and after we finished the meal, our waitress brought us an off-the-menu strawberry sorbet garnished with raspberries, cherries, blackberries, and flowers, with candle and all. I seriously cannot praise Oleana enough for making every meal there a wonderful experience, and I am constantly trying to think of more special occasions to use an excuse to go.
(5)
Ashley S.
If only I had the budget to go to Oleana more than on special occasions. Now that would be the life! Tucked away in the side streets of Cambridge, Oleana's take on contemporary Mediterranean/Arabic sets it apart from Boston's other top restaurants. Their use of local herbs and vegetables gives all the dishes an extra flavor punch too. It's very vegetarian friendly, has superb service that makes you feel both welcomed and important, and never rushes you through your meal. I've tried different things from the menu each time (many items change seasonally) and have been pleased every visit. The wine list is moderately priced and the wait staff can help guide you to a perfect match for your dinner choices. Oleana requires a reservation (often weeks in advance), but the real treat is to sit on their patio, by candlelight, under canopies, surrounded by greenery and terracotta. The patio specifically doesn't take reservations, but here's how you do it. Make your reservation for the main restaurant. Come 30-60 minutes before your reservation time and put your name down for the patio. Walk down the block to the B-Side for a pre-dinner drink. Come back and a patio table awaits you. Boston is fortunate to have so many standout chefs/restaurant owners who are women. Oleana's Ana Sortun is firmly among them.
(5)
Stel B.
I'm not a vegetarian, but if there is but one possibility of my giving up the meats, it would probably involve feasting daily at Oleana. Now while Oleana is not a vegetarian restaurant, I just happened to order the vegetarian prix fixe menu plus wine pairing. I know... I went all out, but no regrets here. Looking back, stopping short would have been a terrible shame. Oleana takes a lot of pride in their food and in their wine pairings. You can taste all the thought that went into that menu...how all the ingredients melded together into the perfect crescendo in your mouth. I was hoping the interior would be more romantic. It's stylish with one of those bare, yet hip decores, but the tables are all very close together and the noise level can get up there. (Mind you, all of this is no matter after a few drinks). I came here in the summertime when the patio was open. On my way out, I caught a glimpse of that serene space out back and knew I shall return and give that meal its proper setting amidst the shrubbery and trellises...
(5)
Chandler L.
This has been our favorite restaurant for years... birthdays and anniversaries are always spent here. I dont think we have ever had a meal that was not heavenly. Consistently excellent service, amazing wine, locally sourced ingredients. Thank you Oleana for bringing us so much joy!
(5)
Smitha S.
The falafel roll ups and tomato dish were just amazing. The feta cheese dip goes really well with their complementary zatar bread.. Just can't have enough of this food. I'll be heading out there again to try some of their chicken solvaki and lamb dishes. A great choice for vegetarians! Nice to go with a group of 3-4 as you can try out most of the things on their menu.
(4)
Olivia L.
Ok, so I've heard a lot about this place, mostly involving flaming, ouzou-soaked haloumi. But, I wanted to go somewhere special for an anniversary, and we hadn't been yet, so ... There were two of us, and we decided to go unconventional. Meaning: just one of us got the vegetarian tasting menu, and the other ordered two courses. Well, that was a great call! (pats self on back) On the dishes that we ordered: They had a gouda fondue appetizer that I highly recommend. It came with amazing eggplant fritters, red potatoes wrapped in prosciutto, charred brussel sprouts, three chutneys to cut the palate, and a bunch of other stuff I don't remember. The gouda was surprisingly smooth and not oily (after that review in the NYT food section, I expected a lot of oily separation, but they did it really well). Of course we had the lamb as the main course. Well seasoned, and perfectly medium, but I felt that the portion was pretty small (3 chops??). The tasting menu was very good as well, but stuck to the menu more than I would have wanted. We did get the olives (briny tasty good) and the dumplings (eh, not a fan) from the normal menu, and a very oaty re-formed pate something with tasty home made string cheesse. But there was a shaved fennel citrus salad that was fantastic. There were at least three other dishes (yes, there was a bonus), but they all ran together after the fourth or fifth course. Overall: A lot of food, but a lot of money. For special occasions, maybe. Don't get more than one tasting menu at the table.
(4)
Erin E.
My boyfriend and I tried this place a while back. It was arguably the finest gastronomic experience I have had in Boston (maybe tied with Monica's in the North End). Everytime we find occasion to treat ourselves to a nice dinner, I enthusiastically suggest this place because it was so good. I am a bread basket fiend, and the server had to refill it twice because we devoured the warm, delicious focacia-like bread. The bread can be used to dip in their featured spreads. We tried a hummous-like one. We had the appetizer special- fried oysters in peach butter. This was my first oyster experience. They were delectable. We had our entries but I forgot what we chose, as the oysters out-shone all. Also of note- we had a coconut baked alaska for dessert (forked over $14 for it) and it was very unique, enormous, and tasty. So, as I mentioned before, I suggest this place everytime we plan a nice dinner. The boyfriend always counters with somewhere else (usually Monica's, now that I think of it). I called him out on this, and he explained to me that he fears he'll throw down $60 for his part of the meal and come out hungry. The portion size here is following the trend of so many other restaurants in the area- you pay a lot for not so much. In Oleana's case, this does not bother me one bit.
(4)
nm n.
I went there last night for dinner with three friends after reading all the good reviews. I'm giving this restaurant three stars because the food didn't wow me. They do use fresh, quality ingredients, but I didn't think the food was bursting with flavor. We started off with three appetizers, which at about $12 a piece were tiny, tiny portions. Ridiculously tiny. The hummus was below average. Have had better in Brooklyn, New York. The red pepper & Feta cheese was just okay. I can make it at home. The Sultan's delight came with one small rib, which was good, but for $13 dollars, give me at least two ribs. Sigh. I ordered the lamb (thinking in a Turkish restaurant, it's the way to go) but it came inside a puff pastry and they were only a few slivers of lamb inside the pastry. It was okay, but not wow. Putting lamb in puff pastry and charging $26 dollars for it is just not right. For that price, I expect a lamb shank or at least, alot more meat. My friends ordered the swordfish and the sausage dish. Again, good, fresh ingredients. The food is light (you can tell it's not bolted down with heavy uses of butter or lard) - but for the price (about $26 dollars per entree) - it's just not all that. Oleanna's is nothing more than a good, homestyle Turkish/Meditarranean meal. If like me, you've lived & grown up outside of America and have traveled quite a bit, it's the way most people in the world eat -- i.e. they use fresh ingredients from their farms and that by itself can make food taste very different to those not used to it, but I bet if I went to Turkey or Greece, this is exactly what I'd be served in most people's homes and it wouldn't cost me almost $30 bucks an entree.
(4)
ruby m.
I had high hopes for Oleana after reading all the great reviews. The waitress we had was all business and no personality and the wine was so *grossly* overpriced, it felt like a personal insult. The food was delicious. I would have liked to try the vegetarian sampler, but was told that I would not know what it was until it was in front of me. For $44, I'm not willing to take a gamble on receiving food that I don't enjoy. What a disappointment, and how easy it would be to just allow diners to pick 4 appetizers from the menu instead of it being at "chef's prerogative" . Interestingly, the two tables that were on either side of us had the exact same questions/comments as we did. Also, none of the specials were vegetarian friendly. As a restaurant that touts itself as Turkish/Vegetarian, I'd expect a more well-balanced offering. Sadly, I won't be back.
(2)
Julia Megan W.
If you look for a restaurant to satisfy your physical and spiritual hunger, look no further than Oleana. I have been consistently delighted with the food and atmosphere here. I'm a big garden dining fan and it is not easy to be this in New England. However, Oleana understands: wool blankets are on hand for those who want to dine on the garden patio (or can't get an inside table) and for whom the braziers are not enough. As for the food: just delightful and constantly changing. Even the blase-sounding items are enchanting in some way: the deviled eggs, for example, bear little resemblance to their picnic staple namesake as they overflow with spices and tuna.
(5)
Carrie M.
I was just putting together a list of good vegetarian restaurants and wanted to add Oleana, only to find I hadn't reviewed it. The vegetarian tasting here is AMAZING. Such a value ($40), SO MUCH FOOD! I went with a friend, and it was the first tasting I had ever done. We lost track of what round of food we were on and were clearing our plates, only to realize there were about three more rounds to go! I don't know if I've ever felt so full in my life, but the food was too good to let go to waste! I love that if more than one person at the table orders the tasting they vary the dishes between you. That way you get to try even more delicious food! I also love that the menu changes with the season, makes we want to go back and try it again, and again, and again. In fact, that's it, I'm gathering a group of people to go sit out on the patio before it gets too cold!
(5)
Betty H.
Jesus. Probably one of the best meals I've ever had. Boyfriend and I, along with good friends Jeremiah W. and Kevin S. happened to be visiting Boston on Greg A's birthday. He mentioned going to Oleana for his birthday and with that it was set. We discovered it could possibly be difficult to score a table for 7 on a days notice, but our minds were made up, and we were going to do whatever was necessary. Since the patio was our only hope for a table, boyfriend and I arrived around 6:30 with the hopes of having a table around 7:30, giving our entire party time to join. We knew they wouldn't seat incomplete parties, and since two of the people weren't able to show up until 7:30, we figured we would just take what we could get. We informed the hostess of our situation, and she told us to go ahead and take a seat at the bar. Just as we had ordered drinks, Don, a front-man of sorts, grabs us from the bar, and tells us he is going to seat the two of us outside at a table for 7 because he doesn't think it would be available for much longer. Are you freakin' serious? I was shocked. And grateful. Amazing. Three more from our party arrive shortly, which made us feel a little less awkward at such a large table. Off to a great start.... We are shortly greeted by an enthusiastic waitress, and she got the drinks rolling in no time. Much appreciated! Plenty of refreshing sangria and white wine to go around. Also worth mentioning, the Cisco "Oleana 3-C ale" is a must. It is brewed just for Oleana, so you can't buy in anywhere. Bummer, because it's delicious. We started out with a few appetizers, all of which were delicious, and done family style is a must. Everybody gets a little of everything! We're well into our drinks now and feeling pretty good. Onto the entree's! Seriously, nothing short of spectacular here. Boyfriend and I decided to share one, obviously. And as the waitress is detailing the special of the day, a salmon of sorts with squash and goat cheese... Hello, you had me at goat cheese! And let me tell you, it was the most delicious dish I have ever tasted. Yes, I have probably said that like 30 times of yelp before, but I really mean it this time. I've never had salmon cooked so perfectly. The desserts as well were delicious. I mean, "Chocolate-Hazelnut Baklava & Hazelnut Cremeux with Honey-Caramelized Figs" Seriously? It speaks for itself. I'll be honest, I was a little hesitant at first. I mean, this style of food isn't normally my first pick. I have never been so pleasantly surprised with a meal, and restaurant in general. Two weeks later and I'm still full and happy..
(5)
Aashna S.
Great food. Nice ambiance. Good service. Try the burrata and falafel. Decent wine list as well.
(5)
Marc L.
As a discerning food snob I consider this the best food in greater Boston. Their food and desserts are consistently "pitch perfect" always wonderfully prepared and creative and ingredients with obvious integrity. One thing that bowls me over is that some of the simplest items, things I normally don't order when I'm out because they are easy to cook at home--are show-stoppers-- like the flattened lemon chicken (few dishes enter my dreams but this is one). I also love the flexibility of the menu with the little teeny dishes (pret a manger) and appetizers, it's makes it easy to eat light, or try many things, or to have a more economical meal. The outdoor seating is fantastic (and first come first serve, not by reservation) and between the big wool blankets they'll give you and the heat lamps it's fun to be out there late into the fall. The place has a few minor drawbacks--the seating can be crowded and therefore activity at other tables can be distracting. They're quality of service can at times include a few minor glitches. Their wine list could include more range. All of this said, the food is so remarkable and consistent that these things hardly matter.
(5)
mike y.
so if i was ever to stop eating animals...i would eat here !! but wow..i was quite surprised how good the veg food is here...yah pricey but great food !! atmosphere is great ( went for dinner ) ..kinda dark with the lighting..but a great place for a date patio was cool ... meter parking was easy to find
(4)
Mardi L.
Every bite bursts with flavor. The spinach falafel is one of my favorites.
(5)
J W.
Went to Oleana's a couple weeks ago and was I ever impressed! Some nice variations on typical Mediterranean cuisine. Flavors were complex, but delicate and the fish is superb. The feta cheese fondue appetizer is worth trying. Highly recommended, but make reservations as it was quite full and fairly small.
(4)
Meredith K.
I've gone here a few times and the food is always solid - I have a hard time finding something I feel like eating. The menu is inventive which is cool, but can be intimidating - luckily everything I've picked so far I have liked. So it doesn't appear there is anything bad on the menu. Take a risk - you may just find you like it! They have a very cozy restaurant with a nice fire in the winter, and I love the summer outdoor seating.
(4)
Hywel J.
Tired of Italian food? Sick of Mexican? Don't want Chinese again? Longing for the exotic spices of Turkey and the Middle East? This is the place for you. Oleanna is in a strange location. The street is quiet and bordering on sketchy. There's a scruffy gas station down the street and not many signs of commercial life. It's worth making the effort to track it down though, as the eastern Mediterranean fare is both unusual and fabulous good. Go for the deviled eggs, the spicy carrot puree, the lamb, the chicken with zatar and all of the desserts! The little garden at the back is quaint and romantic and a delight in the summer. They also have a great vegetarian tasting menu if that's your thing. Oh, and order of bottle of the excellent Lebanese wine, Chateau Masur. It makes for a happy evening.
(5)
hannah p.
The spinach falafel is amazing. On the appetizer menu, only $10 and big enough for a meal. We live around the corner, so it's nice to go and sit at the bar, order the falafel and a glass of wine and it's easy and cheap. We've also sat down and had a full three-course meal, too. Everything we ordered was ridiculously good. Our waiter was super knowledgeable and helpful, but slightly on the pretentious side.
(5)
Mark T.
One of my new favorite restaurants in the city. Our table was ready on time so we didn't have to wait to be seated. The restaurant is a hike from the train - I will surely drive next time since there is free parking across the street. The tables are a little close together, but not so quiet where you feel like the tables next to you can hear every word. Very cute decor - seems elegant yet casual at the same time. We had the Spinach Falafel after reading the review on here and were quite impressed. I had the lamb - which had good flavoring that was well balanced with the cucumber sauce. My date had the cod -- which was interesting, but a little bland in my opinion.
(5)
Sean E.
Perhaps 102 glowing reviews just isn't enough. This place is fantastic -- the perfect restaurant for a la de da date or when you want to impress your parents or something. The food was top notch across the board. Even something like hummus was singing like a choir of angels. The flavors for everything -- chicken, seafood, lamb -- were big and on point. The waiter was very cordial, fun and knowledgeable. Everyone was impressed and I'm already making plans to return here -- especially when spring returns and we can try to take advantage of their back patio area. Huzzah, dear Oleana!
(5)
John W.
It's no secret that Ana Sortun's Mediterranean-influenced cuisine is served in the city's most enchanting al fresco dining atmosphere. Sip white sangria at the bar while you wait for a table in their lush backyard garden patio. The menu is infused with flavors from Greece, Turkey, Armenia and Morocco. Start off with a small order of the warm olives fragrant with oregano and sesame seeds or the tangy-toasty Armenian bean and walnut pate with homemade string cheese. Their "grains & greens" entres offer a few delicious vegetarian options, and there is a five-course vegetarian tasting menu; they also have plenty of fish and meat dishes as well. The ideal spot for a romantic date or to bring yr parents when they visit.
(5)
Penelope T.
yes yes yes. vegetarian tasting menu all the way. amazing food. A++++. negatives: the tables are too close together and the chairs are pieces of crap, but the food makes up for this.
(5)
Laura F.
Unique blends of flavors, Mediterranean, Californian, Middle Eastern? You must make reservations because it is warm and intimate. One thing, the food is very rich. That is usually a plus, but it seemed too much, but that was really all my fault (ordering all the richest things on the menu!). My second fav place in Cambridge/Boston.
(3)
E. A.
My husband and I had dinner at Oleana on Saturday, June 30th at 7p.m. We had been looking forward to it for quite some time, and we had to wait about two months to get a Sat. night reservation. We are lucky that we eat out quite a bit and nice restaurants, and Oleana was NOT worth the wait. First, the waitress, Makenzie, came to our table and immediately rattled off several specials, before asking what we would like to drink or allowing us to familiarize ourselves with the regular menu. We then ordered a bottle of white wine which was delivered without a means to keep it cold. When I asked if they had a cooler/ice bucket, she said that we could either keep it on ice in the kitchen or she could bring us a marble cooler. We chose the marble cooler, but wondered why this was not offered automatically. Second, there were tons of fruit flies/gnats in the restaurant. We understand that it is summertime, but it is disappointing to experience this indoors a nice restaurant. Because of this, a big bug landed in my husband's freshly poured glass of wine. He did try to remove it, but it was difficult as the glasses were deep. We told our waitress, and she took the glass and said it would be taken care of. Another woman returned with a fresh glass and just poured another glass of wine from our bottle and immediately departed. We told Makenzie that this was disappointing that there are only 4 glasses in a bottle and we just lost one, through no fault of our own. The other woman came back and said they could give us another glass but then they would have to open an entire other bottle and she suggested taking 25% off our the cost of the bottle. I find this extremely tacky in an elegant restaurant. In the end, that is what we did. We will not be returning to Oleana.
(2)
Karyn S.
Good wines by the glass. The Sultan's Delight was incredible; I would eat that as an entree if they offered it for sure. The spinach falafel was great. Whipped feta was a little odd and very strong. I would pass on the deviled eggs if I had to do it over again. Flattened lemon chicken for my entree was good. My friend got the lamb and found it a little difficult to finish because it was so rare but the taste was good. I got a pistachio and cherry dessert that I didn't like; tasted a bit like licorice to me. My friend got the farmer's market strawberry dessert and loved it. Overall, a great, quiet dinner experience with a very good waitress. I would go back.
(4)
Aarti C.
It was amazzzzing!! Went there with my fiance to celebrate our engagement and we loved the food! We made last minute reservation sand got in at a decent time for dinner...We both agreed that it had been a long time since we had enjoyed food! the oohs and wows went on through out the dinner. There are loads of options for vegetarians and it was a wonderful experience. I would highly recommend Oleanaaaa!
(5)
Dianna B.
Three hours of food bliss! My friends and I gathered here last night and had an amazing the time, the food was so interesting, fresh and varied. Two of our party had the vegetarian tasting menu which is a steal at $40 and it was a ton of food! Our three mezes for the table were the carrot puree, spinach falafel and octopus salad -- all were big hits! Dessert was amazing, so be sure to save room.
(5)
Bryan M.
I had a relaxing dinner for two here last weekend after returning from a hectic business trip to Portland, OR. My date and I started with the warm spiced olives with za'atar -- perfectly ripe, with just the right amount of herbs. My date ended up with three appetizers: Summer squash stuffed with shrimp, spinach falafel, and fried homemade Haloumi cheese. I had the roasted lamb with manchego mashed potatoes. I wish I could tell you which one was better than the other, but I just can't. They were all fantastic. The falafel had the perfect texture, held together nicely, and wrapped with fresh lavash bread to make little yummy wraps. The summer squash tasted like it just came from the garden (it did). The cheese was definitely not the stuff you buy at the store -- delicate and light, perfectly fried. The list of wines by the glass featured a white lambrusco -- normally a fizzy-sweet Italian red made famous by Riunite -- but this white was complex, fruity, and refreshing. Service was attentive, friendly, and casual, just the way I like my friends. I'd go back in a heartbeat.
(5)
Flora B.
Oleana is delicious. The deviled eggs were to die for (w/ tuna and curry flavor) and I loved the spinach falafel. They use chickpea flour to make the falafel really light and fluffy. Really tasty combination of flavors... I'd take a foodie here any day. Oleana is now one of my favorite Boston-area restaurants! And there is a lovely outdoor seating area in the back. A peaceful dining experience.
(5)
Jason L.
It's taken me a week or so to write this review -- too much wining and dining to catch up with! But Fri., 7/20, Lynn and I went with friends (also attending the law conference) to Oleana. This was our second visit here, and the first after they remodeled -- they did an excellent job. The interior, as well as the outdoor patio, is more inviting, more warm, and more comfortable. The food, compared to our visit three years ago, was even better. (So was the company, but that's another story!) We began our meal with two appetizers "for the table" -- the Spicy Carrot Puree & Egyptian Spice Mix with Nuts & Olive Oil and the Warm Buttered Hummus with Basturma & Tomato. Both were absolutely delicious! We paired with a delightful 2005 Gruner Veltliner by Salzl, which we continued with our next round of dishes: the Grilled Octopus with Spicy Sicilian-Style Bread Salad & Cauliflower; Heirloom Tomato Kibbeh & Heirloom Tomato Dolma with Labne; the Summer Squash & Squash Blossoms Stuffed with Sesame, Walnut & Homemade Cheese, and the Cold Tomato Soup & Lovage Granite with Greek Rusks & Whipped Ricotta. Each was spiced beautifully, full of flavor and perfectly prepared. For our entrees, we had the Hake & Crab Kibbeh with Basil Brown Butter, Kolrabi & Corn Chowder; the Softshell Crab Saganak- Stewed Tomato, Fennel & Peppers with Feta & Rice Cake; the Sea Bass & Homemade Grape Leaves with Cabbage, Chanterelles, Rosemary & Mastic; and the Lamb Steak with Turkish Spices & Fava Bean Moussaka. We were all in Heaven . . . Over the years, Oleana has just gotten better and better . . . . (thanks to Lindsay Tusk of Quince in San Francisco for the original recommendation, or we never would have found this place!).
(5)
Irene R.
After reading so many good reviews here, I expected far more from Oleana. Yelpers, do not lead fellow yelpees astray!! So I am writing this to tell people who haven't been there before: don't have too high expectations!! My opinion is to the contrary of several posted here, but do read and note that not every yelper thinks Oleana is a godsend of a restaurant. I thought the food was good (5 stars) but far too expensive and the choices are limited (minus 2 stars) -- they have about 10 total entree choices (4 fish/4or 5meat/ 2 vegetarian) and 1 daily special. Nothing immdeiately appealed to me on the menu. Every item had one ingredient I didn't know of and hadn't heard about, and the menu lacks any further description. When we asked the waiter for more description, I felt he was rather snotty to explain! As if everyone entering should be familiar with fiedos and aioli!! He splashed wine when he poured and they splashed water when it was poured. They served our bottle of white wine without a chiller, which I thought was shameful, but our small table really didn't have room for more. They dimmed the lights up and down several times, which we thought was funny and ended up laughing about, doing "eyebrows" when the lights got lower and lower. The restaurant got very full by the time we were leaving, so that one couple was hawking our table -- they gave them menus while they stood at the bar! In the end, the food was good, certainly different and a treat to experience, but everything else not good -- I did not like the waiter, the service, the prices, the ambiance. I found all of those very distracting to an otherwise nice dinner.
(2)
Colin N.
Disclaimer: I'm very price sensitive! Fancy Mediterranean Food. That's basically what Oleana is. They do it pretty well! I had very high expectations after reading that they were one of the top 10 restaurants in Boston. I took my girlfriend there last night for one of our occasional special dinners. We got a starter (shared), 1/2 bottle of wine, main courses, tea, dessert (shared). How much you ask? Gulp.... $145 incl. tip. Granted, it wasn't as painful to pay for as the $250 taster menu at L'Espalier 5 years ago when I was a student. I still left feeling as though I didn't get good value for money. I give it 4 stars because it's the best darn meditterranean food you'll find in boston, but at the same time $13 for the dessert special seems a little outrageous!
(4)
Curious V.
Delicious and diverse. Went to Oleana and got the Vegetarian Tasting Menu. It's five dishes and a desert for a fixed price. Every dish tasted delicious and the flavors of each were so unique and distinct from the others. After every portion we were wondering what they were going to give us next. As a vegetarian, I love when a restaurant has a variety of foods for me to eat. The dessert was a sorbet on top of a pastry "nest" with pistachio cream and candied lemons on the side. So unique and delicious. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED. We showed up without a reservation and we were extremely lucky it was a Sunday and we got a table.
(5)
Nicole S.
Yelp did not lead me astray. Great food, service and value. I loved the veg tasting menu and the concept of serving me one version of a veg menu and my husband another is genius. We truly got a sense of the talent and creativity in the kitchen. A $36 price tag for a 5 course meal is hard to beat. I am so glad we were able to experience Oleana.
(5)
G S.
I wanted to really love this place but it turns out I only liked it, which is fine. We just had dinner here this past Saturday night. No reservation but the website said none was needed for the patio seating. We arrived just before 5:30pm (no, we're not senior citizens, just wanted to beat the crowd). Well, the crowd was already lined up outside the doors and spilled onto the sidewalk waiting for the 5:30pm open. "Wow. This is a good sign," I thought. Thing is, everyone waiting in line ahead of us filled up the patio and we had to wait at the bar. No big deal. We should have gotten there earlier (or later). We waited for about an hour and 20 minutes - understandable. The white sangria was delicious though not the greatest I've ever had. Refreshing and pleasant but not outstanding. We had the Kalamata olives pret a manger which was very nice. Good bread. After sangria, I opted for something red - a glass of the Italian Pinot Nero for $12 a glass. I wished I had waited a couple minutes before the first few sips because they had just opened the bottle for me and I densely didn't think to let it breathe first. It started out nice but ended up beautiful. Very nice glass. I ordered a second with dinner on the patio. yum! Lovely patio! Green, cool, open, not too crowded with tables. You could tell it used to be a Cambridge back yard but it was very nice and comfortable, classy too. We opted to share the halibut entree after having our olives and a half serving of the ricotta dumplings with oyster mushrooms and kale (I think it was kale). The dumplings and mushrooms were great but the sauce they came in was way too soupy for my tastes. The halibut was by far the best part of the meal (second only to the yummy pinot nero). It came with stuffed grape leaves and was wrapped in one, too with tomato something or other and a covering of some sort of breading and spices - delicious!! It was baked on top of a hot terra cotta roof tile which made for a really cool presentation but also served to keep the fish warm as we ate it. Brilliant! For dessert, we had baked alaska (w/coconut ice cream inside on top of some kind of coconut cookie). The passion fruit caramel tasted strange. I found it to be more like burnt orange sauce than passion fruit and caramel though I could detect both. It just wasn't my favorite sauce. I think just caramel would have tasted better. We also had the special dessert - I cannot remember what it was called. But it was sort of like a pancake filled - FILLED - with pistachios and topped with strawberries (though we were told it would be mixed berries, I saw only strawberries) and some type of middle eastern yogurt which was not very sweet. It was tasty. I also tried a glass of the driest dessert wine on the menu - an italian muscato, I think - which was just fine. So, overall it was a very decent meal - tasty, yummy - but not spectacular and I didn't think it was quite worth what we paid for it (about $125 with tip, plus the $40 at the bar for 3 drinks and our olives). Our bar service was just okay but the guy looked super busy. Our patio service was way better - "Terri" I believe was her name. (She even added a little candle to the baked alaska when I had only barely mentioned we were there for a birthday. Nice touch. Thankfully, no singing.) A solid 3 stars. Maybe 3.25.
(3)
Rebecca R.
Great restaurant! The food was very interesting and all had a great flavor. We ordered 4 small plates, got a basket of really yummy bread, and had desert. The Spinach Falafel was great as well as the Focaccia bread and Baked Alaska.
(5)
Ladyjane S.
I've been to Oleana a couple times and the food has been exquisite each time. The Sultan's Delight and Ricotta Bread Dumplings are a MUST. I have to say my experience indoors and outdoors on the patio were very different. Indoors, it tends to be very loud and tight...as in you might almost be sitting on top of the person at the table next to you. Outdoors, it is nicely spaced, the decor is beautiful and they have these awesome heating lamps that kept me mesmerized and toasty warm in the cool autumn air. The service is wonderful, very attentive and they really do make you feel special there. All in all it was a great experience and the food was amazing. Get the Vegetarian Tasting menu... so much food and SO worth the price.
(5)
Lucy M.
The food was amazing, well flavored and cooked to perfection. We only ordered the Meze or small plates for dinner, and the Tamarind glazed beef was to die for, we also had the hummos, falafel which was also amazing. I have had many falafel sandwiches and they are usually dense, but these were so fluffy and light and then complimented by beets! yummy. Olives were pretty good, we actually ate them after our meze and before dessert. We made sure we had dessert as the pastry chef is also well known. I had the almond cremolata and chocolate panino, I could have eaten a dozen of those paninos. My bo had the bisteeya which was ok, but the nougat was insane and even if it was just that, it would have been enough. We also got a bottle of champagne and the bill was not bad at all. Our taste buds were satisfied all night as every bite was filled with spice balance and perfect texture. My only negative is the lack of personal space, my hips are not small and was worried I would knock someone's glass over when I squeezed between the tables, but if that means they fit one more table in so I can eat there, so be it!
(5)
Jeremy S.
I thought dining in Boston was second tier until I tried this place. Wonderful food and amazing desserts - try the apple ice cream Souffle!
(5)
Jessica T.
One of the best meals I have ever had. I went here for a celebatory work dinner and it was incredible. The staff were so helpful and patient - and the food was simply - breathtaking. The flavors were so unique and precise - and each course was arranged with care and a masterful artful eye. The ambiance was also perfect at Oleanna. We were a large group, but were treated like royalty with never empty wine glasses - and food that almost made us tear - it was so good. Would recommend this place to everyone and anyone. I can't even think of one complaint or suggestion for the place. It was perfect dining.
(5)
Andrew K.
This place was so good! I took my girlfriend here for her birthday and it couldn't have gone better. I had the scallops and she had the monk fish, and both were delicious. One of the cool things about the restaurant, is they own a farm, so most of the vegetables are seasonal, organic, and don't travel very far. Fresh ingredients, with no pesticides mmm mmm tasty. The desserts were delicious as well, but the highlight was the pure white jasmine flower tea. It was served in a tall wine glass with the actual flower in the bottom and as it steeped the flower emerged and looked incredible (it tasted great too). I told our server how impressed I was with the tea and he said their "tea guy" puts great pride into the teas on the menu. I have never heard of a place with a "tea guy" but I want one at every restaurant I visit in the future. We also bought chef Sortun's cookbook and can't wait to TRYand recreate the Oleana menu at home.
(5)
Maggie G.
I love this restaurant! It's wicked expensive but worth every penny! Definitely a special occasion place, and the food and drinks are so ingenious and delicious. I love interesting flavor combinations, and Ana Sortun is a master of blending rare and unusual spices into tasty meals.
(5)
Angelo V.
I have been going to Oleana since it opened, and have been a devoted fan for years. Overall, this is still one of the top restaurants in the Boston area. However, the portion size of the entrees have gotten ridiculously smaller over the years, while their prices have been increasing. For instance, their signature dish, the lamb with mousaka, is probably one of the best dishes in Boston. Today's portion is probably half the size of the same dish served just a few years back. Although I really enjoy the restaurant, it has been increasingly more difficult to justify the prices given the morsels served -- although quite tasty morsels they are! Oleana, either decrease your prices (unlikely) or increase portion size!
(4)
K F.
Oleana has an extremely creative head chef who very successfully combines unusual ingredients and offers dishes for a wide range of palettes (veg vs meat, popular vs obscure tastes). We also dig the fact that it buys all summer vegetables from a CSA farm in MA. The service was very good, our courses were timed very well, and the space had great ambience. A perfect place to celebrate a special occasion! For the pret a manger, I highly recommend the spicy carrot puree and the homemade string cheese with mint (the complementary walnut pate was pretty good, although not outstanding). These dishes had just stunning flavors. The Berkshire pork belly appetizer special paired with dates stuffed with feta was excellent---and local! Both grains & greens entrees I found delightful and creative. I preferred the fideos because of their unique seasoning, and think that the dumplings may appeal to a broader audience. For the meat dishes, both the salmon kibbeye and rabbit were well-done. The kibbeye would be good especially for folks who might like to steer clear of strong + unusual spices. The rabbit meat itself was a touch bland compared with previous rabbit dishes that we've had. I would highly recommend the falanghina red and the proseco wines, as well as the paopao and white port cocktail apertifs. My only complaint is that I would have preferred for the waitstaff to have split the drinks so that our table could share them more easily. All in all, an excellent and very memorable meal!
(4)
Alastair G.
Ab-so-lutely incredible! I proposed to my fiancee yesterday and wanted to take her to Oleana for a celebratory dinner. A few things amazing things about the place: - The manager and staff went out of their way to get us a beautiful table in the back even though there were no open spots in the system - The food was out of this world. My fiancee was blown away; the veggie tasting menu was terrific and some of the larger meze dishes like the Sultan's Delight were absurdly good. A lot of fancy restaurants have tons of dainty dishes but no hearty, manly courses that will fill you up. Not so here - everything was delicious and very filling. - The service was impeccable. In addition to very friendly wait staff, the server brought us some sort of nice champagne at the end of the meal on the house. - The prices are not as bad as you'd think. True, you will definitely break $100 for two people with drinks, so it's not cheap. But for a restaurant that is pretty firmly in the fancy category, I was expecting to pay more than I did. Could just be expectations, but I thought it was good value given the category of restaurant we're talking about. Maybe I'm being too generous (I just got engaged after all), but I was impressed and even a little bit touched by a restaurant that went to great lengths to make our special dinner even more incredible. Will definitely be coming back next time I'm in town!
(5)
Amikam R.
Oleana occupies a large dining room and a smaller one where the bar is next to the open kitchen. The tables touch each other and the noise level is high. We were four for an 8:30 dinner on a Saturday. We had to wait for our table. If you don't want to wait in the bar you can sit on a small bench in a narrow passage where the servers go to and fro. The meze were overall very good - the warm buttered hummus, the hot pepper labne, the octupus and the cheese plate. The sultan delight - which is a piece of short rib beef next to a spread of eggplant with pine nuts - was excellent. The halibut was very good and so was the lamb. The sword fish was excellent - served thinly sliced. The cremolata and the pumpkin crepe were excellent. The service came in waves - one minute it was knowledgeable and attentive and then for long minutes it was absent. Nobody said anything when we left after leaving a very good tip on top af a substantial check.
(4)
Nathan H.
One of my favorite restaurants in the price range. The falafel is awesome. They use local ingredients and their menu changes frequently. I've been here four or five times and only one experience wasn't fantastic.
(5)
LouLou C.
The food here is heaven! The atmosphere and decor are beautiful as well, albeit a bit small and noisy. Go in summer and get a seat in the terrace in the back. The other plus is that they have parking directly across from the restaurant.
(5)
K P.
We had a leisurely dinner here sitting out in the garden on one of the last nice days of fall. The appetizers and desserts here are excellent, but I was not as impressed with the main courses. Standouts were the spicy carrot puree and almond cremolata and chocolate panino dessert (almond ice cream with toasted almonds and a chocolate panini pressed on brioche). It's possible our expectations for the main courses were too high given the outstanding appetizers. Next time I go I'd order a bunch of the appetizers and skip the main course.
(4)
Brendan M.
Probably the best dining experience I've had in Boston. The atmosphere is classy without being stuffy, the service is friendly and professional, and the food...Ah, the food... I went with a large groups of colleagues, and we all ordered different things so we could get a taste of as many dishes as possible. Everything was lovely, but here are some gems not to be missed: the hummus wrapped in bastourma, the tamarind glazed beef (appetizer), the turkish spiced lamb, and the ice nougat with pistachio pot de creme to finish it all. At this stage you will be so contented that you'll barely bat an eyelid at the 3-digit tab.
(5)
Jody G.
My new favorite restaurant! Been dying to try it for years and we finally went to celebrate our wedding annivrsary. Hoping my husband takes me back again for my upcoming b-day. The food was spectacular, the setting romantic; just perfect! Made my tastebuds dance!
(5)
Jess P.
As others have mentioned, the food is fascinating and flawless, and hasn't missed a step in my 5-6 visits. I'd add a 6th star if I could for the following reason: Ana Sortun has racked up a few very prestigious accolades with her work at Oleana, but none of the fancy pants attitude. I took my little brother (an aspiring chef) here to celebrate his cooking school graduation, and Ana came out with a flight of free appetizers and some kind words of encouragement for him on a hopping weekend night. That generosity, and the community-mindedness of her partnership with the Fam School via her husband, elevates Oleana from great restaurant to great restaurant doing great things.
(5)
Hal W.
We have been for the last year trying to get in. When we finally do-had to with notice break the reservations so far in advance. Finally we make it. Last night Feb 12. Always tough when an anniversary falls next to Valentine's day. First unlike the North End and the rest of Boston- FREE PARKING Next the host after a welcome talk gave us a nice table. Very nice. Waitress was very attentive , answered, and anticipated all questions. The support "busboy" was also right there with the water and cleaning. Yes we had to take either a 6 pm or 9 pm reservation (we took the 6) But it was a relaxed dining experience. We left at 8:20 pm. The wine was great. The fried mussels were unreal. The four of chose 2 of the smaller (dips) and then 2 of the larger appetizers. The other was the spinach falelfal. They will create a fourth for sharing. Three had the salmon and I had the cod. My wife usually gets salmon so it is unusual for her to comment how great it was. She is a stickler for freshness and way things are cooked. I had the cod. It was also great being so flavorful. I usually do not order fish outside home-usually shellfish, prime rib, or unusual dishes. And the desserts did not disappoint. All portions were fine. We reworked the bill to tip the waitress more. For this type of restaurant we felt the pricing was very fair. Our friends that we invited were also impressed. This was worth the trip from Newburyport and we look forward in trying other dishes in the future. But, I will have to reorder that mussel dish again.
(5)
Daphne M.
Oleana was a real dining experience for me. John F. and I went for my birthday in July and I'm constantly looking at the menu and trying to plan the return trip, though we can't frequent these kinds of restaurants. If you are a vegetarian seeking fine dining, look no further. The vegetarian tasting menu dazzled me with creative flavors and fresh ingredients: only the best vegetables and spices. Course 1: Armenian bean and walnut pate rife with fresh herbs and served with delicate homemade string cheese, and a divine whipped feta cheese flavored with sweet and hot peppers; when I finished the fantastic bread with it, I continued to eat these divine spreads plain. Course 2: summery and fresh, a barley rusk bread soaked in cucumber jus and topped with chopped yellow tomatoes, a seasoned whipped ricotta that was almost yogurty, a bit of olive oil and some basil shreds, with warm olives on the side, and eating this I was purring with delight. Course 3 was the famous spinach falafel, with thick tahini and delicious yogurt and beet sauce; John had the tamarind-glazed short rib and I scooped up the delightful eggplant and pine nut puree. Course 4 arrived, a rich fried zucchini pancake (like a latke) in tomato brown butter, melting heavenly in my mouth. Course 5, finally: ricotta and bread dumplings with porcini, kale, and red wine sauce...lots of onion, tomato, and herbs as well, delicious though could have been salted a little less. While I didn't get the famous baked alaska because my menu came with dessert, I didn't mind so much; my frozen cocoa bean souffle, served between two cocoa nib tuille cookies and drizzled with a high-cocoa chocolate sauce, was delicate yet decadently delicious. The sangria I ordered with the meal was one of the most delightful drinks I've ever had. The fabulous food was enough for 4 stars easily, and the lovely atmosphere of the garden patio, complete with musicians in the corner, elevates it to 5. The polite, respectful, and attentive service makes it deserving of more, were they here to award! This place was a delight and a real treat; do not hesitate to try it yourself!
(5)
B P.
Always wanted to try this place, but went here by chance this weekend. Parking was hell, but when we got there we were seated immediately, which was a wonderful surprise. The bread basket had two kinds of bread, the tiny pieces sprinkled with spice were tasty. My drink was quite miserable (cocktail with mint and grape) and tiny (thankfully) and I found myself drinking most of my husbands beer :). We tried the appetizer special which was duck...man..was that good!! Service could have been more pleasant. On a date night, I don't need attitude to annoy me..as a side to that drink they just poured me! The food came out, modest portions.. we were starving, but it was pretty tasty, and we were surprised that we were quite full by the end of it...and yes my lovely server had to tell me the portions were quite generous..not a word I would use to describe it...but why bother on a great evening with fabulous company and good food?
(3)
Abdullah A.
Perhaps the toughest table to book in Cambridge/Boston. But once you are granted entry to this place, you realize why. Each dish was prepared with so much thought and soul. The ingredients are beyond superior. You want to explore the exotic world of oriental cuisine, there is no better place. The only time I have been here I was sitting inside, so the ambiance was not great. But I hear the outside patio is exceptional.
(4)
Annie P.
As the 57th reviewer I'm not sure it would make an impact to say anything at all but I still want to write this review. DO NOT BE SCARED OF THE MENU. It seems a bit too ethnic authentic (which makes no sense---but think simple and you will understand) when you read it but really look at each item, narrow the key ingredients of what your taste buds love and just order. You will like. I went with two extremely picky eaters and they each found some thing different in each course to enjoy. Had two PRET A MANGER's. Which is basically cute and colorful spreads made for the side house bread basket. I'd go for the thick but spice heaven Armenian bean again. One tiny order of it is enough. Out of the three entrees-- I had the Lamb Steak even though I had no idea what Fava Bean Moussaka that was served on the side was.There was serious rub down of herbs and seasonings. Loved every medium rare bit of it. The french press for three was the size of my head... pouring it for friends at the table felt like I was in my own home just using my own press from Macy;s. If you like a non traditional but overdone all over restaurants dessert to chose, go for the Baked Alaska. It's inside filling of coconut ice cream and passion fruit caramel is pretty insane. It's similar to fried ice cream with a Mediterranean/Caribbean flavor twist. It's huge. Worth the price. Sicilian Almond Cremolata part was bland and not too memorable.. Overall time wait for everything was short. Service was good but not so special.. just fine for eating and leaving. Which is too bad because I'm sure if they put in a little more effort.. tons would come back weekly. Presentation is damn amazing. Each dish spunked up with a unique platter. Whether some rustic looking pan or plain white dish bowl ..they knew how to draw the eyes and appetite. Also noticed the table next to ours ordered the same dishes but the plates were mixed up in the bunch. Guess there's no certain pattern just a stack of beautiful plates. Plus for me since everything seemed so organized and tidy in there. Music included a lot of Buena Vista Social Club and other dreamy, romantic and full tunes. WINE LIST is extensive... bit of everything and makes you crave travel. There was a woman carrying around her big baby to tables and the baby almost hit heads of diners and made the staff cringe. Not baby friendly. Draws a lot of yuppie like Cambridge old money humans, boring couples and tons of loners. Just how I semi-like my little more than ordinary fine once in a blue moon dinners. So I'm not sure I;d go back so soon. It's comfortable in there though... for sure. Make sure to make reservations.
(4)
Nicole D.
I was thoroughly unimpressed with Oleana. After reading the reviews on Yelp, we were excited to go for a great meal. We were sorely disappointed upon eating the food. The appetizer we ordered, brisket, was quite good, but both of our entrees went unfinished. I ordered fish stew, which came with overcooked fish with no taste, and boiled potatoes with no taste. My boyfriend's dish, the rabbit, presented a strange cacophony of flavors and seemed like it was put together haphazardly. Finally, the price was outrageous, especially given the fact that the food was inedible. Afterwards, we went to the nearby KFC to eat an actual, affordable dinner that tasted good.
(1)
Sweta B.
Oleana was a really warm and romantic place to have your meal...the outdoor patio is really cozy with its fireplace beside every table...and when I still felt a little cold they gave me a soft shawl to wrap around...they have some of the most elegantly presented mediteranean food in town.... If you want to spend a cozy evening with the speacial people in your life and you have thing for mediteranean food this is the place to go...
(5)
Hibah H.
Delicious, if not a little overpriced. Worth it for the Sultan's Delight alone, although the various dips were also wonderful.
(4)
Ahmad A.
The best restaurant!!!!! Falafel is amazing. Baked Alaska is the best I ever had. Chicken with zaatar and phlio pastry is amazing also. Everything I tried was memorable. Even the tap water tastes better here lol
(5)
Johnny Y.
overpriced, uninspired, not tasty. Bland, standard fare without a flare of anything really. and everything kinda tastes the same. I wouldn't say they suck, they're just not good, a significant disappointment. Drinks menu is very limited as not a full lic. Would not recommend this place at all.
(2)
Logan J.
this place is amazing without a doubt, but it falls a little short for me because of the price. im all for paying a pretty penny for a great meal, but in this case, i think that a lot of people are judging that the food is so much better than other middle eastern places only because this place is more expensive. the food was great here though. the hardest part is deciding what you want to eat. they have a great little tasting menu, which i would highly recommend. when i had the tasting once, they had a nice mix of typical items with some very interesting, original items. the set-up here oozes romantic. candles, close seating, dim overhead lights...oh yeah, very romantic. the place is pretty small, but i think that they have a few different smaller areas sectioned by walls, which gives it an even more intimate feel. i would definitely return here, but it would have to be for a special occasion or an event. its not an everyday kind of place, but its worth trying and worth returning to to share it with someone special.
(4)
Alyssa A.
Favorite place in boston. Great atmosphere, charming and warm staff, and the food is incredible. Every dish. I will never stop going back.
(5)
B T.
Went there with my bf and we love every bite of it! My soup with lemon broth filled with mushroom, scallops, clams, etc was DELISH!!! Try the vegetarian tasting menu and it makes me want to be a vegetarian EVERYDAY if I can have such yummy dishes!!! Must try and book your table early!
(4)
Taylor Y.
unique dishes, great cozy atmosphere.
(5)
Chris F.
Our first visit was too quick, but we had time to try four small plates that were, when combined with the wonderfully varied bread basket, just right. Service was exceptional, had us out the door with time to spare, without ever making us feel rushed. Bravo! We will be back again soon, probably to order several small dishes again, to dally over the inventive, delightful fare!
(5)
Stephanie G.
This is a great restaurant! Everything here is so delicious! I love the mezedes - it is my dream one day to just go and have a meal entirely of mezedes. What bliss. But the main meals always lure me away, and with good reason. We had the falafel (yum yum!), the sultan's delight (OMG YES) and I had a special amazing chicken-stuffed eggplant. It was all just so good. And, bonus points because the beef in the Sultan's Delight was grass-fed, so I felt no compunctions eating it (beef usually being a meat I avoid because of antibiotics, etc etc). One thing to prepare yourself for - this is fusion. The menu uses 3 different languages for "garlic flavor" (toum, skordata, and aoli), which seems little excessive to me. But, whatever, learn something new I guess. Also, it's frickin' amazing food, so if that's what you care about, go.
(5)
Jan Marie D.
Went here for a belated birthday dinner with my coupled friends. Sat on the gorgeous patio. We all shared everything. Got the vegetarian tasting menu. All delicious things. But you would think that people that passionate about food would be as passionate about the eating experience. We waited almost 20 MINUTES before someone took our order, because our waitress was at the next table telling her other customers her life story as it related to food.
(4)
Morgan H.
I wish I could give Oleana 4.5 stars. My best friend and I went for her birthday and decided to order a bunch of meze instead of two main courses. Though I'm glad I got to try a lot of different dishes, I started to feel overwhelmed with each dish that came out. We ran out of room on our small table so there was pressure to finish the dishes on the table before moving to the next. The next time I go I think I'll get a main course instead; maybe even the chicken dish featured on The Best Food I Ever Ate ("Misty Knoll Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake"). Definitely make a reservation before going. I'm really glad we did since the restaurant was bustling. We were in the back room with the bar and the open kitchen and I felt like our neighbors were a bit on top of us. That said, sometimes "intimate" quarters can be fun. We also got to observe Ana Sortun herself hanging out at the kitchen counter. Our waitress was impeccable. Friendly, easy going, and knowledgeable, and she checked in with us just enough (but not too much). The glossary on the menu was extremely useful as well. It saved us from asking our waitress a million embarrassing questions. And now, for the meal: Drinks - delicious. I had several Islas (Cocchi Americano, mint, and bitters) and finished with a Cocchi Americano on the rocks. If I hadn't eaten so much I probably would've been wasted! Spiced carrot puree and dukkah - sweet, spicy, and flavorful. Tip: don't fill up on the delicious bread before your meze arrive because you'll need to use it for the dips! Whipped feta with sweet & hot peppers - like the carrot puree, it was sweet, spicy, and flavorful. Octopus and crispy Brussels sprouts, cranberry beans, pancetta, and pepperoni - very good. Savory and salty. The octopus was incredibly tender and a bit smokey. Grilled squid and sujuk with black eyed peas, butternut squash, and fried prunes - the fried prunes were a bit too sweet for me, but I'm sensitive to sweetness. The butternut squash puree was to die for, and I absolutely love black eyed peas. The squid, like the octopus, was cooked perfectly. Spicy fideos and chick peas with green chard and orange aioli - my friend had ordered this the last time she ate at Oleana and recommended against it, not because it was bad, but because it wasn't as good as the other things she'd had. I have to agree with her. The texture was nice and the flavors were neat, but there was too much orangey sweetness. It almost reminded me of those chocolate oranges people give out at Christmas. It was closer to a dessert than an appetizer. Sultan's Delight (tamarind-glazed beef & smokey eggplant puree with pinenuts) - this was to die for. The beef was melty and uber flavorful and the eggplant was like heaven. We also had one of the evening's specials that ... at this point I can't really remember. It was like a very thin flatbread with delicious handmade mozzarella and ... other stuff. Man, I have a horrible memory. Anyway, it was quite good. It cost around $170 for the two of us, and we ate and drank a lot. Not bad for such a lovely gastronomical experience. Bottom line: go. Try it. You'll enjoy.
(4)
Sasha B.
So so so good! One of my favorite restaurants in Boston! I have to take off a single star, because there are a couple dishes I didn't enjoy, but if you go and order well, this is a 6 star experience! You start with bread and the most delicious olive oil. It has a strong olive taste, I had to forcefully stop myself from finishing our basket. My suggestion is to order family style, and based on the number of people you have, order main entrees for half your party size and 3-4 small plates for the other half. (ex. Party of 4 = 2 entrees and 6-8 apps) The entrees really are to die for, every one I've had has been delicious. Such a great combo of flavors and spices, they some seriously artistic creations! The best small plates are the Sultans Delight (fall apart lamb and unreal baba), the spiced carrots (seems simple, but they are amazing!), the falafel....ok, there are a bunch that are great, but those are some favorites! I would skip the deviled eggs, multiple people talked them up to me before I went, really not that exciting. The chick peas in vermicelli, also not great, in fact I really did not like it with the fake orange taste. It reminded me of one of those chocolate oranges you can break apart. The black eyed pea soup was nothing special. For dessert, please get the baked Alaska, it was unbelievable!
(4)
Deborah T.
I have been going to Oleana at least twice a year for the past 7 years and have been 100% satisfied every single time. The ambiance is perfect! Cozy, not pretentious, and during transition seasons (fall, spring) the outside garden makes Oleana my favorite place to dine at. Great wine and beer selection. The food I consider more of a french Mediterranean twist than just Turkish (as it is listed here). I tend to order a selection of appetizers rather than an entree. The appetizer selection goes from deviled eggs to tamarind glazed beef. Regardless of what I eat and my mood I always make sure to leave room for my favorite desert - the Baked Alaska! - I have been loyal to Oleana's baked Alaska for as long as I have been loyal to the restaurant itself. It is a perfect mix of coconut ice cream and passion fruit caramel cooked to perfection! Oleana is my restaurant of choice when I want to forget about life and indulge myself in amazing food and wine while sitting at a cozy, beautifully decorated room filled with interesting people. If you want to make your trip to Oleana a special night I recommend making reservations... unless you know someone that can save you a place at the bar like I do :-)
(5)
Lynn C.
tuesday night we got a table for 8:30 and there happened to be live music. very cool. service was okay. food was phenomenal. - spinach falafel was very saucy and flavourful without being too salty - sultant's delight (braised beef) was okay, but the brioche made it better - sirloin special was insanely good. the beef was marinated perfectly with turkish spice and cooked exactly as we asked (medium rare), the gnocchi and ricotta cheese paired with it was a surprisingly great complement to the flavour. i wished we discovered this place earlier.
(4)
Val S.
Oleana is my favorite restaurant, by far. It's some of the best food I've had and I've been to a lot of places (around the world). You can tell the food is SO fresh and is just perfectly made. I would recommend this place for a good date, it's a bit weird with a lot of people because its small and intimate. I don't come here often, unless its an occasion because its a bit pricey, but completely worth it. Make a reservation in advance because it's a popular place. I would recommend getting a bunch of starters instead of full on meals because they're so unique and all are totally different.
(5)
Dee C.
My favorite part of the meal was the WATER. Food was good, tho a bit pricey for the quality and quantity. My waitress was awesome tho food did take over an hour and it wasnt that busy.
(3)
Andrew M.
Wow, this is a fantastic restaurant. I went with my fiancee and my parents, who usually don't get excited about eating anything other than Chinese food (their native.) We ordered the vegetarian tasting menu as well as some mezze and entrees with meat, and shared everything. The dishes were creative and fantastically delicious. My parents both loved the food and when the bill came, we were surprised that it came out to only $30 a person, since we got much more delicious food than expected. One gripe: in the summer, they need to put out some mosquito zappers and/or repellent. I got bit around 10 times during the meal, with corresponding itchiness afterward. Make a reservation in advance if you want to sit inside!
(4)
Elizabeth S.
I had such high hopes for Oleanna. We were there last night celebrating our anniversary. We had an 8:30 reservation. When we arrived, we asked for outdoor seating (they don't take reservations for outside) and were told that it was full. When we said that we didn't mind waiting, we were told "there isn't enough time" by the host. Not sure what that meant. We were seated and it was 5 to 7 minutes before we were given water then another 15 minutes before the harried waitress took our drink order. While the waitress was nice when she was at our table, she was also a master at avoiding eye contact so as not to be brought over. We ordered a bottle of wine that was taken away to keep cold. That meant our glasses were often empty and we were at the mercy of the waitress to come fill them. Service, not up to snuff. The food. We had fried mussels and the Tuna Kibbe for appetizers. They were the absolute highlight of the meal. The mussels were crispy but not over cooked. The tuna Kibbe was so interesting and different I loved it. The entrees were a real let down, almost to the point of sending one back. My husband ordered the special Duck entree and it was just ok. Nothing spectacular. I ordered the lamb which is a house specialty. While my lamb was cooked well to a nice medium rare. It was the toughest lamb I have ever had. It was also not butchered well as there was a line of gristle going all the way through the cut I got. I had to ask for a steak knife to even cut through the lamb. At $26 for the entree that is unacceptable. Desert was so underwhelming I won't bother to tear it apart here. Based on everything, I have heard, read and seen on yelp this is supposed to be stellar. Perhaps a bad night?? There are so many excellent places to eat in Cambridge and Boston, that I won't give this one another chance.
(2)
Hoang L.
Pretty much one of the best places I've ever been to. Highlights of our dinner: 1.) Spinach Falafel - Delicious, creamy, soft, flavorful - probably one of the best dishes 2.) Grilled Halumi with Peaches - tart, salty, and extremely savory sauce... only "so good" can describe it. 3.) Sultan's Delight - a creamy, mashed eggplant dip with pinenuts, accompanied by a small piece of beef that has a sweet savory, barbeque-like sauce 4.) Pork Meatballs with Sauces - delicious mix of onions + other veggies with the meatballs. Veggies really made it flavorful. 5.) Quail Kebab - More subtle than the previous, tart barberries, and loved the crisped rice below. 6.) Baked Alaska - Too big, but good. overall, we thought that the vegetables were probably the best part. The bread was delicious, especially the wheat flatbread. Music was awesome and the service was awesome - not too many places that would potentially allow us to grab a pear from their tree =)!
(5)
Kerry T.
I thoroughly enjoyed all of the dishes at Oleana. My favorites were the whipped feta, spinach falafel, Sultan's Delight, and Fluke Nayeh. For dessert, the Baked Alaska was quite a site! The food is very unique and tastes amazing! The space is very small and cozy. The tables are close together, but that really did not bother us. Overall, we had a fantastic meal and would come back!
(5)
Michael A.
What a great experience! From the mezze appetizers to the main course, I truly enjoyed my meal overall at Oleana Restaurant. I started with three mezze dishes... 1. Warm olives and za'ater 2. Spicey labneh 3. Hummus wrapped in basterma (cured beef.. looks like bacon) I never had warm olives, they were a pleasant delight. Small table olives sitting in a warm bath of EVOO and generously sprinkled with za'ater (a Middle Eastern mixture of spices of sesame seeds, thyme and sumac). The spicey labneh was amazing! For those who do not know what labneh is, picture it as a smoother cream cheese. I could not figure out what type of minced hot peppers they added but this spread had just the right about of heat! I could eat this with olives and bread all night! My last mezze dish was the hummus wrapped in basterma! Man oh man, I never had hummus like this before. The way the hummus was made was very different.. it was blended with a load of cumin and believe it or not, butter! The sliced basterma melted in your mouth and it was very tasty. I could have eaten a hundred of them! All these dishes are rather small however its well worth it in my opinion since they are quite unique. For my main dish I opted for the lamb (there's only one lamb dish). It was also excellent even though it was different than what I expected. The lamb comes rare (cooked only around the sides (not bloody though).. middle is very pink. However it cuts like butter and tastes flavorful with the spices they seasoned it with. I thought that I would be turned off by it but was not. The lamb sits on a bed of a yogurt sauce (yogurt, cucumber, garlic, mint) and a side of veggies. Overall great experience, nice ambiance, nice service and I would definitely come back again!
(5)
Kevin L.
The unapologetic, frosty (literally) welcome we got nearly made me lose my appetite. As our friends warned, the portly fellow manning the door would be the worst part of the experience. Us (looking around the tiny foyer): Where should we wait? Portly man: You're welcome to stand outside. You're lucky it's a balmy evening. Me (muttering): Gee, I'd hate to see what his idea of "cold" is, given it's probably under 40 with the windchill. So, standing outside it was. True to our friends' word, eventually after being seated, the rest of the dining experience here was solid. Questionable non-liquor cocktails, a quality beer selection (including some of my favorites from Unibroue), and truly exceptional execution of the contemporary twist on Middle Eastern food. As others mentioned, the veggie tasting menu is heartily satisfying and offers a varied selection of dishes. Most noteworthy, to me, was the spinach falafel served on soft lavash, bright greens, and a bed of brilliant fuschia beet tzatziki. All told, with significant volumes of food and booze, we left with checks of roughly $50 a head. Our final piece of entertainment was the extremely messy table of diners standing around smoking outside the venue as we left... a server came out and effectively told them that they had shorted her $50 for their check. How you manage to leave a check short by $50 is amazing. I'm kind of curious how they sorted -that- out...
(4)
Aimee C.
Dear Oleana, You were worth every bit of the 2-hour wait, for many reasons: Your service (A big thank you must go to the manager that night, whose great menu advice and hospitality went above and beyond), your wines (the red from Lebanon will be re-ordered - sooner than later), your atmosphere (a night under the stars on the backyard patio). Your food. Ah! The food ... I'd recommend hitting the meze's hard, and ordering the blessed Baked Alaska. Now I see what the big deal is. You have earned your reputation, and I count you among the city's best.
(5)
Jessie E.
So I have been going here over the years and I actually worked here for a couple of years when it was first opened. I must say Ana and her partner Gary are the two nicest people I have ever worked for. I recently had a 30th bday celebration here with a few of my girlfriends and we were blown away. We sat outside on the beautiful patio and sweated our behinds off. We shared an amazing octopus appetizer, a salad with watermelon in lettuce cups and a fresh corn soup, all were amazing. We also had the haloumi cheese app which was good but not noteworthy. For mains I shared the flounder stuffed with crabmeat, served over a bed of gorgeous green couscous and the flattened chicken with a tasty cheese pancake. For dessert my favorite is the Baked Alaska which is a coconut macaroon topped with homemade toasted coconut icecream, toasted meringue and passion fruit sause. This has all of my favorite dessert elements rolled up into one; hot and cold, crunchy, chewy and smooth and the tartness of the citrus contrasted the toasty coconut perfectly. Seriously the perfect way to dive into my 30s.
(5)
Mark S.
Loved it! Loved it! Loved it! The Shakshuka was spectacular. We did an assortment of appetizers and every one was delicious. Enough reason alone to go back to Cambridge.
(5)
Xinlei L.
love it! romantic place~~ try quail and the vege tasting menu.
(5)
Erica M.
From the street, its facade is modern and minimal, but inside is inviting, elegant and the outdoor patio is a gem. So relaxing, the branches of the large tree shading the space. Small lights hanging from the trees create a romantic and lovely al-fresco dining experience. The food was divine and I can't wait to go back and try the things I didn't have room in my belly for the first time. Stand out dishes - the Muhammara, the falafel, and the kale salad were amazing. The Sultan's Delight was so flavorful and tender that you could shred it with a fork. We were lucky enough to try the buratta special which was cheesy and delicious and everything one could hope for. Service was good - attentive but not intrusive.
(4)
Erin C.
Definitely creative and lots of good vegetarian options. A little overpriced. It's best to come with a group and order tapas style so you can try a lot of different things. All dishes are flavorful and most are executed well, but some dishes are a little too out there where the flavor combinations don't work as well. Atmosphere is fun and casual.
(4)
TszHang T.
Oleana is a wonderful restaurant with warming atmosphere and tasty Middle-Eastern inspired food. I have been to the restaurant twice, and I am planning to go there again when there's a "major" date to celebrate! Overall the food is delicious and delicate. I tried the vegetarian tasting menu last time which comes with several small-sized dishes and the Baked Alaska as dessert. I would definitely the Baked Alaska! Service was good, and they even had a duet playing Mediterranean music live! Most of the tables are for 2-4 people, which is a great place for dating couples :)
Wonderfully creative dishes and plentiful appetizer selections (so you can easily sample more than just one dish) finished off with equally inspiring desserts. And all of this in a beautifully decorated, classy (but not pretentious) setting bursting with character. The servers are friendly and knowledgeable, too. You really can't ask for anything more. I've been here twice -- once for an intimate dinner for 2 and the second time with a group of 10 where we sampled the entire appetizer and dessert menu. My favorites included: deviled eggs w/ tuna, warm hummus with cured beef, hot pepper labne (a yogurt dip but really amazing!), spinach falafel, kohlrabi & radicchio pancake, fried mussels, sultan's delight (glazed beef and eggplant), celery root dumpling, king oyster mushroom soulvaki, and moussaka. All of these dishes are more complex and beautifully plated than you might think from reading the names. And, definitely sample the Baked Alaska and bread pudding desserts -- you won't be disappointed. As a final note, this place is also great for vegetarians and you'll need to make reservations regardless of your party size.
(5)
Terry C.
The Spinach Falafel is D.E.L.I.C.I.O.U.S.
(4)
Claire G.
I had an ok experience here. It is hard to get a table. If you want to be seated at the beautiful outdoor patio, the average wait is 45min-1 hour. I think the key is to come here with low expectations. They do have a very creative menu, but the small plates (meze) we got were hit and miss. We tried 5 meze and none of them blew me away (and for the prices we paid, they should have!!). Dessert prices started at $11 so we didn't even try it. Service was just ok. If spending $60 per person for dinner and drinks doesn't weigh heavy on your conscience, I would recommend trying Oleana. The atmosphere is wonderful and the food is different.
(3)
Elizabeth G.
I was apprehensive about going to Oleana. Some reviews say it's sublime, other say it's so-so. Well, this is a lot of money to drop for food that's just so-so. Luckily, it wasn't. Went there in a party of four and we all sampled each other's dishes to bring YOU this in-depth report: THE FOOD * warm olives with za'atar (Mediterranean spice mix) - I don't know what folks are complaining about, these things are phenomenal. Loaded up with spices and floating in olive oil that you can use as dipping sauce for the delicious complimentary bread. * carrot puree with dukkah (also a spice mix) - Wow. Truly pops with flavor. One of the best items we tried. * hot pepper labne with olive oil & dried mint - A block of firm yogurt, doused in olive oil and topped with a single (large) mint leaf. There were no peppers per se, just their flavor infused in the olive oil. It was hot and spicy and a great complement to the sweet of the mint and the sour of the yogurt. My favorite dish all night; this one had me licking the plate clean. * octopus and crispy brussels sprouts - These are served shashlik style on a skewer. It's a fun idea but the octopus came out a bit chewy and dry. The accompaniment has changed since the online menu was posted, so I can't remember exactly what it was, but it involved a substance in the polenta neighborhood, with ground nuts (walnuts?), pomegranate seeds, something green chopped up (parsley?), and a sauce... Not that helpful, I know, but whatever it was, all of us loved it. Also one of the best things we tried. * spinach falafel with tahini, yogurt, watercress - a little plainer on the flavor spectrum than other dishes, but still great. * "sultan's delight" (tamarind-glazed beef and smokey eggplant puree with pine nuts) - Everything you would hope it would be from the description. A mouthwatering mix of sour, smoky, nutty, beefy goodness. * trout "spanakopita" with cucumber, avocado, & salmon roe - What a fun dish! The skin was left on the trout to form a crispy shell like the phyllo dough of spanakopita, so the dish does not actually contain pastry at all. The fish was perfectly cooked and the sides were interesting - the cucumber was sliced into pasta-like ribbons, and the salmon roe perched on top of a dollop of avocado. * only one of us had dessert, an apricot thingy with ice cream and sesame brittle that was part of the vegetarian tasting menu. It was pretty small so the rest of us didn't try it. There were also a couple of other dishes not listed on the menu, that were part of the veg. tasting menu, including a white bean dish with green garlic. Everything was good. After dinner, one of us ordered decaf and it came out in a French press - classy. THE DRINKS A long, distinctive wine menu - wow. Lots of unusual grapes here, instead of the usual suspects. We tried a $38 bottle of Barbera from Italy (Casina Roera) and it was so, so mellow and smooth and soft - kind of the opposite of what I think of when I hear "Italian red." Really wonderful. THE SERVICE Impeccable and unobtrusive - our server had an eagle eye and magically managed to stop at our table only when we actually needed something, rather than randomly coming by and stopping the conversation just to check in. This place is popular - get your request in early. I tried to reserve three weeks in advance for a Sunday night using OpenTable and the only availability was 5:30, but I called and got a reservation for 6 (and they had other, later times too). Guess they save some reservations for call-ins -- good to know. I so want to go back.
(5)
Ela G.
First of all, Oleana is a Turkish restaurant, and according to the yelp reviews, not only is it the best Turkish restaurant in town, but also the best restaurant in town, PERIOD! That is so cool, my pursuit of even a decent Turkish restaurant in my hometown of Chicago has been a challenge, so it is very cool that one is so highly regarded in Boston. If you have any choice or ability whatsoever, sit outside on the beautiful patio. It is 10 times more fabulous than the inside seating, which although all well and good, it pales in comparison. We had a large party, but our server was patient and attentive, answering all of our questions. The appetizers at Oleana are delicious, in my opinion better than the entrees. You must try the Sultan's Delight - a delicious glazed beef short rib with pureed eggplant. Probably most amazing is the chef's ability to use spices in such interesting, flavorful ways. For entrees, nothing was that exceptional in my opinion, and I would recommend staying clear of the salmon, it did not get rave reviews from our group. The desserts, like the appetizers were amazing. All in all Oleana is definitely worth a visit - it is not pure Turkish, but more a mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors that should suit everyone.
(4)
Barbara M.
We'd heard about Oleana for months, but it far surpassed our expectations! The space is small but nicely decorated, intimate, and atmospheric. The hostess was gracious, and our terrific server, Meghan, was attentive without hovering and very helpful in answering our questions. What a feast! Bread: along with plentiful pita, there was a moist dark bread dusted with the most intriguing and elusive spices! How often do we include bread in our reviews?? Shared appetizers: a heavenly special of duck breast in pomegranate puree on a borek filled with sweet potato all garnished with delicate orange slices, slivered almonds, and barberries; the kale salad with apples and tahini dressing was the first kale I've ever enjoyed; and the quail with baharat, barberries, and pistachio was divine. Entrees: a wonderful monkfish served in a sweet and fragrant carrot soup with spiced prunes and almonds; and flattened chicken -- its top caramelized to a delightful crispness -- sitting on a Turkish crepe filled with marvelous cheese. Shared dessert: Turkish-style profiteroles with caramel cream, caramelized nuts and sesame seeds, thick chocolate sauce, and an AMAZING, cinnamon-dusted sweet orchid sauce on the side. And thanks for the complimentary Sicilian Almond Cremolata to go with our Turkish coffee! It was an unforgettable meal in which every dish was "my favorite" until we tasted the next one, and the close quarters actually enhanced the ambiance, lending a sense of a shared dining adventure. We can't wait to return!
(5)
Coreen C.
5 stars for the creative vegetarian tasting menu!! My husband's favorite for the night was the bbq octopus. We dined here Feb. 2011.
(5)
Corey B.
What a great place, especially one to visit with a group. My first time here was with a group of six and we sampled almost everything. The appetizers are portioned so that if everyone orders one, each person will get a bite or two of each and be left wanting more - I like this, I really feel like this is a great way to try a place out for the first time, plus if there's something you really liked you can always order another. The second time I went it was just two of us and we tried a couple of apps and entrees. The food and service is great. Some menu items of note are the Octopus app is great, actually all of the apps are great. I have noticed the entrees change from time to time and the ones I've tried are no longer on the menu. I don't think one could go wrong here with anything - especially the seafood. I would definitely recommend a reservation, and for those nice, sunny days I have heard that there is a beautiful garden that has tables in it.
(4)
stephanie c.
Had dinner here on Friday night and it was superb!! Cute ambiance...great for intimate dinner or date place. Dim lighting, nice decor, not too loud. Service was excellent as well as all the recommendations. Started with the Moroccan-style Octopus and Fatoush. Tasty, light, unique flavors, great presentation. Everything was quickly eaten up with smiles. For entrees, had the Beef Kabob special (which was the hit!, beef with delicious flavors and cooked perfectly med-rare tender), Cod, and Lamb. Everything was tasty yet light, with delicate complimenting flavors. Dessert was the winner-Passion fruit Bisteeya....goodness what is this?? IT was to DIE for and a perfect ending to the meal. I think we literally ate this in 2 seconds and contemplated ordering a second. It's light, tart, fluffy, creamy, and thirst quenching all at the same time. Needless to say Oleana became a favorite in one evening...the food is just very unique. I love have great flavors without feeling like I gained 10 pounds eating a wonderful dinner. I'll definitely be back soon!
(5)
Eli D.
Very cool! Very trendy- I loved it- Good food- Super for Vegetarians! ;) !
Went to Oleana for the first time Saturday night (12/18/11) for a date. Staff are very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. The veggie sampler was fantastic, particulalrly the falafel ... incredible! Must eat it rolled up for full and incredible flavor! Only downside is the place is small and seating is really tight so it doesn't lend itself to a very romantic experience, but other than that, it was a great experience.
(4)
Bill H.
I don't get what's the big deal with Oleana. I had dinner here with my partner last week, and we both left a little disappointed. Service and ambiance were both excellent. Our server knew lots about the menu, and the dishes we ordered were explained as they were served -- always appreciate that. The food wasn't vegetable-heavy so much as it was floral-heavy. Our first drink, the "saketini," was spiced so much that it tasted like perfume. Same for the last round of desserts; our ice cream was put in a sauce that really overpowered everything else. The vegetarian tasting menu was hit and miss. We were served a sorrel parfait, which sounded interesting but tasted really, really sharp -- like eating-grass sharp. Meanwhile, the falafel dish was delicious, with a nice soft ball of falafel and some of the best tahini I've eaten. Maybe the meat dishes are better -- we also ordered the lamb and eggplant dish, which was our favorite. In any event, we didn't receive the dining experience that we expected given the (very) high prices and the overwhelming positive feedback from friends and Yelp.
(2)
Rachel J.
We really enjoyed our recent celebratory dinner at Oleana. I imagine that it's not quite as nice in the winter, when you have to sit indoors, but sitting in the garden patio is really lovely. I was able to get a last-minute dinner reservation, though, and when we arrived we were seated immediately. As a vegetarian transplant from the West coast (Portland and San Francisco), where it is much easier to find good vegetarian restaurants (or even non-meat entree choices at omnivorous restaurants), I have been pretty frustrated by my choices out here. Plus I think living in San Francisco turned me into more of a food snob than I'd like to admit. But Oleana really won me over with their vegetarian tasting menu. I was pleasantly surprised that unlike at some upscale restaurants, they don't make everyone at the table order the tasting menu. So my boyfriend and I split one, and added an appetizer and an entree, and it was more than enough food. Probably the tasting menu on its own would have been plenty of food for us. As others have mentioned, the spinach falafel is really excellent.
(4)
David P.
4.5 stars. Excellent food: sultan's delight (tender), spinach falafel (melt in your mouth), bacon scallops (perfectly cooked, firm but soft and nicely seared to a golden brown). Like people have said before, go for the mezzas and you won't go wrong. Cisco ale is refreshing. Service is kinda slow and a waitress even sprayed some white wine on my shirt after she opened another table's bottle. But I just rate food.
(4)
Todd D.
We had a fantastic meal here. Spinach falafel appetizer is a must. Every one in our party loved their entrees (chicken, monkfish, scallops ... and the pork was a stand-out; incredibly moist & flavorful). Desserts were also quite good. Sit on the patio if you can, it's very intimate & romantic. Only (slight) disappointment were the cocktails. They were fine, just nothing special. Stick to the wine list.
The chicken is excellent! The feta stuffed pita under the chicken id amazingly good! Profiteroles not up to par.
(5)
Shanna R.
My husband and I went out for an early dinner as we made last minute reservations, and had a fantastic time. We ordered five mezze, one of the sides, and a main dish to share. I was a little hesitant to ask to share a dish, but I wanted to try so many of the mezze and couldn't decide on just a couple. Our server didn't bat an eye, however, and everything was wonderful. The timing of the food was excellent. The mezze came out one at a time, so we were never overwhelmed or felt rushed. We had: Hot Pepper Labne with Olive Oil & Dried Mint Lamb Manti & Poached Farm Egg with Brown Butter, Yogurt & Turkish Chilies Pork Bombetta with Pancetta, Cauliflower, Green Olives & Rosemary Bread & Cheese Dumplings, Saffron Soup & Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Nigella Seed Flattened Potatoes with Lemon & Oregano And a special entree - duck breast over quinoa with brussels sprouts and a citrus dressing. The hot pepper oil was an amazing addition to the labne and the pork bombetta was a delicious burst of piggy flavor, but the star of the night was the bread and cheese dumplings. (I didn't try the lamb, as I'm not a fan, but the tomato confit with it was amazing; the flattened potatoes were good but not great.) The dumplings were wonderful, but the saffron soup and brussels sprouts were standouts. Really fantastic. We finished the meal with Turkish coffee (very good) and bread pudding. The bread putting was lovely, but a little underwhelming after the fantastic meal we had. It wasn't too sweet, which I like, but it didn't knock my socks off. Next time I will probably splurge on an extra mezze and skip dessert. The service was prompt, although our server seemed like she was new or inexperienced. She often seemed a bit distracted, although she never neglected us or forgot anything. She just had a very aloof vibe. I was a little jealous of the table next to us, as they got a free order of the spinach falafel, since they wanted to try it but opted for something else. I did, too - I just didn't tell my server that! Sour grapes. Guess I'll just have to order that next time.
(5)
Aisha L.
I have been here twice now with my Boyfriend. We came about a year and a half ago for Valentines day and had an amazing time. We got the vegetarian tasting menu and it was fantastic. We came here again two days ago for my birthday and got to experience the beautiful summer patio that they have. The flowers grow up the side of a fence with a sweet little fountain and twinkly light/lanters on the trees. We got the veg tasting menu again and a couple Mezas (Appies). It was as incredibly delicious as we had remembered. Our server was attentive and knowledgeable, he was also personable which I like. He engaged with us and joked around when we invited it. Also we had to be somewhere by 8 and he moved us a long at a perfect speed (cant remember his name but he had a redish pony tail and was in his late 20's I would guess). This place is well worth the price. Unfortunately I can only afford to go on special occasions.
(5)
Stephanie B.
The flavors and exotic choices really impress, and I bet the patio rocks when the weather warms up. The hummus took our breath away. Hummus! I just was underwhelmed with my main is all, the lemon chicken, which isn't one bit lemony except in a preserved lemon and Turkish spice kind of way. Not even that good on a sandwich the next day. We talked the birthday boy into the veggie tasting menu, which was really great.. man the spinach falafels are everything everybody says.. except for that dessert! Really? A tiny muffin and 3 berries with a smear of lemon curd? Hmph. I would def go again, especially with a group on the patio on a summer day drinking sangrias, but for the mezes and skip the main.
(3)
Raoul C.
A fantastic dining experience: the drinks, food, waitstaff, all perfect to the t. It's rare to find places that succeed on all fronts, but Oleana does so in spades. Drinks: started with sangria, ended with an incredible pear and cardamon-flavoured cocktail. The sangria was pretty good, not as chock-full w/ fruit as I'd like, but the pear drink was superb. Appetizers: grilled octopus and hot pepper labne (a yogurt dish): the octopus was so tender, not rubbery AT ALL, and distinctly different from the usual calamari one has more often. Mains: I had the lamb, my guest had the veal sausage. We're a caring/sharing bunch, so I can attest to both being out of this world. If I had to choose, I'd probably have the lamb again. And again and again. Dessert: baked alaska. I shared this with two others, and it was a perfect treat at the end of the meal. I absolutely cannot wait to go back. Their sister bakery in Watertown (Sofra) has amazing brunch too, if you're willing to hike out there.
(5)
Amanda C.
Major Bonus Points to the Date that took me Here Last Night ---- This is a fantastic restaurant in Cambridge. The decor, music and smells will make you feel like you are in another world. I was a little skeptical when I heard Turkish Food, but those feelings were quickly squashed when I had the food. We started with the Fried Mussels with Hot Peppers and Turkish Tarator Sauce. The Mussels were fried to perfection and the batter was very light. I could have eaten a thousand of them, but I love fried food. The Vermont Quail was very tasty as well. The quail was very tender, which is hard to do because those little guys are so small. The last starter was the Sultans Delight. The Tamarind Glazed Beef was so tender. The Smokey Eggplant Puree went well with the dish and was even better slathered on the bread. We shared an entree for the evening. I highly suggest the Azuluna Pork, Crispy Pea Paella, Fried Fiddleheads and Paprika Sauce. The pork was just as tender as the beef and the accompaniments went so well with the meat. The meal was very flavorful and seasoned to perfection. I wish I could have gotten dessert, but I was so full. I did see them bring some out and they looked wonderful and decadent. I had the Sangria to drink, it was refreshing because it was humid outside, but it was not the best in the world. I think I might try something new if I ever go back again. The servers are great, so nice and knowledgeable about the menu. It really means a lot to me to see someone get excited about a menu.
(5)
Andrew S.
Recently stopped in for a dinner on a busy sat night. We were seated in the backroom by the open kitchen which although a bit cramped was nice for watching the action. Once again we had a great meal, but we were a bit disappointed that they no longer do a double tasting menu if 2 people order it. As a result, my wife had the tasting menu and I had the lamb. Highlights were the spicy labna and falafel. I had the lamb which was cooked perfectly with a great blend of flavor. All in all it was another hit for oleana
(5)
Kenny J.
Easily one of the best restaurants in Cambridge. Reservations are must, especially if you have a group larger than four since the restaurant is not very big. As mentioned in another recent review, the tables *are* quite close together. I hope we weren't too rowdy, lol!! A bunch of friends organized a small reunion to celebrate a professor we know stepping down as head of dept and moving to Singapore. Oleana is one of his favorite restaurants. Too bad tropical storm Hanna had to send some crazy rain on the night of our dinner, so I had my parka and an umbrella to avoid getting my camera and gift for the professor soaked. They really should have had a coat check and an umbrella bin at the host desk for such a nice restaurant with cramped tables. Still the food makes up for it. We shared a bunch of appetizers, the best being a special with prosciutto and the spinach falafel. The spinach falafel was a little hard to share though. For an entry, I had the swordfish. OMG, sooo good. As soon as they brought it out, everyone else was immediately jealous. It was so tender and a perfect balance of flavors with a delicious honeydew charrmoula. Highly highly recommended. Hard to go wrong at Oleana's though. I tried a friend's sea bass and another friend's duck and both were excellent. For dessert I had the Arabic coffee creme caramel. Mmm....soo good. The fig caramel sauce was a nice contrast. We shared two bottles of wine between five people since the professor was on meds and unfortunately couldn't have alcohol. This is a great place for a special occasion or if you're rich. Paying for the prof, the tab was $85 per person. I ATMed it since I needed cash anyways. lol! :P
(5)
Greg A.
Man, what a gem this place is. I just moved to Cambridge from Austin, Texas, and Oleana was recommended to me by a friend as the go-to place in East Cambridge. Indeed, coming from uber-hip Austin I have developed high expectations for restaurants. I want loads of personality without sacrificing a welcoming atmosphere and quality foodstuffs, and let me tell you, Oleana delivered big time. In a twist of fate, my apartment is just a few blocks away, and to my surprise one afternoon I found myself strolling by the infamous eatery. Even though it was a few hours before opening, I walked in and introduced myself. Theresa, the GM and wine guru (I believe that is her title?) and Don, the other man at the front desk, were remarkably hospitable. In fact, they were probably the friendliest people I've met during my first week in Boston. I came back later for a drink and an appetizer, and the place was packed. Nobody was stressed, however, and Theresa and Don were just as welcoming as before. I sat at the bar, met a woman named Terri and Erin, the bartender (I believe that was her name), and was once again treated as not just a customer but a neighbor as well. Seriously, I get a warm fuzzy feeling inside just thinking about my experience there. Oh, and the deviled eggs were amazing. Went really well with an ice-cold can of their finest beer, Pabst Blue Ribbon. I had to keep the joint a little classy, no?
(5)
Irem N.
Sultan's delight is the best, humus is also successful. I tried lamb its fine. As a dessert we tried profiterole but didn't like so much. Love Turkish Coffee. Ambiance, decoration and background musics are really nice.
(4)
Haley T.
This place is expensive, But it's priced around what you'd expect from a restaurant of this caliber in the Boston area. I went with my mother and sister for their birthday. (Yes, same day-convenient considering that I'm uber-forgetful) I'm vegan, they're not, and the menu seemed to have an option or two for me, so we checked it out. On a Sunday, with no reservation, we got a table immediately, which was nice. We started with the falafel, which had to be the best falafel I've ever had. The carrot spread was very good as well. My mother had the salt cod special that was apparently insanely good, a well-balanced dish. My sibling had the tuna entree that apparently was overcooked. I had the veganized chickpea dish, which I liked a lot. It was spicy and filling, but I think it needed something- probably the aioli which I omitted. The desserts were very good as well. The server was nice enough to point out that the almond sorbet was vegan, which I appreciated. It was pretty good, though I have to admit I've had better no-moo from Herrell's. The desserts my company ordered were apparently very good as well.f Either way, I'd visit again. Quiet, upscale and pleasant atmosphere, with attentive service.
(4)
josh n.
The food is fantastic...but when you operate at this high a level...what speperates you is the quan... Serivce...great. Outdoor seating area...unreal...how this exists in cambridge I will never know...and the live music was perfect. Cocktails...STRONG... what else does one need? perfect date spot...if you bring friends...make them sit at a seperate table...they'll thank you after...
(5)
Susannah W.
Food + ambiance + great service = Oleana! The night after we got hitched, my husband and I wanted to celebrate by going out to dinner. He had actually made reservations for another place, but after driving around for 15 minutes with no luck finding a parking spot, we gave up and decided to go elsewhere. On the way to "elsewhere," we happened to pass Oleana. We recognized the name because our former landlord had told us he played the oud (it's like a lute) there once a week. We spotted a small parking lot across the street with no tow away warnings in sight - jackpot! So we parked, entered the restaurant, and thus the happiness began.... We started with the deviled eggs with tuna and black olives (pictured in one of Kara S.'s restaurant photos). Since their menu is seasonal, I can't use the website menu to look up the exact names of the main dishes we ate... but I'll give you the gist of it. I had some wonderfully crispy duck with a delicate yet flavorful pumpkin pastry thing (another reviewer called it a terrine?). My husband had lamb, and I can't remember the side... but I do remember that it was good! For dessert I got something with chocolate, and my husband had the Baked Alaska. Both were divine, but the Baked Alaska was my favorite (and coming from someone who thinks dessert isn't really dessert unless it's chocolate, that's saying something!). Oh, and it just so happened that the night we went was the night our former landlord was playing his oud. It was just him and one other guy with a drum. I thought it added the perfect touch to Oleana's atmosphere. They play on Tuesday evenings; I don't know if they have live music any other night. I can't wait to go back during outdoor seating season!
(5)
Joe M.
3 stars from this carnivore. +1 for being a great date spot to come with my vegetarian girl. First off, the biggest complaint is this place is a pain in the arse to find. Maybe not if you live in the area, but I don't, so it was. But hey, nothing's perfect. I made reservations through OpenTable.com and ordered flowers through their recommended site to order flowers from (can't remember that site's name, but if you make reservations, it'll tell you). The flowers arrived and were placed per my directions and my table was ready and waiting for me. The flowers were there to start with, so they had actually reserved a table for me, not like some places that use reservations as a way to just say you go to the top of the waitlist. Good show. We got the vegetarian tasting menu + an order of the string cheese. I'll have to rate this from, as I said, a carnivore point of view. I tasted everything she got. The hummus was great. The rest was okay. Distinct lack of meat though, so nothing stands out. The girlfriend was floored though. So, as they've all said before me, great for herbivores. My meal came through though, settled on swordfish. Guess I'm just not a fan of the Mediterranean style of cooking, as I wasn't impressed. Nothing wrong with what they did, I was just sorta meh about it. Dessert came along and the girlfriend received some little tiny bit of cake she said was similar to a Russian cake dessert she's had before. Very thick, not her cup of tea. My bread pudding though, dear god. To die for. I was a very nonplussed panda up until dessert, it was so damn good. Creamy, soft, delicious... They've also got a surprisingly decent selection of beers. It's no sunset, but you can go and enjoy a tasty brew at this place. Better than the usual Bud Light crap. Would I go there again for HER birthday? Yes. If she specifically asked. Would I remind her of the place to see if she wanted to go? No. I like to be able to enjoy my meal a bit more than I did here for the price I paid. It was worth it that one time for her happiness and the excellent service, but I'll try somewhere new next time. (For those surprised by a 4 star rating yet I don't wanna go, I can appreciate good food and a good job. I just didn't like it myself)
(4)
Dennis L.
We came on a mild April day, about twenty minutes before opening, and staked out at the door and managed to get the second-to-last patio table. The garden is immaculate, but we could not figure out what that oddly sculpted tree represents. The falafel was very good, served piping hot with a measure of watercress with yogurt on a lavash. It's lighter in flavor and more packed with whole herbs than my lunch staple of going to Falafel King every so often. The crabcakes that were a special of the day had a very rustic and homespun appearance in keeping the herbs whole, like the falafel. Also very good in flavor, the crab and herbs complementing each other rather than one taking over. For entrees, we did our usual routine of dish-swapping. My friend ordered the rabbit bisteya and I ordered the duck buried under vermicelli. The duck, I did not enjoy that much. The 'vermicelli'... seemed like it was Chinese 'ha zi mein', a noodle made with bits of shrimp that has an aftertaste that just does not work for me. The duck seemed a little overdone to me and the sauce very light and delicate, but it was hard to find a flavor that was not overwhelmed by the noodles. The rabbit in appearance was inpressive, two cones of phyllo filled with a 'stew'. It was 'good' but it was hard to define the dish as rabbit. In flavor, it could have been any meat, only the texture indicating that it was rabbit. It tasted like... well... 'stew'. However, we were much more impressed by dessert. The baked Alaska was amazing, done just long enough for the meringue to be visibly hot, the chilled almond ice cream inside preserved in its chilled state, a wonderful contrast. The pomegranate syrup that accompanies the dish was delicious, really bringing out the flavor of the fruit. We ordered their dessert special, which was a dish of ice cream and cake, but I fear the baked Alaska has overwhelmed my memory to finer details. I want to come back just for the baked Alaska. Overall, I was a bit underwhelmed by the entrees, but the dessert was indeed impressive. The service was excellent, the staff working as a tag-team to make sure our experience was alright. We'll be back. Dishes to try: Falafel, Baked Alaska.
(3)
Maia B.
An old friend was in town for the weekend and asked me to find a place for us to get dinner. Yelp directed us to Oleana, and I wasn't let down. We didn't exactly fit in -- in our early twenties, we were easily the youngest patrons, and probably the only who weren't dating each other. We were able to handle the romantic atmosphere though :) Service wasn't top-notch, our water glasses were empty for longer than they should have been, but this is a classy place overall. While the food was good, the portions were much too large, so we skipped dessert. Great if you are looking for non-standard, fresh food, but nothing too exotic.
(4)
Chris H.
Absolutely fantastic. We took the vegetable tasting menu and several mezes. By far the best tasting were 1. fried mussels 2. Sultan's delight 3. Falafal 4. Whipped feta. Can't wait to go back again.
(5)
T K.
Beautiful Outdoor seating and excellent food! They are one of the best! Your taste buds will thank you over and over again. They know what they are doing here. The food is fresh and cooked perfectly!
(5)
Sara M.
Had wanted to try this place for 2 years and was so disappointed...I was surprised by the lack of flavor (bland polenta, not enough salt on the sardines). The lamb shoulder was pretty good but not good enough for me to return there... :(
(2)
Sue B.
It was good but not knock your socks off like I thought. The Whipped Feta was good but such a small amount. The Hummas was dry Good service though. My entre was good The texture on the baked alaska was the best part of the meal! Like toasted marshmellow! Would go there again someday.
(4)
Soham B.
It's good. It's very good. It's not great. Concept.. check. precise, consistently good food.. check. excellent space...check. well operated.. check. the chef took a risk by doing the turkish/middle eastern/mediterranean thing, but i didn't get the boldness i was looking for-- a kindof statement like: "this is decidedly my style". I suppose my bias comes into play here. I'm indian, so the spice palette utilized in this kitchen is a bit similar to what i grew up eating-- the uniqueness was lost to me. but i went with someone else raised on indian food-- and without an assertion of flavor to differentiate, we registered a strong indian flavor from many things (namely through use of coriander, cumin, cinnamon, cloves, chili, etc.) we took our first bites, and immediately we were transported to street vendors in india selling food alarmingly similar to this. And i tried to get it out of my head, but the flavor memory was so strong-- it was like proust all over the place. The DB waiter didn't help. what's the deal with this odd napkin twirl he would do above his head? some lame-ass choreographed embellishment to service? gfy. The baked alaska was quite good-- however the macaroon's sweetness combined with the passionfruit syrup was cloying-- it killed the subtley of flavor in the ice cream. highlights of our meal: falafel, carrot soup with yogurt, baked alaska i still recommend a visit, take some good friends, have some wine, make a good time out of it, and it's worth it.
(4)
Tammy H.
'Twas great, but one star off for the anti-climatic entree. Thanks to some gracious friends, The Boy received a $100 certificate to Oleana for his birthday (in 2007!!), so we were able to enjoy a random night out and give our stomachs a bit of play time. Because we tend to order a bunch of appetizers, we got 3 things: olives w/ za'atar (an herb), the crab kadayif w/ egg-lemon soup, and the rabbit shwarma. Olives went great with the bread (pita?) which was fantastic in itself. The Boy loved the crab, and I was madly in love with the egg-lemon soup. Rabbit shwarma wasn't our fave, but it was still good. I actually preferred the radish salad that came with it. As for entrees, The Boy got pork which was topped with a SLAB of pecorino cheese and honey. Gaw, was it delicious. The Boy cooks pork all the time, and was in awe of how perfectly cooked the pork was. We have to try making this dish ourselves sometime. Now the anti-climatic entree: I didn't like my tuna. Up until now, I was perfectly happy with everything, especially The Boy's entree. The tuna was encrusted in some olive+almond "crumb" as described on the menu, but all I could taste was FENNEL SEED. Now since fennel seed has such a strong taste, I suggest they include it in the menu. I found myself scraping the tuna clean because it was just too much for me. I did like the barley couscous though. I bet I would like their greens+grains entrees, even as an omnivore. And then we got some chocolate-laden dessert ... frozen chocolate "souffle", a cocoa-hazelnut tartlet, and cocoa sherbet. It all tasted great and made me feel a little better after the tuna, but the "souffle" was nothing like the name suggests. It isn't a souffle, and it's not soft at all. Instead, it's a tower of icy ice cream, and it's super tough to dig into. The "tower" slides around as you attempt to dig out a spoonful ... too much effort. At least make a different shape! something that's not so TALL. Decor is fantastic. Oh, and our server was awesome. I should've listened to his recommendation for the bass. $120 total for (1) pret a manger, (2) appetizers, (2) entrees, and (1) dessert.
(4)
Susie C.
This place has a lot of buzz so we were excited to try it. We went at 6:30 and the place was packed. The outdoor area is lovely, but we ate inside. Here's what we ordered: -The hummus appetizer - we found it underwhelming, kinda bland -Some other appetizer that we don't even remember... -My sis ordered a veggie pasta and was unhappy with it -I ordered a moroccan fish stew that was delish, however, it was something that I could easily recreate in my own kitchen for alot less money - My mother had a salmon dish, I believe. Just OK. We love trying new restaurants and all kinds of cuisine, but this was a really blah experience. We were all three equally surprised that we didn't like it more, and I'm wondering if we just ordered the wrong items. I've heard great things about their beef. Perhaps we should give them another go.
(2)
Paul S.
Must go again. This place is a great combination atmosphere and food. And since it is a Mediterranean cuisine restaurant all the more to try something out of the ordinary.
(4)
Mcslimj B.
One of Boston's best chef-owned restaurants, a culinary trip around the Mediterranean that doesn't leave vegetarians and vegans behind. There's a round-the-Mediterranean tour going on every night at Oleana with stopovers in countries usually overlooked in so-called Mediterranean restaurants. Few local kitchens produce dishes from Armenia and Turkey, southern France and Spain, Egypt and Lebanon. In so doing, Oleana offers vegetarians a unique and novel little world of options. My strategy is to go the meze route here, ordering several dishes from the prêt a manger section of the menu, each of which yields three or four bites, plus a more traditionally sized appetizer or two. And what wonderful flavors these present: olives sprinkled with herbs and sesame seeds; purees to spread on bread and flatbread, like an otherworldly Egyptian-spiced carrot puree, and a simple, sublime whipped feta with sweet and hot red peppers. Salads here are similarly swoony, full of incomparably fresh greens, herbs, fruit, and cheese, tasting as though they were pulled from the earth or the vine or the branch a few minutes before arriving at your table. If I still have room, I get a half portion of the ricotta and bread dumplings in red wine with porcini, gnocchi's even more rustic cousin. I'm not a vegetarian, so I sometimes opt for dishes like the deviled eggs (with fresh tuna in them, awesome), lamb kefta (Moroccan style kebabs with great little sides), or Turkish-accented brick chicken. When the weather's warm, you may find it worth the inevitably hour-plus wait to get a table on the gorgeous backyard patio, one of the most pleasant outdoor dining spots in the city.
(5)
Al A.
Great service. Great food. Great decor. Priced accordingly. Get reservations. Dissapointing desserts if you are looking for more cuinary classic dishes. Why does everything have to have ice cream in it???
(5)
Tim H.
A friend of mine lives around the corner and had always wanted to stop in so I made reservations one night a few months back. You walk up the tight walkways, by the outdoor patio, and the space is dimly lit creating that intimate setting. Maybe it was the large group next to us, but it seemed a bit noisy. I don't know what it is, but from the get go the service rubbed me the wrong way. Every solicited recommendation came with a cost counting comment. I couldn't help but feel ageism and possibly more might be at play, surprising to me considering I was dressed the part. The fact that the group next to us ordering only drinks and dessert saw so much more attention and the pret a manger and appetizer dishes stayed empty on the table for so long left me feeling neglected, slighted, overlooked, whatever you want to call it. Service aside, you can see the quality in the food and the mix of spices at work. The dishes are well thought and the tastes complement each other. I've always been a fan of olives and lamb and they didn't disappoint in the least. Cost-wise it can be pricey and the portions are on the order of fine dining. Anytime I encounter a sommelier, I expect nothing but the best, although I did fine the wine list to be old world heavy. Service is such a big part of the dining out experience that the slightest rub either way can entirely skew your experience. Food-wise, everything sounded great but I felt things fell short of what I came to expect. While I won't go out of my way to setup a return engagement, I wouldn't nix an encore. Hopefully next time I'll see and understand what all the fuss is about because right now I just feel it's grossly overrated, but then perhaps I just visited this establishment in the wrong age bracket.
(2)
Oleana B.
The food here is wonderful and creative. I woke up the next morning and felt like I wanted to go back for dinner again. We only got 4 appetizers when we came but I wanted to try all the appetizers on the menu because they all looked really good. In addition to the menu the specials sounded equally amazing. We ordered sultan's delight, fattoush, something with quail and the scallops which were a special. Everything was delicious. My favorite appetizer was sultan's delight. The meat just melted in your mouth literally. I do not think I have ever tasted anything like this in my life. The atmosphere is dark and romantic. The service was great. For desert we got the baked alaska which looked and tasted fabulous.
(5)
Betsy A.
Do yourself a "flavor" and visit this place. It's one my favorites in Boston/Cambridge so far. The tastes are impecable and the execution beautiful! I don't want to leave everytime I go here. From the entrees to the desserts to the Sangria. Everything is executed with care and you notice it. The flavors are mediterranean but the mix of spices makes it so that it has an extra "je ne sais quoi". Very special. Highly recommended! Now looking to try the bakery.
(5)
Candi S.
this place is perfection!! seriously, everything from the wine selections to the specials to the dessert list is amazing! i wish we could eat here every night! i should mention that the staff here is always friendly and really knowledgable. it's the one restaurant we are going to miss about this city!
My first thoughts: Delicious tapas, mediocre entrees, overpriced. If you're giving Oleana a try, I'd recommend splitting a bottle of wine and a collection of tapas. We tasted several wonderful dishes (the bread and cheese dumplings in saffron soup were my favorite), but I don't feel that we got great value. The lamb entree sounded wonderful from the description, but was very fatty and nothing to get excited about. A friend got the pork empanadas, which were quite greasy and unflavorful. Also, when going out for a special dining experience, I prefer to have more space and privacy. The restaurant covers a small area, which leaves patrons feeling cramped and nearly bumping elbows with those at the next table. Not the best atmosphere for fine dining. The service was decent, but not fantastic. Our server forgot to put in one of the entrees and didn't realize it until everyone else's food had been served - Not a huge deal, but like most everything else, it was just not what you'd expect for the amount of money being spent.
(3)
Susan B.
We are repeat visitors and come for the most delicious and savory food! Thanks to the manager last night for holding our reservation and helping to accommodate us after we were stuck in traffic! Greatly appreciated!
(5)
Stephen Y.
The vegetarian tasting menu is creative and delicious. All of the desserts are amazing; their pastry chef really deserves the awards she's won.
(5)
Christy V.
On one of my few trips to Boston from NYC I was very lucky to dine with one of my best friends at Oleana. A few people had recommended the restaurant to me, but I didn't do much research and I didn't know what to expect. As is obvious from the stellar reviews on this page, I soon discovered for myself that Oleana is incredible: a lovely ambiance, a talented chef and outstanding Turkish-influenced food combine to create an unforgettable evening. Because the restaurant was full and we hadn't been able to make a reservation, we sat at the bar - always a great option when trying to dine at a hot spot. My only complaint about the whole evening was that the service was slightly unfriendly and rushed - we were debating a few different dishes and asked the bartender/order taker for help with our decision. He really didn't have much patience for us and didn't take the time to explain our options. A small fly in the ointment, but the reason that I removed a star from my rating. The food we ordered was delicious - my favourites included the tangy whipped feta with hot peppers and the fantastic homemade sujuk (sausage). The garden looked lovely and I can't wait to return (next time I'll make a reservation!).
(4)
Purvi R.
I am on a roll with 5-star places, but I guess I just ate well in April. Anyways, another date night with the man, this time we ventured to the other side of the river. I scored a 7:30pm reservation at the hot hot hot Oleana, so we did it up. The restaurants is nesteld on an unassuming strip near Inman Square, near a lot of residential side streets. [Note, it is a further walk from H Sq than you'd think - the man was late.] We were seated promptly, in a center table (not my preference, but there wasn't much else open. I had read up before coming in, so I knew immediately that I'd be getting the vegetarian tasting menu. Man, was I delighted!! Everything that came out was absolutely delicious, creative, and best of all - it came out in a timely manner, spaced out enough for us to enjoy it, and in cadence with the food that the bf ordered (an app, Sultan's Delight, and lamb entree - all of which he thoroughly enjoyed and ate every bite). The service involved in managing a tasting menu is not easy, let alone trying to match it up with all the other demands that table might have, so for that I am very impressed. Of note: whipped feta. OMG. They also have a lovely patio, which to our chargrin, we only learned after the fact that it had heat lamps (the evening weather wasn't quiiiite warm enough yet). But a definite repeat for the summertime. Can't wait to go again. I can see why this is one of the "most booked" on Opentable!!
(5)
Mathew L.
The food is amazing! Service was great.
(5)
Mimio G.
Oleana has great tasting food and drinks. Unfortunately the price is on the high side and you are crammed into tables that feel like you are eating with the strangers next to you.
(4)
Lily L.
A, this is a 3-star restaurant with a 5-star price tag. B, I wouldn't recommend taking a blind date to this restaurant unless you think you'd really like your date. It's not because you'll be spending way too much on a person that you'll dump soon, but rather because you need to munch on food when you have absolutely nothing to talk about. I suppose you can drink water like a whale, but more on that later. I honestly do not understand what the hype is all about. Ana Sortun of Top Chef Master fame, her husband with Siena Farm, and 4.5 stars on Yelp: my natural assumption was that the food would be a winning combination using the freshest ingredients and the most inventive cooking techniques. Maybe I'm not a fan of Turkish food, but I am a fan of delicious food. And somehow, for me, Oleana just missed the spot. I didn't find a single dish to be extraordinary. They were mostly just okay and well, over-priced. We came here on a Friday evening, 6:30PM and were promptly seated. In celebration of the restaurant's 10-year opening, my dining companion opted for their $48 tasting menu. It featured food from the first days of the restaurant. I supplemented the dinner with spinach falafel, octopus and chorizo hotpot, and their special of the evening, fried haloumi cheese (which I first thought was 'halibut cheeks') and pork belly. The pro: The appetizers are fairly large in their portions. Of course, at $12, $14, and $14, I think it's probably the price of an entree at lesser restaurants. But what about the quality? To be honest, the falafel didn't taste anything special. I only ate 1 out of 3. It's a bad sign when a glutton like me passes on food. And to be honest, I can't tell any difference between this falafel vs the falafel from Aceituna, which is $3 or so? The octopus was admittedly very well-cooked. It was tender. The sauce was okay and it was one of the better dishes of the evening. The fried haloumi and pork belly was okay. One thing I like about pork belly is when the skin on the belly is perfectly cooked with a certain amount of crispiness balanced by some fattiness. This pork belly was more or less just the meat, none of the fatty goodness that you'd crave. Skin? What skin? There was none. Somehow, I still felt as if I'd eaten too much fat and grease even though I couldn't see any. The broth was probably the highlight of the dish. Now the other food that we had were from the special $48 pre-fixe menu. First, the deviled eggs and spiced carrots. This was actually pretty good. Second, we had fried mussels. I could do without the sauce. And the mussels were pretty good. But honestly, nothing amazing. Third, we had some sort of chickpea with vermicelli. This dish, we didn't bother finishing. And for a miser like me, that says a lot. Fourth, Misty Knoll chicken. Again, nothing spectacular. And again, didn't finish it. Fifth, the baked Alaska. That was good. But is it $14 good? I don't think so. The service was inconsistent. Our water was always filled. I think there were times where my water was filled after I've taken a single sip. Sip, mind you, not gulp. But the timing of the food was way off. We got some bread before the first course. And the bread here is really, really good, maybe even one of the highlights of the dinner. The first course came immediate after our bread was served. Between our first and second course, we waited for about 30 minutes or so. Other courses were slightly less slow but slow nonetheless. They took away our bread basket after our first course. Hence, if you want to take a date here, be sure that you like him/her. Otherwise, you'd have to mindlessly stare at each other. You can't even nibble on any grubs in between the long pauses between courses. But on the plus side, you can guzzle as much water as you'd like. I really wish I liked Oleana more. I felt we spent way too much money at this place and the food felt less than satisfying. But hey, at least I know what Oleana food tastes like.
(3)
Heather W.
I get that it's a snow day, but lots of restaurants are still open. If you're going to be closed, I think it makes sense to call people who've made reservations.
(1)
Jennifer B.
My husband and I are living in Boston this summer. Before we left New York, we asked friends for recommendations for things to do and see while we were here for the next three months. A good number of them said Oleana's was a "MUST." Not being especially familiar with the city (and especially Cambridge), it was a bit of a confusing trek trying to find Oleana, but oh man...it was worth the effort . The food here was like art- a beautiful composition of flavors that equaled its gorgeous presentation. This is by far the best food I have had in Boston, and I dare say Oleana is one of the best restaurants I have ever had the pleasure of patronizing. The main dishes are superb but I would say it's even better to order several mezzes to share. I especially recommend the spinach falafel and the beef short ribs. The other nice thing about this restaurant is that although everything is very sleek and well presented, the ambiance is unpretentious.The outdoor eating area is like being in someone's backyard, the effect of which is heightened when you realize that you're pretty much smack dab in the middle of a residential area.
Hands down one of the most unique and delicious meals I have ever eaten--and I don't say that lightly. We split one vegetarian tasting menu (with a great selection of mezes plus dessert), two additional mezes and one lamb entree between three people and it felt like the perfect amount of food. Each morsel was filled with unusual and compatible tastes and made of the freshest ingredients possible. The service was attentive and friendly and the restaurant is comfortable and elegant. When we weren't 100% thrilled about our wine choice the sommelier came to talk to us about it and happily advised us and replaced our bottle with another one that would better complement our food choices. Oleanna seems perfect for a special occasion or an evening when you want to have an unusual and delicious experience. We sat inside but the garden is lovely. Noticed that they have a wheelchair accessible ramp which is good to know for people who need it. This place is clearly a labor of love, staffed by people who care about what they are doing. A not to be missed culinary destination in the Boston area.
(5)
Leighann F.
You've seen the accolades: "Best Chef Northeast" - James Beard Foundation Top 10 Restaurants in Boston - Zagat Best of Boston - 2002, 2003 You've read the reviews. "Exquisite. Gorgeous. Decadent. Perfect." - Allix T. "Ohmygoodness. " -emily f. "Service, atmosphere, taste, and even price went beyond my wildest expectations at Oleana." -Shaina G. What more is there to say? Probably not too much, but I'll say it anyway. Give credit where credit is due. Their patio is a sultry garden party with live music and decadent food. Their service is chic, timed perfectly and coordinated well between all of the staff members. They move about the floor flawlessly and without a hint of snobbery. The food is incredible. The wine list is put together well. And the dessert is mouth watering. The sounds of sitar, the smells wafting through the breeze, a long, conversation-heavy dinner...it was hard to believe that I was sitting in the middle of Cambridge. Every last detail seems to transport you to another world!
(5)
Sarah E.
So delicious. Wish I could afford to eat here more often :)
(5)
Dawn E.
In short: wow. I've been meaning to check out Oleana for a long, long time but its price-ology kept it up there in "special occasion dining" territory and nothing thus far had merited the right kind of special. Enter the generous gift card from my inlaws. (Yelp-within-a-Yelp for my inlaws: five stars, as gift givers as well as human beings.) Time to check it out! There were so many choices, I decided to go with the much-lauded vegetarian tasting menu just to get a little bit of everything. To me it seemed each dish that arrived topped the last. From the spicy whipped feta with warm olives to the zucchini pancake with mango and cilantro to the fabulous frozen chocolate dessert, I was in heaven. We spent two hours lingering over dinner, enjoying every carefully considered bite. Upon ordering we asked our server if appetizers were appropriate with the tasting menu; he suggested that if the two of us split the tasting menu, one starter and one appetizer would be perfect. I think I'd definitely do this next time because we were both so full by the end, but this time we wanted to try as much as possible so we got a full appetizer and my husband got the duck entree which was excellent as well. I'm giving 4 instead of 5 stars because we purposely waited for a beautiful summer night and ended up being unable to get seated on the famed patio. Apparently it's first-come-first-serve even with a reservation, and when we inquired about the best way to snag the coveted al fresco seats, the greeter suggested getting there an hour before your rez. in order to be in the running. The food made the inside location a non-issue, and hey, there's just another bit of incentive to come back and possibly add another star. If that doesn't do it, I'm sure the baked alaska will. I'll be saving my pennies for another Oleana occasion in the near future.
(4)
Sonia G.
Excellent food Amazing vegetarian tasting menu You must come here at least once, it's a little pricey, but so worth it! It's a little out of the way and hard to find, but is def one of the best restaurants in Boston.
(5)
Sidanshu G.
This is a very good restaurant both in regards to food and the decor. Make reservation way in advance. Try the vegetarian tasting menu and let the chef surprise you with the amazing variations with vegetables. This is a place to go for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries etc.. The prices are a bit high for this place to be a frequently visited. But I would go there again.
(3)
Matt S.
One of the best meals I've had in Boston...which says a lot since I love food, am part Lebanese and am obsessed with mediterranean / middle eastern food. Everything is fresh and flavorful...many ingredients come from a local farm. They import special olive oil from Crete and serve it with delicious flatbread seasoned w/ za'atar...yum. Eaten here twice (once in winter, once in summer). Menu changes seasonally. There's a cool outdoor patio during warm months. Definitely get reservations in advance. Not cheap, but not overpriced...much better bang for your buck than most fancy meals I've had.
(5)
Hussam B.
The food in here is generally good. Their sultan's delight is always a good choice for appetizer. Their lamb dish is tasty too. They only issue is they are over priced for their location.
(3)
Mike G.
3.5 stars an ideal Oleana dinner would be 2 orders of the grilled octopus mezze, a bowl of salad, the house focaccia and a glass of red. simply good stuff. last visit, though, was decidedly mixed. the roast halibut dish was dry, the zucchini bland but the herby-hummus pancake livened the flavors. the pork dish that night was ribs! i thought Oleana might do something creative, but it was. just. fatty ribs. have eaten through the Med & north africa and found the taste of the region in my ideal dinner. so stars for that, excellent service and Amanda.
(3)
Daniel S.
I rarely give out five stars. Maybe a few restaurants over the past few years have given me the pleasure of Oleana. The quality of the food, the thoughtful tastes, the terrific service, the lovely atmosphere -- all exceptional and worth a trip. There were too many things on the menu that I wanted to try so I'll have to come back again soon.
(5)
b c.
I find this place a bit overrated, sorry. There's little excuse (we weren't given one, anyway) for being made to wait 30 min past your reservation time, for a table to become available. I found the interpretation of Mediterranean cuisine to lack the clarity and freshness that I've experienced in the actual region. This, to me, is less appealing. Maybe it doesn't match our climate? In any case, I haven't felt compelled to return.
(2)
Arik C.
I love the food at Oleana but what does not get enough recognition is their wine list. If you are passionate about food AND wine they you have reached your mecca. Of all the restaurant wine lists in Boston, Oleana is in the top 5. You won't ever find any brand names on this list. What you will find are amazing gems that represent a wide diversity of delicious wines from the greatest wine regions in the world. You even find some new world wines that pair deliciously with the fantastic cuisine at Oleana. Amazing by the glass selection likes you pick and choose so really cool esoteric wines. The cuisine is original, fresh and fantastic. They sourced from a farm they work with west of Boston and the menu changes with what is in season. Spring time is a favorite as I love their fiddleheads in tempura. The heirloom tomatoes are awesome in season and I am psyched for the fall menu, probably my favorite time to visit. Oleana is small so get reservations ahead but if you want the patio, its a first come, first served basis. Enjoy one of the area's greatest gems for food and wine.
(5)
Lara E.
gorgeous middle eastern food done elegantly. turkish coffee panna cotta was insane. in.sane. stumbled upon this place by accident, but fully intend on returning everytime i am in MA.
(5)
Simon D.
Consistently great. Food, service, outdoor seating all fantastic.
(5)
Emily C.
Came here on my last visit to Boston a few weeks ago. It's located in Inman Square. When I was in college I didn't venture too far into Cambridge so I never knew there were so many ethnic restaurants in the area. I guess if it wasn't easily accessible by T, I didn't really make it there. The food was so good. My friend and I shared a few appetizers and one main course, as well as dessert. To start, we had baked hummus, which I didn't really think was hummus, unless my definition of hummus is wrong. There was chickpeas in it, but they weren't mashed. But the chickpeas were accompanied by an assortment of goodies, including avocado, pita chips, and sprouts. Served warm, it was a nice start to the meal. We also had the deviled egg with tuna and black olives. The filling was nice a creamy. The last appetizer we got was the spinach falafel. Amazing. It had tahini and this yogurt that wasn't to yogurty. We were advised to mush up the falafel and eat it kind of as a taco. Probably my favorite dish of the night. For the main, we ordered the duck in vermicelli. I thought it was pretty good. The duck was juicy and tender, though I didn't really see what the vermicelli added to the dish. Lastly for dessert, we ordered the Baked Alaska, described as "Coconut Ice Cream & Passion Fruit Caramel." The meringue on the outside went nicely with the coconut, and I usually don't really like coconut. I did think the passion fruit caramel was too sweet and tart, and halfway into the dessert, I didn't know if I could finish it--and this was with two people working at it. Though a bit on the expensive side, I really enjoyed the food here, and I'm glad my friend coming here.
(4)
Jo B.
If I could give Oleana 10 stars, I would. It is truly a symphony for the palate. First off, let me just say that Oleana is all about the food. There's not a whole lot of atmosphere to speak of, and it's located in a mostly residential neighborhood, about a half mile from the nearest T stop (Central). But don't let any of that stop you, because I personally would journey to the bowels of hell to eat at Oleana again. That being said, let me tell you about the tantalizingly good eats. After deliberating over the "Meze" part of the menu and wanting to try every item, we settled on the Sultan's Delight. Oh my golly golly goodness gosh, I just about died and went to Tamarind glazed beef heaven . The portion size isn't huge, so we broke it down into tiny bites, and that was just fine because each bite was loaded with flavor and completely succulent. Mmmm, yum, yum, yum. For dinner, my dining partner got the lamb and he said it was the best lamb he ever tasted (and he lived in the Middle East for a while, so that is saying a lot) I got the Hazlenut Crusted Scallops, which was a special, and I am seriously considering calling and begging the owner of Oleana to make it a permanent part of the menu. I have NEVER in my entire life tasted scallops so completely and utterly delectable. I will be daydreaming about those scallops for a long while.....ahhhh. For dessert we got the baked Alaska, The waitress explained that due to the Cambridge fire code, they can't flambe it at the table, so it is done back in the kitchen. I know it can't be helped, but there is just something about taking that first bite of JUST now flambeed baked Alaska, so that was lacking, but Oleana's baked Alaska still delivered a fittingly amazing ending to an amazing meal. You must try this, particularly if you are a coconut lover. Suggestion for a good cheap wine - we got the white wine from Greece for $34, we were a little leary about ordering the cheapest bottle on the menu, but it really did complement the food very nicely. I am already looking forward to my next visit to Oleana. If you go, make sure you have reservations. When we arrived at 8pm on a Friday night, another patron asked how long the wait would be and they were told they could have a table at 10pm - ouch! One more thing, parking seemed to be pretty readily available. When we went there were several spots available within a block of the restaurant.
(5)
L M.
My fiance and I came to Oleana by accident. We wandered in at prime dinner time and managed to get a table (though I understand we were very lucky). The staff are attentive and professional, though perhaps a bit snooty, but when we tasted the food, we understood why! It was perhaps the best meal I have ever had, and I don't say that lightly! It was the kind of meal that was beautiful in its simplicity--drawing flavors from traditional Middle Eastern cuisines--and yet completely unique, using locally-sourced produce, in ways that can only be described as the meeting point of science and art. I realize this sounds over the top, but I promise I'm not exaggerating!
(5)
Julie M.
I had heard so many great things about Oleana from reliable friends, but nonetheless was pretty disappointed. If i were to go back, I would probably try the veggie tasting menu. The service was good - especially the people at the front who were able to get us in without a reservation. Our waiter was fine. He went on an on about how buttery my chicken dish was. Needless to say I was pretty bummed out when it came out fairly dry and boring. The cheese thing underneath was ok, but way too salty to finish and I'm kind of addicted to salt. My husband's lamb was ok. My mother in law's pork was so tough it was hard to eat - but the pilaf that came with it was good. We started with a fried green tomato appetizer with corn pancakes. THAT was great, and why I'm bumping up my a star! Bread was super dry and lame-o. I can see how the 5 course vegetarian tasting menu would be fun, but for meat and potato people like us, Oleana was a major downer.
(3)
David F.
When you have 330+ reviews and 4 1/2 stars, there's not much left to be said. So, I'll give you my seasonally-dependent preferences for experiencing Oleana: 1) On the patio, with a Cisco 3C Ale and the veggie tasting menu. 2) In the back hallway (glass facing patio), with a bottle of red wine (or can of Dale's Pale Ale on a budget) and the non-veggie tasting menu (yes this exists, ask ahead of time.. maybe even call). That being said, I've never had a disappointing experience here in the countless other ways I've tried Oleana.
(5)
Hallie B.
I never ate at Oleana while a Boston resident (despite my desire to do so, it just never happened for one reason or another) so, when I came back as a tourist, my boyfriend made a point of taking me here. I figured, it's a Sunday night, during an economic recession - we should have no issue getting a table around 6pm. Boy, was I wrong! When we arrived (sans reservation) we were told that it would be at least 2.5 hours until we could be seated in the dining room. Yowza! Luckily there were seats at the bar - which, to be fair, is my preference as it lets me sit next to my sweetie and steal bites of his entree! The lesson here? Make a reservation no matter what day or time if you want to eat in the dining room. I started to get very hungry looking over the menu - the combination of ingredients listed for each dish made it clear that the the chefs at Oleana understood how to combine flavors and textures in interesting ways (that are accessible to novice and experienced diners alike). After careful consideration and a little rec from our cheerful, kind, culinary-enthusiast bar tender, we ordered the following: 1. Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers (She let us know that this was a "staff favorite" and so we went with this over a ricotta gnocchi special they were offering) 2. Duck Buried In Vermicelli, Chard, Sweet Onion, Orange Blossom & Sugared Almonds 3. The Chicken Gyro special Everything was delicious and I highly recommend ordering one of their "PRET Ã MANGER" dishes (of which the feta was a part). These are small, flavor packed ways to start your dining experience. The price of most entrees here makes Oleana, in my humble opinion, just expensive enough to be out of the go-all-the-time category. Average is about $26/entree. However, the experience was delightfully warm. I would attribute this not only to the food and atmosphere, but to the staff who are clearly well chosen and passionate about food and being at Oleana. Has a kind, familiar vibe. Makes you happy to give a nice tip because it's well deserved.
(4)
Adam K.
Easily one of my top three restaurants in Boston. Tremendous food; seasonal menus; extremely consistent all around. Absolutely delicious and not ostentatious in any way; totally casual and friendly -- and relatively inexpensive -- to the point that this is one of my go-to spots.
(5)
Priscilla T.
Getting a table on short notice when you want it is not always easy, but I'll live with it. I've now been twice and both times the food was good - although the first time was definitely better than the 2nd (mainly because the 2nd server was...a rookie? And they didn't have fresh, warm pita bread to go with the hummus. Boo hiss). Spinach falafel, fantastic. Crispy fideos, not bad. Definitely go with sharing a bunch of small plates instead of going for the big ones. Hummus is a must. The restaurant is pretty small so reserve this spot for a date, not a reunion dinner.
(3)
Jenny H.
This place was good (all the ingredients were fresh and high-quality) but it didn't blow my mind like I had heard from some friends/reviews on Yelp. I got their vegetarian tasting menu- everything was light and fresh but maybe it's because I love meat or because I like to know what I'm getting, but all the dishes were good but not amazing like I expected. I got a chopped caesar salad to start, shredded iceberg lettuce tossed in caesar dressing, tasted like something I could buy at the supermarket. The second course I got their falafel which was a thin piece of pita with a thin layer of this red beet spread and their falafel on top- their falafel was very moist, fresh and good! Third course I got a ratatoille dish which was generically good. Their dessert was absolutely amazing though- it's a French ice cream called creme glace artisanal I think and it was a cold, creamy cone of vanilla ice cream with bite-sized pieces of cured fruit inside. It was like nothing I ate before and was a nice ending to a nice meal!
(4)
Bean T.
Came here after doing a quick yelp search and fell in love. Drinks, apps, main course flawless. Save room for the baked alaskan. YUM!
(5)
Jenn S.
My husband and I went to Oleana this past weekend with my friend and her parents. EVERYONE I mentioned it to raved about it and said it was amazing. So of course, I had high hopes. I knew my husband would not love it - he's a pretty simple (and slightly picky) eater and sure enough, he wasn't crazy about it. My friend, her parents and I, however, thoroughly enjoyed it. When you pull up, the restaurant itself seems like it's in an old house, which is odd, but once you walk inside, you would never know it. The decor is charming and cozy (I loved the bathrooms!) and the service is great. We started with drinks. My friend and her 'rents all got The Sortini - Sake with White Peach & Mastic - which was a bit dry for me. I went with The Paopao - Sparkling Wine with Strawberry & Pink Peppercorn. DELISH. I downed that sucker. Her dad also ordered a bottle of Pinot Gris, but I don't know which one. We could NOT decide on appetizers, so we each picked 1. We ended up with: the appetizer special - a corn cake BLT (tasty); the Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets & Crinkled Cress (barely tasted the spinach and the beets seemed pureed and were quite tasty!); the Spicy Fideos & Chick Peas with Green Chard & Orange Aioli (interesting...); the Tuna Kibbeh Nayeh with Turkish Spices, Pickled Purplette Onion & Herb Salad (I don't east seafood, but actually tried this! Did not taste like tuna, but did have a squishy sort of texture); and the Kohlrabi & Radicchio Pancake with Haloumi Cheese, Mint & Nigella Seed (this was tasty). Overall, tasty food but not the best appetizers I've ever had. For our main courses, my husband and I both ordered the Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar (a wild herb similar to thyme, blended sesame seeds & sumac) & Turkish Cheese Pancake. The pancake wasn't so much a pancake as it was cheese wrapped in phyllo dough. It was tasty, but the flavors didn't go so well with the chicken. My friend and her dad both ordered the Scallops with Pistachio, Fig & Spiced Tomato Trahana (they loved it, but the couscous it came on was a bit too oniony for her) and her mom got the Duck Leg special, which was tasty, but also full of cheese. For dessert, we treated ourselves to the Baked Alaska with Coconut Ice Cream & Passion Fruit Caramel. It was definitely coconuty and passion fruity! We all thought the ice cream was actually Passion Fruit, not Coconut. I had never had a Baked Alaska before and this was a great one to have for my first one! The ice cream was a bit hard, which made it difficult to get a bite, but that didn't stop us! We pretty much devoured it. Overall, a good meal and a nice place. I don't know if I would go back (it's not so close to me, hubby didn't love it and there are SO many other restaurants I want to try), but I would definitely recommend it.
(4)
Dessa R.
I'd been lusting to go to Ana Sortun's Cambridge culinary oasis for well over a year. If you know the background, it's a foodie fairytale. Oleana is the lovechild of Top Chef Master and organic farmer hubby. You just can't make that shit up. Having made reservations almost a three weeks in advance, my date and I were pretty excited to check it out. The term "tongue-woody" may or may not have been used. Luckily, we came with low hopes of getting a seat in the enchanted garden patio we had heard so much about, because we had a better chance of scoring a midnight game of beer pong with the Pope. The Sultan's Delight was amazing-- glazed beef that just sort of fell apart the minute we poked at it with our eager little forks. My only regret here is that we didn't order two, as the portion was painfully small for two of us. I ordered the flattened chicken entree, which was a little disappointing. The chicken wasn't as flat as the description might lead one to believe, a bit dry-- and it was crusted in tons of herbs, which some folks might enjoy, but wasn't really to my taste. The cheese pancake underneath was quite good, but not good enough to warrant ordering the so-so chicken again. My dining companion ordered the swordfish, which he liked, but neither of our dishes held a candle to that Sultan. We shared the famous Baked Alaskan for dessert. I was a little hesitant, for two reasons-- coconut ice cream and passion fruit caramel. But surprisingly, the flavors came together quite nicely. So Oleana, I award you a conditional and pending four star rating, despite my three star dinner. I am quite certain that the fare here is delicious, flavorful, and creative, but I clearly ordered the wrong entree this time around. Next time, I will choose more wisely, and am hoping I will have a true and unconditional four or five star experience. C'mon-- even I like fairytales.
(4)
Mike R.
My date and I enjoyed Oleana. We had two small plates, one entree, one drink apiece, and two desserts, for a cost of around $100. The small plates were very good, as was the entree. Our baked Alaska dessert was awesome, and the Nightingale's chocolate nest was bad. Service was on the plus side of OK. To succinctly summarize our experience: we had a lot of fun, and we aren't eager to go back. It was fun sitting outside on a nice summer's day and eating well-cooked Turkish food with good ingredients, and maybe it will be fun again in a few months.
(4)
Nadine G.
We must have been there on a off-night. The food was very filling but somehow not satisfying. Things were just a little under-realized and tasteless. It seemed more effort when into description than execution. Attentive but quite rushed service. Indoors, it's another place with a high-decibel level. It's now a bit cold for the garden, which looked lovely.
(3)
Jeremy S.
A great find, cosy, eclectic Mezze and entrees, friendly service, innovative small wine list, fair prices, fine quality.
Impressive tapas dining. Delicious well thought out seasonal menu. All produce is from local farm. Great decor, service, and overall feel. Great for couples or groups. Unique wine selection. Must save room for desserts!
(5)
S D.
Another mixed experience at Oleana. It feels like this happens every 4 or 5 times we go. Ordered 4 mezze. Two came out perfectly toned & v good. Then a 20 min wait for the third. Then after another 20 mins & no sign of the fourth we gave up. As before, we kept being told it was 'just coming' but it never arrived. The restaurant wasn't too busy so no idea what was up, but as before, better communication would have helped.
(3)
Robert O.
We were visiting Boston and this restaurant was recommended by a friend who has two daughters living in the area. Coming from the NY metro area we were looking for a restaurant that would provide a great meal and something different than we could get at home. Oleana did not disappoint! I am omitting details about the dishes we ordered because they (2 appetizers, 2 entreees & a dessert) were all spectacular but the people around us who ordered others found them equally great and I suspect that they change their menu often enough that the dishes we ate may not be available next month. I'm not planning to drive 250 miles to eat here next weekend but if I'm in the Boston area again will definitely make Oleana a stop!
(5)
Gabi R.
Food: -fried spicy peppers - the cheese was amazing in these. a good way to start an awesome meal - corn borek (it was a special) - layers of borek with ricotta cheese, topped with a corn pate and swiss chard marmalade. i thought i'd not to heaven until... -the green beans and baba ganoush - the corn and fruit compote was to die for, and went well with the egg plant puree -octopus meze - got it at the reco of the waitress and i agree with her, this is the best thing on the menu and the best octopus in a two mile radius (de-thrones my previous crowning of the octopus at green st grill) - it was octopus mounted on a tomato-cheese stew of some sort, all mounted on bread that had soaked in the bold flavor of all the spices. one day, i'll move back to manhattan, and no octopus there will ever be good enough for me... -chocolate hazelnut nest - it was tasty - sweetness is in the baclava which is baked in with a dark chocolate truffle. I think the big win here is also the fig leaf ice cream. **this is all great, but the bottom-line based on several previous experiences at oleana: you cannot go wrong. this is fine palette-pampering at its finest. Service: for a restaurant that is so popular, they could have been snobs, but instead, they were the sweetest, most accomodating service i've seen in a long long time. water glases full, staff attentive, polite, and funny. i loved it! Ambience: we sat in the garden last night (it was NorCal weather) but even in the dead of winter when I've sat by the bar, this place is romantic. Great for dates, celebrations, parents, you name it!
(5)
Tessa B.
My boyfriend and I were living in Boston for quite some time and we came to Oleana minimum once a week. On the other weekdays, he would call and order around 5 appetizers as take out because it was hard to find good quality, delicious, and unique mediterranean food in Boston. We loved especially the sultan's delight, the octopus dish, fried mussels, and we always made sure to try their specials. the menu changes seasonally, which we liked because the food was always fresh and in season. I miss Oleana so much and only want to travel back to Boston to enjoy a nice dinner there again. the best is to order a bunch of appetizers and share with your party. always feel leaving light and satisfied.
(5)
EV G.
This place lives up to its hype. We were visiting from out of town and wanted to try a restaurant entirely different and unique and delicious. Oleana was the place, the food was fantastic and unlike the usual fare you can find anyplace. We didn't get to sit outside as the wait was too long, maybe next time. Chorizo stuffed green tomatoes and whipped feta with sweet and hot peppers for apps, lamb and salmon with some sort of corn delight on top and god, it was all really really good. Go here.
(5)
Talia R.
Really torn, have had a great and a poor experience. Didn't think I'd ever say this, but stick with all vegetarian options, if possible? The falafel are relevatory, as are some of the fish dishes. A few other things are just trying too hard, all sorts of flavors competing for space and in the most balanced of ways: fideos, octopus, scallops. Service is fine, everyone there seems like a veteran and enthusiastic to be telling you all the details (ad naseum) of every dish. The space is too tight in the front room. Last visit the waitress kept standing between our table and the ones on either side, literally resting her behind on ours (and she was quite thin), which made me pretty uncomfortable. I don't mind tight quarters and understand need to fit as many tops as possible into a restaurant, but this is just not very pleasant. Mediocre wine list given how ambitious the cooking is.
(3)
Abby S.
Raw chicken...unfortunately this was my experience at Oleana this past Saturday night. I cut into my chicken and it was still pink on the inside. Further, with my first bite, I felt that the chicken was not good quality (ended up biting into a chunk of fat). Our waitress brought the chicken back to the kitchen and then brought it back out saying that it was only slightly pink (no apology for undercooked chicken - nor was there an offer to remove it from our bill). I did not eat the chicken because I was a little grossed out at this point. As other reviewers have noted, it seems like this may have been a fluke with all the other amazing reviews. My sister and her wife have been here on a few occasions and have had excellent meals. Unfortunately, they were not pleased with their meals during this trip either and especially disappointed that the apple tea is not on the menu anymore (and no...the apple/chamomile tea was not a good substitute). Lastly, I felt that the menu was a little confusing with the glossary at the bottom and little explanation of the dishes. The two bright spots of the meal (why I am giving two stars instead of one): falafel and salad with pomegranate seeds. Overall, disappointing experience!
(2)
Ashley D.
one of the best meals of my life. I can't accurately describe all of the flavors that were experienced because so much of it was foreign to me, but I can say that it is unlike anything I've ever had before in the best way possible. all of the favors were so incredibly dynamic and developed and well thought out. we chose to order a bunch of small dishes rather than entrees and I would definitely suggest going with this gameplan because there is just too much good stuff here that needs to be tried. for example: Sultan's Delight- tamarind glazed beef and smokey eggplant. so tender and SO FREAKING BOMB. I also just googled tamarind and found out that it is a tree that produces a pod-like fruit. cool. Yellowfin Tuna special- topped with a deviled egg. wow INCREDIBLY BOMB. Chickpea Hummus- apricot, pistachio, and tahini sauce. this mix of flavors was AWESOME. I have to admit it sounded a little boring to me at first, but this will guaranteed be the best hummus you've ever ordered. Pork Bombetta- pancetta, cauliflower, green olives. HOLY CRAP. so tender! Baked Alaska dessert- coconut and passionfruit. woah not expecting that at all, but also BOMB. oh and can't forget the bread from god with whatever seasoning they magically sprinkle on. I don't exaggerate when I say BEST BREAD EVER. I've been wanting and waiting to come here for so long and now I can die happy.
If you're dining in Boston and want to try something really different, then you've got to check out Oleana. It's rare to see places do pure Turkish cuisine, but to see them do it this well is truly a treat not to be missed. The decor matches the food perfectly, and is the perfect atmosphere to impress a date in, or have a fun, sophisticated night out with your significant other. Since I was visiting from DC, I had neither of these, but the hostess and waitress did a great job making me feel right at home regardless, and I enjoyed one of the most unique meals I've had in quite a while. The menu can possibly be intimidating if you've never or rarely eaten Middle Eastern or Mediterranean food, but trust me when I say there is something here that anyone could enjoy. I was really tempted surprisingly enough by the brick roasted chicken, mainly because I love Za'atar seasoning, so I was dying to have something that used it, but I had heard of a "secret" tasting menu here which was even more intriguing. I asked the waitress about it, and she said there was in fact a tasting menu which is not listing on their regular menu, 5 courses for $55. I was torn between so many menu choices (the duck also sounded amazing), so this was an easy way for me to try as much as possible with little damage to the wallet. 1st course - fried gigante beans w/ wild mushroom & celery salad ( yelp.com/biz_photos/kLr6… ): So much about this dish was different than the type of food I typically eat. For starters there was no meat, but still managed to be packed with both texture and flavor. The cooling flavors of the celery soup/puree that fills the bowl were really great, and the texture of the fried gigante beans was an awesome contrast. 2nd course - Spanish octopus w/ pork belly, green olive vinaigrette, roasted potato & artichoke heart ( yelp.com/biz_photos/kLr6… ): Just totally freakin amazing. So many elements in this dish were perfectly executed. It happened to be the special of the night as a main entree, so I was really fortunate to be able to taste it in this manner. Note to other American chefs, cook your octopus like this and it will start to become one of the most popular items in your restaurant, so much better than the tough, chewy versions most places put out. 3rd course - tuna w/ pomegranate spoon salad & coconut rice wrapped in collard ( yelp.com/biz_photos/kLr6… ): The tuna was cooked brilliantly and the pomegranate salad added a really nice zing to the dish, but I thought the collards were too tough. They were really difficult to cut through, making getting to the rice a challenge. 4th course - duck musakhan with cauliflower, buttered pinenuts, sumac & rose ( yelp.com/biz_photos/kLr6… ): This was a neat take on a "pot pie" although I get the feeling this traditional preparation has been around long before we came up with that term. The duck was cooked perfectly and had such an amazing, strong flavor from the sumac. The musakhan bread shell was also really good and just flaky enough. 5th course - cocoa-rose ice cream with chocolate marquise, date-rose truffle & rose petal jam ( yelp.com/biz_photos/kLr6… ): Each one was good in it's own unique way, but the truffle was by far my favorite, although the ice cream was so different it was a close second. Overall I thought it was an extremely well balanced tasting menu, showing off a wide range of cooking styles and flavors, and nothing was so overpowering to mute out the other dishes. Make sure you ask your server about doing this option!
(5)
Cathy B.
The boyfriend and I came here yesterday for dinner. We both had low expectations. Especially the boyfriend since he's kind of an expert in Mediterranean food. We arrived before our 6:45pm reservation and was seated promptly. I was kind of overwhelmed by the appetizer section but I went based on what I like. So I chose the grilled octopus and the Sultan's delight. The bf went with the special of the night which was the bass. The appetizers were amazing! My favorite one was the octopus, very chewy and just cooked perfectly. It went so well with the peas and vinegar like dressing. GREAT! I also liked the Sultan's delight, very tender meat and it balanced out with the eggplant puree. The bf' really enjoyed his sea bass entree. The fish and veggies (cauliflower) were cooked perfectly. For dessert we had the Turkish-Style Profiteroles& Nougat Glace with Passion Fruit Curd & PIstachio Atayif. The profiteroles were tad bit overwhelming with the butter creme but overall I liked both of them, nothing TOO special but the bf thought it was great. Glad he liked it so he could finish it off (that's what bf's are for, right?) Service was good. Towards the end, the night got busy and the waitress was not as prompt as the beginning of the night but nothing to complain about. Overall my experience went pretty well. I would definitely come back here to check out the other appetizers. Oleana did not dissapoint and went above my expectations!
(4)
Jessica H.
The first time I went about a year ago, I was so excited! My boyfriend and I have heard great things about this place and I have seen Chef Ana Sortun do a cooking demo before at Boston Greenfest. I even went to Turkey last summer and am intrigued with anything Turkish. I love the concept of this restaurant, with a farm to table value on food, especially veggies that come from the husband's farm (I have met him at the Copley Farmer's Market, super nice guy). We got patio seating but had to wait awhile to sit there. That was ok in the sense there is a special seat in the corner of the patio if you want to hang out there and have a drink while you wait. We ended up waiting quiet a while until we could place a drink order which was frustrating. By the time we got our drinks we were being seated. The patio is lovely though - definitely the way to experience it. I got a sangria and thought it was really good (though i just got it again last night during my 2nd time visiting and thought it was just ok). I've been drinking a lot of sangria the past year so I think my palette is much more picky these days. For an appetizer we got the Kesir meze which was really good. My boyfriend got the pork dish and liked it a lot. I asked for a vegan entree but was pretty disappointed. I have heard for years and from reading other Yelp reviews that the vegetable plate can be amazing here (they even have a vegetarian tasting menu) but this dish was mostly just a risotto with a leafy green on top. The chef that night was lazy or just too busy to make the effort. I was hoping for a little variety or a sampling of a few different veggies, but to pay $22 for a basic risotto was boring. Because my dish was not the most exciting thing I got a free dessert - they have a vegan almond ice cream. That night it was to die for, I almost cried because it was so good. But because it was free, it was just a tiny scoop. Originally I was going to order the regular size because I wanted it so bad, oh the irony.... I ordered wine at dinner but it took forever to come out, so I was almost done with my entree by the time I got it. Thus I was still drinking it when the dessert was served and it was not a good combo. The meal itself also took forever to come out, it was just a really slow night over all. I thought the bathroom this first visit was really pretty. Our first visit was good on some places but definitely did not live up to the hype that I've read about.
(3)
Carolyn L.
I honestly can say that I have never had a better dining experience. The food was excellent - couldn't be beat - but what really made this dinner for us was the ultra friendly and accommodating staff! My husband and I had our anniversary dinner here; we had a reservation for 9:00, but got there a bit earlier to see if they could squeeze us in. The hostess was a DOLL and got us seated in 10 minutes! Immediately we were served with water and given our menus. We ended up ordering the Sultan's Delight (amazing. cannot recommend highly enough! and the eggplant puree was TO DIE FOR, it was so spicy and complemented the beef perfectly. Probably our second favorite thing). We also got the buttered hummus, which was also delicious, and the whipped feta - which was my second favorite meze. We got the chicken with spices and a cheese flatbread, which I loved. It was the most tender breast meat I have ever had!! The only complaint was that the black sesame crust was a bit too salty for my husband. We also ordered the lamb, which I thought was slightly tough - I'm not a huge fan of lamb to begin with - but my husband ADORED. The couscous was delicious too - and those veggie chips were amazing. I will really say though, that the highlight of the dinner was the baked Alaska. it was roughly the size of my head, and even then I felt like I could use more, that's how good it was! Our waitress was super bubbly and friendly, and ever waiter in the joint checked up on us to see how we were doing. It was the friendliest service I have EVER had!! It truly made the night for us, and made the food taste even better. We went home after dinner and could not stop chatting about how amazing the whole experience was for us. We will definitely be back; probably tonight for another dinner!! :)
(5)
Pooja S.
The food is delicious! I am definitely going back for more. We had the falafel appetizer which was honestly the best falafel I have ever had! For dinner, I had the scallops and my husband had the lamb stew. Both dishes tasted great. The server was not pushy about more apps or desert which you can sometimes get at nicer restaurants. I would highly recommend this place.
(5)
Justin K.
Expertly crafted casual plates, with spicing that sends the palette to the moon!
(5)
Laura P.
One of the best meals I've ever had! We went for New Years Eve dinner. I had to make the reservation before thanksgiving and available times were already limited. When we arrived we had to wait 15-20 min for our table and they do not have a good waiting area. My boyfriend was stuck sitting next to a stove and unfortunately it's usually the first thing he says when we talk about the evening. But that is the only negative feedback I have. The food more than made up for the wait and the hot stove! There were 2 of us, we ordered 5 tapas and left stuffed! Everything was delicious. Our favorites were the Falafel and Sultans Delight, amazing!!! The Falafel comes in a serving of 3 but you can ask for more which I recommend. We finished our meal with the Baked Alaska - it was the most interesting and flavorful dessert I've ever had. Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Ashwin K.
The sultan's delight was, indeed, a delight. As were the cigar borek with summer squash and corn-quinoa fritters on a bed of prosciutto. Chased it all down with a Turkish coffee.
(5)
Swatee G.
I am so so do disappointed by this place! I had them on my Yelp bookmarks for almost a year, and I finally got to visit the place on my birthday.. Gabriella Gershenson sent me here .. I swear, I watched the show on Food Network, added this place to my bookmarks, so here I was.. We had reservations and were seated pretty quick. The server was friendly, but disappeared to get our drink orders and came back after 10 minutes, still empty handed, then went again to get drinks! We started off with the Quail which was really yummy and the falafel dish was to die for! Extremely flavorful and very nicely presented. I ordered the flattened chicken for my entree (damn you, Gabriella Gershenson!!) and as excited as I was, I did not like it :( It was overly salty for some reason, and the Turkish cheese pancake was mushy and over dressed. MY friends ordered the Pork which was just meh.. same goes for the crab. The food was just nothing to rave about, my disappointment just grew by with every bite :( Our server would disappear for long periods of time, we were charged for one dish that never made it to the table, and we had to ask the server to take it off. We were 4 people, and then midway through dinner, another friend joined us - just to wish me a Happy B'day (Oleanna did absolutely NOTHING special for my special day, btw - nope.. not even a little cookie with a candle on it!! - pretty sad), and we had enough space on sofa side for her. However, within a minute, we had a whole posse of servers and hostess descend upon us, eyeing us disapprovingly, and make us MOVE.. in the middle of dinner - to a bigger table, so in between dinner, I had to set down my fork and move to another table just because the hostess did not want us to be 'uncomfortable' - I find that pretty ridic, My mom would have been livid at me leaving the dinner table mid meal, btw Oleanna. .. just so you know! The 2 stars they do get from me are purely for the appetizers we had. Not the ideal way to spend my B'day dinner - but now I know and i am not likely to return to this place.. thanks for making it not so special!
(2)
Stephen S.
I had the great pleasure of dining at Oleana during a recent trip to Boston. With a group of 3 we attacked the meze menu, shared an entree, and happily went for the specials. Of the regular menu we really loved the imam fainted. The specials were by far the best dishes of the night though and given their focus on seasonality I'd really recommend paying attention to what they've pulled together for the night. Dinner wouldn't be completed without dessert and we opted for the baked alaska and the chocolate-hazelnut nightingale's nests. The baked alaska was a nice twist on the classic with coconut ice cream atop a macaron covered with brulee meringue and finished with a passion fruit caramel sauce. I was a little worried about a flavor clash from the menu description but everything fit together nicely and it was a wonderful dessert. The baked alaska was absolutely devoured which was more than could be said for the chocolate-hazelnut nightingale's nest. It was a little more difficult to eat with layers of filling with a little mason jar that never quite wound up mixing together in the right way. The chocolate was a little bitter and the goat milk's granita a little odd. It's a small space that fills very cozy and welcoming but the drawback to that is it's a bit hard to get a reservation here at some times.
(4)
Rachel F.
I have a friend who has dined here over ten times and I wish I could say the same. For someone who finds that meals on the cheaper side can be just as delicious- I must retract my statement for this restaurant. It's by far one of the only places I'd spend more than twenty dollars on my meal alone. Plus, the atmosphere is perfect. Romantic yet casual with just enough noise and proximity to other tables to remind you that this is Cambridge! A great "hole in the wall" for people who know where to actually go to eat in greater Boston. I also love Sofra and can't wait to check out Sarma!
(5)
Manfred S.
Spontaneous dinner. Called Oleana and they said they could seat us. The tiny table was a little bit oddly placed in the middle of the room. We were tired and hungry so we accepted. Vegetarian special set menu ($40), a couple of non-vegetarian appetizers (some seafood mix and a lamb moussaka) as well as bottle of dry Rheingau riesling ($34) were enough for a late dinner for two. The judgment: The dishes were simply fantastic. The portions were small, but tasty perfection. This was one of the best tasting meals in a very long time. This could become a regular destination for me. Ha ... and I remember when I landed in the Boston area Modern Times was in this location. It was my favorite destination then. Great karma in the location for sure.
(5)
Yelena Y.
This is more like a 4 dollar sign place but its amazing! I went here for dinner two nights ago and we had many mezze plates and just inhaled them! Staff was great and we ordered a bottle of rose wine from greece that was to die for. I ordered the lamb souvlakhi is a main entre and wasn't entirely expressed. Very small amount of meat on some skewers, so I would not recommend that dish. The other mezze dishes I ordered were fabulous!
(4)
Anya S.
This is my friends favorite restaurant. And she is a foodie. Apparently this place is so popular, you have to make reservations a few weeks in advance. However, we were lucky enought to snag a 10:15 pm dinner spot. I was super excited. The decor of this place is a bit confusing, at least it was for me. Its like turkish with pillows and long benches, modern with colors and for some unknow to me reason they had a bunch of hamsas hanging on the wall. The tables are also on the smaller side and I felt like I was seated a bit too close to the next table, but yummy real estate is always pricey. We shared the beef appetizer and while the hummus was average, the meat itself was one of the most tender and flavorful dishes Ive had in a while. The meat was basically melting in my mouth. It aslo had a very interesting smokey (?) aftertaste which lingered on for a while. Anyway if you like your beef, order this appetizer. By 10 they were all out of their specials, so we both had lamb for our main course. I cant say it was the best lamb Ive had, but it was pretty darn tasty. Also, I have to mention presentation - these people got really creative with a simple lamb/yougurt/lavash dish. For dessert we shared a baked Alaska. Also, Id like to note that everyone around us was having the baked Alaska. Now, the shoker of this review would be - I did not like the baked Alaska. I did not like the taste of the outside creamy part nor did I like the crust. It was not sweet enought and I felt that the coconut took over the other flavors.... The service was quick but not very personal. Overall, it is not my favorite restaurant but if you are looking for a solid meal and like some beef this is the place.
(4)
Chelan V.
This place was perfect. Very interesting food, good service, and it exceeded my expectations. We ordered a couple specials which were good but based on Yelp recommendations we ordered the spinach falafel, sultan delight, and quail. All great choices!!!
(5)
Ali W.
I am not the biggest Mediterranean cuisine fan, but Oleana has won me over! I like the mezzes here better than the entrees. My favorites are the Lamb Manti with Brown Butter, Yogurt, and Turkish Chiles and Moussaka with Whipped Fava. I must say, Oleana's moussaka is my favorite moussaka of all time! I think it is the whipped fava that adds a new texture and flavor to the traditional moussaka. 1 star off: A few dishes were misses. The Deep Fried Clams and Fiddleheads seemed like something from a street vendor -- deep fried, but nothing special. The Wild Salmon with Spicy Chraimeh Sauce was pretty much like seared salmon from any other restaurant. For dessert, we tried a special of the evening, which was a Phyllo Nest with Fig Leaf Ice Cream. It was basically a dressed up baklava, but a damn good one.
(4)
Nina N.
I've been wanting to go here for awhile, and then after checking out Sarma (which is incredible) we decided to try Oleana for dinner. I had high hopes for the food, and it definitely delivered. The service on the other hand was terrible. We sat in the back room next to a large (and very loud) group, which would have been fine except that our waiter was either completely consumed by them, or just didn't care about us ( a small two-top). He brought my boyfriend the wrong beer, forgot my wine, forgot one of our mezes that we ordered and didn't offer any guidance with the menu as people who had never been to the restaurant before. I wanted it to be better, but the ambiance kind of killed this place for me. I would maybe go back in the summer and sit on the patio, or sit at the bar, but I was unimpressed with the table service.
(2)
Stephanie S.
First of all, I need to comment on the service. Oleana goes above and beyond for their customers. I accidentally left a shopping bag there and they mailed it to me (back in Oklahoma). They mailed it to me not only once, but twice because it was sent back to them. So, thank you Oleana for helping me out! Onto the food - it was amazing. Our friends who were more knowledgable ordered for us, which was helpful because many of the menu items I had never heard of before. We tried several small dishes such as the hummus, the fried peppers - the real delight was the Sultan's Delight. For an entree, I would highly recommend a fish. You also can't go wrong with the classic Tamarack Tunis Lamb, a classic mediterranean dish. Save room for a Turkish coffee or a small dessert to share. Actually, save room for every bit of it. Don't even bother eating the entire day, just starve yourself for a night here.
(5)
Nikhil P.
Another outstanding meal at Oleana. Even if you're not a vegetarian, they're choices are just so succulent you start to wonder who ever decided eating meat was a good idea? A few items on the hit list (and FYI, thank god for the glossary, which saves your ass from with some easy-peasy layman's terms on what you're about to stuff in your mouth): 1. Avocado & Dukkah - cheap, and delicious. avocado with pomegranate seeds. who would have ever thought. likes peas and carrots. revolutionary. We ordered two rounds of this, then got way too full and had to pack it up for the next day. I ended up eating it the next morning with toast and an omelette and I felt like packaging it and selling it to my neighbors. I discovered something new! 2. Fried Cauliflower, Beirut-Style Slaw, Pickles & Tahini - very tasty. the cauliflower fills out the plate a lot. 3. Spicy Fideos, Chick Peas, Swiss Chard & Orange Aioli - delicious. still not entirely sure what a fideo is, despite the glossary, but my mouth liked it very much. 4. Chick Pea Terrine-- Apricot, Pistachio & Tahini Sauce - amazing. 5. Muhlama--Turkish-Style Fondue, Crispy Brussels & Fried Pickles - see above. amazing. All kinds of great choices here, and really, REALLY, unique flavors. Well deserved accolades at this place.
(5)
Danny C.
Great mediterranean food! The ambience in the restaurant is also nice- I've usually had A-Okay mediterranean and after trying at this place, I got to know what a good mediterranean food is- One thing though..it is a little pricy. Other than that, all good!
(4)
Jason K.
Fantastic! Everything was great. Nice diversity with the menu choices. The monk fish was a very unique mix of flavors cooked perfectly.
(5)
Wasim Q.
I think every Cambridge Yelper has to try this place at least once. The reason-- it's a regional-southeastern-Turkish-inspired-modern cuisine that you'll never get anywhere else. Really unique flavors and ingredient combinations, with great execution: e.g., Striped-bass-salad (sorta like a light chicken salad but with fish) in a "shawarma" sandwich wrapped in paper thin toasted lavash. The fluke nayeh was my favorite, a fish carpaccio smothered in something like harissa and preserved lemon and mint, with razor thin crispy sweet potato straws as a garnish. Some of the dishes were a miss, like the chickpea terrine (the base of the dish is a little bland) and the fideos (mushy chopped up vermicelli). You gotta go mezze style and order a bunch of small plates so you can try as many as you can. 5 for two people, with free flowing complimentary bread, is plenty. Great non-alcoholic drinks too-- ask for the Siena cocktail (not on the menu, but named after the chef's daughter; tasted like guava soda with some fruity foam). I will knock them a little for not having bottomless cokes, which is a pet peeve of mine. Decor is awesome and modern (maple wood paneling everywhere, including the ceiling), but with Turkish touches like lamps and tapestries. Free parking in the lot across the street that says "authorized parking only." No, I'm not trying to trick you into getting your car towed-- it's for the restaurant. By far the best thing about this place is the desserts. This place has two pastry chefs and it really shows in how well constructed the desserts are. The caramel tangerine parfait is one of the best desserts you'll get in Boston. Half the dessert is the parfait-- a jar of salty caramel mousse/pudding with candied orange rind and chocolate powder and surprise tangerine slush crystals throughout. The other half is a chocolate ganache tart, equally awesome. For some reason the menus are magnetic, which I can only explain by the restaurant's proximity to MIT and all the tech companies in Kendall, who I assume the restaurant assumes will be impressed by the magnets hidden inside.
(4)
Guillermo M.
One of the best restaurants in Boston. However I will say it clear and simple: come here and JUST get appetizers and desserts. Avoid entrees and your mouth and stomach will be the happiest and also your wallet. As an example I got the monkfish for entree and was not excellent, however it was more that 30 dollars with tax. On the other hand got the sultan's delight, the three cheese turkish meze and the chick pea terrine and were all amazing. For dessert we got the baked Alaska and was also extremely good.
(4)
Juliann S.
Baked Alaska.
(5)
Khalil B.
Great service and great food . The chef's new additions to the menu always surprises me and showcases how good the combinations are. The sultan Delight is an unbeatable dish. I'll have it over and over again minus the dill. Great job Chef Sortun!
(5)
Steve H.
This restaurant offers unique, flavorful entrees and small plates. It has a small seating area so it books up quickly and you may be seated "close" to others or outside the kitchen door. If you are fortunate to have a reservation on a fair weather day you have an option for patio seating or a better chance to be seated without a reservation as they can juggle more tables. They do not reserve the patio. Parking is across the street or on street.
(4)
Alisa K.
I was gonna say this place was great but didn't blow me away. Then I had the caramel tangerine parfait with the salted caramel torte and everything changed. It had everything I love about dessert - chocolate, citrus, candy, salt. It had all of the dessert texture dwarves (creamy, dusty, crunchy, chewy, crispy) and a nice array of temperatures (frozen, room-temperature, warm). Officially blown away! We ordered mezze-style so I can't speak to the entrees. But the mezzes were super creative - basically each was Mediterranean inspired with some pizzazz. For instance, the chick pea terrine was hummus shaped like a mini bundt cake with walnutey goodness in the bundt-hole. (Omg i just invented a new curse word!) The inside of said bundt-hole was yummy although the hummus-y part was a bit pasty and cold for my taste. I loved the fluke nayeh- it had the texture of tartare with the taste of cerviche and some lemony zest to boot. The striped bass shawarma was good too - sort of like chicken salad (tahini instead of mayo) meets toasted golden shawarma. Bread and cheese dumplings were like a delicious Mediterranean take on tomato soup. In a good way. The virgin drinks were good- loved the sienna cocktail and the rose lemonade. They have a great vegetarian menu, attentive service, and their menus are magnetic! Overall, 4.5 stars. Right in the bundt-hole.
(4)
Aaron M.
I eat meat with almost every meal, not because I'm opposed to vegetarian meals, but usually because the herbivore options sound so boring and uninspired -- afterthought menu appendages to half-heartedly appease a minority of the population. This is not the case with Oleana. I enjoyed every minute and every plate of the vegetarian tasting menu. The dishes were creative and thoughtful, with a great mix of textures and Mediterranean-inspired flavors. It was also well priced, at $40 for a 6-course tasting menu. My only minor complaints were that the service lacked the same attention to detail put into the food, and that it was as hot as a sauna in the backroom where we were placed. But, other than that, I left impressed and wishing that Oleana was located in my hometown.
(5)
John L.
Oleana is a truly amazing dining experience in the Inman Square area. We began with spinach falafel and buttered hummus for appetizers. Both of which were absolutely delicious. The hummus comes wrapped in an aged beef, which adds a nice texture and taste to the dish. For dinner, we had the lamb with pomegranate glaze and the duck. The lamb was perfectly medium rare and the glaze complemented the taste of the lamb perfectly. The duck, despite being in a soup-style dish, was as advertised, and crispy. The herb and beans with the duck rounded out the dish nicely. For dessert, we shared the baked alaska, as this was recommended by a friend who had previously been to Oleana. The dessert met our expectations, and was definitely enough for two people to share. Overall, my impressions of Oleana were great. It's a unique, comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere. The prices are a little on the expensive end, but this is a dining experience that is worth every penny. The waitstaff was exceptional. When they noticed our wine running low, they promptly asked if we would like more; when water was running low, it was topped off. We did not feel rushed at all. This last point is huge, as we've been to other places in the area and it felt as if you were being pushed the entire time you were there. I highly recommend Oleana for an intimate date and dining experience. If you love food, you'll really enjoy all that Oleana has to offer.
(5)
Sri S.
Food is good and definitely looks fresh and tasty. Portions are very very small for the price. We noticed few people only eating appetizers as the entree is really expensive. Deserts are really good. We went on a birthday party. Not a good option for people who only eat white meat (Chicken). Very few options.
(3)
R S.
We went here for a birthday celebration. While I enjoyed some of the plates, I was basically shocked at the Lamb Tagine main course which two of us in our party ordered: there was barely any lamb. You had to search to find it. The wine by the glass list was interesting, but I found the "if you like pinot grigio, you'll like...X" a little annoying/condescending. The service was excellent, and the interior and atmosphere quite nice. Some of the starters, spreads and dishes were extremely yummy. But I found the lamb tagine, for $26 dollars, sub-par. The tuna main course was good, but again, not outstanding. If I went back, I would not even order any mains. We had a nice time, but I doubt we will be back. The restaurant did not live up to the hype.
(3)
Chris Z.
I was so excited about coming to Oleana for my birthday (a big birthday, mind you) - we had been looking forward to it since December when we received a gift card. Really disappointed is all I have to say. Major flaw: we found HAIR in our food. We told the waitress and she took away the mezze, but we didn't hear anything else about it until my boyfriend went up to the people at the front (about 20 minutes later) to convey how disappointed we were. After that, the waitress was very gracious, however, I was just a little turned off by the food. We continued to eat - they were out of the main dish that we ordered (at 8:30 PM - make sure you go early), so we ordered the zaatar chicken. A little fatty, nothing too special to it (I normally don't order chicken when I go out, but it was recommended). One good mezze was the spinach falafel. Otherwise, a pretty underwhelming experience.
(1)
Corey L.
I lived next door to this place for 2 years and only went once. Mostly because there are cheaper places and I'm not smart enough to make a reservation. But, that one time, was incredible. I had a piece of seared tuna that melted in my mouth. Truly incredible. And I have multiple friends that go back over and over and over - and continue raving about it. You should eat here. But only if you like eating.
(5)
Roopa S.
Vegetarians, REJOICE. There is an exceptional VEGETABLE Tasting Menu offered at Oleana, and it is AMAZING! For $40, indulge in beautifully prepared ethnic dishes and a decadent dessert. Portion sizes aren't as small as they usually are in tasting menus like these, which I loved, and all the flavors were unique and truly different, which I appreciated. My favorite dish of the night was: Spinach Falafel, Tahini Sauce, Beet Yogurt & Cress. Definitely order this. The dynamic contrast between the textures of the sauces and the falafel make for an amazing couple of bites. The area where the restaurant is located is a bit seedy, so I wouldn't recommend walking if you live far away from the restaurant. Otherwise, service was great and the decor of the place was cute too! The restaurant is a little on the smaller side, but that's what adds to the charm.
(4)
Augustina L.
I was expecting more from Oleana. Between my entire group, we ordered 6 different dishes. All were "just okay" with the exception of the sea bass, which was excellent. The service and wine list could be better. The ambiance on the patio is gorgeous and quiet.
(3)
Kavya S.
Oleana is an absolute delight. I made reservations for my sister and myself over a month in advance to get a 7pm Friday night slot. Vegetarians, you will be in Heaven--it's one of the few restaurants in Boston with a vegetarian tasting menu. The two of us each got a Vegetarian tasting menu which was way too much food for us to finish. Each dish had an interesting combination of ingredients, but somehow, they always worked perfectly together to create an exotic burst of flavor. Each course left me thinking that the next course could not be better, and I was consistently pleasantly surprised. Minus one star because the service was a bit off with the tasting menu. We wouldn't be finished with one course and the next course would come out and be left on the table, which was a bit odd. Other than that though, I had a fantastic time! It's unique to find a truly flavorful and classy Mediterranean restaurant. Oleana is one of a kind!
(4)
Jaylin S.
The shady neighborhood is overlooked once the beyond incredible menu options are viewed. It is a relatively small restaurant and reservations are strongly encouraged. We barely were able to get a seat at the bar for two. After experiencing the offerings, I am not at all surprised by the following they have earned with freshly and creatively prepared dishes. We opted for small plates to share. The Fatoush (Arugula, Plum, Fennel, Crispy Pita & Sumac) and Chickpea Terrine (Apricot, Pistachio & Tahini Sauce) were fantastic and light options that I would highly recommend. The Flattened Potatoes with Lemon & Oregano are a heavier nice accompaniment. The Spicy Fideos (Chick Peas, Swiss Chard & Orange Aioli) were not for us- it is earthy and spicy in flavor, but the presentation was nice. The white rascal beer, one of the honey's faves was as always refreshing.
(5)
Christine D.
I have nothing else to say except that this place factually has the best falafel in the world. FYI- second best falafel in the world is in southern spain in Puerto banus and second best falafel in boston is at Pita Tyme in the financial district. I'm Syrian and I can confidently cosign that Oleana is THE best mediterranean food in Boston. As good as it gets.
(5)
Andrew D.
Echoing what others have already said, we were very pleased with the $40 vegetarian tasting menu tonight. You've got to respect that they try to do something different here than the typical Boston New American fare, and they execute pretty well. The standouts bookended our meal: a feta pepper spread that tasted like refined pimiento cheese, a chopped salad featuring some sort of aleppo-pepper crunch, and insane desserts, including a shredded-wheat and sweet cheese cake with apricot sorbet. Why not five stars? A few of our mains could use some work, including a toasted vermicelli with chickpeas and vanilla/orange flavors that was trying too hard. And most of all the service was lackluster. Not bad or rude or even unknowledgeable, but just kind of dazed. A menu of this caliber shouldn't be paired with service that so many Yelpers have questioned.
(4)
Eric F.
The anticipation built up after having Oleana on my list since my first year in Boston was huge. Though I wasn't outright disappointed, there was just something missing out of the whole experience that left me less than fully satisfied. First and foremost, the food. With so many delicious sounding items on the meze list, my friend and I opted to go with a handful of those along with the Goat Mixed Grill special. Every cut of the beast was expertly cooked and exquisitely tender - wouldn't have minded ordering several of these! Likewise, the lauded Spinach Falafel lived up to the hype with its light and heterogenous texture from the loosely ground chickpeas as well as the layered flavors from the yogurt, sauce and crust. As for the Sultan's Delight, the Tamarind-glazed beef broke away with the lightest touch of my fork and wonderfully fatty. However, the glaze was borderline excessively sweet and would've become a bit much after several bites. Then there was the Spicy Fideos - devoid of any spice and completely flat flavor-wise. Not surprisingly, we wrapped up the meal with the Baked Alaska. It provided a great mix of sweet flavors from the passionfruit ice cream within, the buttery crust underneath and the airy meringue. At $14 though, you're shelling out quite a premium for it. Which leads me to one of my gripes. I understand that my opinion may be swayed after a revisit entailing other meze and some of the main courses, but the food overall just wasn't quite worth the price tag. And as for the experience on the whole that I alluded to earlier, the service was very much lackluster for a restaurant of this caliber. Having to read specials off a piece of paper. Clearing our plates halfway through the meal...you can imagine the awkwardness when I had to tell the guy that we still had more food coming. And as some others have noted, the inside is indeed more cramped and noisy than I would prefer. Maybe I'll come back, maybe not. Somehow, I feel like my money would be better spent elsewhere.
(3)
Ashley S.
Always so good. You just cannot go wrong at this place! Food is consistently good, service is consistently good. A little crowded but totally worth it!
(5)
Rachel W.
Well, I don't think that I can say anything more than what other Yelpers have already stated. THIS. PLACE. ROCKS. But Oleana, why do you have to be only a 7 minute walk from my house? You want me to go broke? I kid. I love you. I don't care what anyone else says. Get the freaking Monkfish. Also, the Greek wine (white) that they serve by the glass, get that too. UN-freaking-believable.
It was our night out after a month . we decided to try oleana @ Cambridge . We drove almost 50 min to reach the destination. They have a parking area so that was nice and we were able to park right away. We reached the restaurant at 7:15 pm the hostess told that there will be wait for 40 min . we waited in the waiting area and had a drinks. We were seated around 8:20 and took like 5-10 to order dinner as we were so hungry . Water and bread was served right away but I was so disappointed that no one updated us that there will be delay in serving dinner because of miscommunication in the kitchen . we asked waiters around 9pm that how much more time it will take she said not more then 10 min now . Even the people who came late than us they were served before us . At last we left the restaurant at 9:30 it was very very upsetting their manger apologized and packed the dinner to go . by the time we reach home around 11 pm . it was soggy and too salty for us . The prices are high and there are portion size is too small . this is my first negative review ever but experience was so bad I have to write this down We would never return to that palace ever again . Not worth the price and experience .
(1)
Lindsee R.
My partner in gourmandise and I went for our one year anniversary. We were too busy canoodling and reveling in how sweet it is that we dislike all the same restaurants for the same reasons to care at the time but, now upon reflection, I think it's time to vent. We had a late seating and our waiter was clearly "rett to go!." He offered us water in such rushed garbled language, we somehow ended up with a $6 bottle of water! (sidenote: Oleana, darling, every other fine dining restaurant in Cam/Som offers sparkling water for FREE. ugh.) Anyhoo, no smiles, polite conversation or even patient tone was offered. On to the food. It had salt....boy, did it have salt. We ordered a chicken dish, lamb dish and scallop special appetizer. The lamb was the winner by a hair...a really short hair, think buzz cut. Outside of the salt and that there was meat...I can't really think of anything that stood out in a good way. I'm trying. Really hard. Because who wants to believe they spent nearly $200 on a meal they can't remember two weeks later? The sad thing is, we've heard such great things and read such great things, but we didn't see them. Sigh. Going purely off of the star descriptors I have to give two stars... Honestly, I like Park better AND I get more for my money.
(2)
S M.
My fiancee and I had an outstanding meal here a few weeks ago and we can't wait to go back. We chose a handful of the meze dishes and probably would have gone overboard if it wasn't for our waiter who politely told us that "Usually 5 is a good amount for 2 people." He was right.... For vegetarians, this place is a must. And, the falafels are out of this world. Period. However, I must warn you. One order of consists of 3 falafel balls. Just bear that in mind if you and your loved one are prone to fight over amazing food. (As we tend to do...) It may just be easier to have two orders up front and end up with a nice even number for each of you. Don't say I didn't warn you! We booked our reservation via opentable and were promptly seated upon arriving. Parking can be a little confusing, but the staff are good at pointing you in the right direction to make sure that you're in the right spot. Certainly looking forward to heading back to Oleana!
(5)
Y A.
Amazing! Lovely atmosphere and delicious food. My favorite was the amazing beer fried shrimp with avocado! I wish they had some of this stuff at Sofra (or a more casual restaurant) so I could enjoy it more often without spending too much ;)
(4)
Yuki D.
The food was very flavorful and unlike any other Mediterranean restaurant have been to. I loved the numerous vegetarian and vegan options. The bar seating did not require a wait time so my boyfriend and I sat there. The bar tender who served us was extremely friendly and patient. The Sultan's delight consisted of the most tender beef imaginable. The spinach hummus plate and the moussaka were also amazing. We were too full to get dessert so I plan to go back next time I'm in town.
(5)
Joey M.
I've loved dishes here and I've felt meh about dishes here. One thing you can't deny is that the food is creative and the setting is intimate and cozy. The waiters are generally on top of things. Make sure you don't sit next to the fireplace or you will get toasted. The menu changes seasonally so I won't comment on any dishes - they'll probably change soon :) I'll be back for sure, but I won't know what to expect!
(4)
Kate G.
Was looking forward to a culinary adventure and really, really wanted to love Oleana... Place is a little cramped (tho the bar looked comfortable and the table in the corner by the wine is a sweet spot); the menu needs an interpreter (which was part of the adventure, so that part was actually kinda fun); beer and wine and non-booze-license apertifs only were pretty expensive. We decided to sample several appetizers to maximize the experience and the taste sensations. Portions are small. The tablespoon size of the Creamy Feta with Red Pepper was tasty - tho there was little hint of feta (and the bread in the bread basket was too soft a vessel; this spread may have been better served by some crispy bread). With red pepper and pomegranate molasses smeared over it and then the wedges stacked (for looks?), it was impossible to discern that the Grilled Pita had been grilled - the wedges were soggy... floppy... The Tunisian Styled Egg Brik was interesting with a crispy shell filled with (what tasted like ) spinach and a fried egg - the latter of which sadly was undercooked - and runny (pardon but... eewww).. The figs and pickled grapes were the most interesting taste sensation in the Parsnip Borek - which featured dry, tasteless, overcooked (?) parsnip mounds (I knew there were parsnips in there only because it was in the description!). Only the Fideos had a sense of the unique spices I expected to be discernible in just about everything on the menu, but tho it was described as 'spicy' there was little heat. I dunno... maybe my expectations were too high? Nah, the food is way overrated.
Great food and atmosphere but felt rushed. We visited several years ago and do not remember the staff trying to move us along / out so quickly. Not sure we will be rushing back.
(3)
Fang's T.
Bravo!!! This place is a culinary delight. When you take a bite into possible the best appetizer dish I've ever had and are left speechless, you know that you've found a diamond in the rough. Let's start of with that succulent spinach falafel. The presentation was flawless and the taste absolutely phenomenal. It's almost like taking a bite into heaven, it's that good!!! And then the dessert. Well let's say I don't think I've ever eaten anything as good as that. By far the bear thing I've ever eaten. The coconut ice cream and then the baklava with homemade hazelnut oozing out with the crispy wafer.... Just mouth watering. By far the best restaurant in Boston and one of the best restaurants in the world in my books. Compliments to the chef and please keep serving us the best food. Wow just wow thank you for that one of kind experience.
(5)
lizzie b.
Biggest letdown of the decade. So awful. I had been really looking forward to the vegetable tasting menu at Oleana for years. Ana Sortun, can I please have my money back? The point of vegetarian tastings is to really understand the vegetables and play with their strengths. Summer is a great season for fresh vegetables. What I got was tasteless shit boiled down and covered in oil. I asked for no cilantro please in my dishes, and it offensively was in two. We were stuck at a really uncomfortable table in the middle of the room with bad seating. The waiter barely care about us, and the water was lukewarm. Nothing in the entire menu was memorable. I can't even tell you what I had besides a plate of boiled down nasty fennel and bland carrots. Even the dessert was absolutely disgusting: a Shaw's-quality small hamburger bun slathered in a salty ice cream, dipped in amateur chocolate. This place is an embarrassment to the emerging Cambridge culinary scene. I would never ever go back here. I'm really really really sorry that I went and wasted a good Benjamin.
(1)
Ahmad A.
Mezza plats were A++, the main dish wasn't as good as I had hoped, but that is due to the fact that I do not like skin on my chicken.
(4)
Marissa C.
Absolutely amazing. I love this place. I brought my boyfriend here for his birthday and it was the best decision I made for his big day (I accidentally bought him a pink shirt that day.. oops) I made a note in my reservation online that it was his birthday and they sat us in a corner table with the most privacy we could ask for in that small restaurant. The bartender was very knowledgeable and gave great advice with a very complicated menu. His recommendation was actually my favorite mezze plate of the evening! I also made a note in the reservation to give my boyfriend a candle on his dessert. I forgot to follow up with that during dinner but they remembered. Great customer service, amazing food and beautiful restaurant. I highly recommend this to anyone.
(5)
Robert D.
Great beet salad and the chicken entree with that spinach FILO yum!!
(5)
Adam E.
Top 5 in Boston. Hands down. Great place for a nice occasion with great/unique food that's not too expensive and a really nice atmosphere.
(5)
Suzana U.
I am not from Boston (we live in Ny) so I was surprise with the reviews being so great and the food there actually to be Ah- OK ! Don't take me wrong it wasn't horrible but wasn't something i will say go to boston to Oleana because the food is really great. Maybe if you are from Boston and want to eat something different it maybe be a good choice but is not the best I ever had. The free bread is delicious and the mezze (tapas) 3 cheeze and the vegetarian falafel. But my main course lamb (salty) and my hubby salmon they were really OK no more no less (nothing special). So if you are in the area go there for few tapas but I would not get out of my way to eat here. We spend $100 +/- (2 tapas ,2 wine glasses , 1soda and 2 main course). 2 couples beside us were having the vegetarian 6 course meal and it seems a lot of food, so unless you are pretty hungry don't order the 6 course vegetarian meal!! On the side note: we asked the hostess to call a cab for us and we got a pretty funny, excited Boston Celtics final game against the lakers (nba) taxi driver. He was super excited about the game and the most unusual driver (for us, since we live in ny) .. was eating a big ice cream while driving , with all the windows down (it was chilli) and had the game super loud and talking about it the whole way.. so funny! It was even a bit scary driver eating ice cream while driving but we got to the hotel safe and freezing! LOL
(3)
Liri K.
I had to stop for a few moments and praise this place. I am Israeli, and being one, I am inherently critical of Middle Eastern food. During my last 4 years in the US I have tried every middle eastern restaurant that I came across, only to time and time again disappoint my taste buds. This place is the real deal. The service was great. The play list was authentic and fun (including songs in Arabic and Hebrew). But the food, ohh the food... My date and I ordered a special they had with four mezzes+ 2 separate mezzes (both the falafel and the muhammara are to die for)+ the salmon entree to share. There was definitely too much food (a couple can share 5-6 mezzes and be full and pleased). We also got yummy Sangrias to go along with the food. Everything was beyond delightful, and we couldn't stop eating... and making ummm.. yummm... grrr... sounds while at it. Seriously, as a foodie, all I have to say is: the only excuse you have to sit in front of your computer right now is in order to make a reservation. I am going again this week.
(5)
Aboud Y.
A longtime favorite (I can't believe I've never written a review!). I really can't add much to all the positive reviews here (except that I concur), however I must say that I much prefer to visit in the summer on their lovely patio. I'll undoubtedly be back!
(4)
Alan S.
Oleana is one of my favorite restaurants in Boston/Cambridge. Unfortunately, its also a favorite amongst many in the area. We made a reservation for a Saturday night 3 weeks in advance and we could only get a 5:30 reservation for 2. Overall, the food, service, atmosphere is all fantastic. We started off with a few meze including chick pea terrine and hot pepper labne. Both were very flavorful and a nice start to the meal. For my main meal, I had the empanada. Delicious and definitely not what I expected. The empanadas that I've always had in the past look like small pies. This was almost a deconstructed empanada with a puff pastry top. Lastly for dessert, I had the baked alaska. I've had several desserts at Oleana over the years, and this is the best they have.
(5)
DON S.
After hearing about Oleana from several friends, my wife and I drove in on an early evening. The building itself is unremarkable, as is the interior space. Reception was distracted. Service was mediocre. We were drinking wine and our server 'forgot' to pour my glass after the ritual tasting and filling my wife's glass...twice. Food was interesting. Not sure what the buzz is about.
(2)
Jessica W.
We meet again, Vegetarian Tasting Menu. Like my first visit, my dining companion and I both ordered the tasting menu. Unlike last time, we didn't get ten different mezzes, but two portions of five mezzes (+ two portions of the same dessert). At first I was a little disappointed by this, but the five dishes we received were amazing, and I felt satiated and not uncomfortably full. The one mezze I recognized from my previous visit nearly a year ago: the spinach falafel with beet tzatziki. Still delicious. Still tender. It's good to see a familiar face. The other mezzes we enjoyed: crusty, flattened potatoes, red lentils with a green curry sauce, spicy wheat berries with lettuce and a Greek togurt topping, and my favorite, mashed sweet potatoes with dukkah, this blend of seeds and spices. For dessert, we enjoyed semolina cake infused with either rosewater or orange flower water, with some cooked cherries and minced pistachios. Service was top-notch again. Even though Oleana is not an exclusively vegetarian establishment, it's home to the best vegetarian meals I've ever experienced in the Boston area. Well done, Oleana! Well done!
(5)
Snuffles B.
It has taken me nearly a year to come to Oleana because none of my friends are allowed to come here without their husbands, and this is a romantic restaurant, not really a third-wheel hangout joint. I managed to wrangle a single girlfriend to be my plus one. Our evening was great in spite of/in part due to a series of fortunate mishaps: 1 - I made the mistake of trying to walk through the door on the sidewalk, which was not a door, but a window - but I got a nice view of the cozy main dining room, disrupting several happy couples, who all must have thought I was an idiot for trying to break in through the window. 2 - As soon as I got into the main door (which is apparently on the side, who'da thunk?) I near collided with a very tiny, very serious looking lady - which turned out to be Ana Sortun, good to see that the chef was in that night and doing quality control! 3 - We were bummed that we were not in the main dining room, but in the back, where we could see but were unable to sit on the beautiful patio we had requested earlier, because it was raining. Thank goodness though, because Boston is a freak show and it was freezing outside in June. 4 - After voracious watching of food TV porn and reading of food books, I was somewhat frazzled that I had no idea what half the words on the menu were - fortunately, our server did a great job of explaining for us Turkish food neophytes. (And there is a mini dictionary on their web site!) 5 - Per everyone's recs, we decided to order a bunch of Meze rather than mains - I was somewhat dismayed when our server suggested that 7 might be enough (maybe even too much) for 2 people, I was imagining a tapas type of situation where I'd gobble up 7 plates, still be starving, and become Hulk-like-furious that I'd have to wait for more food. Fortunately, he knew what he was talking about - even though it was all very well paced, we were in fact teetering on the edge of too full, but thank goodness he had warned us, so that we were able to save enough space for 3 desserts (for the 2 of us). 6 - At the end of the meal, around 11:30, everyone in the back room was gone, and our server turned off the lights for half a second by accident. He apologized profusely and for fun, we gave him a lot of shit about it, and ended up chatting with him for a bit, it turned out that he was not just great at his job, but that he was cool - cool enough to put up with our general loudness (now that we essentially had a private room, it was no holds barred) and all of our general shenanegans. Can't take us anywhere. Thanks Oleana, for a very romantic, fun, educational, and delicious girl-date. **************************************************Â****************** Oh yeah, and this is what we ate, in case you're interested: - Bread - Decent - Warm buttered hummus - we didn't pay attention to notice that basturma was meat. When it arrived we hawed and debated for 5 minutes about whether my Muslim friend dare try it, as we didn't know what it was and forgot to ask. I ate it and convinced her it was in fact beef, she was so glad I did, because it was so creamy and good. I'm not sure I can go back and finish the 3 tubs of hummus in my fridge any more. - Spinach Falafel - The lightest most yummy falafel ever. And the yogurt was delicious and so pretty (bright pink!) - Octopus - Very good, best part was the spicy, zingy wheat salad - Fried mussels - OK, typical fried stuff. - Sultan's Delight - Falling apart yummy beef, and some of the best use of pine nuts I've had in a long time. - Grilled asparagus special - The BEST, perfect with the cheese shavings and yay for more pine nuts! - Bread pudding special - Good, not great, a bit mushy. - Almond cremolata - Light, refreshing, subtle. Non-dairy (yay for lactards like me!), made from almond milk so flavor is different. - Baked Alaska - I've been looking for a restaurant that serves this for a loooong time. I know its old school and not exactly "classy", but this one is great - the meringue is smooth and creamy, and the ice cream has nice flavor. Only issue is the passionfruit caramel is insano sweet. Otherwise, the best of the 3 desserts.
(5)
Liz O.
This is probably my favorite restaurant in the Boston area. Their dishes are unique, service is attentive and helpful without being (too) snooty and the food is extremely well prepared. No, I can't afford it, but that's what's great about my mom coming to town. It's her favorite place in the Boston area, too. Also, you can usually get street parking (total bonus!). It is hard to get reservations (sad face), so be prepared ahead of time unless you like dining early or late. Some of my favorites include the Sultan's Delight (I could eat this once a week) and the amazingly creative desserts. They have good selections for vegetarians, too. I like that you can order a few small plates rather than one large dish, and we often do that. The flavors are not something you'll get anywhere else. Not every dish is a winner, but I've never had anything bad here.
(5)
Lil O.
duh, this place is a no brainer. it's delicious. c'mon.
(5)
David R.
One of the best restaurants in Cambridge. Delightful tapas and great atmosphere. The back and porch areas are a bit cozier than the front. I've never gone wrong with an order here, but I'd recommend going small plates over the entrees, as you can get a bit more variety. Perfect for a date or a small dinner, but I wouldn't try to get in with a large group. Somewhat pricier than most other restaurants in Cambridge.
(5)
Tristan H.
I wandered in here on a whim with a friend a while back, completely underdressed but on the lookout for a good meal. When we went around the side to the entrance, someone called to us from the roof--"watch out, there's glass on the floor, I dropped a light bulb. Can you go inside and grab someone for me and ask them to bring a screwdriver?" Sure, no problem--so I went inside and told the hostess, "Hey your maintenance guy needs a screwdriver up on the roof." She laughed, "Oh... that's not a maintenance guy, that's the owner." And from that moment I knew this place was special. It's a good sign when the owner of a restaurant is up on the roof changing lightbulbs--it's clear what kind of care and attention goes into every detail. If only I had known then how that would translate to the entire experience, and especially the food. Once out on the patio, we waited for only a few minutes by the fountain before being seated. I had a glass of wine and was just enjoying the patio, the bread, and the otherworldly feel of the place. You can't be stressed out here; it's designed perfectly to be almost a Shangri-La of spaces, and all in the middle of Inman square. Unexpected. Impeccable. At this point we were so confident in the holistic quality of the restaurant that we decided to trust the chef and go all out. We ordered a tasting menu, and two other mezos/appetizers that sounded good from the specials menu. If you're here, I *highly* recommend this. You probably won't end up spending any more than if you had ordered individually, but you'll taste some incredible things you might not have thought to get. The suspense factor as each surprise dish was delivered added to the whole experience, and the timing was flawless--we'd finish a dish, have ample time to enjoy it, a few minutes for some sips of wine and conversation, and just as there was a breath, the next dish would arrive. The whole meal felt like a well-orchestrated performance rather than just a meal. As for the food--there's not enough to be said. I realize this is a little cliched, but honestly, I haven't tasted food like this since living in the bay area, with creative combinations and well-designed dishes and contrasts that surprise the palette and are a delight to eat; not simply good, but joy-inducing. The highlight of the night was a dish of crab cakes with asparagus--they had a small poached quail egg on each cake, combined with a lemon flavor from a little juice and zest it almost made a meringue that was incredible. This is without a doubt the best single dish I have had at any restaurant in Boston, and I'd go back to Oleana just for this. Or any other of the dishes we had that night, frankly. Some were better than others, but each was unique and in some way surprising and fun. Absolutely fantastic experience all around, and so far the best overall restaurant experience I've had in the Boston area. These people understand that a meal is more than just about the food, it's about the service, the wine, the scenery, and on top of all that, the flavors and combinations of culinary delights. Oleana turned an otherwise ordinary night into an experience I won't forget, and I can't wait to return.
(5)
Jason N.
The wife and I were looking for a good night out, as the weather was perfect, but we were having a hard time finding a reservation in the area. We ended up driving by Oleana, and on a whim decided to stop see if we could get a table since we have heard such great things about it. To our luck and surprise we got a table within 40 minutes, and as requested, out on the patio behind the restaurant. The setting is very quaint, especially on a perfect Spring night. I would highly recommend requesting a table outside. Once we sat, we were greeted by our waiter who was very friendly. He gave us a rundown of the menu and the way it is is structured. We decided to go for the Sultan's Delight and Hot Pepper Labne to start. The labne was fantastic with their house made bread, and the Sultan's Delight was butter-soft beef that you can top with an eggplant puree. Both delicious. We decided we were going to both get the Tamarack Tunis Lamb for an entree and wanted to get a nice red wine to accompany it. The waiter graciously consulted their oenophile on hand and came out with a delicious French red that went well with our lamb. The lamb plate itself was basically fresh pita topped with spicy ground lamb sausage, yogurt, and greens. Once would describe it as a gourmet Greek gyro. It too was absolutely excellent. For dessert we split the "Bittersweet Chocolate Walnut Kadayif with Sheep's Milk Yogurt Sorbet and Chocolate Crème Bruleette". It was a great way to end a great meal. Overall, the service was top notch. Our waters never made it more than 2 inches below the brim, and even our wine was continuously replenished as we ate. Needless to say, my wife and I both cleaned every plate that was put in front of us, and we will certainly be making out way back to Oleana. I'll also say that I was pleasantly surprised by the bill. For an appetizer, and nice bottle of wine, 2 entrees, and a dessert, $127 (without gratuity) was pretty good for the dining experience we had.
(5)
Billy Su B.
this gorgeous, jewel of a restaurant is still one of the finest places for dining in boston. the creative, colorful menu is full of a variety of meats, vegetables, wines, and beers. it is so hard to choose a set of appetizers to start with, because there are so many, but definitely order: 1. the spinach falafel, so warm and soft and flavorful 2. the octopus- it comes with rich, rich greens, potato cake, and fava beans. it's decadent. 3. the deviled eggs- they add olive to the mix, which gives it a unique, extra salty edge we also shared a chicken dish, which was roasted with herbs and served over a CHEESE PANCAKE (what would we do without people who invent things like cheese pancakes?) i'm writing this from inside a cardboard box, because i'm so poor now, but at least i have the memory of this fine fare to keep me warm at night. ask for fernando for great, friendly service. also, he has a terrific set of glasses. well done, fernando. come early for a seat on the patio, as it is first come, first serve. it's the best patio in the city. exotic. sexy. i may have seen a wildebeest.
(5)
Aditi R.
4.5 stars Even though I had eaten just hours earlier, I sat down beaming at the anticipation of the food I was about to taste. I've heard so much about Oleana over the past few years now that I feared my excitement would become the food's worst enemy. And in a way, it did. Though I have to say, for the most part, the restaurant lived up to its expectations. A tough thing to do when there are such great reviews floating around. We were immediately seated for our 9pm dinner reservations on what seemed a very busy Saturday evening. The restaurant is fairly close quarters lending itself to a very cozy, romantic, atmosphere. Had it been warmer weather, there is a beautiful patio outside as well, but seeing how it was 30 something outside, that wasn't quite a possibility yet (warm weather cannot come sooner!). Our waiter was ever so courteous and very helpful with our food choices. We decided to forgo the alcohol and jump right into the food. And since they have incredibly interesting sounding Meze, we decided to stick to that the entire course of the night. So here are the mini reviews of the following we ordered: 1. Warm Buttered Hummus with Basturma & Tomato - Basturma is a type of air dried, highly spiced, cured beef and the buttered hummus was wrapped in it. Even though I rarely (honestly, never) eat beef, this was an amazing dish and I could have eaten it over and over again. And I did, especially considering we didn't realize what Basturma was and ordered the vegetarian option :) Verdict: Great! 2. Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers - WOW! The flavors are in your face amazing and the spices are spot on. I could have eaten this the entire night and (almost) nothing else. So of course we proceeded to devour it within a few minutes. Verdict: 6 out of 5 stars! 3. Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets & Crinkled Cress - All you have to do is wrap this pre made falafel roll and you're ready to go. The bright pink taziki sauce adds to the color of this dish and it is very good. It certainly doesn't compare to the previous two though. Verdict: Very good 4. Vermont Quail with Baharat, Barberries & Pistachio - This was a very well cooked quail. It could have been a bit more tender, but the spices and flavors were spot on and we enjoyed it thoroughly. Verdict: Great! 5. Chicken Bisteeya with Moroccan Spices, Blood Orange & Cinnamon Almonds - Ah those slices of blood oranges. I don't think I've dreamed about a slice of fruit so much since I had mangoes in India 2-3 years ago. The bisteeya, a type of shredded chicken meat pie, was good, though not extraordinary. The contrast (in flavors & colors) that the fruits provided made it for a good dish however. Verdict: Very good 6. Cured Salmon Meze - I forget the name of this particular special meze for the night and the ingredients, but honestly, it was disappointing and just not flavorful. We left over half of it on the plate, the first part of it which we almost forced to keep trying lest it would provide some taste revelation. It didn't. Verdict: Bad At this point we're stuffed. But we look over to our neighbors and they're having a delicious looking bread pudding and Oleana is known for it's amazing Baked Alaska. So I decide to order the latter, but the waiter suggests the Bread Pudding instead. So we go ahead with that...and SOOOO glad we did. Never had Bread pudding like this ever! Add to that little pieces of caramel, and milk jam, that leads to a pile of mulberries. Interesting little things these mulberries - kind of a like a cross between raisins and the taste of cranberries. Loved it! The last disaster of a meze was forgotten in a daze of sweet bread pudding and cappucino dream. The plates are highly innovative and unlike anything I've ever tried in any middle eastern restaurant. For that I give the chef props for reinventing the tastes into something new while keeping the soul of the flavors from the region intact. However the execution and tastes of some, to me, weren't quite up to mark. Now this could be because of the choices we made or just an off day in making that particular dish, but I'm assuming if it's on the menu, it is deemed delicious..which some dishes just weren't. However, the place is amazing, the staff is great, and the food is highly innovative and for the most part, delicious. I can make the trek from Boston to Cambridge for this restaurant. Easily.
(4)
John E.
Simply amazing, as others have said. We ate only from the Mezza menu so had essentially a tapas meal. Having lived in Syria for over a year we know Arabic food and this was not really Arabic, but was clearly based on its foundation. The spices were terrific, the meat was tender and delicious, the ambiance was perfect and the wine menu adequate. We would recommend this to anyone, especially foodies!
(5)
S T.
I was in town on business, and this was by far the best place we ate at. We called to make a reservation and the first available was 2 days later and at 8pm. We had heard it was worth it and waited. Everything we heard we correct. I had saffron soup with dumplings and a special- crab and avocado. It was delicious. I would have licked the plate if it were socially acceptable. My coworkers had different items that looked equally delicious.
(5)
Arnold C.
Wonderful food. Creative, tasty, and appetizing! We had quail kabob for appetizer, which was delicious. I had the lemon chicken, which was very very good. Chicken was succulent and juicy. My girlfriend has the Venison specials and the dish was great. The meat was seasoned and tasty. The vegetables were delicious. As for cons, the seating space is a bit small and lacks privacy. I can discern every syllable from the table next to us. Parking is right across the restaurant but there are limited spots. I would recommend this place.
(4)
Sandy V.
Oleana is a wonderful restaurant. I have been here multiple times. I prefer to sit outside in the patio area, but the inside restaurant is nice as well. Every time I have dined at Oleana the service has been welcoming and attentive. I am a big fan of the meze dishes: Warm Olives, Deviled Eggs, Spicy Fideos and Vermont Quail. My favorite dinner dish is the Lamb with Turkish Spices. You really need to order the moussaka side as it is delicious. Attire: I wore dark jeans, a nice top and heels.
(5)
Jeff M.
I just went back and was not as impressed as I was on my first visit, but, still worth 4/5. The word is definitely out on Oleana. They were booked a few weeks out and the place was packed on a Monday. Almost makes me want to stay away on weekends.
(4)
Alexandria V.
Wow, I am surprised to see some of the bad reviews for Oleana. Not only did we have fantastic service from the hostess, the bartender, and our server, but the food was freaking fantastic/amazing/delicious/we left so full it was almost pitiful. Granted, we've only been one time (we do not live in Boston), but it was one of the better places I've been to for small plates. I would suggest skipping the entrees. By the time we had several small plates, we were pretty upset we ordered entrees. They do a $40 deal that includes several small plates and dessert, which I think is a steal.
(5)
Lana K.
This is more of a review of the staff rather than the food, though for a restaurant that prides itself on creative in-season vegetable based dishes, the vegan platter was worse than disappointing. But when I tried to get someone's attention to ask questions about the highly indecipherable menu, it took a LOT of waving and gesturing to get someone to come over. Then, she acted as if I was an imposition on HER cause I am on a very particular diet, but it's not really vegan. She simply WOULD NOT LISTEN. Very rude. Then the food took forever, no apologies for the hour plus wait to eat, and our waiter rushed through every description of the food so I couldn't even get a grasp of what the menu actually said. All in all, I will not be going back. Totally overrated.
(2)
Geoff P.
I ate at Oleana at the end of a gluttonous month - 2 weeks in Chicago (a great food city), a week in Sonoma/San Francisco and a week with friends visiting back in Boston. So, while I kind of just wanted to eat a salad at home, my mom was in from out of town and I wanted to take her out for a nice meal. Yeah, and it was awesome. Even after being potentially fatigued from fine dining, I enjoyed everything. We had 3 starters: Fried Haloumi/ Fried Squash Blossoms, Heirloom Tomato Kibbeh and Falafel. Each were great. The haloumi was very rich, the tomato kibbeh very refreshing and palate cleansing and the falafel was the best. My entree was the Sea Bass with Fried Pita. It was served in a cool little paper bag with spicy sauce on the side. Very delicious, especially if you like rich spicy flavors. My mom had swordfish with just-dug potatoes. The fish was perfectly prepared. Also, I didn't think potatoes could taste "fresh", but these did. For desert we shared pistachio ice cream with peach sorbet. I really enjoyed it, although my mom (a chocolate person) really didn't. I'm really looking forward to going back here. My only complaint is that the wine list was a little limited in the sub-$50 range. We had a pretty decent cabernet franc for forty something bucks.
(4)
Polite G.
I had been obsessed with the food at this place for quite some time, I literally had said the desserts are orgasmic. I still think the desserts are good. During my last visit though I was quite disappointed with the service and the entrees were not as good as I expected. There were four of us and two vegetarians. The vegetarian tasting menu was good but not amazing, the other dishes were fantastic. Desserts = orgasmic. The service is what made the place loose two stars. The place was packed and I understand that but we waited almost 1 1/2 hours for our food to arrive. When we asked for our food the server seemed surprised to see that we had no food, I think he had forgotten about us! And then some sort of manager came to talk to us to tell us that our ticket had gotten stuck behind a party of 16 and that is why we had to wait so long. Well don't tell me that - do something about it! So the food is good, the desserts are amazing, the service was very disappointing.
(3)
Michael H.
Went with my girlfriend and we split the appetizers which I think is the way to go. We had the octopus (very good) and soft shell crab special with beets (good). We had an excellent bottle of red wine (wine prices are a little over the top however). Entrees we had the monkish (excellent flavors) and the lamb (not good dry and very salty, I couldn't even finish the dish). Overall it was good, I would go back.
(4)
Doug M.
awesome Contemporary Middle Eastern fusion cuisine - great wine and cocktail list - tough to get a reservation, but recently they accomodated us as walk-ins on a busy weekday evening...
(5)
Christine L.
My boyfriend and I decided on Oleana's for our 8 year anniversary. It was pretty much perfect. Low key, good food, friendly service. My boyfriend ordered half a bottle of the Austrian white wine... but half a bottle later he can't remember the name of the wine and I forgot to look. Bad on us. It was delicious nevertheless. $30 I ordered the sparkling rose wine, $11, also yummy. We shared the Vegetable tasting menu- $40 (chef's choice of five appetizers, Mezes plus a petite desert) and added the pork entree $24. The waitress was super accommodating and told us that the veggie tasting menus varies table to table, day to day. Ours came with: 1. Fatoush--Chopped Iceberg, Radish & Cucumber with Fried Pita & Sumac Dressing ($9 on the menu)- This was great. I loved the fried pita, probably could have eaten that all day. 2. Kingfish Nayeh with Turkish Spices, Pickled Spring Onion & Tarragon ($10 on the menu)- This was nice, simple spread for the complimentary bread. 3. Grilled Asparagus with Pinenuts, Green Olives & Siena Farms Egg Salad ($10 on the menu)- Asparagus was perfectly cooked, and the egg salad was well seasoned. 4. Kohlrabi & Radicchio Pancake with Haloumi Cheese, Mint & Nigella Seed ($9 on the menu)- the pancake itself was delicious... we did not however like the taste of the radicchio, but that could have been chalked up to our unrefined palate. 5. Spicy Fideos & Chick Peas with Green Chard & Orange Aioli ($8 on the menu)- We were either/or about this... not bad, not amazing. We were content by then. We tried to eat the pork-- it was decent, but we didn't eat a lot. For desert we got the Milk Pudding, and the chocolate baklava came with our veggie tasting menu. Both were a little too sweet for my taste. The milk pudding was preferable over the baklava. Still, there was something a little off about the way the flavors were mixing in my mouth. The pistachio was salty, the cherries for sour and the milk pudding was sweet... and while all were good, together it wasn't great. My boyfriend got the desert sherry, which was quite nice. overall, we spent $140 before tip, which is pretty reasonable for the quality of food and service. I would probably go again if I ever had a hankering for that kind of food.
(4)
Sasha R.
Well, apparently, I'm now making trips to recognized YELP hotspots; wtih 115 reviews, who needs an introduction to this place? This is what happened. My palate and tastebuds were hohumming all week and wanted some excitement. Oleana provided many original flavor combinations, delicious ingredients I don't know how to cook myself, and an intimate dining environment with a woodburning stove. The only minus is, as the four of us got tipsy with the two bottles of wine, there was absolutely no wiggle room for getting rowdy - it's so intimate and little. I can live with that minus. Force me to be civilized.
(5)
Paul W.
I have no idea how we got here, but the wife and I were completely turned-around and lost in Cambridge or Somerville or both. She had to use a bathroom and I was pretty hungry. I found a parking spot in front of this wonderful restaurant. We were expecting our favorite dining experience in Boston since we moved here in the middle of an exhausting afternoon of errands, but here we were. We had our first Sangria... I never knew what it was! It's wine and fruit - delicious! Refreshing! And we drank and ate outdoors on a sunny day. (Finally!) We split calamari and swordfish and we were happy as CLAMS! Hahah. Loved it. I recommend it highly.
(5)
Liz H.
After going to Oleana for my birthday dinner on Friday, I am now rethinking every other five star review I have ever given. I would give this place 17 stars if I could. I had the vegetarian tasting menu and can honestly say I was blown away. So many different ingredients and flavors blended seamlessly and balanced perfectly, it was quite possibly the best meal I have ever eaten (no exaggeration) . My boyfriend got the fish stew and he was also shocked by how delicious it was (and he is picky, especially about fish). We found every dish to be well-thought-out and beautifully executed. The presentation was great and I can not say enough about the quality and overall deliciousness of every bite of food. The restaurant itself is small and intimate, with a real woodstove/fireplace that makes for a very cozy feel. The service was top-notch -- our waiter gave detailed explanations and recommendations and was extremely nice with the perfect degree of attentiveness. Oleana is perfect for a romantic dinner or any special occasion. Though trust me, if I could afford to I would be here every night.
(5)
John P.
Overall, I was impressed, but not 5 stars blown away. We ordered 3 items from the Meze section: Whipped Feta ($5) - Good and for $5 it was a great starter. Came with a lot of bread, and different kinds of it, too. I would probably order this again. Maybe not the very next time I go, but the 3rd time I go, haha. With so many options on the Meze part of the menu, it would be tough to order the same thing twice in a row. Grilled Octopus ($12) - The octopus was ok, the chorizo beneath was good, and the whipped black bean paste was very good. I would not order this again. Sultan's Delight ($13)- Amazing, definitely the best item we ordered all night. I would probably order 2 of these as my entree next time. Incredibly tender, juicy and the eggplant puree was amazing. The entree's were fairly expensive though ($25 and $26 for Chicken and Lamb, respectively), even for Boston. They were VERY good, but did not blow my socks off, and for that price I expect greatness. A few glasses of wine for my lovely girlfriend and a few beers for me. The total bill came to about $120. Next time, I would probably stick to the Meze. I think 5 would be an appropriate amount for a meal for 2. I might even do the Chef's Vegetarian Special. After I ate, I peeked out back to see the patio. WOW, I will wait an hour next time to sit out there. The inside was great, but it looked pretty baller out there.
(4)
Unhappy P.
Appetizers: fine Entrees: superb Deserts: creative but too sweet Service: below expectations Party of six, seated 45 minutes after our reservation (made 3 weeks prior). Asked to wait in hallway next to kitchen - causing issue for waitstaff, and not exactly a convivial atmosphere for our party. Seated eventually at table suited for 4 people near window (if you, Oleana, knew you couldn't accomodate 6 people we could have gone elsewhere). Comped 2 amuse bouches for our trouble - $10 retail price from their menu total (so by my count they valued our waiting time at $2/hour per person). Service: brusque - just wanted to take our order and not answer questions (old people in our party had trouble reading the tiny print on the menu in the light - and unfamiliar spices and preparations, you gotta believe the staff is better prepped to answer questions). Had to ask for another bottle of wine and more water. Dishes came and were plonked down in front of us: "who had the chop." Decent service for a diner. Bad service for a decent restaurant. Unacceptable service for a fine dining establishment. The entrees were delicious - salmon baked on a clay tile that tasted almost poached. Trout spanikopita with pastry and fish both perfectly cooked. Steak and chops both tender. Some of the better food I've had in Boston. And then the dessert - creative with the spices, but almost impossible to tell through the syrupy sweetness (except the baked alaska, which was as good as advertised). After all than, tab at $75 per head with 2 bottles of wine and gratuity tacked on for a party of 6. Was it worth it? No. When I pay real money, I expect not just good food but good service. Go to Sofra instead. The food is 93% as good, and the service is just as bad, but its a lot cheaper, and doesn't pretend to be a fine dining establishment.
(2)
Kaitlyn H.
Amazing. Go here. Don't continue reading looking for that one a**hole who might ruin it for you. Just go. this place is great. Awesome food, beautiful presentation, tough to get a reservation. No worries, sit at the bar and eat. SO worth it.
(5)
Christabelle C.
i've tried a lot of restaurants in boston, but this is hands down my favorite! for the ultimate dining experience do the following: 1. make reservations so you won't have to wait too long for a seat (this place gets busy!) 2. order the sultan's delight for an appetizer (or i love it so much, that i think i could order 2 and make it my main entree!) 3. order the vegetarian pre fixe - it changes all the time, but it's always delicious! also, it's plenty for one person so you can share this with another person and that will give you two room to enjoy another dessert (pre fixe already comes with 1). bon appetit! =D
(5)
buckminster f.
Oleana truly lives up to the hype. We dined al fresco for the bf's bday with another couple, and all of us left full and happy. The table shared two veggie tasting menus (quite a deal at $40 for 4 mezes and a dessert) and four additional mezes. The add ons were sultan's delight, the soft shell crab, quail, and salmon (which isn't on the menu). Everything we had was delectable, although a corn casserole type dish really stood out in my mind. The only minor gripe was about dessert. The tasting menu included two desserts, which we didn't get to choose, and we ended up with fruit soup and a parfait type thing, neither of which were amazing. However a small price to pay for the overall experience.
(5)
Phoebe W.
My boyfriend and I went here for our 2nd anniversary and we absolutely loved it. The olive oil ice cream was amazing as were all the appetizers and entrees. I would go back any day.
(5)
Dan P.
Veggie tasting menu awesome. Generally I expected a more distinct farm fresh experience with the food. While sensational I feel the food got managed one or two steps too many beyond the straight from the farm taste and experience. I also rate the staff a notch below the food. I would have appreciated a more engaging and personal approach. I DO LIKE OLEANA, but not a definite do again.
(4)
Erica S.
I think Oleana needs and deserves yet another 5 star review. I am in heaven. Oleana knows food. The chef is a goddess. I'll start of by saying that our waitress was an absolute gem. She didn't hover at all, but gave us the perfect amount of attention and privacy. She was incredibly helpful and friendly, and really stood out to me as an exceptional server. I wish I'd caught her name. First off, with the vegan boyfriend in tow, we needed her to give us the rundown of what on the menu he could eat. She happily pointed out a few appetizers he could have, and also said the chef would be happy to whip up a "vegan plate," something special that she'd concoct on the spot, just for him. Of course he ordered that, along with a pureed carrot "pret a manger," a small starting dish. His food was impressive. The vegan plate turned out to be a tantalizing array of food, presented beautifully and rich with flavor. Honestly, I was kind of jealous. It included a roasted artichoke, stuffed with couscous and lentils, roasted mushrooms topped with a sweet potato and garlic puree, brussels sprouts, and two dipping sauces, one of pickled mango and the other Zhoug, a spicy cilantro sauce. I'll just say he was very happy as he devoured his plate of food. I dove right into the menu and order an appetizer of ricotta and bread dumplings with porcini mushrooms and kale, in a red wine sauce. Divine. That's the only word to describe this dish. Heaven. Jeebus, I'm still fantasizing about it. The sauce, the creaminess, the flavor of the porcini with the kale as an accent, ahhh sent me into orgasmic spasms. It was comfort food at its finest, hearty and satisfying. I want to eat it again and again. As an entree I tried the lemon sole, served with spinach and pistachio, cauliflower, and a buttery sauce. The flavors were right on, and honestly cauliflower has never tasted so good. My fish was cooked perfectly. I couldn't really taste the pistachio but I could see it. Honestly, my appetizer stole the show, but the sole was delicious as well. Dessert-- stuffed to the brim, we decided we still couldn't say no to some sweets to top us off. Once again, the waitress returned to make some vegan recommendations-- the almond cremolata, as it turns out, is made from almond milk and is dairy free. It was just like ice cream, rich and creamy and topped with almonds slivers. On the side was a warm chocolate panino, not vegan, but I was happy to gobble it down. It reminded me of a grilled cheese, with pastry for the bread and chocolate for the filling. It was a sugary, grilled chocolate sandwich. What more can you ask for? The wine list was very impressive. We didn't order any because the meal already cost a fortune and we're broke asses. But I did get a bit shwilled off my 25.2 ounce Oleana 3-C beer, and the boy was happy as usual with his Trapiste ale, a Chamay this time. Bonus: For all its fanciness, you can still get a $3 Pabst here. That's freakin awesome. My review is going downhill as I begin to ramble about beer, so I will end now... So glad I finally went here and spent 1/8 of my paycheck on such a fabulous meal.
(5)
R G.
The best meal I've had in a long time. My boyfriend and I went to Oleana for his birthday, so we went all out on ordering. We started with the turnip soup with the 'crabcake' appetizer, which was creative, surprising, and absolutely delicious. We also had the rabbit schawarma appetizer, which was unique and savory. For our main courses, we had the lamb steak served with moussaka and I had the crispy duck with pumpkin bisteeya. Both were delicious, but I have to rave about the duck a little extra. It was some of hte best duck I've had, and that's saying something. I love duck (I lived in France and considered it a food group). It was a very generous portion. The skin was crisped to perfection, just enough fat was left on, and the meat was consistently tender and moist without being soggy. The bisteeya was different than any I've had: a much lighter, more delicate texture that was a nice surprise. Most restaurants would make a similar dish far too sweet, but the flavors here were subtle and balanced. There is no filler in the meals, it was all delicious. For dessert he had salty almond stracciatella dish and I had the green apple-rose sorbet dish. While mine was quite good, light, and refreshing, I think his won. The ice cream was devine: we loved the salty/sweet combination! On the atmosphere: the decor was lovely. Warm colors, tasteful style. Cozy without being too dark. I would, however, recommend requesting a booth. Our table was small and located in the middle aisle. It was a little crowded and the staff walking by was slightly distracitng. On the service: everyone was friendly enough and I have no major complaints, but something was slightly off. Our waiter was prefectly polite and helped us pick wines to compliment our meals, but he seemed a bit... distracted? Also, I noticed another woman bringing out the entrees to the tables, including ours. She was clearly a higher-up, so thise would be good, but we didn't know who she was. Really, though, this in no way dampened the overall experience. A note: I would like to commend this restaurant for achieving something quite rare. Most "ethnic" restaurants tend to fall into two categories: cheap, stereotypical fare limited to items that Americans will easily tolerate and totally lacking in creativity, or "fusion", which more often than not is simply a bastardized and/or lazy version of the given cuisine. Oleana manages to separate itself from and rise above both. The chef gives her own, contemporary take on classic dishes while remaining respectful to the traditions and ingredients. She acknowledges them and uses them but is not limited by them. Bravo! In summary: A well-rounded menu, absolutely wonderful food, well worth the price. This should be a must for anyone seeking fine dining in the Boston area. (P.S. The attire clearly should be dressy-- the decor, food, and atmosphere strongly support that-- but I saw several people in jeans, and not even nice jeans! Then again, it seems people wear jeans anywhere these days. Do everyone a favor and put on something nice-- it makes for a much more lovely experience!)
(5)
Yuko I.
Amazing food, good quality material cooked in perfection. The taste is not overwhelming but spice was there to get the best out of the good material. Please do eat your dessert also! The only draw back is, the kitchen is small so it is not for a large group. We wanted to book for 12, you could with a course menu - then it is not as fun.
(5)
Andi P.
In my 10-ish times here, I've ordered just about everything from the menu along with a pitcher of sangria outside on the patio in the summer. Just about everything would be my favorite. If I had to choose, however, I'd go with the falafel. It's different. It's great. Also, the string cheese. (It ain't Polly-O, not that I don't heart that too, especially outside on a patio in the summer along with a pitcher of sangria.) Also, the lamb steak. Also, the veggie tasting menu. Also, the outdoor patio in the summer along with a pitcher of sangria. (I need to go back here, like, tomorrow, and see what all can be done gluten-free along with a pitcher of sangria outside on the patio--although it might not be summer quite yet tomorrow even outside on the patio despite many pitchers of sangria.)
(5)
AB H.
I still agree with my first review: Oleana is hit or miss. I have had really good meals there, and I have had okay meals. This week was just an ok meal. I like the meat we had, like the quail kebabs (which were not kebabs at all, but nevertheless tasty - this is ironic because in previous reviews I mentioned they were dry). And my main course of salmon was also very good. Some other things weren't as exciting, like the whipped feta appetizer and some of the other appetizers like the falafel. The peach and chard rib salad was misleading in name - it is not a salad, there are simply some chard ribs (tough, not tasty) on the peaches and cheese. We did love our various champagne cocktails. Dessert again was just okay, We tried four different ones and on each plate there were some funky flavors that didn't quite go really well together. We didn't get to sit outside because we turned down the 40 minute wait; that was also disappointing. We had a waitress who was working her first tonight; she was great, unfortunately the woman who was there to train her was almost militant in her demeanor.
(3)
Raj B.
Several of us had the vegetarian tasting menu. While the food served was indeed interesting at times, I think Oleana is expensive for what you get. I could have been just as happy by only having two orders of their falafels which are certainly some of the best in town. Worth the hassle of making a reservation just for that.
(3)
Kathryn D.
I agree with all the rave reviews of the food - this is my & boyfriend's go-to birthday/anniversary/special dinner place. They get their produce from a small farm right in Sudbury MA, and they do fantastic things with spices. The back patio is wonderful when it's warm out, and you can grab a drink and sit under a tree while you're waiting for your table (since they don't take reservations for the patio). The one note I will add is that the white sangria is absolutely amazing. The only downside is that I now can't drink sangria anywhere else, Oleana has ruined all other sangrias for me, it's that good.
(5)
Christopher L.
The moussaca is good. The duck and corn was fine. The game hen was fine. The desserts are bad. We were seated 30 minutes after our reservation so don't show up on time.
(3)
Liza H.
All I can say is, WOW. Went here to kick off my honeymoon, and it was a fabulous dining experience - the ambiance was fabulous (outdoor patio, on a Tuesday w/ live music), wait staff was the perfect level of attentive, and the food was absolutely fabulous. Clearly not an every day restaurant for most of us, given the price, but what a great place for a special occasion. Food recommendations below. Apps: Burrata w/ grilled peach and corn relish (was a special), best single plate I have ever had. Fried mussels, also fabulous according to the Mrs. Entrees: Duck gyro was awesome, cooked perfectly. Tuna was great, but not the best we've ever had (Miami on the beach, hard to beat). Dessert: Blew us away! The baked alaska was really fabulous, neither of us had ever had before, and it was awesome. We also had the frozen chocolate mint souffle, which was perfection. Great way to finish the meal.
(5)
Amanda M.
So I have been putting off writing this review because there are so many glowing reviews and I don't have much else to add. I loved it here! My boyfriend took me here for my birthday back in October and I have to say I have not stopped thinking about that meal since. I have also been looking for an occasion to return since it is pricey. I had duck and my boyfriend had local rib eye, I'm not much of a steak person, but it was really good. For an appetizer we had haloumi cheese with pumpkin spread and they lit it on fire on the way to the table. The sangria was pretty good too. We sat at a small table near the bar and had an great view of the kitchen. To finish off our meal we shared the Salty Almond Stracciatella Ice Cream & Cocoa Sherbet with Almond Beignets & Pear Butter...I have to say not really worth $13 since it was tiny. I would love to return soon, but for the well being of my wallet I may have to try Sofra instead! STANDOUTS: The orange sauce that is park of the duck dish and FLAMING Haloumi cheese. Where can I find Haloumi? I was thinking South End Fromaggio?!?!
(5)
Paul S.
We got the vegetarian tasting menu. The dishes were unfamiliar, intensely flavorful, and unquestionably delicious. If you're a foodie in Cambridge and haven't gone here yet, you don't know what you're missing. I mean that literally; you haven't ever experienced it before.
(5)
Kar M.
Really good...and really well plated... The coziness factor was off the charts!!!
(4)
Matthew G.
This restaurant is incredible. I had no idea what half of the things on the menu were, but they were all delicious. My waitress was very helpful in recommending dishes and wine pairings. They take their food and wine very seriously at Oleana. I have never had armenian bean paste with walnut pate and homemade string cheese before, but it's great. The same goes for the ricotta and bread dumplings I had for my main course. Words really cannot describe how unique the cuisine is at Oleana. It's no wonder the chefs have won so many awards.
(5)
Andrew K.
I went with my girlfriend last night after seeing the chef compete on Top Chef Masters and were duly impressed. We started off with the buttered hummus and the fideos, both of which were great. The fideos had a savory flavor that we couldn't place, but which we found refreshing. I would certainly go again and recommend it to anyone in the Cambridge area looking for a Mediterranean meal.
(4)
Leo S.
After reading all the mouth watering reviews, I was expecting much better at Oleana. For a middle eastern cuisine, at least try giving us a real middle eastern experience with real pita bread (instead of spongy bread) and zataar in olive oil instead of standard olive oil. The vermicelli with harissa sauce was probably the worst thing. The tuna tartar was probably a good try although it would have benefited from harissa here. The special of the day (flatbread) came with overcooked mushroom bathing in butter. I was utmost disappointed by the "lamb" which turned out to be simple merguez (lamb sausage) cut in half longitudinally with some bok choi underneath and another dull mix of vegetables. I might try again, but in the meantime, I'd suggest to pass...
(2)
Zizzles A.
Oleana has given me a wonderful experience, but it's one of those places where you wonder if the more traditional, and cheaper turkish/middle eastern foods aren't comparable for much less money. There's no question that the food at Oleana is different from Brookline Family Restaurant or Falafel Palace, but to say that it's definitively better is difficult. There is certainly a time and a place, and sometimes, I just have a hankering for Oleana's fine dining approach. Everything I tried here is noteworthy. The Falafel is buttery smooth, not nearly as chunky and coarse as the stuff you'd get at rami's for shwarma king. The duck shwarma is perfect. The duck is super rich, as is the modified taziki sauce, but some salad greens and the pita nicely counteract all that luscious fattyness. The cod is served in a wooden bowl with a veggie stew of sorts, and it is one of the best fish dishes I have had this side of Asia. The cod isn't rare, but it's shockingly tender. It's not exactly a super flavorful fish, but it imparts its own seafoody sweetness to the stew, which is a little sweet already from some of the veggies. Hearty with veggies, but light at the same time because the protein is such a delicately tender piece of cod. The baked alaska was a bit of a mistake for me. I should have known how sweet meringue would be. While it was a little too much for me, the passionfruit caramel was super tasty.
(4)
Armine N.
mmm Oleana: The Good: -Understated decor makes for the *perfect* atmosphere, especially the patio - great for a romantic dinner! -Love the pret a manger list -- especially the Armenian Bean & Walnut Pt with Homemade String Cheese (okay okay, I'm Armenian and therefore seriously biased...but it's damn good -AMAZING fried haloumi dish -Creative menu, fresh ingredients -BAKED ALASKA and french press coffee=true love The Bad: -Service is less then perfect - caught a few food runners "auctioning" off dishes at the table...tisk tisk The Ugly: - Had the salmon special - salmon was supposed to be medium rare but was rather overcooked and seriously oversalted - that said, this was the first and only time that a dish I have ordered at Oleana has been cooked improperly Overall: you won't be disappointed - Oleana is a true treat!
(4)
Cara A.
This, my friends, is my favorite restaurant in the Boston area. It is official. I even bought the book (very good -- called Spice) and her collection of combined spices. I had the vegetarian tasting menu and it blew me away. Every bite felt special and over-the-top delicious. The waitstaff also were top-notch. The server recommended a fabulous wine and was incredibly attentive (but not annoying). Please -- you MUST go there!
(5)
S Z.
Save your pennies, skip fancy french, and go to OLEANA! 5 of us had an awesome meal here the other night - We had a fried green tomato and prosciutto salad and the homemade cheeses to start, and I had a very flavorful hangar steak special. It was a warm night and the patio was the perfect setting. Also, the wine list is excellent - we drank sparkling malbec, loire chenin, nebbiolo/pinot nero from Valle D'Aoste, and a sparkling Rose of Gamay for dessert - truly excellent wines. Beware though - we split our bill on two cards, and their bank held an additional 20% of our bill until the charge cleared my bank. It took about 36 hours to come to the correct amount - not a big deal but definitely off putting to check my bank balance the morning after....
Fantastic flavorful food prepared to perfection, accompanied by very cute outdoor patio seating. Great for foodies.
(5)
Vasilis M.
Fantastic mediterranean food. From Moroccan to Turkish to Greek and further on. Long list of wines. Also, great place for the romantic couples.
(5)
Steph F.
Truly unique, satisfying, delicious meal of shared Mediterranean mezes. Highlights were spicy fideos, spinach falafel, and a burrata special. I was interested in sitting on the patio, but we ended up sitting inside instead because it was a hot and humid day. We'll just have to go back!
(5)
Chloe S.
YUM! I came here with some out of town guests and can't wait to go back. It was not easy to get in, but it's worth it. The special that night was a beef stew with kale and okra that was SPECTACULAR. Normally stewed okra is slimy and frankly, gross. But they must have prepped it separately because it was still fresh tasting and crunchy. It retained the heartiness of a good comfort food, but has intriguing (but not overpowering) middle eastern spices and flavors to it. Delicious. Everyone's dishes were great, both interesting and tasty. It's rare to find gourmet middle eastern food (instead of falafel, which is delicious, but not very "fancy") and this is a nice departure from the norm.
(5)
Sam C.
First time trying this place. Started with a glass of sangria and 3 mezes (appetizers) Sangria is decent but sangria is sangria, as long as its not too overpowered with sweetness, its decent. The appetizers we got were the spinach falafel, braised short rib and the quail kabob. The falafels were a house favorite and i have to agree, it's good. However my favorite has got to be the short rib. When you dig your knife into and the meat just melts...speechless. The quail kebabs were ok... definitely like that its nice juicy and tender but the crispy rice kind of plain. My entree was an eight oz ribeye with broccoli rabe. As most steak lovers, Med rare is almost a must. The very first moment I made that first cut, I knew that I was gonna love it. The meat was right on the money! The broccoli rabe really complimented the dish. There was an ingredient that I didn't know what it was but it tasted kinda like croutons but in flakes. Gave it a nice little crunchiness. The dessert was a little unique. We ordered "The Baked Alaskan" I will try to explain this one... lol Its like an over sized torched macaroon with whip cream and ice cream inside. Its a great choice for someone like me who isn't crazy about overly sweet food and drinks. The only thing I didn't like about this place so far is that it seemed like they really over filled the place with seatings. I sat at the bar and I was butting elbows left and right with my brother and the customer to my right.
(4)
Tiffany F.
YUM-azing!! This place actually lives up to the hype. I've dined her twice and it is a new favorite place. I won't repeat all the praises of the falafel and fried scallops (totally justified!). Instead if will sing the praises of the scallop entree with roasted Brussel sprout special. WOW!! Unbelievably delicious and unique! I will be thinking about this dish for a long time to come! Do yourself a favor, plan ahead so you can actually get a table, and come to this phenomenal culinary dream of a restaurant!!
(5)
Chrissa B.
Pretty tasty, definitely flavors I haven't had often before, but I will say for the hype I expected a little more ingenuity. Wine was quite pricey and we tried a few different glasses yet didn't enjoy any of them much. My main gripe for the elegance, character, and price point of this restaurant is that although we had a reservation we were first steered to the only bar-stool table in the house, tucked in an awkward corner at the end of the bar. After thinking it over we asked to be moved, thank goodness, and were offered a choice between two lovely tables, one by the fire and musicians, the other overlooking the twinkle-lit patio. Why even have a table like that at this kind of place? It's not good enough for the kind of food and experience you are offering, and just makes customers feel like second-class citizens. An unfortunate blemish on an otherwise pleasantly memorable meal.
I LOVE OLEANA. The food is scrumptious, the ambiance lovely. Wine list a bit pricey. I have eaten here 3 times, (twice since Dec 2014), and everything I've put in my mouth -- from the deviled eggs to the falafel to the sultan's delight to the desserts --is FANFREAKINGTASTIC! Go and enjoy different and delightful mezze!
(5)
Jana C.
Oh my, Oleana... I am so smitten with you, it ain't even funny (or legal). Joie de vivre maximized at this magical little place. My most solid and valuable advice to you: order mezzes in lieu of entrees (tapas, small plates). this is the perfect venue to do so, as the unique and creative menu and pairings are wonderful, and I guarantee you, with 8 mezzes ordered and 4 people, we were about 85% full! Goodness me----truly one of the most spectacular several course meals that I have had the absolute delight and privilege to try. I'm telling you... the creative flavor combos, creative spice mixes, and unique textures served up and every single item on the menu is so unique in its composition.... we spent a bit over 2 hours enjoying our dinner that was booked months ahead of time via Open Table. Though Exec Chef Ana Sortun (who I watched compete on Top Chef M) was not in the house last night, this was a meal that no one would forget. What a spectacular dinner with live music... the place is quite dim and it's a small restaurant. When the weather is warm, there is a very calm, well-landscaped, beautiful patio for outside dining. Wish I could have sat out there... Will get into the details of the food when I've the energy to sing its accolades. Kenneth R--you were absolutely spot-on in your review. Although I ate at Abba, as well as Ming Tsai's Blue Ginger, this was our very favorite experience. Fave mezzes tried: pork belly couldn't be roasted more tender; perfect skin. Crispy duck wings are wondeful!!! But my fave of all time was the roasted quail with polenta. Also notable was the Sultan's delight, as well as the gorgeous, lush spinach falafels... it was all great.. We ordered a total of 8 mezzes to share, and 2 entrees: Azaluna pork and the pounded chicken. Dinner for 4 ran $135. That cremolata was so refreshing and bright--not made of dairy, tasted a bit like a sorbet on the tongue. I could pass on that chocolate brioche thingy... bit dry! Chocolate was quality though. A wonder.....nestled right there in between Harvard and MIT. PS On second thought, this simple statement should have said it all: Full house on a Tuesday night, save 2 two-toppers that I spied. one of my most favorite dinners out.
(5)
Daniel G.
This is defiantly one of the best restaurants I have ever been to, the ambiance is superb everybody is so friendly. The food is just amazing the server was really helpful and recommended a few pick which were delicious. Lamb with Turkish spices was great and so was the glazed beef, probably everything at this restaurant is worth trying.
(5)
A J.
Love this place! Book 4 weeks in advance to get a reasonable date and time.
(5)
Athens F.
great food and service
(5)
Azi Z.
This place is definitely on my top 5 favorite restaurants in Boston. Ambiance, food, and service are all awesome. I have been there a few times and there was not a single dish that I would call mediocre. From appetizers, to entrees, to desert, everything was excellent! If you plan to visit here make sure to make reservations well in advance as it isn't easy to do so, particularly on the weekends.
While the building is fairly nondescript from the outside, Oleana is an absolute hidden gem in Central. The tapas are absolutely amazing, and I have never tasted such an amazing falafel in my life. The bread dumplings are in itself a reason to return. I would, however, recommend making reservations well in advance, as they fill up very quickly. I do agree with the review below that the chairs are not the most comfortable (wouldn't recommend a short skirt), but overall one of the best restaurants in Boston. Can't wait to bring my parents here!
(4)
Molly K.
James Beard winner Ana Sortun's Oleana has been open near Central Square since 2001 with rave reviews by all that have been. Focusing on "Arabic influenced foods of the Mediterranean with a strong lean towards Turkish", this was right up T's alley, and right up mine by being a prime example of farm-to-table with most of their produce coming right from Sortun's husband's farm in Sudbury, Siena Farms. In we headed, up the ramp (looking like a ghost), to the dimly-lit restaurant with winding turns and many smaller rooms spread about. We sat & enjoyed a chilly glass of wine while admiring the table and deciding on our meals. We decided to split three meze courses and have an entree each. The first 6 meze course on the menu are more of spreads and small snacks, while the rest range from a shared app to a full app. We started with the spicy fideos & chicken peas with green chard and orange aioli. I love spice, so I was excited, but sadly it wasn't spicy at all, and I also didn't taste any orange in the smear of aioli, but I did enjoy the dish as it was light and a good start. Next we had the spinach falafel with tahini, yogurt, beets & crinkled cress. This meze course was both T and my favorite dish of the whole night. Light, fluffy, and not even a bit dry, the spinach falafel was delicious, and especially perfect paired with the beets and the pickles on the side. Our final meze course was the one I was most excited for. As you may know I love octopus, and feel a need to order it everywhere it is offered to get my fill. This dish seemed so perfect for me, grilled octopus carpaccio with spring pea, pepper & a spicy olive salad. It was fine. That's it, just fine. I knew I had high hopes, but I was so disappointed. The octopus was not carpaccio, rather they were large chunks. The spring peas were delicious, but the "spicy olive salad" was not even close to a hint of spicy. There was a nicely crisped toast-like cracker under the components, which was a great touch, but the rest of the dish was just fine. For my entree I went with the flattened lemon chicken with za'atar & a Turkish cheese pancake, one of their most famous dishes. Oh, you can't see this picture? Me neither, because I couldn't see my food at this point. Right before our entrees the lights went low low low and we had to squint to see our food. Nevertheless, I could feel I was eating on a sort of platter, which made me feel like I was at Medieval Times or in Game of Thrones, which was exciting. The chicken was delicious, and well-prepared. Not overly lemony, a large portion, and a nice combination with the pancake, my only complaint was the fact that the cheese pancake was almost too cheesy, as I felt the cheese of choice overpowered the delicate lemony chicken flavor. T on the other hand went with the tamarack tunis lamb with Turkish spices, pita & everything green with garlic & yogurt. He was in love. The dish was like a deconstructed gyro, with perfectly balanced & prepared components. The lamb was ground and made into a sausage before being grilled, which made it quite moist and "uh-mazing" (in the words of T). For dessert we opted to split the chocolate hazelnut nightingale's nest with chocolate truffle & a fig leaf ice cream. Perfectly portioned for our needs, the salt of the hazelnuts played well with the nest and truffle, and was overall a great dessert. After a quick tea from their expensive coffee and tea menu, we headed out, but not before checking out the neat little bathrooms. With mirrored tiles mixed in with regular tiles, it's a nice surprise!
(3)
Mike G.
Second time was better than the first. It's great food and service.
(5)
Molly S.
Per our friend's recommendation, my boyfriend and I decided to treat ourselves to a delicious meal at Oleana. We were told to come right when they opened to get a table in the patio, so a 5:30 meal on Sunday was what we had. It's so popular that although we arrived about 10 minutes after opening, we got the last available table on the patio. We then proceeded to take a 2 hour food journey complete with delicious meats, cheeses, and vegetables that were out of this world, delicious and perfect. First came the bread, olive oil, and a carrot puree. Amazing. Then we ordered a number of other small dishes like the Sultan's Delight, ie melt in your mouth beef short rib, quail on rice, grilled cheese slices with grilled peaches and roasted red pepper hummus. Then came our shared entree of duck on a flat bread with saffron onions and rhubarb. Unbelievable. The wine pairing suggested by our waitress was perfect for a summer evening and our meal. Desert was delicious as well, especially the fig-leaf ice cream with chocolate pastry and brown butter profiteroles. Go. You won't be disappointed. And for a fancy meal it was about $50-$60/per person including appetizers, wine, and desert. Certainly not cheap but wouldn't break the bank every once in a while.
(5)
Kira R.
Loved the food here. Split a bunch of mezze instead of ordering entrees. Was delicious, service was good but nothing to write home about. Only 4 stars instead of 5 bc the space was crowded and we felt like we were intruding on our neighbors personal conversation. On the pricey side, but the food was great
(4)
Tina M.
Amazing ambiance, especially if you grab a table outside. Staff were friendly and very accommodating of my vegetarian diet. Every dish that came out was delicious!
(5)
Kelsey C.
Oleana sounds like something you'd say to a talented lover named Leana. Except your lover is a plate of Mediterranean mecca, and your love is as short-lived as your last bite of potato pie with bacon. I initially feared that this appetizer special would be somnolence-inducing because it sounded so basic. Au contraire, this dish just made me understand why Americans wake up to bacon...and why I want to wake up to Oleana. The vegetarians at the table raved about the Spinach Falafel, and I confirmed that it was indeed to die for. It was a tough job but somebody had to do it... The Asparagus special and the hummus also achieved high marks in awesomeness. The Tamarack Tunis Lamb was tasty, but the must-have entree is the Soft-Shelled Crab. A massive crab, beautifully battered with a smattering of subtle sauce. I just love crab so maybe I'm biased, but if you're still thinking of my yelp review when there's a giant crab sitting in front of you, we're gonna need to have a talk about prioritizing! I'm starting to think I deserve a slap on the wrist for constantly overlooking Inman Square. It's clearly a no man's land and a transportation nightmare for bikeless, carless city dwellers, but so far, both onerous journeys have yielded gold mines!
(4)
Meizi H.
The best restaurant in town. YUMMY YUMMY!!!! I def. recommend some early evening or late night dining in this place. So hard to get into their reservation. The rooms are warming and cozy. I was a bit suspicious after hearing all raving reviews. It is indeed amazing after dining there. The falafel were well-cooked and tasty, duck breast and chicken were tender with lots of flavor, braised fennel/carrots were phenomenal tasty. Two of us ordered two entrees and three mezes. We were stuffed but still tried their Turkish coffee coz you couldnt control yourself pigging out. The octopus was smoky and okay but the rest of veggie dishes were tasty, no wonder their vegetable tasting menu was so popular. I couldn't wait to go back to try the rest of menus.
(5)
S G.
Upshot: Decent food, not so impressive ambiance or service. Please read below for details. Party of 4 - scientist, investment banker, consultant and a UN peacekeeper - with a fairly diverse set of life and culinary experiences. Everyone agrees with what I am about to write. First, the food is good but not amazing as many other reviewers have professed. There were just too many flavors/ingredients in every dish. If you like that in your meal, you will like the place. I like that too, but not this time. We had 5 mezes, 3 comped mezes, and two entrees that we shared. At the end of the meal, there was not a single flavor/striking taste that we remembered. Again, if that is what you want, you will like the food. Please note that we did not have anything vegetarian - so those of you ordering non-meat dishes might have better luck. I went against my judgment on two things - the drink and the dessert - and both were terrible. The wine list looked impressive and in hindsight, I should have picked something that would have paired well with the dominant vegetarian ingredients. I started with a 'sortini', which tasted like a cough syrup mixed with some hard-to-distinguish cocktail mixers/syrups. I couldn't finish it. Later, we ordered the 'Alaskan-something' dessert based on our server's recommendation. Forgettable again. The good part of the review is done. Now some critique to support the two stars. In my opinion, the menu needs a price correction of at least 30-40%. Based on how they have priced their food, people (at least everyone in our party) expect an experience that accompanies the expensive food. For a mediocre set-up Turkish(?) restaurant, a dinner for four should not exceed $100. We paid slightly more than $200. Here's what I am basing my opinion on: 1. The place is cheap. It is in a not-so-expensive part of town where the rents cannot be that high. It is the ground-level of a house. Also, they don't have valet parking that would have allowed us to get out of our cars right in front of the restaurant when there is slush/snow everywhere. Instead, you have to park in a lot across the street. Please be careful crossing the street as the residents/drivers in that neighborhood do not stop for pedestrians crossing in dark. 2. Uncomfortable/cramped seating. Not sure if they started with this many seats and fit in more tables as they became popular - however the place is very cramped with very little space between tables. The chairs are metal frame and are not very comfortable. Tables are small and we were constantly juggling the multiple meze plates around. 3. Also, the decor is cheap. There are about 50 evil-eye charms on one wall but that was pretty much it. There are these cheap LED lights for lighting. There were some random Turkish(?) rugs thrown on walls/bench. And there was this stove for heating/style in the main dining area. 4. The servers were attentive and polite, but you could tell they have not worked at a high-end establishment before. They lacked that 'polish' I guess. 5. The mezes came together quickly but once we had finished and our plates had been removed, there was this very long gap before the entrees came out. That killed the experience for me at least. 6. Not enough space to hang coats! The hostess sent us to this room on the side to look for space for our coats. All the hooks were taken. I think they were expecting us to 'load' our coats on top of other coats. We chose not to after noticing a coat covered with cat hair. Ugh. We ended up keeping our 4 winter coats with us in our small space. 7. We had to wait for almost half an hour to be seated even when we had a reservation. The patrons at 'our' table were just lingering on after paying off their tab. Hence they gave a small plate with 3 meze, which I appreciated. Overall, not a memorable experience and definitely not worth another trip.
(2)
Fiona Z.
One of my favorites in Boston. The food is absolutely delicious. They put an exciting twist on middle eastern food. Tried the celery root mousaka this past weekend and it was divine, and totally different than traditional mousaka. Another reason I love this place is their wine selection--they have wines from exciting places that you wouldn't see at other restaurants, e.g. from Santorini, Lebanon, Portugal etc. and their wine selection is revised every three weeks. They also have a Sommelier that can help you choose your wine, and we learned a lot from her last time.
(5)
Xin Z.
Fancy restaurants with very tentative waitresses. We are impressed by the creativity of the dishes too!
(4)
Lauren L.
Flat out amazing. There's not much to say about Oleana that hasn't been said a million times, but all the hype is true. Incredible, inventive dishes. Thoughtful, unique desserts. Good beer and wine selection. I actually like to have their sommelier make the wine decisions and she is excellent about dialing in my options! The patio is gorgeous and romantic, if weather permits. And whatever magic elves make that brown bread - keep doing what you're doing!
(5)
Maddie G.
I came here when my mom was visiting and my turkish friend told me that Oleana would not disappoint. He was certainly right! The hostess was incredibly friendly, and so was everyone else we interacted with (apart from our pushy waitress, but we were enjoying the back patio so much that it really didn't phase me). The cigar borek was not crispy like we were expecting, but the flavors were fantastic. The green tomatoes with corn were unbelievable - the yogurt sauce was to die for. We also had the moussaka, which was also delicious. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience, and I would definitely go back again.
(4)
Brian M.
I really want to give this place a 4.5. The food was great (albeit mostly veggie). We got the tasting menu and thoroughly enjoyed everything they brought out. The bar was a little weak (no liqour) and had the stones to charge ~$12 for a very weak wine cocktail. The atmosphere was nice, although seating was pretty cramped.
(4)
Barbara K.
my favorite place to eat in the city! The food is fresh and delicious and I love their vegetarian tasting menu. Service was great too :)
(5)
Erick N.
Oleana features upscale Mediterrannean cuisine. The menu is heavy on the small plates (Mezes) that are perfect for sharing and also offers a nice, but significantly smaller selection of large plates (fish and meat focused). Our party of four shared seven Mezes and each ordered a large plate. At the onset of the meal one is delivered a wonderful bread basket with a variety of fresh breads and a delicious olive oil that rotates occasionally (the menu offers a description of the sourcing and flavor notes of the oil). The bread was so good it was difficult not to fill up prior to the items we ordered arriving - so definitely pace yourself if you have a small appetite. The dishes we ordered were mostly successful but there was some misses; Oleana has fancier presentations and flavor combnations than other Mediterranean venues I have frequented and at times the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, but on other occasions the star ingredient was overshadowed by the accompaniments. For me the most successful dish was the hummus; generally a tasty but boring dish Oleana's version had individual serving sizes wrapped in a cured meat (Basturma) that was the best preparation of hummus I have consumed. However with the spicy heirloom tomato dish (while enjoyable) the spices overwhelmed the flavor of the tomato (a shame as Oleana has such fresh, quality ingredients and this is peak tomato season) and for the octopus dish the plating was beautiful and the feta and olive salad imbedded in the dish was refreshing, spicy and delicious but the octopus Itself bland and rubbery. My entree also had a lot going on; King salmon with a BBQ like sauce, squah, a farm egg and challah - but fortunately tasted like a cohesive dish with excellent favors and the fish was cooked perfectly. I was too full for dessert but tasted some of a blueberry pastry with corn ice cream a table ate ordered and the ice cream was divine. Service was quite friendly but not the most competent. One person's dish was not delivered until much later than the other three with no explanation it was on the way - in fact we became concerned the dish had been forgotten and for a few minutes no staff was nearby to summon. A question I had about ingredients within a dish were dodged and surprisingly no questions about allergies/restrictions were made by the server. This could have been disastrous if we did not speak up as one member of our party had a shellfish allergy; we had ordered a dish that one would not generally associate with shellfish (felafel), but when we alerted our server to this allergy he checked with the kitchen and warned us that the felafel is cooked in a pan also used for shellfish. Definitely be assertive and vigilant about allergies when dining here. The dining room is nice, with the only negative being tables are closely spaced which decrease the intimacy and slightly the comfort. If the weather cooperates and the wait is not too long, take advantage of the beautiful outdoor patio; one of the nicest I have seen. Price wise Oleana is going to run in the vicinity of $85 a person for three courses and a couple glasses of wine (including tax/tip); I felt this was very reasonable for the quality. While the incnsistencies with the service and some of the dishes as well as the close table configuration prevent Oleana from being what I would consider a top tier venue for its price range, it certainly was a pleasant dining experience and I would not hesitate to return.
(4)
Joey M.
Great food, service, environment. What else could you want? Well, one thing I guess - more availability because it can be difficult to snag a reservation!
(4)
Tom G.
We ordered six items from the appetizer menu, including one special. They were brought one at a time so the two if us could share them. We had been here four years ago and remembered that we loved it, but this time we were even more impressed. The delicacy of each preparation, the composition of each, the harmony of flavors, made this one of the best dining experiences we could recall. The special was fried haloumi with pea greens, rhubarb sauce, and a few other things that elude me now. Also, Quail kebab, sultan's delight, whipped feta with roasted peppers, and buttered humus.
(5)
Andrew F.
Hands down one of my favorite restaurants around. The food and ambience are fantastic. Desserts are great. And the wine list is one of our favorites. We love this place
(5)
Bret W.
I went with my girlfriend on the basis of everyone raving about this place and we were not disappointed. The spinach falafel, as well as the other dishes we ordered, was amazing and we topped it off with two incredible desserts. We can't wait to go back.
(5)
Emily S.
Although a reservation was made a month in advance, the only time slot we could get was 9:00, it is notoriously hard to get a table here but I thought this was extreme. So after waiting all day to eat a delcious dinner, I am sad to say that I had to knock a star off of Oleana's rating because the pace was very very slow. Our waiter also seemed new and unfamiliar with the menu which might have contributed to this. I ordered the spicy fideos - which were spicy as expected and very tasty. However, I would not order them again, the noodles were cut up so small it was actually hard to eat them all. Next, the cheese and bread dumpings and saffron soup, which was very good. The dumplings were delicious and the soup had great flavor. However, because of the shallow dish and the small amount of soup, it actually went cold quiet quickly (within about a minute of being at the table). Because it was so late by the time I got my meze, (about 45 mins after ordering) I decicded to not go ahead and order a third meze, and was especially glad I did not order the tasting menu because I would have been there all night. My boyfriend enjoyed his entree which was the lamb kabob. We also got a side of the lemon and oregano potatoes which were very flavorful and crispy. The food was reasonable and very tasty, but the pace was a bit too slow for our liking. On a weekend, come prepared to wait for your food. I would have liked to have an earlier table, the food was good enough that I think we would return on a weeknight to get a different feel for the restaurant.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : No Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : No Attire : Casual Ambience : Romantic Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Ashley Z.
I LOVE this restaurant. I try to make it here every year for my birthday and have yet to be disappointed. The setting is pleasant, the wine selection lovely, the waiters friendly and attentive, and the food could not be tastier. I love the small plates and the interesting (but still appetizing and home-style) combinations. Would recommend this to anyone who wants a nice meal!
(5)Dan J.
What's left to be said. Still one of the best in the area.
(5)Srini V.
Oleana would hold its own anywhere, but towers above most others in Boston, where good food is seemingly an occasional exception, not the norm. The crowd is typical for Cambridge--quite homogeneous. But be prepared to be pleasantly surprised by the variety and quality of the food, the generally classy service, and the well-designed layout. Oleana excels in its appetizers, and I would strong recommend that one make a full meal out of them. The red lentil slider, whipped feta and falafel are outstanding. The main courses indeed have a hard act to follow, and falter on occasion. The fideos and chick peas are my default option. From time to time the specials can be delightful. Alternatively, the appetizers may be requested in entree size servings. Of the dessert options, the Baked Alaska, with coconut ice cream is quite popular, but not exactly to my liking. I prefer the black walnut baklava even though the salep drink that accompanies it seems like an odd complement. The cocoa-rose ice cream is an excellent option. All said, a consistently enjoyable five-star experience by Boston standards. And one of my favorites for Mediterranean-Middle Eastern fare.
(4)Susan R.
Oleana is flat-out one of the best restaurants Metro Boston has to offer. I have been at least ten times and have been thoroughly impressed with the food each time. If you are a timid eater, you will simply have to promise yourself that you will at least try everything that arrives, and you will find yourself surprised at how perfect the flavors, and textures are. I highly recommend the vegetarian sampler menu to split between two people, even if you aren't a vegetarian... the falafel is out of this world, the whipped feta is impressive and although you may at first scoff at the portion sizing... it is truly difficult to make it through all of the courses. I always find myself saying 'oh God!, there's ANOTHER course?!' A great place to impress a client, or someone you date, but a big spendy... so it may look like you are trying too hard for a first or second date. You should make a reservation with opentable.com as you never know when it is going to be busy, and don't leave without trying the Baked Alaska! tip: There is a small lot across the street that they claim can be used after a certain time (check with the host first), other than that - street parking can be tough.
(4)Chris D.
If you're looking for a nice dinner out in Cambridge, Oleana is your place. Just make sure to get reservations well in advance, as seating here books up quite quickly. My wife and I came here on a busy Saturday night - service started out a bit slow but picked up quickly. We had a variety of delicious mezes including spinach falafel, kale salad, crab cakes and zucchini dolma, not to mention a perfectly cooked tuna entree (yes we gorged ourselves). The only thing we thought didn't stand out was the hummus - go figure. All in all I think the quality of food at Oleana is just a cut above most restaurants in Boston and you're unlikely to be disappointed here.
(5)Catherine S.
Hard to get to on public transportation but worth the trek from Central or Kendall Square T-Stops. At first, I wasn't sure what to think of sangria served in a pint glass - but a few sips and I didn't mind the vessel, good volume deal! Mezes were good. Our waiter didn't know how to pronounce certain words on the menu, but that's ok - he was prompt and took care of all requests for bread and information on nut allergies. Note on the allergies: many of the tastier sounding dishes here have some sort of nuts in them so be careful not to have the fried mussels meze or the sausage entrée. That said, this nut-sensitive person found the grilled octopus and chorizo meze to be delicious and my special abondigas main course to be very satisfying. Our party of 4 was seated in the back of the restaurant with a view of the patio garden (pretty with lights strung up). If you are looking for a quieter seat, ask for this area. The garden is something I'd like to visit in warmer weather!
(3)Kimberly T.
Oh WOW!!! This place is amazing! While visiting my sister in Middleton, she raved about Oleana and insisted we had to go before I flew back to CA... We had the vegetarian samplers and enjoyed every dish! I've always been quite the carnivore, but I decided to follow her lead and try something different. The flavors of each of the 6 items were just out of this world, so much so that I'll be venturing out into the vegetarian arena again soon!
(5)Joyce T.
I've been wanting to try this place forever but never got around to it because of the restaurant's location (awkward by T). However, not disappointed! The service at the restaurant was extremely welcoming. The decor warm and lovely, with a delightful outdoor seating area that makes me want to come up when the weather is suitable for outdoor dining. We had a mixtures of mezes as a meal. The falafal was the perfect texture of crispy (but not too much) on the outside and warm/almost melty on the inside situated on a lovely wrap with some greens and beet meze. In particular, the spicy grilled octopus/brussel sprouts was a standout with some kind of bean cake topped with a sauce and a punch of tangy pomegranate seeds. The other dishes we got were also good but those were the two standouts for me. Only wish this place were closer or more conveniently situated so it could be a regular "special" dinner place for me! Sofra Bakery is also amazing (but hard to get to from JP)!
(5)Chris B.
It's a intimate spot with excellent food and service. Really inventive Mediterranean flavors that's great for vegetarians and sometimes those vegans.
(4)Lila A.
Landed the perfect table without a reservation. Every item ordered was exceptional. This was one of the best dining experiences we've ever had; we even ordered a second round of appetizers because they were unbelievable!
(5)L C.
AMAZING! I took my boyfriend there twice in two weeks because we absolutely loved it and were celebrating special events. The menu is thoughtfully prepared, curated with the finest local ingredients and seasonal vegetables. The quality of the meals are outstanding, absolutely superb, and amazingly delicious! The staff is very kind and accommodating and we went both times without reservations (they're nearly impossible to book) and were seated very quickly, both for outdoor patio seating and indoor table seating; perhaps we were extremely lucky both times, but we certainly would've waited happily for as long as necessary. The ambiance is fantastic and the prices are extremely reasonable for the quality of the dishes and portions served. I'm excited to return in the Fall when the menu changes, as they are a sustainable restaurant (to the best of my knowledge). This is definitely a restaurant to put on your bucket list!
(5)Muttley D.
Oleana is a great restaurant. Many exotic delights await you. The only thing I ate here that was sort of boring were the flattened potatoes with lemon and oregano...they weren't bad, but they aren't necessary on this menu filled with wonderous, magical, amazing and tantalizing delights! (is that enough superlatives for ya?) Dive into this restaurant, embrace this cuisine, it is awesome!
(5)Ned B.
I have eaten at Oleana perhaps 100 times, including 3 times last week. It is consistently the most interesting restaurant in Cambridge. Anna Sortun is a total original. Most other restaurants I go to fit into the same "international cuisine" model but she creates new and wonderful dishes of a quite different sort. The middle eastern emphasis is part of the secret. But I just came back from 2 months in Abu Dhabi-- a city that has many extremely expensive restaurants with high paid chefs-- and Oleana is head and shoulders above anything there. My favorite restaurant in New York is 11 Madison Park which got its 3rd Michelin star and has continued to improve since then. The two are not comparable--they are trying to do different things--but I am equally happy eating at each of them.
(5)Jonathan P.
It is incredibly difficult NOT to write a long review for this amazing place. Ill try to be brief though. My first impression of the restaurant from outside is, is this it? Thinking to myself, this seems out of place...and then I walk in. Has a friendly, not too hoity or stuffy appeal and thankfully its not cramped like some other places. Food: Amazing. Nuff said. Wait. No, theres more. The fried mussels were absolutely amazing (though watch out for the peppers!) and the felafel is to die for. The food is beautifully presented from beginning to end and each dish is not only pleasing to the eyes, but to the mouth as well. Between all four of us at our table, we had to try everything each one of us ordered, yes its that good you'll be reaching across the table to try each dish. Cannot. Wait. To. Come. Back.
(5)Samuel F.
Went here with a friend to try the vegetarian tasting menu, which was _amazing_. I expected that they'd have a fixed menu for the day, but my friend and I were given entirely different meals, so we were able to taste a dozen dishes each. The restaurant is a bit small (at least the indoor area is more cozy than spread-out), but the space feels very relaxing. Excellent patio dining, too.
(5)Kat B.
The last time we went here in October for my birthday was just perfect. Get the VEGETABLE TASTING MENU and you won't be disappointed! Some highlights of ours were the really beautiful mini vegetable casserole with carrots and fennel, creamy corn soup with white asparagus, and their spinach falafel (always very pretty and delicious as well). We also ordered their lamb with Turkish spices, which is always amazing! Even though my husband and I are both big meat eaters, the loving way the chefs at Oleana prepare their vegetables with huge amounts of flavor and spices really makes you not even miss meat. The dessert of the tasting menu was fantastic as well...ice cream/sorbet on top of this "bird's nest" of sweet pastry flavored with an amazing sauce; I think it was quince. Unfortunately I didn't even hear the waiter describe the exact ingredients because my mind and tummy were myopically focused on how beautiful and delectable it looked. The vegetable tasting menu now comes with a dessert (had it again recently for another birthday) and if you like non-alcoholic drinks you MUST try their Sienna Mocktail! It tastes better than their Sangria! I also have to mention that on one occasion I was given the wrong entree which I absentmindedly started to eat immediately...guess I was hungry. To make up for it they actually brought me the entree I ordered but took it off the tab. That was unexpected and really nice of them!
(5)Helen G.
Ok food. Mediocre service.
(2)Taylor E.
This meal was virtually spotless (much like our plates). Ana Sortun gives new definition, in my mind, to high end Mediterranean. The following day our party of 4 tried to narrow down what our favorite plates had been, and it was impossible to choose. At least everything we ordered was called out as someone's favorite. Top of the list for me was the hummus, fried mussels, and trout w/salmon roe: * It is my opinion that hummus, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, is a quick and sure fire way to judge a Mediterranean restaurant. I eat hummus pretty religiously and while 98% of hummus is good, there is that 2% that really knocks your socks off. The hummus at Oleana easily fits in to the latter category. * As for the mussels, I really shouldn't have to explain further. They are mussels, that are fried... pure genius. * The trout was cooked perfectly, with the avocado smeared over the top almost like a sauce and the roe littered on top of that. While trout can often come out bland, this was anything but. It's a must try. * I also really loved the brown butter bread pudding. I'd been turned off from bread pudding in the past by how heavy and dense it can be, but this bread pudding reignited my love affair with it, inspiring me to start making it at home (although my version does not quite compare with Oleana's). Try to save room for it if you can. Though we made some poor choices on the wine menu, it is quite extensive. More exciting than the wine for me was the local brewery they turned us on to called Night Shift. They carry the Trifecta here which is a Belgian pale ale aged on vanilla beans. We enjoyed it so much that we made the hike to Everett the following day to visit the Night Shift tasting room! If you've ever been to Everett you will understand the motivation required to make such a trip, but it was totally worth it. The only stain on our evening was our waiter. In addition to being really unhelpful (luckily you don't need a ton of guidance with this menu) he made it seem like our very presence there annoyed him. He was never out right rude, but a friendlier attitude would have been really appreciated. All in all, if you make it to Cambridge, Oleana should be at the top of your to-do list. I'll undoubtedly be a return customer.
(4)Nikki R.
Epic meal - truly one of the more memorable dining experiences I have had in ages. I was visiting Boston from Los Angeles to see family and we wanted to have a special last meal before I headed back to the West Coast. We were a party of five and sat on the patio. The night started a little rocky as our table was basically in pitch blackness - not OK for a foodie family that likes to photograph and obsess over every dish. They fixed this relatively quickly by bringing a large glowing orb light and placing it on our table. We ordered almost the entire menu: Deviled Eggs, Octopus Carpaccio, Falafel, Fried Mussels, Bread and Cheese Dumplings to start. Duck, Chicken, Hanger Steak (special), and Salmon to share as entrees. There was honestly not one miss here (I can't remember the last time I have said that!) - the bold flavors were pure perfection, ingredients were incredible (locally sourced from Sienna Farms in Sudbury), and presentation was the perfect mix of rustic and refined. Paired this with a light, effervescent vinho verde from Portugal. Now the best part: dessert. We ordered four (don't judge): Baked Alaska (divine), Profiteroles (mind-blowing), Hazelnut Nest (indulgent), and Strawberry Tart (clean flavors, but just OK). Server was friendly, very knowledgeable and attentive (perhaps a little casual at times, but it worked). Looking forward to coming back here again and again. Oleana was an absolute perfect ending to my vacation.
(5)Samantha G.
I brought my better half here for his birthday dinner and the experience was delightful. We were able to sit in the patio area on such a lovely night. Lights strung among the trees and a nice setting of wrought iron patio furniture. Our service was a little slow getting started, but I think the server was seated very rapidly at that moment. Moving on... We had the Warm Buttered Hummus with Basturma & Tomato (my favorite of the night), the Sultan's Delight, the Vermont Quail Kebob (his favorite), and one of the Mezze specials..some sort of seared cheese with peach and goodness all over. All of these choices were spot on. And the Sicilian Almond Cremolata & Warm Chocolate Panino for dessert. I had mentioned in my reservation that it was his birthday, so they ended up bringing the dessert out with a candle without me even asking. Nice touch. Thank you for a great evening, Oleana.
(5)Jen H.
I LOVE Oleana. The first time I came here, it was a walk-in dining experience after relaxing at another establishment in the area. The dining area was packed, and without a reservation our option to get a meal here was to sit at the bar. They were so kind and added an extra chair to the end of the bar to accommodate us. The bartender was very knowledgeable and helped guide us towards a bottle of white wine. I could have died happy with my last meal being their bread covered in herbs and spices + olive oil and that wine. So good.... But that's only where it started. On this first dining experience, I opted to take one of the specials. I do not recall exactly what it was, but do remember wanting to lick my plate clean. The second time that I dined here, my roomie took me here to celebrate my birthday. She made the reservation in advance, and we were seated at a table in the bar area. We started with the option to split quail kebabs and the spicy fideos. If you're not sure what fideos are, you're not alone. In fact, at the bottom of the menu there is a glossary of terms to help you figure out what exactly the offerings on the menu are! For my entrée, I had the lamb with "everything green." This was out of this world. Every bite left me wanting to have another bite just so I could have the smorgasbord of flavors circulating and dancing along my taste buds. After splitting the two appetizers, and thoroughly enjoying my entrée, I was STUFFED. However, being that this was one of my 30th birthday celebrations, we decided to partake in some dessert. I never get to have Baked Alaska, so as soon as I saw it on the menu, I knew this was what I had to have! The menu said that it was going to be coconut ice cream, but it didn't have an overwhelming coconut flavor. I was actually pretty excited about this because coconut isn't my favorite. I ate every last bite, and while my waistline protested, my taste buds rejoiced. I cannot wait to come here again. From the moment you walk through the door you're guaranteed to have a great dining experience.
(5)Jonah K.
Very inventive and interesting food. Most of it is designed to be shared. The portions are small, but the food is very rich and flavorful. In fact this is actually a pretty good deal when you break it down. They have excellent vegetarian options (for my mother) and the service was very good. I tend to agree that when it comes to middle eastern food vegetarian options are normally a better bet. I would tend to go higher than 4 stars for this place, but I reserve the 5 star ratings :)
(4)Tharathorn R.
Dining at Oleana is a divine experience. We came in with much anticipation, settling for later reservation hour and rearranging our plan for the evening to be able to dine here. I must say the food quality much exceeds our expectation. For appetizers, we went with a safer choice and something unusal: Deviled Eggs with Tuna & Black Olives and Vermont Quail with Baharat, Barberries & Pistachio. Both were delightful. The deviled egg filling has Tuna meat in it making it meaty than typical deviled eggs we have had. For our quail dish, the juicy quail meat is well pair with tartness of the barberries and the chewy texture of the sticky rice cake on which it is served. We are pleased. I ordered the Beef Sarma & Sweet Potato Kumpir for my main dish. The mashed sweet potatoes and flavorful butter was really nice. Unlucky for me though, that night they ran out of nicer cuts of beef and my dish was made with brisket cubes rather than steak cuts. The flavor was great but I wished the beef was more tender. My boyfriend had the Lamb with Turkish Spices (seasoned lamb meatballs) which he really enjoyed. Perhaps, the best part of the night was the desserts. Oleana's plated desserts are way better than many plated desserts at many specialized dessert places in town. Each components of the dessert is full of fresh and authentic flavors, and only slightly complimented by a little of sweetness. I had the Nougat and Mango Sorbets (2 flavor of sorbets). The sorbets were really tasty and not too sweet. They were served with tart and tangy mango and passion fruit compote which compliments the sorbets really well. My boyfriend had the Milk Chocolate-Tahini Tart (2 layered tart) with Halvah Ice Cream. I didn't know chocolate pair really well with Tahini until I tried this tart! Overall, I think it's place worth all the anticipation. It's on the top of my bookmarked list as a togo place for special evenings.
(5)Lucy Z.
I had heard so many good things about this place before I finally pulled the trigger two nights ago, and Oleana didn't disappoint! We got there really late (right before the official close time for the kitchen), so the food came out a bit fast. The wine list was reasonable, and there was also the option of a $40 vegetarian tasting menu. We ordered a la carte per yelp recommendations and all the dishes were amazing. Spinach Falafel: fluffy, creamy and super light Sultan's Delight: beef was so tender and juicy, and the smoked eggplant puree with pinenuts was a nice touch Pork Belly: crispy skin, flavorful meat, good balance of fat and lean meat Lamb: grounded lamb patties. Normally I am not a big fan of grounded meat, but this tasted pretty good even though it was not my favorite dish of the night For the dessert, we really wanted to try baked alaska, but it looked huge for two people on other people's table. Ended up getting the the Nougat Glace with Passion Fruit Curd & PIstachio Atayif. It was light and yummy Now I just wish it would be easier to make a reservation at this place!
(5)Nicole V.
I have very few rules in my life, but I do try to establish some boundaries. Dinner at Oleana has me dying to break these and sending me into a whirling bliss. I don't know if I've fallen in love or been drugged, but either way I like it. Rules broken tonight: 1 ) Only review places after one time if there's no intention of going back or if it was a special circumstance 2 ) Don't review on the same night 3 ) Flirting with waiters is okay, but don't leave them love notes 4 ) If you over order, don't stuff your face; take leftovers 5 ) Don't fall in love too quickly 6 ) Know what something is before putting it in your mouth 7 ) Try not to write novella length reviews on Yelp Arriving nice and early (around 6) we got a seat outside. It was cute, romantic, and full of attractive male waiters. There's no way to really win me over than promises of good food, wine, and boys. This is when my crush began. With the waiter's assistance (and plenty of patience) we decided on our meal of four mezes and an entree. I want to return and try everything else, but I have to admit that each element today was -gasm worthy. Meze 1 : Falafel Mouthgasm - My dining partner looked up at me with her mouth full and stars in her eyes. Unable to wait until she even finished chewing, the words "I think I just had a mouthgasm" escaped her lips. If she had realized there was tahini on her face, she may have waited to use those choice words, but I'm so glad she didn't. Meze 2 : Tuna Unexpectedgasm - The waiter suggested the tuna and I thought he was too attractive to ever disagree with him. Between the accent, truly poetic vocabulary, and the blatant love for food I was at a loss for words at his description of the tuna tartare. I think I just nodded. I didn't believe him that bulgar wheat could make something creamy but ohhhh it did. And ooooohhhhhh was it good. Meze 3 : Sultan's Delight Forkgasm - Just touch it. We weren't sure how to split this chunk o' meat so I went to stab it with my fork (I'm a classy lady). As it melted to show off the phenomenal texture to come, my fork finally got a -gasm of it's own. The smokey eggplant puree with pinenuts was similar to a hummus. We piled it on top of the beef and moaned in delight. Meze 4 : Fried Mussels Guilty-pleasure-gasm : I'm sorry, but did you just combine mussels, a prefect frying batter, and a thick yogurt sauce into one dish? Oh no you didn't Oleana. We thought it sounded too weird, yet appealing. So as we took our first bite the only thing we could think was "Oh. Oh. Oh... yes you did.". My Ohhhhhhh face could not have been smacked off at this point. Entree : Lamb We ordered the lamb because it just felt right. The lamb was in a sausage form with three huge slices on top of "everything green" (I recognized at least kale and broccoli), yogurt sauce, and a flat bread. What started as a crush was now a full blown love. We split the dish between the two of us and finished simultaneously. At this point we were way too full, but still basking in the glory of our food. The waiter's descriptions of everything stayed with us and though we jealously eyed other diner's meals, we knew that levels of pleasure above ours were unobtainable. I enjoyed the eye candy of the male waiters (seriously, it's awesome) and experienced my first disappointment of the night when I realized two things: a) the waiters aren't available for takeout and b) they weren't on the dessert menu. After realizing we were too full for dessert, I got the bill for our overly indulgent meal and it was far less than expected. My love has been solidified. I look forward to my next return but until then I will have many dreamgasms of Oleana (and my waiter).
(5)Courtney G.
Oleana managed to exceed its wonderful reputation. I can honestly say I experienced flavors and textures I have never experienced before in my life- and they were delectable. All the while, the menu has wonderfully unpretentious items that are prepared extremely well. My entree was a simple dish that had house-made tabouleh and lamb sausage with mashed garlic potatoes and a reduction sauce of some sort... and it was one of the best dishes I have ever tasted. Then for desert we had a very exotic Orchid and tree resin shake with profiteroles- also amazing. Although they have an endless wine list, I recommend the "Sortini' cocktail- it was heaven. Oleana's head chef, Ana Sortun, is married to, and partners with the owner of a local organic farm- so their ingredients are hyper-local and fresh. The service was fantastic to boot.
(5)Charlie K.
My favorite restaurant in the entire Boston area, perhaps in the entire world. Yes, I like good food, artfully prepared and presented, and the words "farm to table" make me so very happy and hungry, but I'm also a meat -loving, down half a large pizza and a pitcher of beer kinda gal. They seriously work magic in that kitchen of theirs. Sure, on the menu it might say something like "parsnips and feta with honey" but don't be fooled - what comes out to you will be recognizable as these things, but mind-blowlingly different and delicious and yes, magical. Their portions are generous, their staff is warm. If the weather's nice, sit in their backyard.
(5)Bill C.
Screw this place. They clearly think they're God's gift to diners; well, they're not. I showed up at 8:50 on a Thursday. Not prime dining time and they had, yes, count 'em, five empty tables. Nevertheless, "It will be AT LEAST a 30-minute wait." And they tried to shove me over to this crappy little dark bench. I pressed them and said I really would rather have a table. At that point, it was "We're all booked up until 9:45 at the very, very earliest." And the bar's full too. Both hosts used a simpering, condescending tone. I was about to stalk out right then and there. But for some reason I decided to take a seat at the bar. The bartender didn't give me the time of day. After I waiting for about eight minutes to try to order a drink, he then announced all the specials. When I frowned at one of them he got all pissy and cut the list of specials short. "What was the last special?" I asked. His words: "Oh, you want to listen to it now?" Even the food runners were pretentious. When they'd bring the food they would try to place it directly on top of my book even though there were three empty seats to my right. (Yeah, but "the bar's full too.") The entire time I was at the bar there were ALWAYS two tables open behind me in the bar area, and God knows how many more in the restaurant. It was infuriating. And the food was incredibly pretentious too. So fuck this place. And I left a $5 tip on a $71 tab. You guys want to treat me like shit, well, have it back.
(1)Susan F.
Date night with the husband was an awesome success here! I have many allergies and they took great care of me! Beautiful restaurant, even had musicians playing IN the restaurant! The food was outragious! sO good! Chef Cara rocked out some awesome braised beef with tamarind. Also, a killer duck dish! We had 3 desserts, all amazing! They make their own almond milk for ice cream, it was amazing! Also their black pansy dessert! Simple and delightful, a experience i wou LOVE to repeat!
(5)Greg B.
This is one of those cases that I hate this rating system. This place simply deserves 5 stars for food and service, but I simply can't give it to them... The food is probably one of the best culinary experiences I have ever had in the Boston area. Everything from the appetizers to the main until the deserts was simply amazing, also the waiters are great and attentive. You need to reserve a couple of days, if not a week ahead of time in order to have a table. However there is one flaw with this place, the hostesses at the entrance. Yesterday I assisted at a scene which for a restaurant like Oleana was simply absurd. Four costumers that seemed very well educated to me where asked to leave, by one of the hostesses in a very impolite way, after they where assigned a table and seated. I thought this was very unprofessional especially since their table seemed to have been assigned to a hostesses party of friends right after. Having said so the food is simply amazing and the waiters are very professional, too bad that the greeting staff is like this. I plan on going back and give it another chance.
(1)Lena N.
My roommate told me this was probably one of the best meals of her life. With a review like that, I had to try Oleana. I went there for "I survived grad school" celebration dinner. The restaurant itself has a great atmosphere. I do love restaurants dedicated to locally sourced food. All that being said, this place left me scratching my head about what all the hype was about. Maybe we had the misfortune to choose the most uninspired dishes on the menu. Their vegetable dishes were definitely better than their meat ones. I'd go back and try the vegetarian tasting menu.
(3)Val I.
So awesome. Probably one of my favorite restaurants in Boston - every dish was incredible. Reservations need to be made well in advance, but it's certainly worth it! Highlights include whipped fava, sultan's delight, chickpea terrine, and the lemon chicken. Soooo good.
(5)Mark G.
In a word, amazing. Oleana just gets it. If you have not been, you need to make this place a priority for your next night out. There wasn't a single weak link throughout the entire meal. Each dish dazzled with creative flavor combinations and inspired presentation at reasonable prices given the quality. My hat is off to the wait staff and kitchen. I haven't been this thrilled with a Boston restaurant since my first visit to Toro in the South End. Do yourself a favor and go to Oleana as soon as possible and make sure to order the following: 1) Octopus & Artichoke Kalamaki with Favas, Potato Cake & Dill Sauce 2) Vermont Quail with Baharat, Barberries & Pistachio 3) Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets & Crinkled Cress 4) Bittersweet Chocolate Walnut Kadayif with Sheep's Milk Yogurt Sorbet and Chocolate Crème Bruleette A+.
(5)Maria P.
I went back to Oleana recently and I was delighted with the changes. The patio was beautiful as always but we chose to sit inside because it was a little cold outside. The seating was a little cramped but the restaurant was cozy and warm. They had a new bread basket which contained a pillowy hot bread with za'atar. It was amazing. They had updated the menu since the last time I went so I decided to try a new entree while still ordering the falafel as an appetizer. I learnt that the tahini served with the falafel had beets in it which was an excellent addition. I also ordered the lemon chicken. It was a little too strong tasting and the za'atar/lemon combination overwhelmed the chicken. I did order a side of moussaka that was very good and more than made up for the disappointing entree. I also shared the poached pear for dessert which was delicious. The huckleberries that accompanied the dessert was delectable. Service was great as always; our waiter was friendly and personable. I look forward to coming back and trying more of their mezze options.
(4)David C.
One of the best meals I've had since I moved to Boston last fall was a dinner at Oleana. My boyfriend and I split the vegetarian tasting menu (which varies nightly) and a few other meze dishes for good measure. Dinner was a while ago now, but I remember loving almost everything I had, especially the beautiful spinach falafel dish that everyone on here raves about. The highlight of the night for me though was definitely one of their specials, a crab and pea dish served inside an avocado, atop a bed of warm pea greens. I don't even like peas, but this dish was phenomenal. I think it should be added to the regular menu. The Sultan's Delight unfortunately left a lot to be desired. It definitely lacked the "wow" factor that the other dishes possessed. Speaking of wow--Oleana's Baked Alaska literally made my jaw drop. We had to pay a little extra to get it instead of the prix fixe dessert, but it was worth every penny. It kind of stunk that the table next to us also got the tasting menu, because they were one step ahead of us in terms of presentation, but that obviously couldn't have been helped. What could have been helped was the stank attitude of our waitress, who refused to look at me when I asked her questions about the menu. I don't know if she thought my boyfriend was paying, but she certainly acted as if he was. When the bill came and I pulled out my credit card, though, it was as if she noticed me for the first time. She's lucky the food was so good.
(4)Glen W.
Outstanding middle eastern food that evokes Yotam Ottolenghi's book Jerusalem
(4)Stephanie M.
Visited on a Monday night. First impression wasn't a great one - we were crammed into a corner of the patio on little elephant stools waiting for our table. The bar was *very* slow - I waited while they placed every dirty glass in the dishwasher, completely ignoring me. Once seated though, timing improved. Our waiter was very good and the menu was one of the most interesting I have seen in a long time. Appetizers, baby sole, parmesan crusted pork chop, desserts were all delicious. I don't think there's an item on the menu that would disappoint.
(4)M M.
Amazing meal. You know a restaurant is doing it right when you want to try everything on the menu. Even something as humble as falafel was absolutely brilliantly executed (not to mention completely ruining any chance of enjoying falafel at any other restaurant). Curse you Anna ;-) Flavors were bold and vibrant in everything we tasted. Bravo. Definitely on the list of "must eat at" places in the country, let alone Boston.
(5)Erin C.
An absolutely amazing meal! After reading some recommendations I decided to take the BF here for a birthday celebration meal. We were seated immediately in a super busy dining room. It was a Wednesday around 7:30 and we took the last empty table in the smaller front dining room. We started our meal out with the warm buttered hummus and the deviled eggs w/ tuna & black olives. The eggs were so great! We spit up the two eggs you get but I seriously considered stealing his it was so good! The hummus was nice, warm and went perfectly with the bread they serve you. It was just the right amount of food to get us super excited for the main course! My swordfish w/ fried pita, tahini sauce and lentils almost made me cry. The fish was cooked perfectly and everything complimented it so well! Who knew that fried pita could be so tasty?! The BF got the crispy duck. He devoured it! The fun little pumpkin thingy was the perfect little addition to the dish. Service was great. For such a tiny dining room there were about 7 or so people offering service. We never went without water and were brought fresh silverware for each course. The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is because of the chairs. When we went to sit down the fun pillow on the chair kept moving around. As we were adjusting people kept trying to walk by. Just a little awkward, especially in the super tiny dining room. One of the best dining experiences we have had in Boston and we would def go back there!
(4)Emily F.
Ohmygoodness. Oleana was perfect for my post-graduation dinner. At first I was disappointed that a veganized vegetarian sampler could not be made that night, but our waitress did give me a couple other options: an assortment of sides of other dishes or a giant plate of veggies. I chose a giant plate of veggies (see picture) and what a FANTASTIC choice that was. My sister, who ordered the flattened chicken, admitted that mine was definitely better than hers (yay veggies!). I have never ever had vegetables prepared so fabulously - it was an incredible mix of steamed spinach, asparagus, squash, wild leeks, peppers, vinegared tomatoes, and so much more I can't even remember. The flavors were blended perfectly and it was a wonderfully portioned plate - clearly from someone who understands what it means to eat vegan. The waitress was totally on top of informing me where the breads came from and if they were vegan (one definitely was, the other probably was). They also have one vegan dessert, the almond cremolata, a mouth-watering ice cream-like dessert. I rarely am able to eat desserts at restaurants and was so excited just to be eating dessert that I'm not even sure if it was good or not. It's been awhile so I can't really comment on what my family thought of their entrees or desserts (the baked alaskan was extremely impressive looking), but we were there for over 2 hours and all absolutely loved it, despite the rocky/slow start. Overall I really felt at ease here - it has a casual elegance and food/knowledgeable staff I could trust. I don't usually eat at places of this caliber, but I'm definitely going to look for excuses to return!
(5)Nicole M.
Oleana is DIVINE. The service: Our waiter described the specials with mouth-watering detail. He checked in on us regularly and was very pleasant. The food: We polished off the fried mussels appetizer, lamb, and pork loin special. For dessert, we had the pumpkin thingie. They were all beyond delicious. The drinks: I had the champagne cocktail, which was sweet and sour at the same time. Boyfriend enjoyed his Sortini. The skinny: An excellent dining experience, but not for the faint of wallet.
(4)Rebecca P.
I went to Oleana at the suggestion of a friend after having looked desperately for a good Mediterranean restaurant to call my own. I did drive by it 3 times before seeing the sign, but the decor & ambiance are lovely. We sat and were served at the bar, but I'd suggest a reservation. Tried the "happy hour wine special" which was a nice cab franc, but the wine list looked ample & reasonably priced (not particularly exotic). My second drink was the fresh, fruity and dry sangria. DELICIOUS! Because we are both vegetarians, we opted for the vegetable tasting menu with a few supplements. At $40, I'd recommend this menu to any 2 people to split. The flavors were distinct, pungent and exotic. The ingredients of each dish were fresh, healthy and perfectly prepared (braised pumpkin with giganta beans, spinach falafel with beet spread). We enjoyed deciphering the unique flavors & spices in each small plate. The items were each from different countries and cuisines- not simply Greek or Turkish. We added king oyster mushroom suvlaki & salad and opted for the Baked Alaska, which was unforgettable (and legendary- I'm told). It has been a long time since I've left a restaurant with my pallet so... well exercised (?!?). Oleana was a dining experience, as opposed to simply a meal. Can't wait to go back!!
(5)Michelle K.
Gonna echo a million voices here and say that everything was tasty and visually appealing to boot! My only downfall was ordering all fried stuff for the 12 dollar (bigger) meze dishes. I'd balance that out more with non fried meze's the next time around. Obviously some dishes stood out more than others. Here are my power rankings: You will kick yourself for not trying the: 1. Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets & Crinkled Cress (fried) 2. Moussaka--Minced Lamb & Eggplant Pie with Whipped Fava Tasty, get in my belly goodness: 1. Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers 2. Sultan's Delight; Tamarind Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Purée with Pinenuts 3. Ricotta Loukoumades, Roasted Asparagus, Hazelnut & Maple Labne (fried) Good, but not particularly memorable: 1. Deviled Eggs with Tuna & Black Olives Could have done without: 2. Fried Mussels, Hot Peppers & Turkish Tarator Sauce Ordered the above for two, and had half a meze plate leftover.
(4)Floyd R.
Try the amazing vegetarian tasting menu, a culinary tour of the middle East. One of Cambridge's best restaurants.
(5)Rona Y.
Definitely one of my favorite restaurants in Boston! You can really taste the quality of their ingredients in each dish. They might not have the most intense flavors or the most creative dishes, but they just have a knack for getting it just right. The glazed beef in the Sultan's Delight is cooked to perfection with a light puree that balances the intensity of the meat. I also had the lamb the other night and my boyfriend had the Pork, both of which we gobbled up immediately! If you're in the mood for dessert, the Baked Alaska is out of this world!! This place is absolutely worth the splurge for a special night out :)
(5)Kara S.
I have been to Oleana three times: The first two times I had good experiences and loved the food, but didn't feel ready to write about it. I'm ready now. Last night I met up with four friends for a girls night out. We scored a prime spot in the courtyard, which is cozy and hidden and perfect. It was nice because the area we sat in was covered, but still open air. It came in quite handy since the sky couldn't decide if it wanted to rain or shine yesterday. Our server Sean was fantastic and had a great sense of humor, making dinner a delight. He also was really helpful in helping us pick out dishes to try, giving us his honest opinion on the pret a manger and appetizer offerings. And he steered us well, as each of us claimed one dish that we would marry, should Massachusetts ever pass a bill allowing marriage to food products. At first Mary was ready to dump her husband for Spicy Carrot Puree & Egyptian Spice Mix with Nuts & Olive Oil. But then the Pistachio Ice Cream, Warm Pistachio Katmer, Spiced Cherries & Labne swept into the room, they locked eyes, and it was like "spicy carrot puree who?" Carrie would cheat on her fiance for a raunchy love affair with Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers. This might be ok though, since her fiance and the whipped feta are pretty tight. I think it might be what they called an open marriage. BIG LOVE, if you will. Connie was like a giggly school girl for the Everything Green with Finger Bread & Thick Cucumber Yogurt. I myself was ready to go home with the Fried Haloumi Cheese & Spring Onion Dolma with Walnuts, Sesame & Rhubarb. And it was our first date. I'm easy like that. And Beth was picking out a color scheme for her impending wedding to the Tamarind Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Puree with Pinenuts. (Which I was making eyes at all during dinner, so she better watch out!) So yeah. We all left so full and so happy. It's isn't often that food makes me as happy as this meal made me. Part of it was the great company: My amazing girls and a fun waiter. The other part was just such stellar flavor profiles and perfectly cooked food. I think the only thing some of us didn't love was the falafel, and it was more a texture issue than a flavor issue. While I did enjoy my previous visits here (once to have the vegetarian tasting menu, once to just have a regular meal), this meal blew those ones out of the water. It's all about lots of sangria, lots of appetizers, and great friends.
(5)Shaina P.
Service, atmosphere, taste, and even price went beyond my wildest expectations at Oleana. There's something to say about a restaurant that serves foods that I would ever think to use and flavors that my taste buds have never tasted without being disappointed. I absolutely loved Oleana. SERVICE Dave and I completely lucked out in getting a small table for two immediately upon entering. I can't say that I'd recommend this method of getting seated at Oleana since when I called earlier, they advised me that there was nothing available until 10 PM. However, the patio is open on a first come first serve basis, so worth stopping in if you're willing to take that risk. Our waitress interacted with us like we were having a conversation with someone we'd known for years and she was knowledgeable/helpful in choosing a wine to match Dave's dinner. ATMOSPHERE Like Ligaya mentioned, the decor is understated. Warm tones give the restaurant a relaxed yet formal feel. Texture on the walls, tables, seating, and very low volume music give the space its easy-going feel. Most patrons tonight were 30-something couples or small groups. TASTES Wow. What can I say? The warm buttered hummus with bastuma (Turkish Pastrami) and tomato ($5) immediately melted in my mouth and easily spread over the selection of breads. It was served as two egg-sized dollops wrapped in the bastuma, well seasoned and just heavenly. Rabbit schawarma was served wrapped in a crispy dough roll and drizzled with tahini brown butter (ohh yummy brown butter). It was a moist meat, but I was somewhat surprised to find rabbit not to have a unique flavor. Three triangles of fried haloumi cheese was served in a copper plate and flambeed on the spot. On top of each piece was a roasted onion petal wrapped around a mixture of walnuts, sesame, and rhubarb. This dish was so unique and so good! Scallops were pan fried and served over a mash of sunchoke with gnocchi containing a small chorizo surprise inside. The sunchoke was so flavorful and really highlighted the scallops' richness. The crispy duck was served over a pastry cup filled with rice, eggplant, and chickpeas. All of this sat on a mash of greek yogurt - tangy and bright. This was a heavy dish and unfortunately the crispy duck was compromised by over-dry meat. I was also confused about the pastry. It was thin like parchment, but apparently edible. I had to ask whether it was edible just to be sure. It was and it was good! DRINKS Oleana serves Sangria, which I didn't try, but I will someday. I opted for the Sam Smith Organic Lager ($7), one of many interesting beer choices from the list of offerings. I was surprised to see canned PBR ($3), but I completely respect the choice. Cool! Dave's white wine, Tokai Friuliano, was an Italian wonder. It was well flavored and balanced nicely with his scallops and one of the cheaper offerings ($9/gl). For dessert, I had no room, but would love to come back sometime to try one of many ice cream offerings. Instead I had the Turkish Coffee, which came in an espresso-sized mug and enjoyed without sweet or cream. It had a heavy texture, but when the fine grounds settled down, the flavor was pure coffee. All in all - Oleana, though on the pricey side, was worth every penny. NOTE: I noticed there was a Vegetarian Mezze of 5-courses for $42 per person (or for two as Eve L found). This looks like something I would recommend to someone who was unsure of what to order here.
(5)Andrea L.
Eat here as often as you can as much as possible. It is pricey, yes, but I don't think you'll ever regret coming here. It's a James Beard Award winner for a reason folks!
(5)David R.
This cozy and lively resturaunt was the perfect date spot. The food was delicious, the wine was well informed and reasonably priced and the overall decore was nice. We ordered three appetizers one after the other and one entre. Overall delicious and a great evening to remember for just $100. Highly recommend for Inman Square dining
(5)Lisa R.
One of the best meals I have ever had. I've heard that small plates are the way to go here, and were they ever. I happen to love sampling as many different things in one meal as I can (let's face it, your taste buds don't get bored that way), so this was a DREAM for me. We got an assortment of dishes - the Sultan's Delight, the Spinach Falafel, an Octopus dish, buttered hummus with basturma, a vermicelli and chickpea dish, and deviled eggs with Tuna. We also got a special - figs wrapped in lardo - which was my least favorite, but I think that was just a matter of personal taste (the sauce accompanying it was DELICIOUS). Everything was perfectly seasoned, with complex flavors, and executed perfectly down to the last detail. It was a Monday night and the place was packed, but we lucked out and got seated at a cute four-top in a nook by the windows. I have yet to check out their famous outdoor patio (which you can apparently only get into if you show up RIGHT when they open). As far as service goes, I've heard less than stellar things - the waitstaff not being especially well-informed about the drink selection, for example. In our case, they forgot to bring one of the plates we ordered. But I didn't let that rain on my parade. If you're a foodie who's fascinated by all things flavorful (say that 5 times fast), then GO.
(5)Jen L.
I can't emphasize how much I like this place. At the time, I was deciding between Oleana and another restaurant, and I now can't even remember what the restaurant was, this place made such an impression on me. First, this place has a huge selection of "little plates" of food. My girlfriend and I opted to try one of their specials of the little plates as an appetizer and also order entrees. The appetizer was outstanding. It was some type of Mediterranean cheese lightly fried, with apricots. Unbelievably tasty. We ordered a bottle of cava, which made the evening feel more festive. It was this past summer, and soft shell crabs were in season. So I ordered those, while she ordered a meat dish (lamb, I believe). The soft shell crabs (my first time having them) were outstanding and the way it was presented was beautiful and so delicious. It came with a pilaf and a mustard that made the flavor really pop. I remember being too stuffed for dessert but was pleasantly surprised when we received the bill - for an appetizer, a bottle of cava wine and 2 entrees, it was less than $100. I thought we did well, especially considering the quality of the food. It's very rare I feel a restaurant truly earns 5 stars - but Oleana did. Some people say the space is too crowded, the tables too close together, but my mouth was experiencing such a joyous explosion of taste that I didn't mind one bit. I almost wanted to comment to my neighbors - you got the cheese dish, too? That was fantastic! =) Oh, and the service was great, too. Not one complaint. ;)
(5)Heather G.
This is one of my top-5 places to eat in Boston. Easily. Maybe THE top. Who knows. You know the credentials, you've read the accolades, you may have even seen the Top Chef Masters. You should know by now what's up with this place. It's amazing. I won't recommend dishes to try really, because the menu is seasonal and the specials change often. I will say the following, though: 1. I have never been let down by a "special" app or entree. They're always inventive and made with the freshest ingredients. 2. The vegetarian dishes are just as substantial and flavorful and interesting as the meat-dishes, so don't let that deter you when making an entree decision 3. The falafel IS REALLY *that* good. It's a mainstay on the app list, and you have have have have to order it. Really. You will regret it if you don't, or I will regret it for you. 4. Go on Tuesday night during the summer. Wait for an outdoor patio table, dine at dusk or later. This is the best time to experience Oleana. The weather is nice, the band is playing softly, and the trees are outfitted with white twinkle lights under the canopies that add that special *pop* to the ambience. Everything tastes better under these conditions, and your date will quickly get over the fact that you're going out on a non-traditional-date-night and be enamored with your romanticism.
(5)peggy c.
First things first... YUM! Absolutely loved the food! Make a reservation and check it out. I came here for dinner on a week night but it was pretty much still a full house. Shortly after we got seated, a woman at the next table started choking on something so it was a little crazy for a little bit, but the staff were great and called 911 right away. Someone knew the Heimlich and the woman was ok. She even stayed for desserts. It's nice to know the staff is responsive in case of emergencies. In terms of service, it was pretty good in general. Our waiter was attentive but didn't hover, which is nice. He also answered our questions well. As for the food, we chose a bottle of reisling from Oleana's pretty extensive wine list, the asparagus with goat cheese and leeks for appetizer [large enough to share], the trout spanakopita [think doughy goodness] and duck breast with gnocchi. The asparagus was tender and the goat cheese was gooey and delicious. The spanakopita came with cucumbers and avocado and I really enjoyed the combo of flavors though my personal highlight was the gnocchi. It was soft and fluffy with a crispy/crunchy side. It looks like it might have been tossed into the broiler for a little bit. However it was prepared, the texture was just perfect. For dessert we tried the rhubarb sharbat with a white chocolate pistachio tart. I don't know what a sharbat is supposed to taste like but it was a little too sweet for my preference though the white chocolate tart has a rich [but not overly rich] taste and light consistency. Lastly, the portion sizes were about perfect for me - neither too large nor too small - and the menu is sprinkled with exotic names so I appreciate that there is a glossary section on it. So why just four stars? We got seated in that awkward middle row in the restaurant. While it's not absolute worse thing in the world, I hate being in the middle. My seat was also right against the back of another person's so I had to leave my purse on the floor. The tables off to the side also looked like they're a little too close together. I suppose these details are minor, but it bothers me. That being said, I would definitely come back... but judging by the look of things, I better make a reservation. P.s. give yourself a few minutes to find parking.
(4)Audrey C.
Oleana is decent but not mindblowing in any way. The portions are tiny for the price too (if not for the bread we would have left hungry). I'm honestly confused by all the rave reviews on Yelp.
(3)Joanna E.
this place is definitely one of my favorite pricier restaurants in Boston. i split the vegetarian tasting platter with my boyfriend, and for $40 you get to pick a few mezzes and get a dessert. it was really delicious and we left extremely happy and full. i think we even had some leftovers. we didn't get to sit in the patio, but would love to next time.
(5)Jen R.
This was a good as it gets as far as I'm concerned for food, ambiance, service and wine and beer selection, price and creativity. I loved everything I ate, which was A LOT! We tried the tuna in eggs, the hummus, the feta, the kale salad (so good!), the seared tuna special appetizer, the lamb, chicken, and the moussaka! Yum! I was just so impressed with the depth of flavors in each dish! I work in the business, so I am very attuned to quality and I just thought this was really high quality food that someone put a lot of thought and time into. I'll definitely go back as it was the best meal I've eaten out in a long time.
(5)polar p.
Great food and very nice atmosphere, if you are sitting outside.
(4)Emir A.
Must agree that this restaurant is very good. Portions are relatively large. Thus, if you are a skinny anorexic looking person your best bet is to order a glass of water. PROS: great location, excellent food. Good service. Friendly staff. In summary: perfect choice for those hungry yet picky people out there. CONS: bring your wallet. SUMMARY: this place wins 4 stars (just because I'm a jerk). French wine totally matches the food.
(4)Emily L.
Incredible. Everything on the menu is full of flavor and expertly spiced. Has an awesome back patio and back glass porch with a great view of the patio if its too cold to eat outside. We usually order mostly off the meze menu and split an entree. Favorites include: dukkah & carrot puree, spinach falafal, and sfela cheese saganaki. Sultan's delight is seriously the most melt-in-your-mouth delectable dish I may have ever tasted! If you haven't been here yet, go, and realize you'll want to come back pretty much every time you go out to eat.
(5)Chris T.
My buddy was always raving about this restaurant, but I was hesitant as I was not familiar with many terms on the menu and I heard of the small portions that were offered. Regardless, we headed there last night on a whim and I was blown away. For appetizers, we got the spinach falafel, which was INCREDIBLE, the Sultans Delight, which came with the most tender beef I have ever had in my life, and the Spicy Fideos, which was good, but not great. For entrees, my friend got Flounder and Moroccan Crab, which was light and tasty. I got the Azuluna Pork with Moorish Spices, which was best part of the night. The everything about this dish was incredible. No other way to put it. We were both blown away and this is my go to dish, as I will most certainly be returning here. Of note, we didn't get any drinks, but the beer/wine list looked expansive and intriguing. A table beside us got the cheese plate, which looked ridiculous and I will be getting that next time. For dessert, I tried not to be a complete fatty so I only opted for an espresso which came out bitter and meh. But every dessert on that menu looked like a winner, so this place will definitely get the better of me. Overall, Oleana was an awesome surprise, and even though the portions were as small as I expected, we both left full, but not overly stuffed and gross like after a sushi buffet. Genuinely content. And for $100 between both of us, that's not bad at all.
(4)John C.
Took a friend here for a b-day dinner. appetizer: we had the sultans delight and Farm Vegetable Crudités & Muhammara. the sultans delight was fantastic and the the veggie dish was delicate. wasn't anything that blew me out of my seat, but it was exactly what i was looking for. Entre: I had the spinach stuffed fresh trout and she had the vegetable tasting. the spinach trout was surprisingly good, i'm not generally a fan of feta, but it worked well together and it was nice to try some fresh water fish for a change. the vegetable tasting dish was delicious, i highly suggest this. vegetables done right is really the way to go when you eat out at a good establishment. dessert: we had a mango sherbet dish as well as a sweet cocoa dish. neither of which are on the menu. the sherbet dish was absolutely astonishing, best dessert i've had to date. service: the service was great, i was paired a great white wine with my dish and everything was timely, the server was knowledgeable about the dishes. decor: i sat with my back facing the restaurant so i didn't get to see much. it was a comfortable restaurant and the lights dimmed as the night went on. overall oleana is a great place to take a good friend to celebrate dinner, a good latter date and a good place for special occasions. i can't give it 5 stars because everything didn't blow me out of the water. disclaimer: this meal happened in june and i'm writing about it in october.. that's why i don't recall the exact desserts.. if i did, oleana would have gotten 5 stars.
(4)jay s.
Excellent. I think this is one of the best restaurant in Cambridge -- not because it is my favorite food, but because the menu is inventive, changing and always well executed. When I go to Oleana I order dishes that I would not usually order, and it expands my horizons.
(5)Rae D.
Hands down my favorite place in Boston after 2 years of trying many different restaurants around town. They book up quickly but the outdoor patio is a beautiful place to eat and can sometime be nabbed without reservation. The cooking is innovative and exceptional - try the vegetarian tasting menu!
(5)Ayyaz C.
My absolute favorite restaurant of all time!
(5)Alice N.
It is definitely one of the tastiest, most unique places I have been to. It takes some of the most common Middle Eastern ingredients and makes delicious dishes from the most unexpected combinations. The Haloumi and peaches is one of my favorite Meze dishes ever! Definitely worth its price...
(5)Paula V.
WOW! This place has amazing food and wonderful ambiance. Went for our anniversary. We were seated outside in the back courtyard. Very romantic, private with a water fountain, pear tree shaped like the tree of life. Our server Terry was terrific! She new it was our first time there and spent time to explain the dishes. We chose 5 different Meze plates and Terry chose the order of how they would arrive. They're similar to "tapas" style plates but with more food and no heavy salt! The flavors burst out of each bite. Some dishes had a little hot spice and others were sweet with a little citrus. The combination of ingredients is just amazing There was plenty of food for the two of us and our bill came to $42.00 for a 90 minute meal with no drinks or desert. I am happy we found this place will look forward to going back very soon!
(5)B L.
I just went here for the second time for my birthday. The meal was, as before fantastic. Everything we ate was spectacular. The waitress was also really really great. My only complaint is that is was soooo HOT in there! Insanely hot and with the seating being a little bit crowded it was uncomfortable. But everything was so great- that I didn't let it ruin my time. TIP: Get their house beer made for them by Cisco. It's awesome!
(4)Daniel B.
I too loved Oleana. So, why not 5*s? Most of the things that we ate for dinner were incredible. Not necessarily overly complicated, or intricate, but reminded me of what I learned in Berkeley - good fresh ingredients, simply prepared. Personally, I was blown away by the warm olives. But there were some misses. The deviled eggs with tuna... were fine. And I was not a big fan of the spicy vermicelli with chickpea, even though I hear it's a signature dish, it was quite heavy. The other winners in order of preference: Chanterelles with crispy bits and fruity bits Falafel - OMG yes Green salad with green bread and yogurt Creamy smokey baba Whipped Feta with peppers Walnut and bean pate Spiced Carrot Puree The big surprise was the AWESOME dessert with pistachio ice cream and rose water with peaches and peach sorbet. So refreshing, and so on-point flavor/cuisine wise. Ultimately what cost them the 5th * in my book was the pacing of the veggie tasting menu. I am fine with a relaxed pace. I prefer it, in fact. And the first few courses were paced well. Then we got nothing. For a long long time. Until we got our last two hot dishes right on top of each other. While it did not diminish my enjoyment of the meal, and the beautiful back patio, it did not go unnoticed. It would be convenient to blame the service, but I think the fault is really in the kitchen. Regardless. Great place. I am so glad I finally had the chance to go and eat outside on a nice summer evening with my wonderful sister.
(4)Anna T.
Came here two Fridays ago with my friend. We were sooo looking forward to this place from reading all the great reviews even though I'm not a vegetarian at all. We came here earlier because we didn't make reservations and wanted a table at the patio because it was such a great day out. So stood in line (yes there was a line not too long, we were the 1st there but stayed in the car), didn't mind standing there waiting except the smell of garbage! ewww! The patio is sooo romantic! Inspires me to decorate/design my backyard like that. Didn't really get to check the interior of the restaurant except a glimpse of it while walking to the patio. It looked pretty cool. Service there is great even though our waiter was looking left & right while talking to us but he made it up when he offered to wrap up our desserts so we can sneak it into the movies because I told him we were in a hurry to watch a movie (Eat Pray Love hehehe) He even helped us keep track of time! Superb!!! While we were leaving, there were two people standing there asking us how's the dinner and stuff and bid us a good night. The food: I don't think it's our type of food at all. We really really wanted to enjoy the food. We started off with bread & olive oil. There were 3 kinds, pita, plain french bread?, a bread w/ lots of spice on it. The one w/ all the spices on it was good. We ordered the vegetarian tasting menu and with the exception of the spinach falafel that was good, the others we didn't like. It was not worth the money for us. We had a garden salad (don't see why it's on this menu & it didn't even have a dressing), a yogurt dipping sauce (not our thing at all), the bean tomato soup (didn't pay money for minestrone soup), spinach falafel (very good but too small for the money), spicy fideos (it was okay, my friend didn't like it at all) & dessert. We also ordered the Sultan's Delight which was good but so small and ordered the Moussaka which was only okay. We paid $80 for 2 of us and we left hungry/not satisfied. Hmmmm...
(3)Liliya M.
DELICIOUS. Really sets the standard for dining. I highly recommend the vegetarian tasting menu. A+++
(5)Binh L.
The service was attentive to my dietary needs and informative without being pushy. The food was pretty great and gourmet, but there was just something missing here for me. I think I should have stuck with people's advice and just gotten a lot of appetizer dishes. Don't order meat. No really, I don't think it was that extraordinary. I got the fish entree, so so. I got the infamous Sultan's Delight that everyone raved about, but it just tasted like beef jerky. I can get more beef jerky for cheaper. So sum it up: order small dishes, avoid the meat (its specialty is vegetarian!), and get the summer sangria (white wine, yumm).
(4)Kelsey P.
Great food - low on romance/ambiance. With relation to the ambiance and setting - tables are very close to one another and it's a bit more casual then I expected - I don't think Oleana is the "romantic" restaurant option many make it out to be within other reviews. Skip Oleana for that special romantic meal, but go here for any other dinner date or group dinner. As for the food, Oleana's food is absolutely delicious - it's listed as Turkish but I would describe it as generally Mediterranean. I had dinner for two here and we shared all our dishes. In general the meze and entrees are delicious. I would skip dessert if I were to return. Here is what we ate: [ Meze ] - all delicious, would eat every single one again - Warm Olives with Za'atar - Warm Buttered Hummus with Basturma & Tomato - Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers - Pancetta & Sage Wrapped Parsnip, Ricotta, Pinenuts & Roasted Grape Agrodolce [ Meat ] - delicious chicken and the show-stealer of the night was the turkish cheese pancake that sits under the chicken! - Misty Knoll Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake [ Dessert ] - skipable other than the french pressed coffee which was delicious - French pressed coffee (very good - worth having again) - Baked Alaska; Coconut Ice Cream & Passion Fruit Caramel We also ordered a great bottle of red wine, however our server did knock one of the glasses over mid-meal and it spilled all over the table and onto my date. The server was very apologetic and they quickly came to help out - luckily we somehow escaped the accident unstained. But the restaurant brought us free dessert, coffee, and a business card with an email address for any necessary dry cleaning. Overall, a simple accident and a great response.
(4)Renuka B.
Nice place. Great outdoor seating. I tried their tastings menu. It had five items... All awesome!!! Loved it....
(4)Ed H.
I may get flak for only the 3-star rating, but I just wasn't that impressed. OK, the Sultan's Delight was absolutely amazing. As per the server's declaration, the meat did fall apart with a simple pull at the fork and is was delicious. However, it was an itty-bitty little piece of meat. Any sultan that would have been delighted with that had to have been anorexic. As for the rest of the meal, it was decent but nothing really worth tacking on that extra star and giving them a four. The sword fish, I really can't say for sure if it was good sword fish or not as this was my first tasting. It was good... I guess. The flattened chicken dish, not so flat. My fellow dinner, stated the it was very herbed. Not sure if that was a good thing or not but the bite I tried didn't really impress me. The service was slow to start. Our server seemed to only be able to talk to one table at a time and only take one part of an order per visit although we know within moments of walking in as there was a bit of menu research before going. The food, once it was in, did arrive quickly once the order was placed, so that's something. And as a side note, he should take some acting lessons. He used all the right 'buzz' words, but didn't seems to actually believe them. Overall, I wasn't thrilled with the place and would probable go another area restaurant that I would much prefer for that sort of nice dinning experience.
(3)Heidi L.
What happened?! We've been to Oleana quite a few times during the past year and enjoed every single time until recently...... Last Sunday, we were so disappointed at both the food and the service. I think the food still worths 3.5 to 4 stars but the service....... Perhaps we got a not-so-good server this time. He never once asked us if the food was good or not. Never refilled our water (granted someone else did it for him...but still!) He also did not acknowledge the fact that we had waited for our entree for at least 30-40 mins. Techincally, he was no where to be seen. I couldn't even flag him down to inquire anything. Food was okay, I still love the falafel...but thats pretty much it. We used to LOVE the specials. I was so excited they got the duck breasts as last time I had it was sooooo good. It wasn't bad this time, but the meat was not tender at all and overall we were not impressed. I hope it was just a hiccup and Oleana will be better when we go next time!
(3)Emily A.
Delicious. Delightful. Worth it. I've eaten at Oleana several times and the food is always very good. The service is typically really solid - I've had some dinners where the waitstaff was really top-notch and other times when it's been good but not spectacular. Either way the hummus and falafel small plates (meze) are just SO tasty. Definitely a great place to celebrate a special event or just when you need a particular pick-me-up. Not the fussiest or the fanciest food (this is a compliment from me!) nor the most elegant ambiance (wish it was a little more quiet),, but clearly a very special place for a great meal! Plus you NEED to get the Baked Alaska (YUM). It should be a requirement for going to the place. (I would give the food 5 stars; the overall ambiance - read: it can be pretty loud - and waitstaff variability knocked the overall experience to a 4).
(4)Alexis A.
Oh my god! This could be in the running for best restaurant in Boston. Everything on the menu is amazing and absolutely mouth watering! Make sure to try the vegetarian plate for $40. It's the best value and easily a meal for two. Amazing wine list and best yet, it will not break the bank. Win Win Win!
(5)Curtis W.
I went to Boston a few months back and have been meaning to review this place ever since and haven't had time to get around to it. I have time right now, so here it goes. One of the best meals I have ever had in my life was at Oleana's. I will forever cherish the memory of that night. It's funny how dining out can do that sometimes. Some nights you eat at a restaurant and nothing and others just stay with you. I went to Boston for my birthday to visit my sister who happens to be the wine buyer for Oleana's. The red carpet was rolled out for us there and I think I pretty much sampled everything on the menu. The best part of the night was the food but also my mother who came to town all the way from Virginia as a surprised. I know this is more about my personal shit then about the details of the food, I don't really care. All you need to know is there's not one bad thing offered on that menu. Go and eat in confidence.
(5)Tommy B.
Ok, it's probably obvious by now, but this place has amazing food. Is it expensive? Yes. But is the food worth it. You bet. The food was so good that I'm giving this place 5 out of 5 even with a few hiccups in the service (at times extremely slow, at other times annoying and pushy). Also, this place is a little trendy in terms of being organic/humane. Our waiter told us about how well/humanely the baby cow (veal) is treated and that it is never separated from its mother. Then she paused awkwardly and literally said "well, until it gets slaughtered, anyways..." Still, despite the price and trendiness, the food here lives up to the hype.
(5)Hallie C.
RICOTTA AND BREAD DUMPLINGS all the starters- all the mains I love this place Speaks to my california heart in a big way
(5)Peter C.
Do not pass go on this place. STOP and GO directly to it (and be prepared to pay $200 if you want alcohol with your food...). Truly amazing Mediterranean fare. A friend and I came here on a Friday night (make sure you make a reservation). I had called in late on the day of, but the hostess was kindly able to squeeze us in at the last minute. The best spot in the place? The 2-seater tucked away by the bar. Ask if it's available. It's away from the other tables, and you get all the personalized attention of the bartender, who provided us with fantastic service. The seats are fluffier than you think (they have a slight sinking quality), but it's worth the extra distance away from the other patrons. A reviewer below noted that the staff might ask you to stand while they grab wine bottles from the shelves, which, granted, is a risk -- but it didn't happen to me while I was there, and in truth doesn't seem all that horrible of a possibility. We ordered the 5-meze + dessert vegetarian tasting menu ($40) and 2 other "protein" appetizers. This, along with the bread basket, was certainly enough food for 2. I truthfully couldn't tell you all the things that came with the tasting menu, but they were uniformly fantastic. The highlights among them were grilled baby asparagus with deviled egg, a carrot puree with a sesame seed vinaigrette, fried polenta in a bean-tomato soup, and a candied pecan ice cream dessert. I think the 5-course tasting menu really showcases the true creativity and innovativeness of the chef, Ana Sortun. Get it, and you won't regret it. We also ordered 2 other "meze": first up was the fried mussels and hot peppers. I was generally pleased by this dish (I liked how the kick from the peppers balanced out the mussels), but thought the batter overpowered the very subtle taste of the mussels at times. We also had the octopus salad, which was fantastic. I really liked how the crispness of the toast offset the slight chewiness of the octopus. In sum, don't bother trying to decide among all the different options. The vegetarian tasting menu saves you a lot of hassle, and will have you singing praises. Make a reservation, and the restaurant gods won't be angry when you show up unannounced. In line with the Monopoly theme of this review, if I could build a house on the property, I would. But until then, I will have to trek over from the Central Square T station.
(5)Nicole M.
No, seriously. How have I lived here for 11 years and never been here before? I should be punished. Finally we went here recently after a fantastic afternoon photographing Cambridge. It was an October night, unseasonably warm so we got to sit outside on the patio, and hardly needed a heat lamp. Let's talk about that patio for a second. You can grow fig and pear trees in the middle of the city?!!!! Amazing. If you come here and don't get the whipped feta and peppers, you should just turn around and walk back out. It's heaven on a plate. I swear my dreams have been filled with whipped feta filled clouds. No meal is complete for us unless there are olives to be ordered. I got a chicken dish encrusted with incredible spices over a potato pancake, and the hubby got a pork dish. I'm pretty sure we uttered a maximum of 2 words throughout the entree portion of the meal. Even though we were stuffed, we were contemplating dessert. The hubby, with a momentary memory loss, asked me to remind him what baked alaska was. A server passing by just calls out "it's amazing!!" as he continued back into the kitchen. hahaha We did not get dessert this time, but I'd be into trying something next time. Oleana has kicked someone out of my list of top 3 restaurants in the area. I cannot WAIT to go back there. One final note - a friend of a colleague of my husband's just got married there. Awesome spot for a small intimate wedding!!!
(5)Nisha V.
Oleana offers a truly incredible dining experience, something that's hard to come by in the Boston area. The restaurant itself isn't anything spectacular, but when the food tastes like heaven, who cares? When you see and taste the food, you can tell that each dish has been carefully crafted, planned, and executed. The combination of flavors is unique, innovative, and most importantly, insanely delicious. We shared three appetizers: a carrot puree, the falafels, and the lentil & rice stuffed grape leaves. All were delicious, but the falafels stood out the most. Whereas most falafels are just fried balls that are hard/crunchy, these babies were light as pillows. Crispy on the outside, yet delicate and light on the inside, almost like a mashed potato filling. We split the chicken for our entree. As many reviews note, this dish was featured on Food Network's Best Thing I Ever Ate. And, it lived up to the hype. This is what chicken is supposed to taste like but rarely does--juicy, tender, succulent, and flavorful. And the turkish cheese pancake on the side...a delicious crepe stuffed with feta and ricotta cheese. YUM. Finally, the star of the show, dessert. Listen to all of the reviews--you MUST try the Baked Alaska. It is, by far, the best dessert I've ever had in a restaurant. Generally, I'm not a huge fan of Baked Alaska, but this dessert is out of this world on every level--the combination of flavors and textures will never leave your memory. Definitely one of the best dining spots in the Boston/Cambridge area. UPDATE: Went back again this month, and the food was just as good, if not better, than my last dining experience here. Our server was quite knowledgeable about the wine selection, and pointed us in the direction of a very well-priced and light yet flavorful red wine (Picatendro). The two of us shared 6 mezes (2 small, 4 big), which was a bit over-zealous especially since we also ordered the baked alaska. The spicy feta is a great way to start the meal, and the meze plate is a very refreshing palate cleanser. I would definitely ask your server for recommendations if you are unsure about what to order--our servers have always been very helpful and knowledgeable.
(5)Brian C.
The food and service at Oleana are outstanding. We called on a Friday afternoon to make a reservation for that evening. The only time they had available was at 10:30 PM. Luckily, their beautiful patio doesn't require reservations. The service at the restaurant was excellent and the food was incredible. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, they have a Burrata dish on the menu which is the best I've ever tasted. I hear you have to get there early because they are only able to prepare a limited quantity. Another stand-out favorite was the falafel, which was beautifully presented and included an amazing beet tahini. The relaxing garden setting, the great staff and the awesome food handily earn this restaurant 5 stars.
(5)Jules C.
The GREAT part: the food, especially the imaginative vegetarian and pescetarian options - the grilled octupus and baby brussel sprout kabob is a good example - wonderful. The Fatoush salad is awesome. The Good part - the service - usually (not always) very friendly and knowledgeable. The part that makes me so SAD - the atmosphere. The tables are so close that you are part of your neighbor's conversation whether you want to be or not. Apparently you have to know someone to get one of the few corner tables - we have had NO luck asking for quiet tables far in advance for special occasions. Same thing with the patio. Despite our requests on multiple visits we have been seated in the middle of the dining room or in the bar. This is really the only thing that keeps Oleana from being our go-to date-night restaurant. As we were wrapping up another ambivalent experience at Oleana in the last few days, it occurred to me how to articulate the problem - there is a restaurant in downtown Boston that has, IMHO, an awesome date-night atmosphere. All booths - darker ambience with table-specific lighting, jazz music that is not too loud, and enough sound-absorbing material that we can easily have a conversation over dinner without feeling like we're screaming, and without feeling like everyone else can hear us. To make it even better, they validate at nearby parking, so it's a low-stress experience to get there. Too bad the food and service are so mediocre. I would pay twice the money at Oleana if they had the other restaurant's atmosphere... Just sayin'...
(3)Kelly N Z R.
S and I had such a great experience here-- I'm not really sure how non-vegetarians could possibly enjoy Oleana as much as we did. We both ordered the vegetarian tasting menu and each got different dishes-- score! 10 dishes! 2 desserts! They suggested that we ask for anything on the menu we particularly want to try, and inform them of anything we especially dislike. Mezze 1: -Warm cretan olives with oregano and sesame seeds -Whipped feta with garlicky roasted peppers -Spicy carrot puree with cumin, nuts, and olive oil -Bean hummus with tomatoes and olives Mezze 2: -Shredded romaine salad with shaved radish, pecan labne and pita toast with sumac -Fresh mozzarella stuffed with yogurt over lebanese chick pea salad (tasted curryish) Mezze 3: -Spinach falafel over beet tapenade with cinnaminy pickled turnips and mache on lavash Mezze 4: -Lemon egg sauce over a leek and kale dish -Same lemon egg sauce over a brussels sprouts cauliflower dish on cous cous Mezze 5: -Bread and ricotta dumplings with red wine mushroom sauce -Chickpeas in saffron vermicelli Dessert: -Nougat glace with tangerine sections and tangerine sorbet -Frozen meyer lemon souffle with rose petal jam and lemon curd It's very tempting in the first mezze to fill up on bread-- don't do it! My absolute favorite was the lemony egg sauce over the brussels sprouts cauliflower cous cous dish, S's favorite was the bread and ricotta dumplings (which I loved, but would have enjoyed more had I not been so stuffed). A failure of an Israeli, I actually don't really like falafel, but this falafel dish was FABULOUS. I'll probably even order it when we return. Definitely will come back here. Hopefully often.
(5)Bridget H.
The food at Oleana is really great. The first time I went I was happy but not amazed. But the second time I took the advice of some Yelpers and had the vegetarian tasting menu... Ohmigod... if Oleana cooked the vegetarian tasting menu for everyone, no one would need to eat meat, and we wouldn't have to raise cows, and we could stop climate change and the apocalypse!! It was THAT GOOD, even my vociferously carnivorous boyfriend agreed. Despite its world saving potential, I'm giving it 4 stars because my cocktail, the sake lychee Sortini, was decidedly mediocre, not to mention weak. Oleana, you have solved global warming... just please mix up a couple good drinks and I'll bump you up to a 5. Pretty please?
(4)Dan L.
Oeana is a vibrant restaurant that has great service. The food is unusual and requires an adventurous spirit. Highly recommended for a night out -- but not appropriate if you're looking for more traditional cuisine.
(3)B B.
Truly a cut above. Inventive, subtle, and tasty Middle-Eastern inspired food. Many of the best dishes were the simplest: hot pepper labne with mint, warm buttered hummus... Service was attentive. In a town where it is surprisingly difficult to find vegetarian-friendly restaurants, Oleana offers many choices (among the meze, none among the mains, it must be noted). My only complaint is the for a meal consisting of 8 meze between 2 people, the food came too quickly. We were done in an hour, with time to spare. Fair enough in some ways (meze=tapas=quick food). But then the hushed atmosphere seemed at odds with a meal consumed in 45 minutes flat and as a vegetarian I had no choices other than the meze. I would rather have had the same food, standing, at a rollicking bar. My only complaint though. The food is excellent.
(5)Nicole C.
I know you don't need another great review Oleana and Ana Sortun, but I love you!!! I went for dinner on Tuesday. I wanted to take my parents who were visiting from Erope and prayed there would be a a table on the patio. The gods were smiling on us. We got a seat immediately. The staff is super friendly. And the food as always, superby delicious. I always eat the mezze. My husband and I get a bunch of them and share. This time I had Octopus and Olive Shish and Sultan's Delight. Both are fantastic. I also tried someone's Spicy Fideos. Yummy!
(5)Blogga B.
I'm amazed ... by the number of really good reviews. So maybe it was just the wrong night and on a regular one the portions would be a little bigger (3 bite sized pieces of octopus on a skewer..), the prices a little lower (that octopus went for 14$), the kitchen a little more cooperative with gf needs and the waiters wouldn't continuously stumble into a chair that's maybe placed a few inches away from the table. Yes, the food itself was good, bread was great; but if you make it expensive, college cafeteria style is not going down so well.
(2)Juliette K.
There's so many great reviews on here for Oleana already, so I'll try not to repeat (too much) of what everyone has said. Yes, the food is amazing; the restaurant is warm and inviting; the service is welcoming and friendly; the back patio is gorgeous. But, what a lot of people might not know already is that Oleana is the perfect setting for private parties and weddings. I recently hosted my wedding there and had the most wonderful experience working with the team at Oleana. I'll tell you first that I'm a long-time customer of Oleana. When my husband and I were deciding on where to have our wedding, it was on the top of our list. We've been in love with the place for our long time, and it's where we've had many dates so it had a lot of significance to us. We wanted to have a small, intimate wedding focused on great food and spending time with our friends and family. And the back patio - so romantic and beautiful in the summer! I knew that I would love working with Janice from the minute I met her. Unlike other event planners that I met with, she was so quick to respond (anyone that's planned a wedding or event knows how frustrating it can be when you don't hear from people for days/weeks!), eager to hear about how I envisioned our wedding, helpful in her suggestions with things that I hadn't even thought of and was totally committed to making sure the event reflected us. I really couldn't have asked for a better person to work with. She helped me design a fantastic menu and experience that everyone is still talking about. Thank you Oleana!
(5)Kate S.
I live in Inman Square, so I've tried all the restaurants close by. I was surprised by how Turkish the food is. I mean it is quite noticeably different from your everyday American food. Anyway, I thought all of the food was very good--I also thought it tasted healthy, which is wonderful. The wine + service were also spectacular. My mom paid, so that was good! (It is expensive.) Definitely a tasty and interesting restaurant!
(5)Joel M.
I've lived right around the corner for about three months, and last night I finally decided to stop in for some food at the bar... GREAT decision! I just had two meze plates for dinner, the pancetta wrapped parsnips and the mango spoon salad... The mango salad was very interesting, served with whole peppers and a sort of bean guacamole that was very tasty. The parnsips were out of this world though, and I'm going to have a really hard time skipping that to try new things the next time I eat here! Save room for dessert... the menu looked fantastic but I wasn't hungry enough to dig in...
(5)Maria B.
I have to bring it down a few notches this time around as my second experience at Oleana was not as mindblowing as the first unfortunately- when it came to the food anyway. Ambiance and service are still top notch- the waitresses are so genuinely friendly and attentive. However I had the spinach falafel and I was pretty disappointed. Maybe it's because my heart belongs to Falafel King in Downtown Crossing (I'm not ashamed!), but I suppose I was expecting so much more with Oleana's take on it since it's well... Oleana! But the falafel was just too warm... too rich... too intense for my taste. Then I realized, as I felt this way about the other appetizers we ordered that night too... that maybe some of Oleana's creative meze choices are just a little too overloaded with flavors for some tastes. Too rich... so rich that I was full before I knew it. This all being said, I'm definitely ready to give Oleana another chance ;)
(4)Katelyn M.
I visited Oleana for a birthday dinner. We were seated promptly when we arrived. The serving staff was decent. I felt like she gave me a funny look when all we ordered was the whipped feta for an "appetizer". I guess because we didn't order off the "appetizer" part of the menu. But did that require a nasty look? Nah... Anyway, after that the rest of the evening went well. I appreciated that the wine/beer list notes which are made from organic/biodynamic sources. It definitely factored into my decisions. I wish I had gone with the bottle from the Sigalas winery in Santorini, though. I mean - that's where we went on our honeymoon and loved the wine! And I know it would have paired super with the scallops in quince brown butter. Still, my meal was fantastic. Dh got the steak, which was good medium rare but still a little tough. He didn't feel that it was anything to write home about. I think next time I go I'll do the vegetarian tasting menu. This time I wanted the whipped feta and those sea scallops. It was a good choice. Oh, and there is a parking lot across the street, but it fills up quickly.
(4)Tom N.
I recently took my daughter (a vegetarian and devoted foodie) here for her 23rd birthday. The service was among the best experiences that I've ever encountered in many decades of dining out. The vegetarian tasting menu was, in a word: awesome. We were seated right across from the kitchen and could see the cook-staff at work which only added to our dining experience. We ordered the fried mussels and whipped feta for appetizers and were delighted with the flavors and the presentation. For an entree I had the lamb steak with fava bean moussaka and the Turkish spices brought out flavors in the lamb that were completely and wonderfully new to my palate. The place is a bit of a splurge but definitely worth it for a special occasion. I rarely give five stars for a yelp restaurant review, but this experience exceeded all of my expectations and we will definitely be back.
(5)Steve S.
Went there for our Anniversary based on Yelp reviews. The place is phenomenal. Romantic: Check (but definitely not for dates only) Great wait staff: Check Flavor explosions in your mouth: Check My wife and I agreed that it's the best meal we've had in a year ... and we go to a fair number of restaurants. We skipped the entrees and went for multiple Meze (small plates). Yum on a plate all around.
(5)Heather F.
The BF and I went here following one of the Harvard Science and Cooking lectures - to our surprise, the speaker we had gone to see arrived with his entourage 20 minutes after we were seated. Needless to say, the waitstaff was a little distracted (...and admittedly, so were we :p) - however our servers did a nice job making us feel semi-important :) We split the hummus as an app - FANTASTIC, and a super cute presentation - not at all what we were expecting, but it was perfect for sharing. Would definitely order that again and again. For entrees, we shared a fish dish and a lamb dish (it was a few months ago, I don't remember all the components exactly). The lamb was good, but I wasn't blown away... and the fish was just OK. We split the profiteroles with tahini-brown butter cream and cocoa sorbet for dessert... honestly, it was one of the BEST desserts I have ever had, and I usually don't even have much of a sweet tooth. The cream had a hint of savory to it, which is why I think I enjoyed it so much. The sorbet was a gorgeous almost black color and not overly sweet... it was a fantastic combo. I've literally told at least two dozen people about that dessert since our meal... it was THAT good. Awesome apps, OK main courses, and phenomenal desserts. I'd definitely go back, but like many others have said, I think I'd opt for all-veg dishes or more mezzes and skip entrees/meat altogether.
(4)Ferit U.
Great food with Turkish infusions
(5)D P C.
This place is amazing! The combination of flavors are AMAZING! The desserts are out of this world delicious!!!
(5)Marc S.
Four of us recently went to Oleana on a Saturday night to celebrate our anniversaries. We made reservations for 6:00. We were seated in the back room overlooking the charming patio. It was a pleasant setting and the noise levels were lively, but not noisy. Rather than ordering entrees, we decided to get every "meze" (small plates), 21 total. Each of them sounded too good to not try. Our waiter (Hartley, according to the bill) was prompt and pleasant, but it quickly became clear that he was out of his league and not up to the standards of a restaurant of this caliber. First, we explicitly mentioned that one in the party had a severe nut allergy and we needed to know which plates may contain tree nuts. Most restaurants take this seriously, this waiter treated it casually. Each delivery to the table required us to ask him (over and again) if any had nuts, and he often didn't pay attention enough to know, and repeatedly had to make another visit to the kitchen to find out. [We were twice served by another waiter who had the proper level of care about food allergies... he knew the ingredients and assured us which dishes did and did not have nuts. Hartley often seemed to be guessing. This is a serious enough infraction that it caused frustration to the level of diminishing the experience. But there were several other foibles that, by the end of the meal, had us wondering how this employee could have been hired there. First, the frequent intrusive reaches in front of talking patrons, dripping water (repeatedly) into our shared food plates. The most upsetting of all was the end of the meal when it seemed like we were being told to leave and make room for the next party. It was indeed close to 9:00PM by the time we finished dessert, but not though any overstaying of our welcome. The pace of the plates necessitated it. We weren't rushing, this was a celebration, but we were sensitive to the fact that there was probably another seating scheduled for our table. But it was simply unacceptable for the bill to be placed on the table first, before the desserts (in the same trip, but still) when we didn't ask for it. Worse still, less than 5 minutes after the bill was dropped off, the waiter returned to take the payment. We hadn't yet tended to it, since we were still eating dessert. Once the payment was made, the waiter collected the check before we were ready to leave, which made us even more uncomfortable, [and made me regret the generous tip we left despite the service. It is really unfortunate that the restaurant allowed a substandard server to work in this otherwise great restaurant. I hope that this was an anomaly, and not representative of the level of service by other wait staff, but I think it is a poor reflection on the enterprise that doesn't take better care in selecting the people who interface with the customers. The overall impression (of a potentially excellent experience) was so diminished, that I would hesitate to recommend it or try again. At this price level, the service must not be this deficient. Too bad, this could have been a place that merited many repeat visits.
(3)Adam B.
In Short: Friendly service in an unremarkable space with a varied and universally well prepared menu. They aren't always booked when they say they are. Honestly, you can't go wrong with this menu. The items are all well done, well proportioned and well plated. The staff is knowledgeable, if not prescient in that 11MP way and the beer/wine list is substantial. We ordered fried mussels (Delicious!) grilled octopus (again, delicious if a bit too small). For a main course my date had the cod (amazing, and I don't typically care for white fish) while I had the lamb (well prepared, but I wish i had read the menu carefully enough to realize I was getting a ground lamb dish. My only beef is that we get shoe-horned into an 8:30 reservation 2 weeks in advance. Then, when we show up, the joint is 60% empty! Maybe they need to keep up the pretension of a waitlist but for me this is just petty showmanship.
(4)S. M. S.
Amazing flavors, service, experience. Can't believe I just ate at Oleana for the first time! Won't be my last...
(5)Matt Q.
I can vouch only for the food and the service, and wholeheartedly believe that Oleana offers the best of both. I didn't even get a chance to take in the ambiance because it was V-day and packed. But the food. Me oh my, was it good. The spinach falafel was exquisite. Hands down the best I've ever had, and I'd be surprised if mortal man could fashion something better using chickpeas and spinach. We had the veggie tasting menu for V-day and the falafel was certainly the highlight. The carrot puree smothered on herbed bread kicked off a fancy night of inventively spiced treats. Server was amazing. Can't wait to go back and check out the patio in the summer. New favorite in the Boston area.
(5)Raymond W.
The best meal I've eaten in Boston to date hands down. Hummus, Falafel, Sulatan's Delight and Lamb entree were all delicious as was the Baked Alaska, which was probably one of the top 3 desserts I've ever had at a restaurant. Service was casual, but very informative and knowledgeable and gave several good recommendations. The space was a little cramped and you had to hand your coat on hooks, so make sure you don't leave anything valuable there. It's a little bit of a walk from the T, but it's close enough to Inman Square so that there are other things to do in the area. If you're not in the area, it's a destination worthy restaurant and if you live in the neighborhood and haven't tried Oleana, then you simply fail.
(5)Adrienne T.
So, there's no way I can NOT give Oleana 5 stars- it deserves them! There are a few personal minuses, though, so keep reading. First, the staff was gracious, accomodating, and knowledgeable- ALL of them. Thanks especially to Dan. The decor and lighting are beautiful. What a lovely place for a date, IF you are NOT culinary challenged, as I am. I decided to open my mind and try something new with a group a friends. I'd never eaten Mediterranean food before. I'm pretty basic and predictable, and trying new foods isn't one of my most favorite things to do. However, I'd heard SOOOO much about Oleana that I couldn't resist. I had some sort of whipped feta from the Pret a Manger section of the menu, and it was heavenly. It also was one of the things that contained all ingredients I was familiar with-smile. For my entree, I again went with something where I was familiar with "most" of the ingredients, I got the flank steak that was wrapped in a sashimi with some kind of whipped peas and something else. No, I didn't get the chicken, I just HAD to be a little more "adventurous" than that. My 4 friends all enjoyed their exotic dishes. 3 of our group had been to Oleana before and 2 of us hadn't. Overall, it was a lovely dining experience, and I was proud for having tried something "new". Oh! This place ain't cheap. There are no prices on the wine that your server will so seductively offer you. Ours was $54! Dinner for 5 was a little over $200, not including tip. Enjoy!
(5)Claudia H.
This is a good place for fusion Middle Eastern food, although you can find other international recipes. The food is really good (the lamb, the tuna and the rabbit are delicious in my opinion). The bar is pretty good too, and you can taste really good beers, cocktails and appetizers. The bad news, you might have to stay in the bar for a while, even if you don't want to, as the place gets really busy and it might take a while for you to be seated. A very chic place, with very good service...meaning that it is pricy. The check can go up to around $70 with wine. Overall, a nice restaurant with good (but pricy) food and drinks.
(3)elizabeth b.
I have lived in Cambridge for 1 year. This week was my first trip to Oleana (I never think of it far enough in advance to make reservations). Oh my heavens, the food was the best I've had BY FAR this past year in Cambridge. We had the Chicken as an entree, the falafel, the asparagus and the moussaka. All, fantastic. The service was low-key and friendly. The wine was affordable and yummy. Overall, a tremendous experience.
(5)Nicholas A.
Food prepared spectacularly. 4.5 stars... maybe even 5 if I ordered perfectly. Enough said...
(4)michelle c.
Our dinning experience at Oleana was perfect, start to finish. The ambience is great and the service was outstanding. We started off with a couple small plates: whipped feta, falafel, and sultans delight. The falafel is the clear winner but since then I've been craving that whipped feta...so good with the bread selection. I've even tried to recreate it at home. The small plates are really where Olean shines. Main courses were good but not out of this world. I had the flattened chicken which was rather heavy on the spice and salt but I still enjoyed it. The dessert was really yummy. I never thought I would enjoy vegan ice cream! Go to Oleana. Try everything.
(5)Stephen L.
Absolutely fantastic. The food is amazing, great atmosphere and every meal we've had has been delicious. Definitely try the Sultan's delight! Reservations needed weeks in advance if you want a Friday / Saturday prime time slot. highly recommended.
(5)Alex K.
This is, no question, my favorite restaurant. My wife brought me here to celebrate a special occasion some years back and we have been back for birthdays, anniversaries, etc. over the years. I love the lemon chicken with zaatar and the baked alaska is pretty much at the top of my list as far as desserts go. It's been too long - I need to go back!
(5)Mark W.
If you love meat and think the world would be perfect with just bacon and butter. This place will blow your mind away. The vegetarian tasting menu is awesome and then some. I'd put it up with craigies tasting menu on best things i've eaten in greater boston. First off the service was excellent. We didn't have a reservation which was a stupid thing to do (eating that night was an impulse). There were no tables free for the next 2 hrs but we were able to get two seats at the bar in the back within 20 minutes which was amazing. The bartender was amazing and really helpful. Even the waiters were really nice and chatty when they were waiting around the bar getting drinks for people. Overall the service alone i would give it 5. So the two of us had two tasting menus. The bartender was awesome and told the kitchen to not duplicate the menus when possible. Basically we had two totally different tasting menus. Each course we had two plates. The plates were actually perfectly sized for two people. I've never had vegetarian done so well. Meat lover or not the vegetarian tasting menu can't be beat. And the price is unbelievable. Don't waste your money at other places.
(5)Nikki Z.
Favorite restaurant in Boston. Favorite mezzes were the fried mussels, the quail (so fragrant and flavorful) and the warm buttered hummus. Skip the entrees - the halibut and the sea bass weren't as well executed as the mezzes.
(5)Emily M.
Wonderful food. Impressively intricate and very delicious. The service was also nice, as was the dining room. And my knife and water glass were noticeably lovely to hold. Oleana aces the details.
(5)Danielle B.
Quick Tip: Make reservations a day in advance! Food was amazing, but even on a Wednesday night it was crowded at 5:45pm. Different specials every night and the Sangria was fantastic! I had 2 appetizers, the tuna and falafal and both were wonderfully prepared and the waiter even explained the dish when he brought it out!
(4)Kelly O.
One of my favorite restaurants, ever. In my 3 visits here, I've been fortunate enough to be able to try a wide range of what Oleana offers- thanks, pharmaceutical company for sponsoring our dinners and allowing us to literally order the whole menu!-, and not a single thing has been bad or even just OK. My own personal highlights include: -the complementary bread with spices: possibly the best starter bread I've ever had at a restaurant. We may or may not have attempted to take some of this home with us (side note, not as good the next day). -the carrot puree with dukkah: really tasty, especially in combination with the bread. A great starter, unique and delicious. Also, the whipped feta is excellent as well. -deviled eggs: I'm a huge fan of deviled eggs anyways, and I like the incorporation of tuna into this version, it's fresh and yummy. -spinach falafel: really nothing like a traditional falafel, IMO. This version is much lighter and more flavorful, and I think the accompaniments really help make this dish (they tell you to make a mini-sandwich out of it with the cress and beets and tahini, it's a great combination). -the chicken entree: za'atar encrusted flat, juicy goodness. The cheese pancake thingie is a nice addition. -the lamb steak: bar none, my absolute favorite dish here, or anywhere for that matter. Cooked to perfection, spiced beautifully, tender, juicy, bloody, and absolutely mouth-wateringly amazing. This is the yardstick to which I compare all my meat-based entrees, and so far it hasn't been beaten (although Bobby Flay's ancho-crusted pork with bourbon glaze at Masa comes very close). I didn't even eat lamb before trying Oleana's version, and now I'm totally hooked, so that should tell you something. I literally dream about this dish, mmmm... -baked alaska: massive signature dessert that you won't be able to eat on your own (definitely split it with someone). Excellent passion fruit sauce, great flavor/texture combos. This dessert tends to be the preferred by most, if not just for the drama of it. But if meringue isn't your thing, any of their other desserts are pretty good as well (I think I've tried all the usuals at this point). -the veg tasting menu: yum yum yum! The delicious dishes just kept coming and coming. Perfect sized portions, each with their own distinct flavor profile and ingredients (no duplicates), and the dessert that was included which was some kind of sesame brittle with ice cream was to die for. Service is impeccable, wine list is excellent (try the Paopao cocktail), ambiance is lovely. How I wish I had the cash to afford more trips here, but alas, it will need to remain a special occasion or dinner's-on-someone-else's-tab... anyone else want to treat me? 8)
(5)Evelyn I.
How could you not love the story of a chef falling in love with the farmer, getting married, and creating a beautiful beautiful world together? The best money I have ever spent on food. After going several times I have learned to do it well without breaking the bank and still leaving full. Two appetizers, a vegetarian tasting menu split amongst two people, which includes a dessert, and a drink a piece will run you about $80. But you might want to save room for the turkish coffee after. Also I find that you really just need to let go and have them bring you what is fresh and in season. Highlites- falafel, baked alaska, the fresh house made cheeses and aromatic spices. Also, the cookbook, aptly named "Spice", written by the owner Ana Sortun, has been a welcome addition to my collection.
(5)Kelly S.
Innovative, thoughtful, surprising. You'll find a dozen or more ingredients or preparations that are new to you. Quality of the food and preparation was excellent. The decor, service, and ambiance is stylish, but laid back - some in suits, others in t-shirts. The wine list is diverse and surprisingly good in by the glass options. Had the chef's tasting menu and was overwhelmed - so many flavors, and so much food - by the end I was at my limit. The patio looked nice, but it was closed due to cool weather.
(4)M J.
OK, being honest. Time for some tough love. I've been several times over the years, and I am a big fan of this fantastic food and the chef - it's fresh, inventive, just damn good. Those folks at the James Beard Awards know their stuff. However, I'm taking off points and just not rushing back for the following reasons: 1. hello, pricey?! did they renovate and am I being charged for it? $27 for brick chicken is what they charge at Hammersley's and Scampo - but those establishments have a plush factor, are in the high rent district, adjacent to a bevy of other eats and amusements and have crowds worthy of watching. this section of Cambridge is not so lovely-has anyone noticed? ditto the people watching factor - there's just nothing, no one to look at here. it's also cramped. sorry, but i'm just not seeing value here, comparatively. 2. no valet?! you know, I can park across the street and walk, but sometimes the weather is lousy, etc. at these prices, your car should be "handled" if that's what you prefer. 3. no alcohol - just beer and wine - sometimes you need a cocktail! a james beard fine dining restaurant with no alcohol? no. this doesn't work for me. 4. wine list - I don't dig the layout, it's a little unclear, and they need more rose. we were seated on their patio on a lovely night (loving the fleece and space heaters) that was just screaming for some light libations - but there were just two roses to choose from. maybe 4 would be nice? espec given there is no vodka or tequila to relax and refresh with. A friend tells me the best take is to sit at the bar and get small plates. Maybe chef will see this and be inspired to do her next place as such!? I'd look forward to that, very much.
(3)Marisa D.
Dinner at Oleana was certainly the best meal I've had in Boston, and our waiter (Shawn, or maybe Sean?) was outSTANding. He was a true foodie with a thorough, deep understanding of both the food and wine menus. Like the reviewers before me have said: make a reservation; order the small plates; enjoy. This will now be my go-to restaurant!
(5)Jaime M.
Yes yes & yes in every way. Oleana is such a gem. The food is creative, flavorful and delicious, service is attentive-- and the courtyard is beautiful. I have only been once for dinner and will definitely be back!
(4)Caterina S.
Their food is very good, but their service is awful. Therefore, given that a dining experience is a combination of the food and service, I give it only one star. They are really hurting their reputation by their horrid service. Their staff is pompous, their waiters are very rude. Their menu is creative, but their wine list is lacking. Overall, my advice to them is that it is not enough to serve Mediterranean food, they need to also learn something about Mediterranean hospitality.
(1)Jillian M.
I have lived around the corner from the place for ooooo...3 years or so, so it is a major bummer that I never tried it until recently. Couple notes: You definitely want a reservation and you probably don't want to head here when wearing your yoga pants and sweatshirt, it's a bit fancy. First off, the food was amazing. Truly amazing. I feel like I know me some delicious food and this was really great. We had 2 tapas/appetizers and 2 entrees, and all the plates were completely clean, not a morsel left when we were done. Secondly, the service was fantastic... beyond fantastic. Our waiter was lovely, not at all overbearing and not at all Missing in Action. He answered our many questions, offered other suggestions and assisted us with a well timed move of the table when we were trying to leave without hitting our bums on the tables behind us (the tables are VERY close together). I was generally really impressed by our dinner, everything was well played and well timed. The ambiance was perfect for the meal. And it wasn't as pricey as I had anticipated, though a couple glasses of wine certainly would have pushed it into incredibly expensive territory. My one complaint would be that the hostess area is very tight and right in the middle of the flow of traffic, and they take your coat, so there is some major traffic jam situations there that take a little away from the elegance of the rest of the meal.
(5)Patrick O.
Top notch on Zagat and I agree!
(5)Jackie S.
My husband and I returned to Oleana to give it another try after a disappointing experience in January. Am I glad we did! We were warmly greeted and seated immediately. We began with a light and refreshing Portuguese white wine, a Loureiro, Quinta do Ameal, from the Minho region. We ordered two meze: the spicy sardines with shaved fennel and Meyer lemon mousse, the spice bursting with flavor and soothed by the perfectly small amount of mousse, and the special fresh crab and spinach wrapped in a light flaky crust with a lovely sauce. Both were superb. Our main courses, which we also shared were the pink trout with cucumber, avocado, and salmon roe all soothing and fresh, and the nightly special of sea bass with an eggplant caponata and pleasantly spicy sauce, our favorite. We ordered one dessert, large enough to be shared by 4 people, which we were unable to finish: Turkish-Style Profiteroles - Brown Butter Creme, Sesame Cashew Caramel & Halva, the halva flaked on top and the caramel and cashews rich and not too sweet, somehow! Our server, a charming, attentive, well informed woman was present when we needed her, but not overly involved. We look forward to going back to Oleana, where creativity and middle-Eastern dishes thrive!
(5)Anne R.
I was surprised to see several people consider this a vegetarian restaurant, because much of what I had was actually centered around meat and dairy based on Mediterranean pairings and seasonings. Perhaps it's the difference in the summer and winter menus? In any case, the food is fantastic- a true culinary delight of spices and fresh ingredients. We were out to splurge and taste as much of the menu as we could. It took me forever to decide because everything looked so delicious. Eventually we decided to start with the Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers, and Spicy Carrot Purée & Dukkah as our Pret A Mangers. Both were delicious compliments to the bread offering. We followed with a shared Appetizer of Acorn Squash Dolma with Lamb, Tahini & Brown Butter which was AMAZING. I could have enjoyed this alone as a meal in itself, but the adventure continued with the dinner special of the evening, Leg of Lamb stuffed with Jasmine rice served with a compliment of greens and tzatziki. My husband had the Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake, which was delicious, but I certainly found my special to be more flavorful and adventurous. ;-) We topped the meal off with a dessert special of Bread Pudding which was accompanied by a caramel pudding and unique berries which I can't remember the name of. A beautiful end to a thoroughly exquisite meal. To add to our adventure, I wanted to try a bottle of wine which I was unfamiliar with and couldn't decide between the Greek Asirtiko or Italian Trebbiano. Ultimately the server leaned us toward the Trebbiano, and I have to say it was the only thing about my meal that I wasn't completely satisfied with. Well, that and the fact that the tables are too close together to afford any true privacy in conversation. However, since everything else, including the service, was so fabulously extraordinary, it remains a five star experience in flavor adventures. We went on a Sunday evening and were able to schedule an Open Table reservation a few hours earlier.
(5)Farrell P.
This is really a special restaurant. I took a couple of my directors here for a thank you meal at the suggestion of one of my chefs/professors who knew it would be to my tastes. Our waitress was a little quiet (the restaurant is a little quiet overall), but was lovely and appropriate. We informed her early on that we would be eating quite a bit as it was a late reservation (I think 9pm on a summer Wednesday) and we did end up closing the place. The atmosphere is incredibly inviting - warm tones all around, definitely feels like some place far away. I'd almost venture to say magical. There are a few bottles of wine in the $30 range, but the Greek white that we wanted to order was sold out. :( No matter. The bottle we ended up with was lovely. We started with the warm olives (nothing special), spicy carrot puree (incredibly buttery), and the whipped feta with sweet and hot peppers (ah-mazing). I could eat just this pret a manger every day of my life. The rest of our meal included Fried Mussels (not overcooked), Sultan's Delight (possibly the best thing on the menu), an Everything Green dish (plentiful), and a lamb dish (they do it right). Everything is so flavorful and cooked to the perfect temperature. The entire experience of Oleana is warming, almost indescribably. To be fair, it's just my type of food. I don't like anything too precious or classic so this restaurant is right up my alley. The dessert was also spectacular. I find that a lot of wonderful restaurants drop the ball on dessert and give you only boring options. Not Oleana. Every dessert includes their homemade ice cream or sorbet. My only complaint is that nougat/nectarine glace was a little on too sweet. The best of the bunch was a raspberry and goat's milk ice cream. To die for. I actually have dreams about eating here again. It's that good. Definitely in my top 5 and definitely the best non-French restaurant in the Boston area.
(5)Brian G.
Very prompt service as we walked in from the rain on a Sunday evening around 8:30pm. There was no wait and the host was very nice and answered my parters question about the parking lots across the street very nicely, and was genuine. We had a small cramped spot, although expected in a smaller densely situated restaurant, which however did make for a cozy atmosphere. The waiter was pretty attentive and accommodating. I ordered the monkfish with dried kale and veggies and it was delicious. The bread basket was full of delicious bread that made me ask for more. The waiter was very confident and answered all questions with informative answers. The atmosphere was quite refreshing from the many low brow eateries of the Boston area, which made me feel like I was in Manhattan. My partner loved his food as well, which was the lamb. I liked it here, I will definitely return!
(5)Sara G.
After a recent return visit, I am happy to say that the service is much improved. I actually understood what all but one runner/server was saying, and I felt that our server was much more attentive than on other visits. We did the vegetarian tasting. Again, very good. However, I felt that the final 'food' course of twice baked pumpkin was not on the same page as the other courses. Something about the flavor was off, and the side of kale seemed a bit uninspired. I also thought that the falafel wasn't as good as I remembered (still very good, however). Overall, though, I remain VERY impressed as how the kitchen is able to use spices to create unique flavor combinations.
(4)Natalie B.
I LOVE Oleana. Every time I have gone here for dinner I have been met with excellent service from the waitstaff. The restaurant itself has a romantic ambience and the food is to die for. I loved the whipped feta as an appetizer. I'm also a huge fan of the ricotta dumplings and the wine list is amazing. I love that Ana Sortun selects the wine list based on what tastes good with Olive Oil. Genius!!!! Top your dinner off with the Baked Alaska for dessert. You won't regret it!!!!
(4)Sacha M.
In the lush gastronomic oasis that is Boston, it is dangerous to deem a restaurant "the best," for there is always something hidden to unearth or new to arise. A meal seems preeminent until memory fades and another dish mysteriously outshines the last. Although conscious of this, I think I can declare Oleana my favorite restaurant after a second visit. The epicurean wizardry that chef Sortun and pastry chef Kilpatrick have spun is hard to surpass. The use of Middle Eastern flavors to create a new culinary genre makes Oleana (Sienna) farm(s) to table perfection. Oleana is an elegant, yet comfortable place. I can safely declare that the highly ostentatious, girls night-outing, clan of model-wannabes who often crowd the bars at places like Stella and Eastern Standard and who sat next to me at Oleana are truly in the minority here. The friendly and knowledgeable staff also adds to this comfortable dynamic On my first visit with my parents for my birthday, we admittedly went a little overboard, which is easy to do when faced with a multitude of tantalizing mezze. Our crispy spinach falafel made me forget about my love for the traditional chickpea-based street fare (Falafel King, who?). The warm spices of dukkah transformed a sweet carrot purée into a taste sensation far from any ordinary root vegetable adaptation. A spicy whipped feta was the least memorable. My father's Trout Spanakopita took three well-known staples of Mediterranean cuisine: trout, spanakopita, and taramosalata and created a surprising and light original. My mother went with the special sirloin, perfectly cooked, and served with a creamy hard-boiled egg, fried in a nest of kadayif that was a textural masterpiece. I went with a menu staple: the lamb with Turkish spices, pide & everything green with garlic & yogurt. The lamb, closer to medium than the medium-rare I requested, was tender with a beautifully seasoned crust. The "everything green" was what the title implies: a pile of all things in season and green. Although bitter, it was cooled by the yogurt. We had to top off our first visit by trying their famed dessert: The Baked Alaska. This celebratory showpiece featured a macaroon base, a pure tasting coconut ice cream core, and an artful plume of deeply torched meringue. Passion fruit caramel permeated the base, adding a zip to the mellow coconut flavors. Also, an aromatic, light, and crunchy almond cremolata, which tasted divine spread and melting on the deep chocolate panini. I could wax on, but my Friday night visit was equally enlightening. I was delighted that a version of the local dairy delight, the burrata was on special. A purse of the freshest mozz enclosed a subtly tangy labne. Its accompanying elements seemed peculiarly incompatible when tasted alone; however, the masterful harmony she creates on a plate, makes chef de cuisine Piuma shine. The very sweet red pepper reduction (like the most concentrated liquid pepper) counteracted the intrinsic sourness of yogurt. Lemony microgreens cut through the viscosity. Carrot fritters (limp) bridged the sweet and savory elements and provided a coin on which to place pieces of burrata. It was finished with ginger crumble that provided crunch and warmth, rounding out each well-composed bite. This wasn't mezze, but edible art. I tasted the flattened lemon chicken and as my reviews presumptuously reveal, I have a distinctive definition of successful chicken. This met all criteria- juicy, flavorful, oh so crispy (both the skin and the za'atar coating); this was poultry perfection, the best chicken I've had. The Turkish cheese pancake it sat atop with a filling of feta, ricotta, AND sheepy kasseri decadently melded with the zippy chicken. My swordfish involtini took the creativity cake. Swordfish so thin it was translucent, swaddled a delicate stuffing of earthy pinenuts and sweet chewy currents and golden raisins, bound together with cooked kale. The four finger rolls were served over a delicious, yet overly oily chickpea pancake laced with caramelized onions. I think some sort of moist chutney may have been a better topper than sundried tomatoes with too many dried elements already included. They fell off lifelessly...No Sacha! You're not Ana, stop trying to act all imaginative-like. I regret that I couldn't taste the distinctiveness of the swordfish that amounted to only an ounce. On to the best dessert we've had: the brown butter bread pudding. How can a dessert made of bread take on a texture so light, so fleeting as meringue? The brown butter gave a lasting depth and caramelized the top cubes. The round was served atop a generous swipe of tangy milkjam and accompanied by mulberries (which were too soaked in simple syrup, adding more sweetness) and bonus milkjam cubes. That which is done so masterfully to each dish at Oleana outweighs anything that this lowly and ignorant reviewer can say. Sortun = culinary Goddess-bow down and trust her flavors to transport you away!
(5)Sam G.
I went to Oleana for the first time this week, and it was fantastic. We sat in the back of the restaurant, in the little sun room overlooking the outdoor seating area (which isn't open until May). The waitstaff was knowledgeable, fast and friendly. The food was to die for. I've never seen so many delicious vegetarian dishes on one menu! Some highlights from my family's dinner: 1) Fried Mussels, Hot Peppers & Turkish Tarator Sauce The mussels and hot peppers were perfectly deep fried -- just enough batter to coat, and just long enough in hot oil to get crispy. The flavor/texture combination was incredible; the mussels practically melted in your mouth. 2) Ricotta & Bread Dumplings with Red Wine, Porcini & Black Kale Mmm, ricotta, These dumplings were surprisingly light, and the red wine was unexpectedly broth-like (rather than syrupy) 3) Moroccan Fish Stew--Cod, Potato & Cabbage with Crêpe Top The cod was perfectly cooked. Absolutely perfectly. 4) Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake The "Turkish Cheese Pancake" is a bit like a crispy blintz. There are definitely multiple cheeses involved in "Turkish Cheese", and one of them is definitely goat. Sigh. Summary: I hope I have an excuse to return to Oleana soon!
(5)Cecilia L.
All day long I had to stop John O. from snacking as we waited for our 8:30 reservation to Oleana. This storied Mediterranean restaurant had been on our list for a while, so we jumped at the chance when friends asked us to join their table. We were famished when we finally arrived, and I was drunk inside my first three sips of sangria ($9.50 for a large glass, excellent). Deviled eggs topped with tuna tartare = incredible. The homemade string cheese with the armenian bean and walnut pate is sharp, the ricotta and bread dumplings with red wine and porcini amazingly complex. A salad special came with a luscious bacon brittle made with almonds and cherries. But my favorite starter, the standout of our meal, was the tender fried mussels drizzled with a creamy sauce and studded with delightful hot peppers. :::swoon::: In comparison, our mains were merely good. The swordfish over lentils and thin, crispy fried pita was somewhat overpowered by a strong tahini sauce. The crispy duck had lovely texture and flavor and came paired with a pleasing pumpkin terrine. All of this was accompanied by a delightful and surprisingly inexpensive bottle of wine, the Pietraluna negroamaro at $32. Atmosphere is just lovely for a celebration meal or hand-holding, fork feeding lovefest. I loved how it's fancy enough for an occasion, yet not too froufrou for sneakers; pricy enough to be special, but not so dear you'll cry when the check comes. A typical dinner for two will run around $100, but the starters are extraordinary here, so I'd recommend ordering three or four appetizers and maybe splitting a main (they don't seem to mind). Too stuffed for dessert, but there will be a next time.
(5)Drew D.
Our upbeat waitress quickly greeted us and offered drinks, which was much appreciated given the high humidity of a Cambridge summer. She read off several specials from her notebook, which sounded slightly rehearsed; she made sure to emphasis that Oleana's Green meatballs were "much better than ordinary old Greek meatballs." However, at the end of the spiel, she opened up a bit to simply say, "anything with lamb here is a knockout." That's all I needed to hear. We ordered a bottle of Rose, which the restaurant cleverly highlighted on a small insert to make it easier for the diner to find. We picked one from the Loire Valley. At first, the wine was startlingly tight and I questioned my choice. Fortunately, after letting the wine breathe, the wine introduced its flavors of fruit and toned down the acid. After 20 minutes, there was a beautiful wine on the table that was cool, refreshing, and tasty. The menu was frustrating only in the sense that there were so many things to choose. In addition to the standard appetizers and entrees, there was also a category called "Pret a Manger." Basically, pre-appetizers. Small bites meant to be consumed while browsing the menu. My dining companions each chose one as their appetizer, which ended up being a perfect choice because they were well sized, cheap, and came out very quickly. A few minutes after ordering, two carefully crafted deviled eggs and a plate of warm olives doused in Za'atar spice appeared. Za'taar spice, a mixture becoming more popular in modern cuisine, is very tradition Greek and combines ground spices and sesame seeds. They complemented the olives beautifully, and the resulting oil in the dish was the best bread-dipping accompaniment I have had in ages. I can't say much about the deviled eggs because they were gone before I had a chance to even ask to try them! In opposition to my friends, I chose to the do the vegetarian tasting menu. Our waitress was excited to inform us that the tasting was available for a single diner, which many other restaurants are often inflexible on. I started with what may have been the highlight of the meal: A parfait of tzatziki, a salad of cucumber, garlic, and green grapes, and sorrel granite. Upon tasting the granite, neither of my companions could find words to describe it. It was delicate, sweet, savory, airy, and complimentary of every other element in the dish. The tangy yogurt went beautifully with the sharp garlic and sweet grapes. I only wish that they served it in a salad bowl rather than a shot glass. Next, I was brought a briquette of mild cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, arugula, and a lebneh made with lavender and a minty herb. It was perfectly tasty but not nearly as exciting as the previous course. The situation was not helped when I asked my server to tell me a bit more about the puree, and she simply replied "I'm not sure." Moreover, At the point, there was an awkward period in the dining in which I was eating and my compatriots weren't. I had another course to go before our entrees were presented, and I felt a bit self-conscious. Admittedly, I knew that I was flying solo going into the tasting, but a polite warning would have been appreciated. In the grand scheme of the meal, these things were minor. The next course picked up the culinary creativity from the first course. A gourmet take on the falafel, this one came with pickled cucumber, beet and feta puree, organic cress, and spinach falafel. The falafel, rather than crispy and dry, was moist and tender. The beet puree, which added a vibrant magenta to the wrap, was incredibly flavorful. Most importantly, I was allowed to roll it up and eat it like a falafel, and eating with your hands always makes things taste better. The conclusion of my vegetarian tasting menu was ricotta bread dumplings with a savory tomato broth. My companions got lamb steak with fava bean moussaka and grilled swordfish with kohlrabi fritters. The lamb, as promised, was phenomenal. Tender, juicy, slightly gamy, cooked to a perfect medium rare, it was beautiful. The moussaka, though a touch crumbly, was rich and complemented by a smooth, creamy yogurt sauce. The swordfish had beautiful hatch marks and a towering salad of fresh greens; this is a fish for grilled fish aficionados. The fish was delicate but meaty, as good swordfish should be, and the fritters when fantastic. The filling had a unique composition of whole pieces of kohlrabi and a creamy surrounding. Regardless, they were light and complemented the fish beautifully. My dumplings were pillowy, in the best sense of the world. A schmear of dumpling and swab of tomato broth on the fresh bread was a perfect ending to the meal.
(4)Ligaya T.
Enter the lovely O... Context: It seems that chef Ana Sortun has created the ultimate trifecta-of-sorts by joining hands with farmer, Chris Kurth: an elegant restaurant serving remarkable, innovative food made with fresh ingredients from their organic farm, a devout following of educated, appreciative diners and a darling little child, Siena. Setting & Service: Understated decor, relaxed yet not too casual for the price or a romantic evening. Fairly homogeneous clientele for Cambridge. Server was subtly condescending but I'm getting used to that now. Eats: The roasted pistachios fresh from Turkey, warm and just a tad salted got us salivating. We skipped the pret a mangers and opted for the Sultan's Delight, tamarind glazed beef and smoky eggplant puree with pinenuts. Those of you that have cooked with tamarind are aware of its intensely strong flavor (I don't even know how many pad thais I've botched). But the acidic taste of the pod added complexity to the taste of the tender beef while the eggplant's astringency smoothed and balanced the dish. Just exquisite, a must for the carnivorous or curious. The ricotta and bread dumplings with red wine, porcini and kale followed. Great consistency, good mix of flavors, but a tad bit too salty for my sensitive palate. We finished with the striped bass wrapped in eggplant that had a brininess that again was too much for me. We agreed that the tastes on this dish weren't perfectly matched. Dessert we did not choose wisely. Not knowing what 'cremolata' was we expected a smooth ice cream of sorts, but instead got a creamy but course, crystalline textured frozen dessert almost like granita. The warm chocolate panino was essentially a beautifully layered chocolatine. The man finished with a delightful Ramos Pintos ten year tawny as I sipped the rest of our Felsina sangiovese. In hindsight we should have gotten the more inexpensive Rhone blend from Chateauneuf du Pape. Though certainly there will be a next time. As the adage goes, "I'll try something once, twice if I like it!"
(4)Munya S.
I ate here earlier this summer when I was in town visiting family. It was one of my best dining experiences to date. Tips- make a reservation because this place gets packed. I made a reservation for the opening time of 5:30, because you can't reserve for the garden patio due to weather. There was already a small line before 5:30. Since we were there at opening, we were able to get a patio seat which was absolutely beautiful- it felt like we were in a little paradise. Now- for the food. I think my mother and I freaked out our friendly waitress because we ordered so many dishes for just the two of us and they were all spectacular. She was shocked when we said quite seriously that we wanted dessert as well. Dishes I recommend- (all of them really) - the hot pepper labne is to die for (I tried to recreate it at home it was that good), the spicy fideos with chickpeas (OMG), corn fatayer, sultan's delight, and for dessert you can't miss the summer melon pop with rose petal jam- to die for. This is one of the few places that has such interesting flavor combinations where it actually works. I wish I lived in the Boston area so I could eat here more regularly (although my wallet is probably happy that is not the case).
(5)michael l.
Very high quality Middle Eastern cuisine. Their menu does change seasonally but if they have Sultan's Delight, order it. I have never tasted a dish I didn't enjoy. Chef Ana Sortun is brilliant. Great selection of wine and very knowledgeable waitstaff. Make a reservation in advance. This place is always booked up.
(5)Risotto J.
Hands off the best restaurant in Cambridge, with the Baraka Cafe a close second. Delicious, inventive, and beautifully presented food. It's sometimes slow, and it's more expensive than many other places, and in this case I'm willing to pay the price. Even the blandest options on the menu (uncooked vegetable special) are bound to turn out delicious. Highly recommended.
(5)Brian C.
This recent dining experience was a disappointment. The wild striped bass came out raw pink and had to be returned to the kitchen. The fish the second time around was perfect, and though the waitress relayed apologies on behalf of the cook, nothing else was offered for the screwup. The spinach falafel was soft and fell apart in its pita wrap and bubble gum pink beet sauce. The final insult was the $26 lamb dish that is misrepresented in the menu and should actually read sliced lamb merguez sausage that I can get in a greek/falafel hole-in-the-wall for $5.75 (see other reviews below about this abomination of a dish). Based on this experience, it is not consistent with James Beard quality.
(2)Rada K.
My friends raved about this restaurant noting excellent service. We made reservation month in advance. It was a highly anticipated visit. My husband and I came Sunday night for Valentine's dinner. The food was great but the service was poor. Our waiter exhibited sheer indifference and directed all his attention to a bigger group seated at the adjacent table. He never properly welcomed us and was visibly annoyed when was asked questions about dishes on the menu. I applaud Chef Sortun for her creative dishes, its just the whole experience was spoiled by one non-commited individual.
(3)Kate K.
This is one of my favorite restaurants anywhere. The menu is original and creative and the food fresh and local. We've had very attentive and knowledgable staff each time we've gone.
(5)Francesca R.
215 reviews with an average of 4.5 stars. Soooo...go here. It's amazing. Al fresco dining at Oleana is like 6 stars. If you can't sit outside, you'll still have a five-star kind of night.
(5)Joe Y.
NEW FAVORITE restaraunt in Boston. Took my fiancee out last night for her birthday, found Oleana on Yelp.com . Sat out back on the patio at night, which was gorgeous. We thought it would be too chilly but they had these nice little stove/lights that kept the patio nice and warm! Oh, and the food was awesome too. My fiancee is a vegetarian, and Oleana had the best selection of good tasing vegetarian dishes around. We ahd a bottle of red wine, the Spinach Falaffel Appetizer which was so good, the Swordfish which could be one of my best meals of all time (at least in Boston area), and the Vegetable Medley...a plate of assorted vegetables (chef's choice) which were excellent. We also had the Baked laska for dessert....coconut ice cream on top of a coconut cookie surrounded with maragne and baked....AWESOME. We both loved everything and with a nice tip came to about $140, which is what I expected. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
(5)Cynth F.
We were seated quickly enough at the table (we had rezzies), I with my back to the bar, he facing it, and all of a suddent my co-conspirators eyes were wide as plates -- and he was looking right over my head. I turned and saw a massive flame ball spinning down the bartop. Uhhh. What? No, it was not banana souffle -- instead, it was the Haloumi cheese with a spring onion dolma. Yes, I ordered it, and yep, it was quite tasty indeed (it was a wee bit oily, but what else to expect when you get fried cheese?) It was kind of humid and hot that night, so we both ordered the white wine sangria and it came with a bevvy of fruits -- raspberries, cherries, and the standard orange slice. Very refreshing, but at $9 a pop, I should have limited myself to just one. I got the Halibut -- which flaked wonderfully although the vine leaf was a bit hard to cut. The dude got the special of the evening -- Swordfish and porkbelly with pickled strawberries. He said it was amazing. We followed it -- of course -- with dessert; he got the creme fraiche souffle w/ apricots (awesome!) and I got the bittersweet chocolate parfait with violet sweets. Also pretty awesome (I am on a perfumey food kick). All in all this was a pretty great evening -- I had a hard time choosing my meal since everything looked great, but I think if I went back next time, I'd like to try their Veggie Mezze platter. The service was excellent, but our reservations were for early -- 6:30pm on Friday. It was jam packed (the bar, too) by 7:30.
(4)Rosalita E.
Before I found Yelp, I relied almost solely on Zagat to guide my culinary endeavors. So, after years of reading Oleana's Zagat's reviews and consistently high scores, I finally tried it. I can't say Zagat misled me, but I wasn't as impressed as I hoped I'd be. We made a 7:30 reservation for 4 on a Saturday night. We arrived on time, but had to wait 15-20 minutes for our table. Not a big deal, especially because we to wait in front of the cozy fireplace. For an appetizer, we had the whipped feta, which was very good. One friend ordered the lamb; 2 of us tried the duck, and my vegetarian friend got a couple of appetizer specials. I really wanted to be wowed. The duck was definitely tasty, but was not as moist as it could have been. Also, the big turn-off for me was the fact there was some gristle in the duck dish. It was taken off the bone and put into a casserole-type dish, so it didn't make sense to me that the gristle was left as an unpleasant surprise. My friend also had gristle in hers, so I know it wasn't just a random mistake. I tried a bite of the lamb and thought it was fantastic, though. Service was great - our knowledgeable waiter answered all of our questions patiently (what's zhoug?). Also, tables feel slightly cramped. It was pricey, but that was to be expected. Overall, I thought it was very good, but just not as good as I wanted it to be.
(4)aaron t.
I just experienced one of the most unbelievable meals at Oleana in Cambridge MA run by chef and owner Ann Sortun who also has a book "Spice: Flavors of the Eastern Mediterranean". Rustic, warming, vibrant, calming, and damn tasty down to the minuscule details. Chef Sortun's creations are inspired from her travels and experiences from France, Spain, Italy, and Turkey for an Arabic-Mediterranean intersection of surprising flavors along with their superb personal staff in a very charming space! Oleana is located in a quiet residential street side in Inman square with an outdoor porch space many have raved about though my first experience was inside. At first I expected an overly lavish pristine space based on all the reviews and consistency in most high end restaurants in Boston which I personally do not like as much, but Oleana's was my exact cup of tea. Very casual, a humble friendly staff, and a tiled warming environment in a comfy space as if walking into a village side restaurant bustling full of conversations during a sunset somewhere far away from all the chaos most of us are use to. The staff initiated the Oleana experience, servicing a few tables while greeting customers with smiles and stories while never seeming to be rushed allowing me to pester them with curious questions about their ingredients and unique flavor combinations (I'll blame my questions on the cheerful bottle of wine). The menu changes often and the wine list is as diverse as their dishes. Plates were fantastic while the attention to details in sauces, blends, and accents on the sides delighted me the most. I'd usually keep finds like this a secret, but the experience was wonderful and one surely to share with others.
(5)Kate M.
I came here to try the vegetarian tasting menu. Being a new vegetarian, I wasn't disappointed! The concoctions were creative. Some of my favorite things on the menu were the ricotta and bread dumplings in a red wine sauce (wonderful!) and haloumi wrapped in grape leaves and set on fire with ouzo. And the spinach falafel -- oh my GOD, it was good!!! It came with pickled beets that tasted "like Christmas," as my sister and I said! Also, the bread selection is in a class of its own. Get some of the spreads. The atmosphere was serene and not overwhelming. As for our service, it left a bit to be desired -- our server never introduced herself, nor did she even crack a smile at any point in time. A small caveat, but it made a big impact on our evening. Overall, a great place to try. It isn't as mainstream or incredibly popular as many places in Boston or even Cambridge, and that's why I liked it. Pros: --Wonderful food --Great for vegetarians Cons: --If you sit in a booth, the seats against the wall are uncomfortable -- it's like sitting on a flat board. --Not easily T-accessible
(4)Julie F.
Not that Oleana needs another review added to the pile, but I finally got a chance to go here last night after it taking up the top spot on my to-go-to list for so long, and I think it warrants yet another 5-star review. We ordered the quail kebab, the spicy fideos, and the veggie tasting menu to split between the two of us. The veggie dishes are listed on a little card attached to the menu, so you know what you're getting, but you really have no idea what you're getting. The presentation is fantastic, and the small dishes come out at various times, accompanied by a very knowledgeable bus-person who tells you what's on your plate, down to the last detail. Each of the veggie dishes were amazing...and each one was so different from the others. There was a lot of pumpkin involved, and beets made an appearance on a few different occasions. I had never had quail before, so I can't compare it to anything, but it was delicious, and my husband loved it as well. And, contrary to many of the reviews on here, I loved the fideos, which is some sort of vermicelli in a sauce with chickpeas and millions of other things, and I devoured it. You get an ample basket of bread, so you can sop up your flavors along the way. And I ordered a peach flower tea, which wasn't the tastiest thing I've ever had, but the presentation was nice...served in a wine glass with something (I guess a peach flower?) resembling a large pine cone in it, that grew as the tea became more flavored. Dessert was a sticky toffee pudding with hazelnuts, which was delicious, but probably not what I would have ordered if it didn't come with the meal. And we got a Turkish Coffee to accompany dessert, which was potent, but I enjoyed it. Yes, this place is small, but it works. It was freezing cold last night, so I didn't really mind the body heat of the tables surrounding us. The service was great - our waitress, Shelley, knew a great deal of detail about everything we asked her, and though there is a glossary at the end of the menu (phew), we still had plenty of questions.
(5)Renee B.
Great food in cramped quarters is the best way to put it. The food was creative and tasty. I wish they would reorganize the layout to not feel like they jammed every possible table in they could, but maybe it is just the curse of taking over an old place and having to adapt to the environment. It will cost you, but it is worth it.
(4)Margaret O.
Oleana is good, but not great. The food is interesting, which always gets points from me, but not everything works. We had the nougat for dessert and while well executed it didn't hold together as a dish. It was some flavors on a plate. The falafel on the other hand was excellent, although the beets had more to do with adding color on the plate than adding to the dish. From reading the reviews and from what I saw on my visit I am sure there are dishes here that are superb. Next time I will stick to the ones that reviewers have mentioned. I went for things I didn't know quite what were and my sense is that the chef didn't either. (And yes, I am quite familiar with Mediterranean food).
(3)Allegra B.
this place is amazing! it is quite expensive but totally worth it. I've been there for my birthday and once i sat at the bar with my mom and had appetizers. the most amazing one is the spinach falafel! service is good and the waitress i had was very knowledgeable about the wine and food.
(5)Suz B.
Totally delicious, warm, not stuffy, an utter delight.
(5)Kathryn H.
I am revising my review below. After our terrible experience, they went out of their way to make it up to us. Called to apologize again, changed the way their tables are distributed to servers after our complaints about the service, and gave us our dinner for free after we refused the gift certificate. We will go back again, and if the service is back to normal they may even be upgraded back to five stars. Nice to know they actually listen to their customers, and that they took our complaints to heart. _______________________________________________ Used to be our absolute FAVORITE restaurant in Cambridge. Delicious, inventive food that I feel like I would never be able to cook at home. Unfortunately, had a terrible experience with the service at our visit tonight that has probably turned us off in a more permanent way to this place. We have been here probably about 4 times, each time with impeccable service, great wine recommendations, and almost perfect food. Tonight, sat for 20 minutes without anyone coming by to our table. We ordered in small courses of mezze and waited too long between courses. The warm hummus arrived cold in the middle. And to top it all off, their credit card machine was malfunctioning and it took more than 30 minutes to pay the bill (we were told the card was rejected, but we spoke to the bank and they said it was all on the merchant side). On the plus side, they offered us a free dinner. We didn't even take it because not sure we'll go back. Very sad, and I hope the rest of you have a better experience because the food is usually great.
(4)Ellen S.
I had heard so many good things about Oleana and when I finally went for the first time I was very pleased that it lived up to its expectations. I went here for my birthday with my family, and would definitely recommend it for special occasions. The food was delicious, it was bursting with different flavors and spices. I would recommend the Lamb & Eggplant Dumpling and the Sultan's delight for appetizers and the Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake for an entree. Usually I get made fun of for ordering chicken at restaurants because it is usually the most boring dish, but not at Oleana! I thought it was the best dish out of five at the table. Incredibly delicious!
(5)ki s.
One of my best dining experiences in Boston yet! I came here for an anniversary and we both opted for the non-vegetarian tasting menu, which was not on the menu but which they were happy to provide when we asked. It was amazing and a pretty reasonable price considering how many dishes they brought, and how different each dish was (I think they charged $56 a person... and it was a lot of food!). Can't wait to go back!
(5)John F.
Oleana was magnificent. Even if my food had been poor, the atmosphere of the restaurant (especially on the patio, where we sat) was awesome. The live band, playing some simple, unobtrusive Mediterranean music in the corner was an excellent touch, and the patio itself was comfortable and quiet, despite being essentially in a backyard in Cambridge. That said, the food was also excellent. Filled with spices and flavors, and decent-sized portions. They also offer a vegetarian tasting menu, for those of the no-meat persuasion, and I'm told it was damned good. Being a happy carnivore, I couldn't say from personal experience, but it certainly looked impressive. They also have a great drink list, though I was amused to see Pabst Blue Ribbon (in a can no less) on the beer list. I went with their "house beer," brewed on the Cape. It was a delicious, spiced beer that went well with my dinner. All in all, Oleana is an excellent choice for a nice dinner out, say for a romantic celebration of a birthday, anniversary, etc.
(5)Ambar B.
Among the best restaurants in Boston. Service, variety of food, and taste are off the charts. Highly recommend the lamb and fish dishes there, as well as the desserts.
(5)Brian K.
Hands down one of the best resto's in boston area. this place is always packed and very hard to get a reservation. the patio is unreal. love sitting out there sipping some sangria. the best item i had here was on special and was a pork dish with goat cheese, greens and things I cannot remember. you have to go here! also try the helmand right down the street near the cambridgeside galleria! Enjoy!
(5)Michael C.
From its superb ratings on Yelp and from the Phantom Gourmet, I had high expectations when I headed toward Oleana tonight. Unfortunately, they were not met. Not even close. The frustration actually began when we tried to find the place. They've taken their sign down, so there's no indication of where the restaurant is. We drove by it twice before we finally found the place. Then we had trouble finding parking because, although they have a lot, it's across the street and there's no indication it's their lot. Just a sign saying "private parking only," without saying *whose* private parking. But let's put all that aside. If we hadn't come during the Great Sign Replacement, and had called to ask about parking, we would have avoided these difficulties. Let's get to the restaurant itself. First, it's tiny. Cramped, in fact. They've stuffed as many tables as possible into the small restaurant, which doesn't make for the most pleasant dining experience. And they don't keep the heat high enough. There was a draft in the dining room, and the restroom was downright *freezing*. As for the service, our waiter was polite but nothing special. He sounded either tired or laid back. And when one of us asked what he recommended (three times in different contexts), he always said, "well, any number of things." Not so helpful. But it's the food that really matters. With good portions of great food, I'd be happy. Unfortunately, that's not what we got. To start with, portions are small. The appetizers are downright tiny. And two of our three meals were quite small, too. I was the only one who had a real meal (lemon chicken). And the taste...mediocre. The hummus appetizer was quite good, but my chicken was mediocre at best. Most chicken I've eaten in my lifetime was better. The best part of my dish was the cheese pancake underneath the chicken, which is stuffed with (I think) goat cheese. I didn't have dessert, but tasted a companion's baked Alaska...disappointing, but I guess I just don't like baked Alaska. Finally, the prices are outrageous for what you get. $23 for my chicken was bad, but mid-twenties for my companions' much smaller portions was legalized theft. This place reaffirms that old law of eating out: the more you pay, the less you get. And what we got wasn't even that good. In most respects, then, Oleana was a disappointment. I won't be eating there again.
(2)Mariangela S.
This is the kind of perfectly seasoned and flavorful Mediterranean food I could eat every single day. The menu is so inspired I couldn't stop ordering - there were 3 of us and here's what we ate: From the Pret a Manger (ready to go - perfect when you arrive starving!): Spicy Carrot Puree & Egyptian Spice Mix with Nuts & Olive Oil Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers Deviled Eggs with Tuna & Black Olives Appetizers: (yum - keep that pumpkin hummus coming!) Spoon Lamb with Pumpkin Hummus, Bibb Lettuce, Pickled Persimmon & Tarragon Moroccan Goat Cheese Fritter, Carrot Soup, Argan Oil & Cilantro Yogurt MEAT (yes it was a meat fest!) Lamb Steak with Turkish Spices & Fava Bean Moussaka Duck Shawarma with Pickled Green Tomatoes & Green Beans with Cardamom-Rose Yogurt Free Range Veal & Parmesan Meatballs with Shitake Ribolitta Sadly we were so gut busting full (in a really good way) we didn't have a single bit of room for dessert....next time!
(5)Mark G.
This restauarant is known as an excellent place to eat. I think everybody would agree iwth that. I want to point out that this is also an awesome place for those of you who are vegetarians, or lactose intolerant (sorry cannot speak to Vegan). Mywife is lactose intolerant and a vegetarian and every time we go, they have something viable on the menu - but the reason I give it 5 stars is that they always seem to take the time to understand my wife's needs and very often (3 out 4) they seem to just whip up something special for her.
(5)Keren D.
Very Very Very disappointed. I've lived around the corner for many years, and always heard good things about Oleana. When my boyfriend made a surprise reservation for my birthday, I was all excited. A Saturday night, he was offered either 6pm or 9:30pm, and pick the later one so we'd have more time to enjoy the day. Got there right on time, and looking at the face of the hostess, we knew they forgot to save a table for us. She offers to seat us on the patio (it's 9:30pm mid-may, not summer yet), and we decided to wait for a while. After a long wait and attitude, we finally got seated, and went for 2 of the vegetable degustation menu. We of course had asked the server if we would get twice the same stuff or not, and he said the chef tries to vary because she knows people like to share. 1 course arrived, was good, second arrived, we still had the first almost full. Third arrived again before we finished the 2nd, when I had to ask the server if he could pace the food better because we felt rushed. 4th course was a vegetable stew that was served raw. I had never been served or cooked myself a potato that raw, and they call it a stew? I had to send that back, and after a few minutes got instead anther thing that was covered with the exact same cheese than thing #2. #5 was good, and one through 5, we both got the exact same plates. very disappointing. then came dessert, we thought we could chose, probably a misunderstanding. we also thought we would have a chance to order coffee or tea, or anything else. Nope, we were not even asked. check and out. bottom line, if the manager reads this: if you don't want people to eat late, don't take reservations for 9:30 pm and seat people at 9:45. it was supposed to be a lovely birthday evening, and it was more stressful than anything. I add a second star cause the food (when cooked) was good. I will never go back, and certainly won't recommend Oleana to anyone.
(2)Matt L.
I met Chef Ana Sortun at the World Of Flavors Conference at the CIA in California in 2004. I was then a culinary student at Napa Valley College in St. Helena. The greatest chefs in the world of Mediterranean cuisine were invited to collectively share their passion that week. Chef Ana's presence that week was no mistake. The same can be said of her ever rising star on the world stage of cooking. Oleana is a beautifully comforting place. The food, the service staff and the guests are masterfully pieced together for a grand-complete sensual experience. Every moment is a reflection of Chef Sortun's loving vision, beautifully executed by her great kitchen staff and service staff. It is a place you can take it all in and let it all hang out. You can forget about the "self" for a while by meditating at the CIMC or you can go experience Oleana. My friend's and I will be back again and again and again. Thank you Chef for pointing me in the right direction.
(5)Rob B.
Going here makes my wife very happy. That makes my life much easier.
(5)Kay J.
One of my favorite restaurants in Cambridge - great food, service, ambiance. Make a reservation!!
(5)Jennifer W.
Hmm... Before going to Oleana, I read review after review stating how amazing it was. Well, I can't say that my review is going to follow suite. My friend and I started with hummus, which was pretty good. The zucchini pancakes that followed were the highlight of the meal! They were very good. Then I had the steak and my friend had the chicken, neither one was impressive. With baked Alaskan for dessert, I thought redemption was in sight, but nope. Still just ok. A meal for 2 runs about $70/person, which was not worth the meal I had. My friend, who is a self-proclaimed foodie, agreed. It is my belief that Oleana is highly overrated.
(3)Laura P.
I went here for Valentine's Day with my boyfriend. It was great to try a Near Eastern-type place that's a cut above in terms of quality and atmosphere. Atmosphere was nice. Dark, pretty, and not overdone. We had a nice two-person table by the windows that look out on the patio. Only problem was that the tables in that row were so close together, I could barely get into my seat, and I'm not a huge person! I'm used to hearing a general murmur of conversation at restaurants, but with the tables that close, I could hear every word people were saying at the neighboring tables. Hard to have an intimate conversation in those circumstances! Service was efficient and polite. Food: we split the hummus and the Sultan's Delight for starters. The hummus was very good, though I don't know that I'd rate it above that at, say, Cafe Barada. The Sultan's Delight was delicious: the eggplant puree was nice and tangy and creamy, and the beef was rich, flavorful, tender, and perfect. The bread brought to our table was also great: a baguette-type bread and something like a foccacia with zatar on it. The olive oil they served with it was wonderfully fruity. I got the duck entree. The cauliflower pilaf was utterly delicious, with sweet roasted cauliflower and crunchy pine nuts punctuating the savory rice. The pita underneath it all was crisp and light and delicious. The duck itself was a little more cooked than I usually like it to be (I prefer it to still have a little pink to it, and they didn't ask how I wanted it cooked), but the fat had rendered down nicely and the skin was perfectly crisp. My boyfriend got the lamb. It was perfectly medium-rare as he'd requested, and delicious, judging by the bite he gave me. He also enjoyed the fava bean cake that came with it. My boyfriend's not even a bean person, usually. However: the amount of food on his plate was about HALF of what was on mine! It was also about half of what I saw on other entree plates brought to nearby tables. I didn't see anyone else who'd ordered the lamb, so I can only assume that they just make the lamb entree tiny. It looked like less than four ounces of meat on his plate. I felt so bad that I ended up giving him about a third of my meal, all told. He was still somewhat hungry after dinner. For dessert, my boyfriend got the frozen lemon soufflé, which he said was excellent. I got the chocolate-halvah dessert with sesame brittle, and that was to die for. I also tried the Sevan blend tea, which was a nice change of pace from most herbal teas I've had lately: distinctly *herbal*, rather than fruity or spicy. I don't know if they crowded more tables in for Valentine's Day, but if so, it was a bad idea. Fewer tables and more space would make this a more intimate restaurant. The food is excellent, but the space issues and the portion size discrepancy have brought it down from five stars to four, for me. I will certainly go back at some point, nevertheless.
(4)Christine R.
Went here on a tuesday night for dinner. I ordered several items from the Mezze menu including olives, carrot pureee, King Fish, escargot, and soft crab (special item). For entree we had the Turkish sausage special. For dessert we ordered the almond ice cream and the baklava. I cannot complain about any of the items. They were soo good and healthy. Well maybe not the sausage but it was quite tasty. We sat outside in the patio and there was some cool music being performed. It was really a fantastic environment to dine at. The service was quick and satisfying. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Everything was great and will definitely come here again!
(5)Ari A.
I think it's funny (as in strange) how many people rave about this place without mentioning the snooty service and really irritating, hovering table bussers. It's like everytime I lift my fork there is someone there to replace it. It borders on ridiculous. The food is really great, without a doubt (though some appetizers are so tiny they are practically non-existent), but I can't say that I would recommend Oleanna to someone without hesitation.
(3)Jess M.
I have been to Oleana twice, this most recent time for my birthday dinner. Quiet and intimate, tucked away at the far bar table we were offered a view of the kitchen and service by an awesome bartender. I wish I remembered his name... perhaps it was Sean? When asked to recommend one of the Oregon Pinot Noirs he quickly went in to great detail about them individually, showing that he knew exactly what he was doing. That put me at ease when asking for recommendations about the rest of the menu! While he did say that he would not choose menu items for us, his enthusiasm for each individual dish made it easier to be adventurous when selecting our meals. Our starters were delicious. I was particularly partial to the lamb and eggplant dumplings - carefully seasoned lamb filling wrapped in a delicate vegetable casing... mmmm. I chose the Moroccan fish stew which was wild striped bass in a stew of vegetables like potatoes and peppers, and lightly covered by a thin, flaky crepe. Although I did not finish my plate I loved every bite, not to mention the wonderful presentation of the dish itself. The real reason I wanted to return to Oleana for my birthday is that I have had dreams about their amazing baked Alaska. Coconut ice cream with a passion fruit caramel, and all of that fluffy meringue. Paired with a half bottle of a Blanc de Blanc Champagne, I was in heaven. Best birthday meal ever. Another thing I would like to mention about Oleana is their kitchen staff - very dominantly female. Ana Sortun as their exec speaks volumes, but to have a female laden kitchen is something amazing to see. As someone who has worked in many restaurants, most of which with a completely male BOH staff, it makes me proud and privileged to see such amazing women and enjoy the phenomenal food that they produce. My compliments to the restaurant and the amazing women behind the line. While I would not go to Oleana for a lively, fun evening with friends, it is the perfect place to have an amazing quiet evening... and it will satisfy the palate of any culinary snob you may know.
(4)sally b.
There is no point in writing a review for a place like this, I'll just add my 5-stars to the collection. I went last night, I was amazed, I'll be going back. Eat here, this many people can't be wrong.
(5)Dave B.
I brought my beautiful Egyptian girlfriend here for her birthday, she had never been, I first was here a year or so ago. The patio is first come first serve, and can be packed, but is well worth the wait, we arrived at 7:45 on a Tuesday evening, (I had made a reservation for 8:30 inside) and were seated outside immediately. There were 2 men playing beautiful Turkish music, one on a string instrument and the other playing a bongo like drum. The ambience was absolutely stunning: just about every table was occupied but it was still quiet enough (with the music) for conversation and really made for an incredibly romantic setting. It is landscaped with ferns and green everywhere and the tables are simply adorned and candle lit, no frills, just simple and pretty. Then the food comes. When I came last year, there were more entrees and fewer "mezze" or smaller plates. That has changed and there are now about 15 or so "mezze" and 3-4 fish entrees, and 3-4 meat entrees. We opted to go for a more tapas style meal and had all mezze. The food is divine, every course seemingly better than the last. What we had: We started w/ deviled eggs that came w/ tuna and black olive in the filling. I love deviled eggs so this was a no-brainer-1 half egg each, not over the top amazing but delicious none-the-less. Next was one of the specials of the evening: A locally prepared burratta mozarella cheese, stuffed w/ Lambde (a turkish yogurt) and accompanied by roasted beats in a black tahini sauce. I could eat about 500 of these dishes. The cheese was firm yet delicate, amazing flavor, and who would think to stuff cheese w/ yogurt, which was a bit tart, not quite sour, but really contrasted well, and then throw in the roasted beets in the sauce and this dish SOARED. Next was the seafood, the mussels, which I had ordered the first time I was here, and a cod-fritter special. These are no ordinary mussels. For one, they are beer-battered and fried-which for me, fried=delicious. And they are HUGE and plump and juicy. They come w/ a hot peppery sauce and some lemon to cut the spice and add some acid. I heart them-my lady who is not a big mussel person, said they could make her a convert. The cod was also excellent, little cod "balls" served over a red pepper romesco on top of some unbelievable pig (prosciutto). Each component was delicious on its own, but together they really sang. Salty cod, peppery rich romesco and smooth and rich prosciutto, another great dish. Then it was time for the meat and falafel. The Sultan's Delight is just that, it's a delight. The short rib is FORK tender, leave the knife on the table, and is prepared with a tamarind glaze, sweet and savory. It's a nice size hunk of meat and comes with an eggplant puree-kinda like babaganoush, another fantastic combo. And then the legendary falafel. 3 little fried balls of chickpeas, creamy but light, served over a PINK beet and yogurt puree with some micro greens all on top of a thin little piece of pita. Each is set up so you can roll them up and eat them individually. It's a must have-my girlfriend returned from a wedding in Egypt last week and commented that these falafel were top middle-eastern quality haha. And last but the greatest course of the night, was desert. They don't come cheap (most are 13 or 14) but I would have paid 20 for ours. Baklava with caramel sauce, caramelized figs and chocolate hazelnut. Sweet, savory, rich, chocolatey, caramelly, nutty, AMAZING. This desert was absolutely amazing, first bite you taste one thing, then another, then another, then you try this with that, or that with this. We licked the plate clean. The service is also very good, prompt, knowledgeable and friendly. They seem to know the quality of the product they are putting out, and let the food speak for itself. This is a special place, Ms. Sortun has taught her kitchen staff well. If you want some fine dining that isn't stuffy and delivers a very different experience, different ingredients, spices, flavors, in a truly beautiful setting, this is the place to go.
(5)Kate B.
Wow. Just had my bday dinner here. The setting wasn't perfect, but the food was. We were seated in the bar area, which seemed a little strange. I guess they're short on table space so they use every available nook. We had the parmesan fondue to start, which was fantastic. It came with an interesting array of items to dip (radishes, breaded cauliflower, croutons, roasted brussels sprouts...). I had the Free-Range Veal in Yogurt (I know, poor little calf, but it was free range!), which was tender, moist and delicious. For dessert, we shared a baked alaska (coconut ice cream and a macaroon? under a mountain of meringue). Slurp. The have a nice selection of organic and biodynamic wines by the bottle, half bottle or glass. Definitely make reservations. The place was packed on a Sunday night.
(5)Jocelyn C.
Can I please eat here every single night for the rest of my life? My boyfriend took me here for my birthday a couple of weeks ago, and I cannot get over how perfect it was for a nice, quiet, romantic celebration. The food was sooooo incredible, I'm drooling thinking about it as I type!!! Amazing atmosphere, great wine and beer list, and the service was good as well. No complaints at all. I definitely recommend saving up your pennies and eating here at least once in your life. You certainly won't regret it.
(5)Eliz G.
I went here on a Friday night for my boyfriend's birthday. We got the vegetarian tasting menu. The food overall was excellent. First course: whipped feta with olives and za'tar served with a focaccia-like bread. Second course: A flatbread pizza Third: Granita of muscat grapes, herbs, cucumber and yogurt. Fourth: Mushrooms, Kale Fifth: ricotta and bread dumplings. One of my absolute favorite restaurants in Cambridge. Really nice space, servers were pleasant. Dessert was not memorable, but the main meal was satisfying enough. The food is really phenomenal. I cannot wait to go back.
(4)a l.
Love this restaurant! I wasn't sure what to expect initially. I had heard the falafel appetizer was supposed to be one of the best 25 dishes in boston (this year)- from Boston magazine. I went and tried it accordingly. I'm not even close to being a vegetarian, but it was very delicious...The hummus appetizer is amazing-- the kind that you wish could be had on a daily basis from your supermarket (but unfortunately isn't). Fragrant, slightly spicy, and complex. It comes inexplicable with 2 beef rolls! They had night-time special of a fried rock shrimp with coconut dressing which was fantastic! In retrospect, I would have chosen to avoid the entrees and tried more appetizers. I found the appetizers to be much better. The restaurant is unpretentious, as mentioned before. It has the feel of nice neighborhood restaurant with excellent, ethnic (but not overly) food. FYI, I have heard raves about the Baked Alaska, but at least for us, it would not be reason for us to return.
(5)Beth C.
Went ALL out last Friday at Oleana. Notable mezza dishes: quail, octopus, braised short rib, all juicy and delicious. My boyfriend got the bluefish entree and I went with the scallops. I loved both. The grano in the scallops dish was delicious. Desserts! OMG! The baked alaska and iced caramel something??. Get the iced caramel dish. The ice cream in that dish is some sort of burnt caramel amazingness. Hot damn, this place cranks out consistent, delicious food. Service was equally great. And the patio. You don't even feel like you're in Cambridge anymore. If you love Oleana - check out Sofra as well, Cambridge/Watertown line, get some turkish coffee and the shakshuka, delish!
(5)Keith H.
We went on Jan 1st. I was skeptical of the Turkish fare. It actually seems to me to be more euro with a Mediterranean fare, but I don't know anything about Turkish food. What I can say is that it was very very good. All five members of the party enjoyed their entrees. I enjoyed the rabbit but it was a little dry - thus four stars instead of five. The accompaniments were very nice. Mine had celery root puree and something else very tasty. The appetizers were great and the wine pairing recommended by the sommolier was perfect for all our meals. It was some obscure French varietal I cannot recall. The thing that makes this place to me however, is the dessert. We had three split by five of us and I would say two were the in the top five I have had. One was a brown butter ice cream with a chocolate tart-like creation. It was unique and delicious and my wife claims the best thing she has ever had. It was a special. The other was a lemon custard or cream-like dish with a pistachio cream or souffle type thing and a pistachio pastry. The lemon thing and the pistachio thing were fantastic and the pastry was OK. We also had an excellent tangerine dessert but it did not compare to the other two even though it was great. The first two desserts were amazing, but a little small. For five of us with two bottles and five cocktails with three appetizers we spent $500. I think it was reasonable for such high quality food. Given the value proposition I feel I am shortchanging with a four but my entree did not merit a five. I will go back here again the next time I happen to be in the area.
(4)Nicole B.
Came here for a birthday dinner and was not disappointed. The wine selection is excellent and we were happy with our choice, made with help from our waiter. The Sultan's Delight appetizer is perhaps one of the most delicious pieces of meat I've ever had: slow cooked beef with sweet/tart tamarind glaze and lucious purée of eggplant. My duck entree was a bit plain. I appreciate simple food but would order something with deeper flavor next time. But the meat was tender and high quality, so no real complaints. My sweetheart had the carrot soup and steak and enjoyed both. We had bday cake waiting at home, so no dessert. But I am anxious to come back in summer and taste more fresh produce from Siena Farms.
(4)Anna P.
I picked out this restaurant over a year ago as the place I wanted my parents to take me when they came to visit. I have to say, I was not at all disappointed. I had the vegetarian tasting menu, at the recommendation of several friends (I am not a vegetarian). You have to be willing to be a teensy bit adventurous, since you don't know what dishes the chef will serve up. Several of the dishes were outstanding - interestingly flavored and full of the freshest produce possible. I'm so very glad I came here in the summer when produce is at its peak. The smaller dishes were more creative than the entrees, and really spoke to the skill the chefs have with fresh ingredients. A chilled grape/sorrel/gazpacho-like dish started off my tasting menu, and a vermicelli with chickpeas and a tasty spice mix ended it. These two dishes really stood out as things I could never have thought of in my own kitchen - it's the sort of inventive cuisine that makes you feel like it's worth it to go out to dinner. A tomato corn stew dish was a little less interesting, but overall, I enjoyed every bite. The restaurant itself is more casual than I expected. If you're going to dine inside, I would recommend requesting a table that isn't in the room with the bar. I wasn't terribly comfortable sitting with my back against a very flat wall. My white sangria was only alright, but the non-alcoholic mint-and-rose beverage that my dad got was pretty interesting. I enjoyed my experience overall, and I would definitely recommend it to people who say Boston is not a town for foodies.
(5)Korri Leigh C.
Congratulations are due to Oleana which has knocked off Mistral & No9 for my favorite restaurant in Boston. I am vegetarian/mostly vegan and the $40 Vegetarian tasting at Oleana absolutely blew my mind. The presentation was out of this world and the flavors even better. At many restaurants using root veggies instead of broccoli is considered 'innovative vegetarian cuisine' but Ana Sortun constructed a 6 course meal that was complex, unique, and delicious. I honestly cannot say enough this place. My only caveat is that it is practically invisible at night due to its dim street lighting. Keep your eyes peeled or you'll drive right by!
(5)Shanar R.
This place is quite good. I am rating it A-OK because the food was excellent !! if you like trying different spices. Our server was very knowledgeable. While I enjoyed my meal I can't say I would return. I think they would definitely benefit from losing 1 table per room to allow for a bit more comfort for patrons. **One small thing, we ordered coffees and dessert, however, the dessert arrived, was finished and then about 10 minutes after coffees arrived. I did order coffee to enjoy with the dessert and for spending $170 for two of us ended up being a deal breaker for me. I would recommend this restaurant though and I would recommend making your reservations well in advance!
(3)Aaron H.
I've tended to gravitate away from adding my two cents on places that have already been extensively reviewed, especially when I agree with the status quo. I think it's actually a potential problem for Yelp --- what happens to reviewer zeal and gusto when there are 131 reviews of a place already? (See Rosamunde Sausage Grill in SF.) You'd better have a really funny story to tell. Will that additional 5 star "mmmm soooo goooood the sausage" review really make any marginal difference whatsoever? Maybe, but part of the appeal of Yelp is that your opinion really has an impact, isn't drowned out, and is an important part of the wisdom of (small) crowds. WTF does this have to do with Oleana, I hear you, impatient reader, beginning to say out loud? Never fear, for I am about to make a segue. Oleana is one of those places that's already been thoroughly lauded, and no doubt about it, it deserves every one of those gushing 5 star reviews. I'm not going to bore you by shift-F7ing the word "delicious" to find 20 different adjectives to describe how "delicious" it really is (had to catch myself there). But, what I do think will resonate with you, patient reader, is that for the first time, I do feel compelled to add my five stars into the big stew. Just bumping up Oleana's average rating ever so slightly is time and effort well spent. They deserve it. It's that good. Get the spinach falafel. My best meal in Boston.
(5)Sarah C.
The food was absolutely delicious. The ambiance was quaint and romantic. Perfect date night restaurant - just make sure to make reservations!
(4)Anup A.
Fine atmosphere, superior food....worth the cost. Great attention to detail creates my best dining experience in Cambridge. There is even a sufficient selection for vegitarians. Best to make reservations, but if you don't, you can wait in the bookstore accross the street. My favs: The Felafel appetizer & the Sultan's Delight.
(5)Adam W.
Simply one of the best meals I've had in Boston, ever. As mentioned elsewhere in these reviews, the vegetarian tasting menu is as delicious as it is creative. Every dish offered unusual flavor combinations (vanilla vermicelli? savory yogurt?) with excellent preparation to create a memorable experience. And the trout spanakopita was staggeringly tasty. Best of all, the food was not just good but abundant. We did not leave hungry. At all. This excellent food is combined with a relaxed atmosphere, with table service that was warmly attentive but not rushed. Adds up to a five-star, memorable meal. I'd bring out-of-town guests here in a flash. p.s. Parking is made much easier by calling the host for tips. Street parking is a nightmare.
(5)TJ M.
Hands down one of the best dining experiences in Boston / Cambridge. This place is great. This is how we did it. They don't take reservations for the outside patio, so show up around 6:30, put your name in and order a bottle of wine and chill outside. Once you sit down, be friendly with the waitress and have her order for you. There were three of us and we invited her to order us the three best apps, three best entrees and three best deserts. Our server stepped up and didn't miss. Everything that was served to us was unbelievable. She would come over after the runners laid down the plates and would explain the dish to us. B/C she was ordering she went out of her way to ensure we were happy. At the end of the night we were stuffed, the bill was 'healthy' and we were happy. I can't recommend this place enough.
(5)David S.
Oleana is probably the best restaurant I have been to in the Boston/Cambridge area. My boyfriend, two of his relatives and I went there for dinner this weekend. We had a reservation and were seated promptly when we got there. The decor is sophisticated but subtle and minimalist, and the atmosphere is cozy and would be perfect for a date. For appetizers we shared the fried mussels and hot peppers with Turkish tarator sauce (tasty, but not extraordinary), and the asparagus, green almond pesto and soft-boiled egg (the pesto had an amazing flavor, and the soft-boiled egg was cooked to perfection). I then had the special that night: fried monkfish, which came with potatoes and figs, and a berry sauce. Everything was good, but I was a little disappointed by the fish: I get I was expecting to be wowed but that did not happen. I also got a taste of the tuna, which comes with couscous and spinach salad, and it was also very good. Finally, I couldn't resist and had to order dessert: I got the chocolate marquise, which was accompanied by a little cream custard... small portions but absolutely delicious! The wine list is impressive, but somewhat expensive (very few bottles under $40). The petite syrah that we ordered was pretty good. Service was great and efficient. While the food by itself may deserve five stars, I'm a little reluctant given the prices, which may be a little two high in my opinion (our check was around $220 for four people: not outrageous, but a little too much I think). 4-1/2 stars.
(4)Liz L.
It pains me to update this review, as the first time I ate here, I thought I had finally found a Boston area restaurant where I could eat vegetarian fare in a fine dining experience. But after returning last night, I have come to the conclusion that my initial experience on a very slow evening was an atypical one for this restaurant, and that last night's experience was more typical. The same dining companion and I returned and again ordered the Vegetarian Tasting Menu. Though we were only the second table seated in the evening service, we were inexplicably seated at the table right by where the waitstaff regularly walks to go to the kitchen and the cash register (and near where they often stand around waiting to go check on tables) and where customers walk to reach the bar. I was so surprised that in a literally nearly empty dining room, we would be given such an undesirable table, that I nearly asked if we could be reseated, and it was for me an uncomfortable enough spot that if I go back, I would not hesitate to ask it. Our waitress kept talking about stuff "at my house"; for example, the first thing that was served was a salad and she said, "Even though I get my greens from them, it's nothing like the salads at my house!" Uh, that's why the chef is the chef and you're the one waiting on my table. But that first course was about all we saw of her. Most of our mezes were served by someone that it seemed was perhaps an assistant in the kitchen. He had a very thick accent and even though we typically asked him to repeat what he said, we still never heard the complete description of any of the mezes he served, and went into them not knowing everything we were eating (sometimes finishing them still not able to identify a key part of the dish). The waitress would just make snappy comments on her way past our table, not actually serving our food, not checking on us at all - no questions, just brief repartee. It was a third person who kept refilling our water glasses. Who knew it took a minimum of three people to serve a single two-person table? Unlike our previous experience, we were served the mezes one at a time (which they would typically not do in the Mediterranean regions on which the cuisine is loosely based), and there were usually long wait times between them. The wait time for our last meze was the longest of all, and by then a couple had been seated at the very next table, even though the several two-person tables in the middle of the restaurant (a row of them between the two rows of tables edging the dining room) were still open. When a fourth person showed up with what he alleged was our meze, we stated that we had already had that one in one of our previous courses. He initially disagreed with us - as if we wouldn 't know what we had eaten! Only when we continued to insist that we had in fact eaten that already did he reluctantly turn and return to the kitchen. (This was not an isolated incident; we heard the couple next to us disagreeing over the bottle of wine with the waitress - who was spending much more time on them, probably because they were doing things like buying a bottle of wine - and she also initially disagreed with them, but at least said she would investigate.) After several more minutes passed, a different dish was brought to us by the man who'd been doing most of the actual serving. I imagine it was probably pretty good when it was just made, but it was clear as soon as we bit into it that it had spent some time sitting around waiting to get to our table. The sauce was already cold and the greens had been waiting so long to be eaten that they were chewy. It was the kind of thing that I would be more likely to reheat or toss in my own house than to actually eat. After yet another very long wait, we were served our dessert (that comes with the four-course meze). Though it was one of the coldest nights yet this autumn, we were served an ice. It had also apparently waited a while to get to us, as the rose petal syrup at the bottom had congealed to the pre-chilled glass and was difficult to scrape off. These were our courses this time, each served independently (instead of two at a time like our previous visit) with long wait times between them (instead of almost none before): First, a salad of greens with a little mold of feta whipped with Lebanese spices on top of a crust made of almond bits and something else. Second, we got one of the same dishes as before, falafel on lavash with tahini and a beet-based condiment, though this time it was served with two pickled somethings instead of the warm greens it had been served with before, and the lavash itself was smaller than previously, such that we could not fully wrap the falafels. Third, a giant single piece of broccoli on top of something we never identified which was on top of a little puddle of pureed pumpkin. Fourth, the aforementioned chewy greens. Finally, the aforementioned ice.
(3)Tracy S.
The service was fantastic. Our waitress was incredibly attentive. Example: after opening our wine, for some reason a few fruit flies showed up. One found it's way into our bottle. The waitress decanted the wine (we didn't request a new bottle) and then served us an extra appetizer as an apology for the fly. Another example: We were there for a 2nd anniversary. We didn't' order dessert, but when she brought our bill, she had a little treat for us, complete with a candle. It was so sweet and kind. The food was incredible. We were delighted and surprised by all of the wonderful flavors. Only one dish, the spicy fideos, turned us off. Not a lot of flavor and way too salty. But that was it. Everything else was fantastic. We highly recommend it.
(4)Kate S.
this place is AMAZING. food is unique, delicious, flavorful. Service was fantastic. Great for groups or romance.
(5)CC S.
My party of two had: 1.) 04 Sauvignon Blanc, Claude Courtois 'Plume d'Ange,' Sologne, Loire Valley, FR 53 2.) Grilled Octopus with Spicy Sicilian-Style Bread Salad & Cauliflower 12 3.) Spinach Falafel, Tahini, Yogurt with Beets & Curly Cress 10 - after being convinced by the waiter that this was Oleana's "signature dish"... 4.) Hake Kibbeh with Basil Brown Butter, Kolrabi & Corn Chowder 25 5.) Softshell Crab Saganak- Stewed Tomato, Fennel & Peppers with Feta & Rice Cake 25 Total: $137 including tip. I took a peek at the outdoor patio and regret not asking for a seat in the garden. We were seated in the corridor where drunken un-reserved guests were loud and debaucherous. The waiter had a thick (??) accent and though he tried very hard, I could not understand a word coming out of his mouth (ie: special dishes for the night.) The appetizers were brilliant (grilled octopus and spinach falafel) but the two main courses were a major disappointment. I would recommend Oleana's vegetarian dishes and appetizers more than their main courses. I have to admit Yelpers, I am disappointed in you! You rave and rave about this place but it missed the mark. Oleana's must have a solid public relations team. I really don't see what the big deal is and will not go out of my way to return.
(3)Coco P.
Went here for a business dinner. OMG, it was fabulous! I had always wanted to go here to Oleana but somehow hadn't. The food and service were fantastic and I will most definitely go back again!
(5)plz h.
Vegetarian tasting menu is awesome. Well, to be honest, I wasn't really into the 5th course, but I was too full to really eat much of it anyways, and was saving room for dessert (The tasting menu is 5 courses, PLUS desert!). So 5/6 of my huge meal was amazing! At 42 dollars, it's actually kind of cheap for a restaurant of this caliber. No complaints! Just make sure you set aside over 2 hours if you are planning on doing the tasting menu. I can't recommend the tasting menu, enough. Love the little falafel sandwiches! Nom.
(5)Nicolas B.
Amazing food, great service. But we had to wait for the table albeit we booked it. The room is small and very noisy.
(4)Chris M.
I can't believe I haven't reviewed Oleana yet. This place is probably in my top 3 of places to eat in the Boston/Cambridge area. I had my 1st date here with my now wife and it has become our tradition to eat here on our anniversary. Always amazing service, always amazing food and great wine selection too! Get the white sangria and sit outside. You can't make reservations for the outdoor seating area but it is worth the wait. And If you like lamb, get the lamb. The only downside is its location to the T but that doesn't stop us from going.
(5)Claire W.
Six of us went for a 6 pm "planning dinner" on a Thursday night. Food was great. All the appetizers we tried (from the vegetarian "pret a manger" to "Sultan's Delight" (glazed beef) were great. I had Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake which was excellent (although the portion I took home got swapped with my neighbor's vegetarian entree - moral - check your doggie bags carefully). Food is excellent, eating on the patio was really nice. Caveats: prices are up there; parking is non-existent (put your Cambridge creative parker hat on or take public transportation). I will definitely go back.
(4)Francis W.
The food at Oleana is hands down amazing. Every single dish we ordered was delicious. The spinach falafel and fried gigante beans with wild mushrooms were particularly good. My only complaint is that when we ordered items "non-dairy", they came with the dairy portion on the side. It would be helpful if they offered non-dairy alternatives for the dressings--such as an oil and lemon or a tahini dressing.
(5)D W.
I had heard this was a good date place, but the tables are so packed tightly together that you hear the conversations from the tables on each side of you. I won't go back: The Harvard faculty club lunch buffet has better atmosphere and food, and costs less.
(3)Susan D.
Finding this hole in the wall shall reward you in a variety of ways. First off, lots of residential housing around, very little street lighting, & deserted neighborhood. Not the typical fun, lively, buzzing atmosphere you'd expect for such a beautiful restaurant. So you park on the street, walk up and ask for a table. If you can get pass the rude host (who flat-out told me that there was absolutely no alternative seating besides the bar - then continued to patronize me by assuring me that the food still tastes as good. However once we sat down, I noticed a table for 2 open up within five minutes and remain empty the entire late dinner I had. I would have slapped him.) Anyways, rudeness aside, please relax with a white sangria cocktail with real blueberries, cherry floating about. Jump into their complimentary warm breads basket with woodsy extra virgin olive oil and enjoy the glowing Mediterranean feel that you would think could only exist in Greece. I felt the bartender and bus-guys were very nice, informative with a sly sense of humor noticing how well my boyfriend and I cleaned our plates. ha! We shared the walnut pate and roast chicken seated on top of filo wrapped home-made seasoned cheese. A sort of feta, goat cheese, ricotta mixture of flavors. Delicous. I recommend sharing because the portions are well enough for two medium-hungry adults, plus it can get a tad expensive. Most entrees were mid-$20 to low-$30s. With drinks, you could easily run into a $70-80 meal for two. I would return, but only for special occasions.
(4)Paul B.
Tonight was my first, and last, visit. I found this highly (over?) rated restaurant very disappointing. To call it Turkish, Middle Eastern or Moroccan is far from the mark. This was none of the above. Real Turkish, Middle Eastern & Moroccan food is well spiced - this was bland. There was a hint of some spices, but you could barely taste it. We started with the Pret a Table deviled eggs - two eggs with a tuna filling. Aside from being made with tuna in olive oil, his was 2 hard boiled eggs with tuna salad. Big deal. We made a meal of 3 appetizers. First, the "Crab Kadayif, Haloumi Cheese, Pistachio,Fennel & Persimmon Salad". I don't know where most of these ingredients were hiding, but aside from the crab & persimmon, I couldn't find the rest. This was actually a small souffle (and I do mean small). It had barely any flavor at all. Next, the "Moroccan Lamb Kefta & Egg Tagine with 19 Spices". This is 6 meatballs in a sauce with a cooked egg (I would not call it a tagine). This was the tastiest of all of the dishes, but I can hardly believe that she used 19 spices in this recipe. It was OK, but not great. Lastly, we had the "Tamarind Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Puree with Pinenuts". A small 3" square of some sort of stringy, fatty beef with the tamarind glaze (which was actually quite good), and very smoky eggplant puree. Well, it wasn't bad. The "Sicilian Almond Cremolata & Warm Chocolate Panino" we shared for desert was actually the tastiest item. The place was nicely decorated. Yes, it's a bit tight, as others have mentioned, but once seated it was fine. I wish that there had been a bit more light - I could barely read the menu. Fortunately, the bar was behind me, and I got some light from there. The service was fine. Our waiter was friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. We ordered and enjoyed a pleasant bottle of Barbera (from the Piedmont in northern Italy). So why only 2 stars? Because it just wasn't that special. I'm sorry, but I've had better Moroccan food at Tangierino in Charlestown, better Turkish food at numerous places around town, and better Middle Eastern food in Watertown (try Shiraz Cuisine). I don't think that this place lived up to it's hype, and I definitely think that the price points are WAY too high. And I must point out that Ana Sortun was in the kitchen tonight, as we were seated close enough to see her. Sorry, I just can't recommend this place to you.
(2)Lindsay L.
There are quite a few lengthy reviews, so I don't have too much extra to say... A few quick comments: the falafel appetizer and whipped feta w/peppers are excellent. Definitely make a reservation if you want to sit inside or you will probably end up sitting at the bar, which isn't all bad but can be annoying if you're on a date. Also, the outside garden is really what Oleana's ambience is all about, it's beautiful. It's been closed (for construction?) so I would definitely call ahead to make sure it's open. Otherwise you will be heartbroken as I was last time I went at having to sit inside. They don't take reservations for the garden, but there's a nice seating area out there to have drinks while you wait.
(4)sally m.
This was the best meal I've ever eaten in the Boston area in the 3 years I've lived here. Granted, I've lived a thrifty life here, but I can't imagine this experience being topped anywhere else I've seen or heard of around here. To over-sweeten the deal, Ana buys local ingredients and stocks organic & biodynamic wine. I don't remember which one we had, but it was white and it was fantastic. She also buys fresh mozzarella, burrata, and string-cheese from a local cheesemaker I happen to know and has created a tea with cacao nibs from Somerville's very own chocolate company, Taza Chocolate. One thing we ate was seared eggplant with some kind of carmelized orange and sesame seed sauce with the aforementioned burrata. I said "Oh my god" after every bite - no joke.
(5)Barney B.
Continues to impress
(5)Daniel H.
This is a comfortable neighhood restaurant that serves world class food. You won't be disappointed with this place. Outdoor garden area during summer months and quaint dining inside with a small bar but only wine and beer Food Rating = 5 Stars Service Rating = 4 Stars Decor = 4 Stars
(5)Lex B.
I have always been a semi-adventurous eater, but I sometimes still get scared looking at a menu where the only clearly distinguishable words are "served with," "and," and the such. That probably sounds really lame, but there are definitely some interesting ingredients on this menu. That said, this restaurant was nothing short of INCREDIBLE. I guess I can chalk it up to my unfamiliarity with creative Turkish/Arabic food, but I had NO idea what to order or what I was ordering when I thought I knew what I might want to order. The service, however, was incredible. Our server (went with Mom) was extremely helpful, he explained everything! Finally, I felt confident in making some decisions... We started off with the warm, buttered hummus. Need I say more? It was awesome, although when I go back I will have to try other things because they all look so good. For dinner I had some type of fish "en papillote" with a tahini sauce and sauteed onions and peppers that were really spicy, served with a "spoon salad" which was kind of like a sweet, cold, salsa that couldn't have balanced more perfectly with the meal. This was seriously to die for, so much so that I have dreams about it to this day - like a month later. Mom had flattened lemon chicken (I saw a picture of it on here somewhere) with some Turkish cheese pancake - also to die for. I usually try really hard to stop myself so I can fit dessert, but I ended up eating all of mine AND half of Mom's...oops...Needless to say, no room for dessert, but you MUST go to Oleana if you are in the area. From the service, to the food, to the ambiance, it was absolutely perfect! I honestly can't wait to go back ASAP.
(5)Christopher K.
I go here pretty much any special event I can come up with to go to. The food is always wonderful (get the tasting menu for the first visit). And I always love the wine list. No complaints and cant say enough great things. I also own the chef's cookbook and its equally as wonderful.
(5)Stephen Y.
Pret a Manger not bad but would have been better if the kalamata olives were warmed. Nevertheless, the delicious olive oil was awesome. We loved the crispy fried squid appy (which was actually crispy on the outside and not perfectly cooked on the inside), Sultan's Delight was pretty good too. Crispy duck with gnocchi, delicious but quite rich (it was an appetizer). The veal entree was also quite rich but and quite balanced by the accompanying fava bean salad (it was a bit salty). They however saved the best for last.... the nougat glace was awesome and alone worth revisiting the restaurant. However, we plan to return anyways to sample the rest of the menu. Do book ahead. Sunday dinner was quite full ! There's an great table at the corner by the clay wine rack....almost semi- private- worth asking for...
(4)Stephen G.
Summary: poor seating arrangements, long wait for food and very ordinary entrees given the price and reputation. After reading so many great reviews and even getting rave recommendations from friends, this place was such a disappointment. We were sat at the table by the end of the bar with wine bottles along the walls, at first we thought 'oh, this is so cute and cozy' until my date was asked TWICE to get out of her seat so someone could rummage for a bottle of something in the racks behind her. First time we made light of it, and this was before our food came, but the second time interrupted our entrees! The waiter was fine and polite enough, but it is an absolute horrible place to seat patrons and extremely rude and unprofessional to have them move mid-meal. Not to sound greedy, but we weren't even offered anything for the inconvenience and embarrassment of making a young lady stand for a few minutes on her birthday while her entree was getting cold. The scallops dish she had was just OK, very hot yet unimpressive, and the lamb I ordered was cold when it arrived and just very plain, no hint of any spices it claimed to have. This place is not inexpensive and for what I paid and had expected to receive... just so disappointing. I have been to many places who charge less than half the amount for much more spectacular food. Actually I'm very frustrated as well given what most everyone else has written. This was a special occasion! Why me, Oleana? Was this a freak occurrence? I do have to say that the bread was delicious and the octopus appetizer was AMAZING. We were really hoping for so much more from this place.
(2)Cindy C.
Excellent food with beautiful presentation and attentive service. Food was bursting with flavor & loved its creativity. Baked Alaska is a must, as is the super yummy and refreshing white sangria! I really enjoyed my flattened lemon chicken dish, and everyone else was equally content with their dishes. The price tag will set you back however, not inexpensive but worth it for a nice occasion.
(4)Ethan C.
As most have mentioned, and most know by now - the food is very very good. The service is perhaps a bit overbearing and the layout of the tables a bit cramped in places. very good vegetarian choices.
(4)Thor T.
It is certainly a great pleasure to find a restaurant like Oleana, with an interesting menu and ingredients sourced locally and seasonally. The food is very tasty, full of robust flavors, and the wine list is interesting and fairly priced. An extra bonus: a small beer selection with some excellent bottles that match the plates very well. For my taste, the plates are overly fussy, with one or two ingredients too many (our friendly waitress recited three specials with such a lengthy list of ingredients that I had forgotten the first description by the end of her litany) and the food feels very heavy (we were unable to try the interesting -but very expensive - desserts because of this). Case in point: an appetizer of soft shell crab was dominated by a heavy sauce, caramelized onions, chorizo, potatoes - all wonderful to eat but leaving the small crab as a lonely side-kick at the edge of the plate (also: the first law of fried crab crispodynamics is that covering the crab with sauce will lead to immediate loss of crunchy perfection and increased mushiness). These are subjective quibbles. Oleana is a fine restaurant that deservedly attracts a large and loyal following. I will go back and next time I will leave room for dessert.
(4)Mo M.
My heart sings when I eat at Oleana. Though portions to some might be considered small, the spices and flavor are so vivid you can't really take more than what's served, and I mean this in the best way imaginable. If you want to take me out, then this is where we should go!
(5)Jennifer L.
I've been to Oleana twice for business dinners. The restaurant is very cozy and the food is very good! A nice change from downtown Boston.
(4)Todd L.
Dinner last Friday. 8:30 reservation but didn't get seated until 8:50. Food was very good as well as the wait staff. Only complaint was it's a little dark.
(5)Shan C.
I came here with 4 other people and we all said Yum.. the best was the Parsnip Hummus & Spicy Cilantro Tabouleh with Homemade Pita Bread. For dinner I had the Cod, Pepita Crumbs, White Beans with Chorizo & Catalan-Style Escarole. I tried bites from all the plates and they were all very tasty.
(5)J D.
I'd rate 0 stars if I could!! Again worst service ever.. why? because there was NO Service/Hospitality from staff or management!! 1 week has passed since I wrote a letter & email complaint to the Management Team @Oleana Restaurant. Nobody from Oleana has replied nor responded to my written complaints. I guess they don't care to rectify the situation, nor offer an apology. Yelpers -- please DO NOT EAT or WASTE YOUR TIME WAITING at this place, its not worth the hassle or $$$.
(1)sally w.
I didn't expect the tapas to be very filling but after eating the bread, sharing 3 tapas and a desert, I was surprisingly full. We started with the buttered hummus, bbq octopus, and prosciutto wrapped parsnips and ended with the chocolate creme brulee desert. I realized that you need to be adventurous with food in order to truly enjoy the different flavors infused in each dish. Each dish had their own unique flavor and so the experience was rather fun. The menu looked amazing and I can only hope to go back and try the rest of it!
(4)Candid R.
Fantastic! Literally the freshness, flavors, and creativity of the food combined make for an unforgetable culinary experience. While meat eaters will be satisfied, Vegans and Vegetarians are in restaurant heaven. Finally, a place that doesn't serve boring salads and pasta dishes. Seriously, a great, consistent dining choice. A little hint: plan for a weekday dinner, weekends are very busy and I find the weekday meals to be a bit more relaxed. Enjoy!
(5)Sabrina G.
Wonderful, unique restaurant. Excellent decor, service, and farm fresh ingredients. Go!
(5)Sam H.
My favorite restaurant in cambridge/boston! The appetizers are fantastic -- and their menu changes depending on what is in season. They happen to have a zucchini pancake they are serving right now. It comes on halumi cheese and a tomato salad. Fabulous. Also, they have their own home-made string cheese. In general, i say the appetizers are better than the main dishes, so we always get two appetizers to split and 1 main dish (for two people). Their ice creams are home made and delicious! I never leave here disappointed.
(5)M D.
So I would describe this place as cozy--small intimate setting. The food is pretty good...good flavors. It has lots of options for vegetarians. I would describe the food as Turkish comfort food taken up a knotch w/o losing the essence of the dish (not over done). Overall no dishes that I disliked. Parking maybe the only drawback but definitely among the top restaurants in town.
(4)Rebecca C.
What a wonderful experience! My husband and I went there for an early valentine's day dinner, and it was one of the best experiences we've had eating out in a while. Not only was the food fabulous, but our waitress made our night perfect! I have a feeling that they do veggies even better than meat. We both had fish dishes, and they were unusual and yummy. Our waitress gave us very detailed descriptions of the entrees before we ordered, and for us, that was perfect, since we really were having a hard time deciding (everything looked so good!) I highly recommend the spinach falafel as an appetizer. We also had the Tuna Carpaccio, which was good, but nothing in comparison to the falafel. Truly it was a great experience.
(5)Shannon M.
Let me start off by saying, the BEST restaurant i have ever had the pleasure of eating at. Our server ("Hartley" is what it stated on the check) was very knowledgeable about the menu, which was great because we were clueless as to where to begin!! The service was great, the server's assistants were right on point, and were really impressing me at their ability to keep up with the diners needs. You MUST have reservations to eat here, on an early thursday night, it didn't take long before they were at capacity and there was a line. I've been blessed to have tasted some really delicious food in my time, but this place just blew me away. We were out for a birthday dinner, my husband and fathers, and it's our tradition to try a different cuisine every year since my husband is a cook. The flavor combinations were like nothing i've ever had before, i can't even describe it, just amazing!! You must try this place first hand. This would be a great place for a date, it's intimate and small and the outside dining area looked like a good time in the summer. We were lucky enough to have the head chefs and the owner in the kitchen tonight so the food was just right on. Food came out on time, perfectly temp'd and just wonderfully executed all together. I cannot WAIT for another special ocassion where we can make it down to cambridge again, i will be dreaming of their food until then!!
(5)Eve L.
Great date place! It's pricey, but the ambiance is relaxed but classy. We ordered the vegetarian mezze, which is basically a chef's pick of five courses, all of which are small in size, but plenty of food for 2 people. Everything was spectacular and delicious. The whole thing came to $81, including tip and 2 beers, so like I said, it's spendy, but worth it if you want and can afford a nice night out sometime.
(5)Tessa C.
ana sortun is a master - hands down. oleana never misses when it comes to food. i haven't been a big fan of mediterranean cuisine, but she has converted me. reservations are highly recommended. this is an excellent place to impress your foodie friends who are visiting from out-of-town. during the warmer months, make a reservation for the outside patio - it's beautiful and lush. i've eaten here quite a few times - if you don't have a reservation, then see if you can sit at the bar. parking is not convenient here - you're in the middle of residential cambridge - and it's not near a T stop for those without a vehicle.
(5)lance c.
Panchetta wrapped buttered humus was amazing and unique. Definitely a white table cloth dining experience with the presentation and creativity of food. Patio was sublime. Service was great. I can't say anything bad about this place. Definitely one of my Boston area favorites.
(4)Alex H.
this is as close to food perfection as you are going to get in boston. the food is creative and out of this world delicious. although totally worth the price, the cost does makes this more of a special occasion type of restaurant, which is a shame because i wish i could eat there every week. if you really want a culinary experience try the vegetarian tasting menu - i love meat but didn't miss it one bit during that meal.
(5)Carole H.
So tasty. Had no reservation so was seated at the bar immediately. A good date-night adtomsphere and friendly, prompt service from the bartender (who was clearly on stimulants, the only distracting part of the evening). The menu had a nice variety and everything was unbelievably flavorful without being heavy. I'm drooling just thinking about the flatbread with haloumi and grilled peaches, spinach felafel, hummos...Tuna spanakopita was very good also, but if (when) I go again will split the chef's choice mezza and add a couple extras for variety. Solid drink list to keep you entertained while waiting during the (arguably long) pauses between dishes. This won't be the cheapest night out ever, but is a good value for the high quality of food and was an excellent place for a somewhat upscale night out.
(5)Alexandra L.
I ate at Oleana a few months ago with one of my good friends, and we had an incredible meal. From before dinner drinks, appetizers, our main, dessert, and wines throughout it was perfect. Our waiter made excellent recommendations both for food and wine (we didn't go with all of them but he def. knew what he was talking about). Simply put - really fantastic experience.
(4)Jessie H.
If you are a meat eater I would recommend this restaurant - vegetarians beware of the hype! Oleana is a great restaurant - but I don't think it deserves a vegetarian award. Being a vegetarian - this menu does not provide too many options. Whoever awarded it the vegetarian award from Yelp must be a meat eater. What vegetarian would be satisifed with 5 varieties of hummus for dinner? Granted I've never had the tasting menu. The dips are great - but who craves dips for dinner? The menu only has 2 veg entrees (nothing that I would choose to eat). For some reason I have ordered the fideos entree more than once - and I didn't like it the first time. It is insanely rich. You would desire tiny noodles in a super rich creamy sauce? Other points....drinks and dessert deserve an A+
(4)Lena B.
this is my favorite restaurant in the city of boston...i feel so lucky that it is just down the street!!! very romantic for two and also good for a night out with friends.
(5)Matthias J.
When a restaurant has over 300 reviews, the majority giving it 5 stars, you end up having high expectations for the place. When you read the comments, and people praise everything from the free bread to the French pressed coffee, you go in wanting to have your sox blown off. When you are prepared to make a reservation 1-2 weeks in advance and spend on average $150 per couple (including wine), anything short of absolute excellence is a disappointment. Keep this in mind when you come to Oleana. Everything my wife and I had, was very good. But remember, it's just a restaurant. Go in with that attitude and you are likely to come out elated. By the way: kudos for having a free parking lot conveniently located across the street.
(4)Travis M.
If you are able to get past the expense your in for a meal that will not be forgotten. There wasn't a bad meal on the menu and everything was extremely fresh. Went there on a nice evening and sat in there backyard garden. Will definitely go back for a special occasion.
(5)starbuck d.
I thought the food was uninspired. Beautifully presented, but none of the flavor combinations surprised me or caught my interest. Given the average ambience and wait-staff, I would have thought that the prices would have been lower. Alas, as a cat, I don't make as much as the rest of you do, so I have to watch the budget.
(2)Chance X.
Both food and service are excellent! You have to try the beef appetizer and the baked Alaska. I saw lots of people ordered a flamable cheese dish too. Sadly my friend doesn't eat cheese so we didn't order it. I bet it much be delicious too. Love it, will definitely go back~ :-)
(5)Sam S.
Wow, you have to call wayyyyy ahead to even sit in here. The devil eggs app was scrumptious, but the lamb main course wasn't too impressive. I ordered it medium rare, and it came out medium well. I liked the way they blend all these Mediterranean a together to create luscious flavors you never knew existed. A very exotic meal. Dessert was my favorite part. I got the passion fruit ice cream. WOW. my date got the strawberry and rhubarb. WOW again. In-house pastry chef = incredible dessert dishes.
(4)Leah S.
we love it here! always a really special meal and mostly great service. make a reservation way ahead would be my advice.
(4)Deanna B.
Love Oleana! When you can sit outside, it is by far the best outdoor dinning in the area. The food is fantastic, but the best is the wine menu! Great ecclectic varietals, but classics as well, that pair perfectly with the cuisine and environment.
(5)olivia s.
Great for vegetarians. I consider Oleana to be my favorite restaurant in Boston/Cambridge. I love the vegetarian tasting menu and the chocolate panini/almond ice cream (no dairy!) dessert. I cannot wait to return.
(5)C. N.
I've been waiting to write a quick review after a few more visits, and Oleana has slid back a few stars from my first visit, unfortunately. The first time I went was one of the best meals I've ever had. Full stop. Most recently I've had some brusque service, and my vegetarian friend has been disappointed with the food. The desserts are bizarre and far more for visual show than for anything else, and that does disappoint. My carnivore entrees have been great, and the appetizers/meze plates as well. (edit after another visit) And now down another star after a clunker of a meal. Entree (a special) was terrible, and even though it wasn't a busy night, it took an hour and a half from the time we sat down to the time we got our food. Now, they were appropriately apologetic and comped half the meal, but the point is, when you go to the trouble of going to a restaurant this expensive, you aren't looking for a bargain, you're looking for a memorable evening. I think this place is dangerously on the verge of falling off. I'm done chasing that first perfect meal that they gave me. I'm not Proust. Three strikes, you're out.
(2)S B.
The carrot puree appetizer is great!! The atmosphere is nice, but was a bit crowded when I was there. I could barely hear the person I was with from across the (small) table. The tuna roll is such a good combination of flavors - it was original and delicious!
(4)Maria R.
The food here is transcendent. Really. I never say that- but if you're going to go out and spluge- to someplace that makes you think, OMG- how did they MAKE this?! It is that good.
(5)Harry H.
Drop everything and run to Oleana, or her little cousin Sofra.
(5)Inci K.
We went to Oleana's for our wedding anniversary after reading lots of good reviews about it. We're picky with our restaurants when we go out for special occasions and want to make sure that the money we spend is on something worthwhile, original, tasty and special...Oleana's did not disappoint - would highly recommend the basturma appetizer with some sort of hummus rolled up inside, and also the skirt steak is absolutely wonderful - you will be tempted to pass on dessert just so you can hold on to the flavors in your mouth! (Of course we didn't pass on dessert!) If you like Helmand, or Lala Rokh, chances are you'll love Oleana's - a cool and interesting mixture of Turkish food with North African/European flare. Very tasty, wonderful for special occasions and romantic dates. Not cheap but every bite is worth it.!
(5)Jungmin L.
This is the best falafel that I have had since I moved to the US, after being used to the unforgettable crunchy, nutty ones in Paris. The Cremolata dessert is very good - ice cream that tastes so refreshing but without any tartness of a sorbet. Other dishes to recommend: anything lamb, sultan's delight, the Moussaka (re-interpreted as whipped fava beans).
(4)Brandon H.
Awesome. Had a 8:30 reservation on Thursday for 4. Didn't get seated until 9 which was a little frustrating but given the food I can't co plain. I started with the Vermont quail with spices and pistachios. It was amazing. Perfect amount of spice. For my main I had the venison special which was also out of this world. My wife had the sausage kebob with syrup and she loved it although I found it a little plain. Others at the table had the grilled squid which was raved about as was the sultans delight and the pork. Be sure to save room for dessert because it's great. We got the baked Alaska and the caramel bread pudding the bread pudding was crazy good. Can't wait to go back.
(5)Ken L.
This place is simply, outstanding. I've only been there once, but it is by far one of my favorite restaurants that I've been to over the last 5 years. Tough to get a rezie, so plan ahead.
(5)Josephine P.
I have been wanting to eat here for the longest time so when I finally got the chance I jumped at it and had really high expectations. I was not disappointed. It is amazing what they do with spices and how flavorful everything is without being overwhelming. I ordered their vegetarian tasting menu and every dish was really great. My favorite dish had to be their dessert. The baked Alaskan is such a deal. Also, their sticky toffee pudding is to die for.
(5)Gardenbeth I.
Terrific food, great flavors, and large portions. Went with 3 friends, and we all enjoyed the appetizers (hummus, deviled eggs, peppers with cheese) and our entrees (duck, halibut with clams, and chicken). And the dessert! Profiteroles were the best dessert I've had in a long time. Excellent service too.
(5)Mark M.
This was the best meal I have had in Boston. There is nothing but praise for the entire experience top to bottom. The service was perfect, attentive but not hovering. The food was outstanding. Hell, the f$%$ing free bread was something special. We ordered the spinach falafel and sultan's delight. Do NOT pass up the sultan's delight. Perfectly braised with a smoky sauce. I loved my entrée. The lamb was perfectly cooked in a thin dough wrap. The better half had a trout that was rich and buttery yet light. We finished with a pistachio custard rich enough to put you to sleep. Finally, the french press coffee had hints of cocoa which left us memorized by the myriad of flavors we had sampled for the evening. This was out first time and we will be back. Total bill was very reasonable for the food. 140 including tip and a bottle of wine.
(5)Michele B.
Yum! Reserve your table early (like as in a week ahead for a weeknight, a month for a weekend) and get the mezze. Our waitress was very good. For example, my husband and I did not order meat, though the other two people at our table did. We inadvertently ordered the hummus dish, which comes with a meat with a Middle Eastern name. She asked if we ate meat to avoid accidentally serving meat to vegetarians. This is the kind of attention to details you expect at this price point, but don't always get. Sharp and well done! Tables are very close together. So close that my table mates were shocked when they heard someone advising the woman at the next table not to listen to her date's claims that he was moving to Kuwait as he was just trying to get into her pants. But I maintain that this was good advice.
(5)Sara F.
I guess it's kind of silly to write a review where there are already 248 of them, but I wanted to put in a word for the excellent service I had at Oleana a couple of weeks ago. First, we were 20 minutes late because my wife was having a hell of a time finding parking (anyone who's tried to have dinner in this area- you know what I'm talking about.) Expecting a problem, because it was a Friday night and the place was pretty packed, I apologized to the hostess- she was so nice and gave some parking suggestions and assured me we'd still have our reservation. Next, we had made an Open Table reservation because it was my birthday...both the hostess and the server said happy birthday to me, and our server went through some trouble to put a candle in my ice cream (first lighter didn't work, so he went back into the kitchen for another one.) I guess I was expecting impersonal service because Oleana is such a well-known place (i.e. they certainly don't need our business) but instead the excellent service added to a very lovely evening. ps- the special dessert- heirloom apple and huckleberry crisp with bay leaf ice cream- was OUT OF CONTROL delicious.
(5)Jim D.
Delicious. Plain and simple. What more could be said about the charming and delightful dining experience I just had at Oleana on Friday night? Thanks to my fellow yelpers, my party arrived early in order to get a seat in the ever so cute outdoor courtyard. Intimate, cozy and tranquil are the immediate words that come to mind. It was definitely worth the half hour early arrival time and I can't recommend it more. The food, as I hoped, was phenomenal. I started with the calamari which was prepared in such a unique, creative way and turned out to be absolutely tender, flavorful and mouthwatering. I ordered the lamb steak as my entree which was brought to me perfectly rare (the only way to enjoy red meat, I think) and delectable. My friend ordered the much talked about vegetarian tasting menu which was all very yummy and fresh. Freshly dug up potatoes that were cooked in the most perfect way? Yes, please!! They also have an extensive wine and decent beer selection to please most palates. Prices are surprisingly reasonable, especially for the crazy notoriety this place has garnered. Portions were definitely modest in size. Service was impeccable. Our waitress was extremely attentive, personable and described everything. What more could ya want? My single gripe is that the parking situation sucks over at Inman Square so it can be a bit of a hassle to find a convenient space, especially during the really busy dinner times. Oleana definitely ranks up there with the best of Boston, no question. It's so laid back and casual here that I could easily come back here regularly. Eggscellent job, Oleana!
(5)Robert K.
I brought my girlfriend to Oleana for her birthday and we had THE best experience. From the seat on the patio under a heat lamp, to our server's attentiveness, to the chef's willingness to work around my girlfriend's dairy allergy, to the AMAZING food, the night couldn't have been better. We ordered the vegetable tasting menu, which included five meze and a dessert and the scallops with pistachio, fig and spiced tomato yarma. The best way to explain the meal is this: I've been unable to think of anything besides those scallops for the last two days. Combined with the meze and sangria - not to mention the dairy-free ice cream they brought out with a candle at the end of the meal - this was literally a PERFECT dining experience.
(5)Angel D.
The food here is unbelievable from the appetizer right down to the dessert. Recommendations: Appertizer: Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets & Crinkled Cress Entree: Tuna with Pomegranate Spoon Salad & Coconut Rice Wrapped in Collard Dessert: Baked Alaska; Coconut Ice Cream & Passion Fruit Caramel Wine: 09 Assyrtiko / Athiri, Sigalas, Ia, Santorini, Greece - if you have ever been to Santorini, it really brings you back! yum
(5)Johnny K.
One of my favorite Boston-area restaurants of all time. Go in the Spring/Summer/Fall and sit in the beautiful courtyard. The food is indescribably yummy. My faves: the tuna deviled eggs, the milk soaked pork, the turkish steak app. But above all: the Baked Alaska. Oh. My. God. Everytime i've eaten it, I've actually wept it's so good. Fantastic, professional service. Go go Go!
(5)Tom S.
I have been to Oleana about 20 times in the past 3 years. I love it so much. It is my birthday and valentines day gift every year The food is wonderful I highly recommend the vegetarian tasting menu. I am not a vegetarian myself but I love the food they send out. Always so creative. I also recommend the Whipped feta and the chicken salad they had as a special last time i went. Amazing!!!! It was all out of this world good. The staff is great. very knowledgeable. Cannot recommend this place enough!
(5)Foodie B.
I heard so many good things about this place. Unfortunately, when I finally did try it, it just didn't do it for me. I had the rabbit for entree and the food was just bland. Maybe I ordered the wrong dish. But for the price that I was paying I expected better.
(2)Maya S.
This restaurant is definitely a MUST visit if you are in Boston or in the Cambridge area! We tried the vegetarian tasting menu and an appetizer. Do not be fooled by the dainty looking portions...cos looks can be deceptive. We were full by the end of the meal. The spinach falafel was heavenly..so soft that it actually melts in your mouth. This place has a great ambiance and the service was prompt and quite friendly. If you are thinking of stepping out for a date/anniversary night...this place is it!
(5)Christopher S.
"Woohoo! As good as it gets!" pretty much sums up how I feel about Oleana. I've been there a few times now, and each time everything has been amazing and on point. There is a wonderful selection of meze and entrees, all of which are jammed packed with a wonderful mix of flavors. The bread and olive oil that you are given to start the meal is delicious. Some notable dishes are the soft shell crab, flounder and moroccan spiced crab, the fatoush salad, the quail, the spicy squid, the clams, and all the desserts. There's also a great beer and wine menu. I don't care what other people say about The Hungry Mother and other restaurants in Boston metropolitan area, this is the best one hands down.
(5)wolf t.
Mezze (tapas) are the way to go here. There are many pleasant surprises buried in there. The lamb sausage special with cherries was my favorite, but almost all were excellent in their own way. (The nettle/halloumi salad wasn't quite what I was expecting and the sangria was oversweet.) The chocolate baklava dessert is heavenly, but you can get that any day at sofra. Branch out and try the olive oil ice cream instead. Warning: costs can escalate quickly. Watch your orders or be prepared to pay dearly for the experience.
(4)Tiffany C.
If I could give this place ten stars, I would. I've been several times now and it's never been anything less than delicious. The food is fresh, creative, with interesting & perfectly balanced flavors. I don't even feel like I need to review individual dishes here because everything is always so good, however I'll recommend the spinach falafel and the tamarind glazed beef because they are favorites. Make a meal of meze, you won't regret it. But make sure to leave room for dessert, because Oleana's really stand out. I never thought I'd say that a Mediterranean style restaurant served some of the best desserts I've ever had! A bit of a splurge, but worth it. Make sure to make reservations well in advance! (I'm talking 2-3 weeks at least!)
(5)Suki S.
This place is pretty good. The food was good and very fresh. To be honest, I don't have too much to say about it nothing really stood out. This place is good but pretty forgettable. One thing that did stand out was the fact that the hostess was annoyed that we didn't have a reservation but she sat us down in a decent area like 2 seconds later anyway and the place was not crowded at all. So basically, they want you to make a reservation just because, whatever... I get the sense they are a little pretentious just based on the hostesses, they somehow think that just because they're wearing heels and designer clothes to seat people gives them some sort of status,(what does status mean anyway? no such thing.) Get a grip ladies, the whole point of the hostess is to be very nice and accommodating to people and make them feel okay about spending their hard earned money. Probably won't go back, there are a handful of really good restaurants in Cambridge that I would rather go to where the staff doesn't make me feel like I don't belong there. I give it a Meh!
(3)David K.
Simply amazing food. It was worth every penny. This was the perfect balance of flavors and ingredients. We had the Salmon appetizer that was amazing, flat lemon chicken and the pork belly dish. All were perfectly balanced and the the right amount of flavor / taste. All cooked to perfection. The deserts were equally amazing. The place is quite tight and can be noisy but it is worth it.
(5)Karin V.
Moussaka me, Oleana! Your moussaka makes me long to be in Greece again...and is a definite MUST for anyone eating here!! Ok, now that I got that out of my system, here's the review... Located in Cambridge, Oleana takes a modern approach to Eastern Mediterranean cuisine, which results in sultry, delicious food. The restaurant has a warm and comfortable atmosphere, while the staff gives just the right amount of friendliness and attentiveness. [TIP: Get a table on their patio. It's a fantastic place to dine on a summer evening and has the charm of a friend's backyard, only bigger!] Octopus Salad with Kaparosalata & Fava Toast - beautifully prepared and oh-so-tender. The octopus was meaty yet had a delicate ocean flavor. The octopus was nicely balanced by the acidity of the capers and the firm fava beans on the crunchy toast. Sultan's Delight: Tamarind Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Purée with Pinenuts - the beef was good, but the eggplant purée stole the spotlight in this dish. It was so creamy and luscious...Mmmm! The braised beef was quite tender, falling apart with just a fork. I also enjoyed the subtle and elegant use of the tamarind, since it's usually more of an in-your-face flavor. Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake - the chicken was overcooked and dry, but the skin had a lovely crisp and lots of flavor from the za'atar. Eating the chicken with the Turkish cheese pancake helped give it some moistness and richness. This was the only dish I didn't like...I knew I should have ordered the Morrocan-spiced shrimp. Next time. Moussaka: Minced Lamb & Eggplant Pie with Whipped Fava - *sigh*, this dish brought me back to the Greek islands, and I could almost see its cobalt blue waters again. This moussaka was made perfectly, and it's served as a side dish so the portion is just right...looooooooved it! It was lighter and fluffier than traditional moussakas, but without sacrificing any of the flavors. The ground lamb was rich and savory with just a hint of spice. Seriously, this is *my* kind of comfort food and the best dish of the night. Frozen Meyer Lemon Soufflé with Pistachio Milk Glacé & Pistachio Katmer on Hibiscus Syrup - the perfect ending to a lovely meal. I appreciated how they revamped the traditional Mediterranean desserts, as well as the simple yet sophisticated presentation. The frozen soufflé had the texture of a frozen custard or semifreddo - it was creamy and sweet, but the meyer lemon added a bright and fresh element to the dessert. The pistachio katmer is similar to the flaky, rich baklava - a nice contrast to the soufflé. And the pistachio milk glacé (ice cream) tied everything together. DELISH! **For pics of each course, visit my blog listed under my profie. Enjoy!**
(4)Emily B.
Low key, meticulous, and a patio that is a must-do on a beautiful night. The sommelier and chef work together to create delicious dishes and combinations like I have never had before. A stop for anyone who prides themselves on knowing the restaurant scene in Boston.
(5)Des Esseintes I.
I am against grade inflation. Thus, when a restaurant gets 4 stars, you can trust that it's really good. This restaurant has many hallmarks of quality-- -The food is delicious -Service is excellent -Wine list a little annoying (many blends when I want straight up Cabernet) -Reasonably quiet A great choice is you are stuck in Boston!
(4)PT R.
So strangely enough, I had never been to Oleana in the summer before! I knew the menu changes seasonally, but I didn't realize what a stark difference there is from winter to summer. I MUCH prefer the fall/winter menu to the summer menu! For some reason, the summer entrees just tasted saltier to me and not as fresh. So as much as it hurts me to do this, I must admit that my experience was just average this time around. That said -- the appetizers and desserts seem to be the same from season to season and were delicious as ever. Baked Alaska all the way! And of course, the service remains superb.
(3)Nikolina E.
I've eaten the food. It's really good. You should eat at Oleana. More importantly, you need to eat the Baked Alaska for dessert. Easily one of the best desserts in the country. Please. Just do yourself a favor and fill your mouth with heaven for a few short moments.
(5)Frank D.
I really LOVE Oleana and I'm finally getting around to sharing my experiences there. I've only been 3 times, mostly because I find it too expensive to indulge in on a regular basis. Overall, everything here is full of flavor. The ingredients are fresh, the menu is interested and changes (not sure how often). The food is Mediterranean and not heavy (at least not what I've had). The ambiance is fantastic and I find myself completely enthralled by the meals I've eaten here thus far. If you feel like splurging, or if money is no object for you anyway, don't miss out on this place.
(5)Scott S.
So nice a visit So many fives already Will mine matter?
(5)pat m.
Oleana serves inspired, well prepared food from the best possible ingredients. The menu is well priced for the quality. The wine list is very food friendly, includes many organic and bio-dynamic wines, and is also reasonably priced. It's a great place for vegetarians. A vegetarian tasting menu was available the night I went - it was superb and plentiful (I could not finish it). The service is friendly, prompt, and helpful. The space is relaxing and casually elegant. I was there on a Tuesday evening when two men were quietly playing lovely world music. As I was visiting the Boston area with my family, we brought along our children (8&10). While I would not call Oleana family-friendly, they were accommodating of our children. I should note one of my children is a highly selective eater, but they are both used to eating in high-end restaurants and a very well behaved in nice restaurants (or so we are told). Given that I live in the San Francisco Bay Area, I'm spoiled by excellent vegetarian friendly restaurants. Now I have a spot to return to in the Boston area that meets expectations.
(5)Chris O.
This place is amazing. The chicken, was an explosion of flavors! Her spice combinations are inventive whimsical and life changing came with this cheese like creation that was fabulous a silky feta almost with a buttery crust. But the lamb. Tender. Succulent. The way a lamb should be slayed and served even those who oppose feeding on animal would approve of this dish because if humans could taste this good we'd have a case for cannabolism. To finish- the baked alaska. Hold judgement. How could such a dated dessert be appeasing? It was airy, pleasant, and surprisingly creative. Take a Macroon with cloud like texture that packs sweet aromatic flavors and voila: oleanas baked Alaska.
(5)Chris M.
If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all. Oleana uses fresh ingredients. That is all.
(2)d f.
Had my birthday dinner here. 5 stars! In the top 5 restaurants of Boston: (1) food was especially flavorful, (2) portions were good, (3) service was attentive and informed, (4) atmosphere and lighting was cohesive, balanced, and nice, and (5) awesome beers and wine selections. Thank you!
(5)Samantha S.
This year on Halloween, we treated ourselves to dinner here. I made the reservations several weeks in advance, and very glad I did. Everything was phenomenal, and as a vege / omni couple, my boyfriend and I were both very pleased with our dinners. The waitress was great, attentive but not too chatty. The atmosphere was fine, despite the set up of a long shared bench seat on one side of a row of tables and chairs on the other--I usually don't like that set up, feeling far away from your partner, but in this case the other tables were far enough away that we still had privacy. The food was so delicious. I had a greens salad which was good, until I found a hidden treasure of some nut crumble topped with cheese, which made it divine. I also had a feta red pepper starter, which was the best trick of my Halloween, since I hate red peppers, which were in this case, delicious! I can't wait to go back!
(5)Ani H.
Oleana is the rare mix of class, accessibility, affordability, delicious cuisine and neighborhood feel. Seriously, it is hard to pull all that off! People come here dressed up or in whatever. Young 20-ish couples and boisterous groups of friends sit right next to middle-aged married couples. What brings them all in is the warm, lively ambience, beautiful decor, and above all, CREATIVE Medi cuisine. Mediterranean is overdone these days but Oleana has a fresh, delicious spin on it. Take for instance the lamb the whipped feta and spinach falafel. Different, yet the authentic flavors, and above all: local and delicious. What a great restaurant concept, dishes, and attitude. I thoroughly enjoyed my meal experience here and will return ASAP.
(5)F A.
AMAZING food. Great for special occasions because it can be a bit pricey, but overall a wonderful meal and atmosphere. Very fresh and unique creations as well. Definitely the place to go to celebrate or with someone special.
(5)Stephanie S.
Good food albeit slightly overrated. Service, on the other hand, was terrible. Despite having arrived on time for our 8:30pm reservation we were made to wait 1/2 hour for a table. This was inexcusable given that there were empty tables in the restaurant! When I pointed this out to the owner I got a snotty response about needing to keep those tables open because they didn't want to keep guests with 9:00 reservations waiting. WHAT?? When we finally were seated at 9, the waittress very kindly said she would bring complimentary mezzes to the table as an apology for our long wait. This was very nice, but we noticed on our bill that she charged us for these 'complimentary' mezzes we didn't order, didn't want, and didn't even like!
(3)Shirley Y.
i feel bad. sooo bad. everyone loves this place. and i wanted to love it too. but i couldn't. maybe it was the amount of spices used in the food. the menu was certainly inventive. the food was beautifully presented. the decor and the outdoor patio is elegant. but something just did not agree with me...and i have not been back since.
(3)Pete P.
how can i give one of my favorite restaurants in town 2 stars? because they would not let my wife, who is in her early 30s drink with out her ID! i had mine, i am 34 so its not like i look 19 or anything. blasphemy i tell you. please gimme this "its the law" bullshit... we are certainly "of age" and it would have not been a problem if the cambridge police decided to raid oleana. this is not the BHP or harvard gardens for crying out loud. it's one of the nicest restaurants in the city where one in their 30s or 40s would expect to be able to have a glass of wine even if they forgot their ID. wow this enrages me. FU to the manager there. i should have asked anna in the kitchen. how was the food? amazing, divine, my favorite by far in all of cambridge. how is the wine list? incredible - especially since they have more organic and/or biodynamic wines than any other place i have been to. how is the staff? really nice and polite except the gutless bar tender that called the manager over because we didnt have both of our IDs. i dont think i will be going back for a while. not like they care, they are fully booked every night. but, for me, i am going to be heading to Craigie Street Bistrot for a while for my taste of decadent, rich food.
(2)Anna f.
Anna Sortun is the most creative and complete chef . She uses exotic seeds, nuts and fresh herbs . All this creates dishes like her crispy lemon flattened chicken (with z'aatar and Turkish cheese pancakes) and cod cassoulet (with walnut oil and garlicky escarole). In the winter there is a warm fireplace. The experience is sublime and it is not as expensive as you may think.
(5)Melissa M.
I was compelled to write a review after my dinner at Oleana last night. I have never experienced such great service and generosity from a restaurant and I dine out 4x/week! After a mix up with my entree, they apologized profusely, brought me out several treats including a full size entree special, for me to eat while waiting for my meal. In addition, they comped my entree. I was truly blown away by their service. It is appreciated and I will continue to be a loyal patron, as I have been!
(4)Rachel C.
I've been here for two or three meals and my food has been good, the atmosphere is lovely and the wines are nice. I did the vegetarian tasting menu once, and the next time I opted to put my own meal together. You save a few dollars on the tasting menu, but I think it is worth a few dollars to design your own meal. A nice place.
(4)Mohamed A.
Do they serve a tasting menu over there? Because thats what I would do if I visit again. Everything was fantastic. Too bad I live 3000 miles away.
(5)Blair P.
Truly one of the best meals I've had in Boston - I loved the mix and subtlety of the spicing, the innovative cross over from middle eastern to modern American and the adventurous wine list. When my party arrived with much anticipation, our table wasn't ready. As we were an 8:30 reservation, it was getting late when we finally sat down at almost 9 but our attentive host delivered some comliamentary dips to make up for our wait. Much appreciated! The rare Lebanese cabernet blend was a reat treat - 1992 vintage (really should have been decanted!) - It just got better and better during the dinner. We loved the veggie pancakes with hallooumi and braised ridiccio and the tuna kibbeh. All the mains were excellent - my pork dish - essentially meatballs with lots of garlic and a side of potatoes, leeks and chanterelle mushrooms, was real winter fare. Others in my party had both of the fish dishes and the lamb. We were all very happy and loved the flavours. My only complaint was the Kasseri cheese melted over my flavourful side vegetables - the dish was so large and rich that it didn't need cheese on top, which weighed it down and left me eating only half. We all tasted dessert and it was unusual and delicious - for me the salted butter ice cream with pumpkin jam crêpe & pumpkin seed granola was the stand out. Wow! I'd come back again and again to try the rest of the menu and hope I get the chance. Boston is a lucky city to have Ana Sortun creating such tastes.
(5)Leon B.
I have been to Oleana twice. The first time I ordered a special, a pasta dish with shrimp and mango and other yummy things, and it was pretty good (though I had made something very similar at home the week before which was just was good). I tried to get a reservation, but they said they were booked 2 weeks in advance, but I could show up and try for outdoor seating, which I did (and was immediately successful). Again, the first visit went ok, probably 4 stars. The second time I went (again, no reservation) we sat inside at a tiny tiny table in the middle of the room, with people squeezing by us all the time. Everything I tried this time was meh...very unimpressive. The weird-pizza type appetizer with all sorts of exotic stuff on top had zero taste, and was overly chewy. My entree was forgettable. I ordered the lamb with Turkish spices, and received what was in fact a gyro, just dissected and arranged on my plate. The menu said "lamb with spices", not "ground lamb made into strips", yet what I received was in fact ground lamb made into strips, gyro-style. The fancy description of greens and sauce and such ended up meaning some pita, tzasiki, and typical gyro-filling on the side. The meal my mother ordered was even worse. Overcooked fish mush cooked in paper, with no taste, horrible texture, pretty unexciting. This second experience at Oleana makes me think that the first experience was a fluke, and I probably don't need to go here again...
(3)Erik K.
The best restaurant in the Boston area, with inventive Middle eastern food that is light and satisfying. There are always great appetizers and interesting wine selections. The service is outstanding.
(5)David H.
I've eaten at Oleana over twenty times and the food is always great. The food has Turkish accent and is very unique to other restaurants. The atmosphere is subdued artsy; small tables; small bar with about six stools; nice garden in the summer. If you are a vegetarian you'll find ample to chose from. The service is friendly and casual and its good for casual dining. The wine list includes organic and biodynamic wines which are very good. You need to make a reservation if plan to go pretty much any day of the week.
(5)Brian M.
So, every now and then I tear myself away from the dive bars and PBR and go somewhere Nice, with nice people. So it was the other night, I went and checked out Oleana. And it is. Nice. The food was Nice. Our waiter was Nice (and efficient). The ambience and decor are Nice. Overall it was a Nice experience. The food was everything it should have been, although the dessert, Sicilian Cremolata, teetered on the edge of blandness. I can't quite give it the five stars though, cos on some fundamental level it just didn't have that 'wow' factor.
(4)Richard S.
Go when the weather's nice and sit out back and just drink it in. The grapes and other goodies growing off the fence and the live guitarist (or whatever musical variant is there that night) will take you far from the gritty world of triple deckers and street noise. And that's before the food comes. Ana Sortun works some genuine magic in that kitchen. Go get some of it.
(4)Ellie P.
It's the inventive flavor combinations and dining in the charming backyard garden that keep me coming back year after year for special occasions.
(5)Courtney C.
The vegetarian tasting menu is the best way to go here. You will not miss any of the tastes of the kitchen. So good. I would stay away from the entrees and create your own tasting menu from the small plates if you are a meat eater. The sultan's delight is the best! And the Falafel. The service is wonderful.
(5)Melissa B.
Oleana is one of the few restaurants in Boston that absolutely never disappoints. Food is fabulous and consistently so. As a tried and true carnivore, I've even been delighted with the vegetarian tasting menu. You still see Ana in the kitchen, too, that's cool. Don't miss the Egyptian carrot puree amuse, the fried mussels with Turkish Tarator, and oh my I had the most ridiculously fabulous pork chop of my life there, never mind the monkfish. Dessert is meant to be fab, too, but I'm always too full.
(5)Alyson L.
This restaurant was unbelievable. The food was unique and absolutely delicious. I ate outside and it was like being in a backyard. I didn't feel like I was in the city at all. There are trees and live music. Really out of this world experience!
(5)Brandon L.
This place is not Turkish/Greek/....Med but it's an American interpretation of Med cooking. It's fusion cooking at best and the chef does whatever she wants to...and in my opinion does not succeed most of the time but she gets a bright star for trying since most restaurants in Boston serve just about the same food. So Oleana gets an A for effort and C for taste and B overall since it's truly one of the original places in Boston/Cambridge area. You're more likely to be impressed if you didn't know any better, never travelled to Middle East and North Africa but...this is as good as it gets without an airplane ticket for American taste. If you're looking for a more authentic Greek place try Desfina's in the neighbourhood.
(3)Liza H.
Excellent place winter or summer. Cozy interior, nifty bar and wonderful garden in summer. East Mediterranean fare served here. Appetizers: Sultans Delight: beef and apricot, traditional Turkish recipe is lovely. I adore the grilled Haloumi cheese in ouzo, dont be afraid to try this at home either. The chicken under a brick is juicy and delightful. And desserts....if I could be a dessert, I would wish to be their Baked Alaska with passion fruit coulis. I shiver just thinking about it!
(4)Deepa C.
i wont be saying anything that hasn't ben said before, but am putting my 2 cents in anyway:) from reading the reveiws, it looks like oleana has good nights and off nights, and luckily, we hit it on a good night. the only reservation i could get on a sunday was for 5:30 (when the place opens), so it was nice and quiet when our meal started. by the time we were into our meal, the place had filled up but never got too loud, which was also good. i liked the spacing of the tables, where it was full but you weren't in anyone's lap. the service was very good, even though our second appetizer came in late and we had to ask for it twice. the bread and water kept coming and everyone had smiles. the food was superb. whipped feta (so good - who knew!), spicy fried mussels and shrimp in filo dough to start. two of us had the duck special (i usually dont like duck, but all crispy with pears and flour gnocci was a perfect way to serve it). the lamb and steak got good reviews as well. dessert was rich but the portions were small. chocolate hazelnut baklava and chestnut souffle. so good. and the coffee lovers at the table wiere impressed with the turkish coffee, which came in a huge french press. we left satisfied but not stuffed and happy. i would DEF reccomend this place to anyone who likes to try new things or just wants funky med/turkish food with a twist.
(5)Chris Y.
I went here a while back with my girlfriend with high expectations, and, for the most part, they were met. Intriguing, new flavors prepared by a chef who knows how to use them. We had the vegtarian tasting menu. I wish I could tell you what each course was, but sadly the people bringing the food rattled off the ingredients in mumbled voices and just walked away. Now, as a restaurant worker myself, I love our friends from south-of-the-border; they are hard workers, and without them the restaurant industry would collapse, but, if their language skills aren't there, they shouldn't be running food in a nice restaurant, especially given that there are many esoteric spices and preparations used. Also, on several occasion, tried to clear our plates while we were clearly still eating, the waiter never offered help with the wine list, never once checked to see how things were, and manhandled the plates and silverware loudly and awkwardly. All he did was take our order, open the wine, and drop the check. He was too busy chatting at the bar right next to us. The one service exception was dessert, when the waitress eloquently and lucidly described what we had in front of us (Some sort of bread soaked in honey that was cloyingly sweet). I would still recommend this place to anyone who isn't deterred by bad service, but I was appalled by the lack of attention to detail. Very nice aesthetics, particularly the porch, great wine list, the tasting menu is a bargain ($42!), and perfect for a classy first date or an anniversary. Also, we sat in the very corner by the wine racks, and they have to occasionally reach behind the table to get bottles.....a little strange, but bearable.
(4)Abigail D.
I've been here twice - once with someone who decided to treat us both to the tasting menu, and asked for the chef to make whatever he wanted. Nothing disappointed. My only complaint is that I walk past Oleana on my way home from work, and I always want to go in for dinner (sadly, my wallet can't handle that).
(5)Vivek S.
Dinner at Oleana was a fantastic experience. I had made a reservation through opentable and made a note that it was my wife's B'Day and we were vegetarians. The maître d' took us to our table and wished my wife a Happy B'Day... We are both vegetarians and after reading some reviews on Yelp, I decided to not order two vegetarian tasting entrees. We picked the Goat cheese fritter and Parsnip hummus from the appetizers and ordered one vegetarian tasting entree. The waitress told us that they could serve us with two dishes at once so that we'd enjoy things rather than overcrowding our table. The olives with zatar and spicy feta cheese spread was a nice way to start...wish the olives were pitted though. The goat cheese fritter was perfect and the carrot soup that accompanied it was delicious...and the parsnip hummus was very creative and tasty. We also had the Prosecco which I thought went will with everything we had. We then had the Spinach falafel and romaine, beet salad with lebneh. The falafel was moist and delicious...definitely not dry like one's that are re fried. The salad was okay but the almond crusted lebneh was fantastic. It was followed by spicy fideos and polenta topped with mushroom caponata. While the fideos which is just like vermicelli (we make it often at home) was not a huge hit, the polenta was. The polenta was perfectly done and had a nice crust to it..no mushy at all and the touch of honey enhanced it. The dessert was a pistachio mascarpone ice cream on shredded filo and candied blood orange. The dessert had a cute lil' candle on it...so my wife was flattered! It's possibly one of the best dinners we've had in a while and the service was outstanding. It's been duly added to "My Favorites" list!!
(5)Katy T.
I came here with my fiancee, my daughter and one of her friends. Little did we know, but her friend was not an adventurous eater at all. I was groaning inside, wondering if we were going to have a miserable time, but Anna Sortun's staff were FANTASTIC. They were able to explain the food to her, and she was very willing to try it! We all had marvelous food. My only complaints are that the marvelous empanada that I had is going off the menu ( It was so amazing and the flavors were perfect together. I guess that I'm going to have to try the chicken or the beef next time.) And, the table we had, although near the fireplace, was freaking freezing. Best to call for a reservation and ask for a table in a warm spot not close to the door. It's a very small restaurant.
(5)Emily M.
The food is delicious. My Mom and I both got the vegetarian tasting menu but still recieved different courses. It was a lot of food. Overall good but not worth the price.
(3)Bridget D.
Hi Oleana! I have been thinking about you for a while since my best friend Yelp mentioned you to me. I think you really have a lot to offer me. I have to admit, I go on bostonchefs.com to look at your pictures. It makes me feel a little naughty sometimes when I stare at your lusciousness while I am supposed to be working. I can't help myself. You are really cute. I am soooo glad that we finally got to meet last night. Since my sister Kry moved to the east side, I knew it was the perfect opportunity for our paths to cross O. Do you mind if I call you "O"? I brought her to meet you as well because I felt like you two would get along and I wanted to show you off. You made a great first impression. We arrived precisely when I told you we would. I wasn't nervous at all. I was excited to finally experience you. I caught your welcoming gaze from across the street and when we approached, your pleasant host offered us our choice of indoor or outdoor seating for the evening ahead of us. Although it was a lovely night and I knew you would look enchanting under a starry sky, I chose to remain in your inner sanctum because it is closest to your heart. You are warm and comforting, cozy but not too cramped. The air was filled with your enchanting aroma. I thought your outfit looked great on you with the clean lines, subtle tones and minimal glitz to allow your natural beauty to shine. The kind server who greeted it us at our table described you as "Arabesque Mediterranean." So exotic! My sister and I are vegetarians and your server was quite accomodating. He pointed out all of your scrumptious offerings and that you would even create an entire vegetarian plate just for us. I wanted all you had to offer, but as this was our first time, I didn't want to appear to eager. A bread basket with squares of tasty breads dusted with za'atar and oil were brought to us and I was pleased to have this nibble as my hunger for your plates was growing. We selected a few items to share (my sister told me that she had snuck in a quick ice cream stop just a bit before I met with her. I can't blame her, the sweet tooth runs in the family.) Your spinach falafel and fried haloumi cheese were our appetizers of choice. The falafel arrived not too long after our order was placed and instantly my senses tingled. Beautifully displayed on a wooden board were three perfectly round orbs drizzled with tahini and placed lovingly on top of a thin lavash bread smothered in magenta colored beets and lush curly cress greens. Two slices of pickled green tomatoes flavored with a hint of aromatic spices peeked out at me and I brought one to my lips to savor. We were instructed to slice through the lavash and roll it up and I was eager to oblige. As I rolled up my first spinach orb, I knew that the moment would be memorable. I brought the package to my mouth and the flavors mingled on my tongue. The sweet beets, the nutty tahini, the soft texture of your orbs... Is this love? Next came your fried haloumi cheese and as a liquid was poured over it and flame was applied, I knew you were out to impress me. Topped with a green tomato jam and accompanied by a squash blossom stuffed with walnuts and sesame, the haloumi cheese squeaked in my mouth as I savored the texture of the cheese and the sweetness of the jam. But O, I must admit, the taste of the flammable liquid remained on the haloumi and detracted from my complete enjoyment. Finally, we selected the vegetarian plate with your choice of offerings. After a bit of a wait ( I understood, beauty and art take time), a plate was presented before us with an impressive array of creative and enticing elements. Fried feta, turkish spiced rice, leek salad, oven roasted potatoes, black kale, heirloom tomato filled with labne... Each flavor was unique and satisfying. Thank you O. I must say, our first encounter was all I could have hoped for. I want to see you again, and give you the full five stars that I know you deserve. I hold back for now just so you will remember me and lure me once more into your heart. I didn't get to try your sweets to cap off the night, but I know they will be delectable. Until then, B
(4)Christina C.
I went here this past weekend with a group of friends and everything was amazing. The service was fantastic, our waiter was very friendly and knowledgeable. We ordered a bunch of plates and shared everything. We had them space out the food and everything was timed perfectly so we weren't overwhelmed. I will give you my favorites and least favorites ( just keep in mind my least favorites were still good!) The Spinach Falafel, by far, best falafel I have ever had!! We also had two of the special mezze's, Fried clams w/ artichokes and garlic aioli and a Shrimp Fritatta. Both of these were delicious. And for a main dish we split the Flattened lemon chicken over a cheese pancake. Amazing! My least favorite were the Spicy Fideos. It just wasn't my kind of dish, although other people at the table loved it. We also had the Poached Pear and Pot de Creme for dessert. Both were fantastic and light, which was nice after eating a big meal. I would highly recommend Oleana!
(5)L R.
great presentation. don't really like this genre of food, but I'd go here again.
(4)Jessica G.
Absolutely adore Oleana. The food is out of this world and so fresh and made with locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Their wine and beer selections are great. The service is friendly and incredibly helpful. Try the vegetarian tasting menu even if you're not vegetarian. The food is so flavorful and each bite is an awesome experience. The pret a manger options are really great too, especially the red pepper with feta and the bean pate with string cheese. It's on the pricey side, but leaves nothing to be desired.
(5)Steve N.
the four stars are just for their dessert menu. i've eaten a bunch of times here and while very impressed, it's the dessert offerings that do it for me. the bread pudding on the winter menu is to die for, i only wish they offered it year round. the bar side can get crazy busy but there's a tall two top that's sweet if you can snag it.
(4)erin e.
This five-star rating is my summer rating, due mostly to the absolutely beautiful patio in the back. I'd take away one star for the winter time (the indoor seating is not nearly as beautiful), but this is still a delicious place for a date or even a meal with your adventurously-palated parents. Wine list is extensive and as a result there are some pretty decent wines at affordable prices. Eat on the patio. You simply must. It's beautiful.
(5)liam f.
Before I get attached , see my reasoning. Food--good service-very good Price--absolutely too high The price does not fit the food. A beef brisket and only be soo good--so how can you charge $32 . I feel the price should be between 1/2 and 1/3 as much as it is. To spend over a hundred dollars for some pork medallions and beef brsket is ridiculous. Therefore--my conclusion is "OVERRATED", but the food and service was good. the one star is to off-set all the overraters that get warm and fuzzy from eating ethnic food and paying way to much because it makes them feel ecclectic.
(1)Emily O.
I found out about this place through a feature in the Boston Sunday Globe - the best restaurants for vegetarians in Boston. They offer a $40/person, five course plus dessert vegetarian tasting menu. You feel like a vegetarian king/queen! Each person gets a different dish (except for a course or two that you share) to sample and share if you're generous. One particular feta cheese/red pepper spread was hard to give up even a drop of. The outdoor patio is lovely and my only complaint were the bug bites I found later that night. The dessert was tremendous, the wine menu extensive and the servers weren't pretentious (though the food is, thankfully). For a fine dinner, I wouldn't go anywhere else.
(5)Alison E.
definitely one of the best restaurants i've been to in boston. we first ordered a sampler of the small starters which i highly recommend doing...lots of different spices and textures. the beef short rib was meat-candy. the patio was gorgeous on a balmy summer night. and, i'm not sure if they treat everyone like royalty but that's how we were treated. the only drawback was that our waitress, though very sweet and full of information about the food was a bit flaky. i'll let it slide though because it was a very special dinner to remember. when i got home, i ordered their cook book on-line. we didn't get to try the bakery this time but we'll be back!
(5)Felipe G.
Olenea is definitely one of my favorite places to eat in Cambridge/Boston. The Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean flavors in the dishes are simply amazing. Every-time I've been here I've had the vegetarian tasting degustation and it has always been delicious. One thing that is great if you go as a couple and both get the vegetarian tasting menu they will alternate some courses so you get almost double the flavors and get to eat and share a wider variety of food. My only bad word to say is that the space can be cramp. I have only dined during the winter and never during the summer when the patio would be open. I would describe the place as cozy and the tables are kind of cramped so just hope you don't have to listen to some inane or unusual conversations from your neighbors. A good wine list and knowledge staff will take good care of you, and vegetarians will have much to be excited about eating here. You have to try the falafel, it is amazing!
(5)Seafoodie R.
Excellent but pricey, Mediterranean influenced Turkish, great atmosphere. The deviled eggs with Tuna and black olives were spectacular, could have eaten 100 of em' The flattened lemon chicken is excellent, so was the skirt steak. Try this place out if you'd like to stray from the beaten path, very different flavors than any other place in Boston/Cambridge.
(4)Aleta R.
This is hands down one of the best dining experiences in the Boston area. The food is all organic ingredients and chef ana sortun has carefully blended the spices in all of her recipes to creat sinfully delicious flavors. It is perfect if you are looking to treat yourself to exotic food and a soft warm atmosphere. The service is also excellent. In the summer, the outdoor patio is perfecto, and on chilly nights they even have heat lanterns to keep it comfortable. Can you tell I love it here :)
(5)Roberto C.
I was deeply depressed when Daddy-Os closed several years ago, but this little seedling that sprouted into Oleana is phenomenal. The food is spectacular, wine list extensive & you cannot beat the outdoor dining in the summertime (beware: first come first serve outdoors). You cannot get a better quality meal/food for the price... the deviled eggs w/tuna are a delight - save some room for the baked alaska as well. One word, "awesome".
(5)Alex Z.
Arguably my favorite restaurant (though I think Garden at the Cellar wins out) . Consistently good with rare disappointments. I spend over $50,000 a year on meals and entertainment, sampling the best restaurants all over the world, and this simple Cambridge restaurants is still, definitely in my top 5 Worldwide. Bravo Anna, Gary, Cassie, and everyone else! You and your staff, kept the magic going this long....we're grateful and impressed!
(5)Kai L.
very good meals, a bit on the pricy side. great atmosphere, especially if you can get the outdoor seating. the food is delicious (sorry, can't remember exactly what i ate), but we had appetizer, entrees, as well as desserts. All of them were good. Haven't had traditional Turkish food, don't know how it measures up to its original roots, but the dishes are mostly delicious regardless of the roots.
(4)Lynda M.
Always have a good experience here, food is unique and staff very helpful. I love the outdoor heated patio!
(5)Rally P.
This is an outstanding, high end restaurant just outside of Inman Square. The food is amazing as are the desserts. It's a small place and it fills up so you'll want to make reservations. It's also pretty expensive, but you are certainly paying for what you get. It's the kind of place I'll go to for special occasions.
(5)Andres M.
I went there about two years ago. Maybe it was not a good restaurant back then. The food was average. the ratio of flavor to price was definitely too low. I might go back to see if I can experience what the other reviewers are talking about.
(3)Tim B.
We love Oleana. The vegetarian tasting menu is probably our favorite meal, but the brisket is also delicious, and the sultan's delight is an amazing appetizer. We love the unique tastes in the food here, it's a great place to get something unusual. The menu always has an item or two that needs explanation, and the waitstaff is always very knowledgeable. The restaurant setting is great for dates or a small group of friends. The outdoor seating is really nice as well. We'd go here all the time if we could!
(5)Cary L.
Completely awesome. A cozy yet lively place...that isn't pretentious. Great for a special occasion. The food is inspiring. Vegetarian tasting menu is so delicious, you might cry. Their desserts are really special.
(5)Kate S.
Really a FANTASTIC restaurant. I highly recommend the vegetarian dishes (particularly the vegetarian tasting menu if you can afford it) - they will blow you away. My only word of caution is that they like to keep the doors to their beautiful patio open well into fall when (in my opinion) it is a tad too chilly. You may want to dress in layers or request a seat by the fireplace if you get cold easily.
(5)Ellen B.
Oleana is one of my favorite special occasion restaurants..the tables are a little close but the food/wine/sangria/specialty drinks are ALL SO AMAZING. The menu remains pretty consistent but that's great because all of the items are unbelievable. You really can't go wrong. And make sure to save room for dessert and not eat too much bread (even though the bread is ALSO amazing)...the baked alaska is to die for.
(5)G G.
I agree with the majority..this place is awesome. The food and service was great. I learned that I don't like turkish coffee.
(5)bella c.
this place lives up to its reputation! the food was amazing, i had the Heirloom Tomato Kibbeh with Heirloom Tomato Dolma & Labne, which was out of this world bursting with flavor! and for my main dish Halibut in Vine Leaf with Pinenuts, Currants, Nasturtium Butter, Green Beans & Rice Cake , which again was delicious, i couldn't finish my entree the portion of fish was on the larger size. definitely recommend checking this place out!
(5)Sarah B.
One of my very favorite restaurants in Boston (and this is coming from someone who eats out in Boston A LOT)! My husband and I went here for the first time for my birthday and we had a wonderful time. To drink, I ordered a sangria (it was good, but it was the least memorable part of the meal) and my husband ordered a beer. We decided to spring for two mezze AND two appetizers, since it was a special occasion. For the mezze, we ordered two specials they had that night: burrata stuffed with herbs and some kind of fritters (can't remember what they were now). Both were out-of-this-world! For the main course, I ordered the monkfish in a lentil curry, which is probably one of the best dishes (if not the best dish) I've had in my life. The fish was excellent, the sauce was flavorful without being overpowering, and the lentils and veggies were fresh and tasty. My husband order the saffron pork with polenta, which was also delicious. Neither of us could decide which dish we liked better. The presentation of all four dishes was inventive and pleasing. Our waiter was attentive and helpful as well. All in all, a wonderful birthday and a wonderful restaurant!
(5)Cheri S.
Wow. I am forever indebted to the friend who recommended this restaurant to me when she heard I'd be visiting Boston. Six of us went together, with three of us ordering the Vegetarian Tasting option and the other three ordering a la carte, and we all shared. Even things that sounded ordinary tasted extraordinary -- I mean, who would have thought you could improve on classic hummus? We loved the kibbeh, the spiced feta, and the spinach falafel especially, but it's hard to pick a standout when everything is a star. The flavors are beautifully balanced and absolutely nothing detracts from the overall effect of each dish -- the main ingredients, the seasonings, the presentation, all combine for amazing results. Three couples went in, and three happy couples came out, each carrying the chef's cookbook, Spices. Great recipes and beautifully written -- spent the rest of the vacation reading that instead of my novel!
(5)HJ U.
My favorite restaurant in Boston! A few things to add to the other glowing reviews: I recommend the white sangria when available, the baked alaska for dessert, and if you're chilly while sitting on the patio, they have lovely fleece blankets to keep you warm! I love this place.
(5)Anna S.
Oleana has great food, a fine dining atmosphere and attentive staff. However if you are looking for variety, comfort and price, this may not be your first choice. While the food is absolutely cooked to perfection, the restaurant menu offers little to pick from. The prices are mighty high, so only come here if a) your pockets are loaded or b) you have a very fancy occasion. But it is worth a try is you want to go out for a fancy, nice dinner.
(4)Anonymous P.
Had one average meal here, one great one. Seems like the great meal is more representative. Not exactly exotic, but more interesting than your average upscale restaurant.
(5)Heather B.
Sadly, I hit this place on a bad night. From what I hear from my friends and other Yelpers, it was a fluke. My fish was undercooked (it was not the type of fish best served undercooked...), my service was terrible and for me it was a huge disappointment. I might try it again as it has been over a year and I still hear great things. I liked Ana Sortun when she was at Casablanca and I know she is a good chef.
(2)Peter P.
Jumping on the bandwagon with the good reviews.....nothing to say that wasn't said before me. If I wanted to marry the princess of monaco and needed a place to take her mom to impress her, it would be here. Everything was WAY above what I expected. The steak came to me and I said "this is tiny....how am I going to get full off this" I was wrong, it filled me up, and left me VERY satisfied. This was without a doubt one of the best meals of my life!
(5)Lindsey B.
It has all been said before, but I rarely find a restaurant that has it all from beginning to (almost end..too full for dessert this time). Unfortunately, we waited almost 25 minutes past our reservation to be seated, but the hostess was very apologetic and sent over complimentary tastes to begin our meal. We got to try the deviled eggs, buttered hummus, whipped feta, and a carrot spread. All very good. Then we got the falafel for an appetizer and everyone was extremely impressed. My fiance ate a lot of it in Israel and enjoyed every bite. I got the swordfish and it was great, although I was a bit jealous of another diner's sea bass in a stew that was wonderful. We had two great and reasonably priced bottles of wine and enjoyed immensely! I am also excited to go back in the warmer weather...
(5)charles m.
Among my favorite restaurants in the greater Boston area, Oleana has been a choice spot for dates and family dinners for years. The Ouzo-flambe Haloumi cheese is a don't-miss appetizer, and following it up with a parmesean-encrusted pork chop washed down with a Syrah from their extensive wine list will be nothing short of exquisite. If you actually have room for dessert, ha ha ha, try them all. In fact, there are so many options worth trying that I encourage you to visit Oleana with a large, adventurous party, such that you might all order something different and share.
(5)Kim D.
holy sh*(&(*&t! this place was out of control. can't believe it took me so long to finally make it to oleana. went on a whim on a friday night after work. figured there was no way we were getting in but thought we might as well give it a try...luckily there were two seats at the bar. the bartender was super friendly and helpful...she was very patient with us and answered all our questions about the menu. i had the ricotta and bread dumplings for app. omg, these were incredible. melt in your mouth good...super rich but i still wanted a million more. this was an excellent recommendation from the bartender. for my main i had the seared tuna with pomegranate salad and coconut rice wrapped in a collard green. now that was a little bundle of joy. it was pretty much one of the best entrees i've ever had in my entire life. and the dessert...ridiculous. i've never had a dessert where you really notice not only the flavors but the textures and temperatures. it was out of this world. french macaroon w/ satsuma oranges and cocoa sherbert. my explanation wouldn't give this masterpiece any justice. incredible. i will be DEFINITELY be back. this was a wonderful, romantic restaurant that is worth every penny for a special occasion meal. go there.
(5)J S.
fantastic. truly works of art. I heard good things about this place, and have to say it is the first place in cambridge that has lived up to its reputation in my mind. It's not overpriced in my mind for such creative and flavorful food. You hear words like complex and complementing on cooking shows, but I never had it until oleana, and it wasn't even a dish over about 25$.
(5)Nina W.
My ALL time favorite restaurant, and my experiences there keep getting better and better because we have gotten to be good friends with the amazing staff and owner, Ana Sortun. Its just delicious, eclectic food...and the best part is that it is classy, reasonable, and the portions are generous. Also voted number one for Al Fresco dining. A table outside is perfect in the summer - not a fly in sight. If you like Lebanese wine, Oleana is the only place I know of that carries the award winning Chateau Musar. Everything on the menu is delicious, so go ahead and don't think twice. My only suggestion for people is this: Consider that the deer entree is rather gamy tasting...I am a total meat lover, but the natural flavor that comes with deer did not sit well with me. And please order the Baked Alaska - its too good, especially if you have had an aching sweet tooth in a while. Indulge and think of me!
(5)Emily L.
I have been to Oleana 3 times - and I usually would MUCH rather try somewhere new than go back to an "old" place. But Oleana is just too good! I've always gone with pretty big groups that like to share, so I've managed to have just about all the appetizers and we usually order most of the entrees (which have been different each time). I have never eaten something there that I haven't loved. The Sultan's Delight is TO DIE FOR and the falafel is out-of-this-world (I usually don't really like falafel - a little too sawdust-y for me). My dad ordered the special last night, which was a rib-eye that was hands-down the best thing on the table. But it feels a little silly to highlight things because everything I've ever had there is delicious! Plus it's got a great wine list, yummy desserts, and a lovely little patio. Definitely one of my favorite restaurants in Boston (maybe, possibly the favorite??)
(5)Joanna S.
food: i've only been here for desserts and they're amazing. i highly recommend the baked alaska ambiance: romantic. a great date place. it's small - you should make a reservation. price: on the pricey side but the food is definitely worth it
(4)Sarah S.
echoing many reviews here...fantastic. i made a reservation for two for an early dinner and was able to get a table in the Gorgeous outdoor area. our waiter was just the right amount of attentive and letting me and my friend have a pleasant conversation. the meal was fantastic...my lamb was beautifully medium rare but the highlight of the meal was the falaffle appetizer (deep complex layered flavors...just amazing. the woman who served it to us suggested how to eat it and i'm glad she did! it's sort of deconstructed on the plate and she suggested how to put it together) and the baked alaska dessert. *SO GOOD*. the passion fruit syrup around the plate really made it stand out. the other dessert we shared wasn't really anything to write home about (the chocolate was very good but the sesame brittle and creme pudding type stuff was really bland compared to the baked alaska) but the atmosphere was lovely, service was great, and it was totally worth every penny.
(4)Elena Z.
One of the best and unknown places in Boston - the owner is the chef and she fuses French with Turkish, never failing to deliver a perfect blend of flavors and textures. And, it's right down the street from my place!
(5)Tiff C.
TASTY! This chef is definitely not afraid to use those spices. To me it's always a good sign when the restaurant gives you yummy bread to start. We love variety so MW and I each ordered 2 vegetarian tasting menus and EC decided on a chicken dish. Tasting menu included 5 tapas-style dishes and dessert. The first two dishes were quite varied. The Chopped Romaine Salad with Celery Root, Homemade Yogurt, Walnuts & Herbs - very refreshing and this was my favorite. Warm Olives with Summer Savory & Sesame Seeds - EC and MW were devouring the spicy cheese with bread. Warm Buttered Hummus with Basturma & Tomato - appetizing and great with bread. Too bad I had laryngitis but I could still taste the complex flavors. The other dishes were very loaded with exotic spices and the third & fourth dishes were cheese concoctions. Not a real fan of these but maybe I was getting full. Dessert was a homemade ice cream Nougat Glace with Pistachio Kadayif & Blood Orange Granite that tasted like candy and we had a Chocolate Hazelnut Baklava, Pear Caramel & Muhulabeya. EC digested with a tangy apple tea. It was an adventure, but I would say it's definitely a must try! About a 15 minute drive from Newbury St. area. Service was excellent! Decor was nice - could be a little less dark inside. I would totally come here again.
(4)mister f.
mmm. mmm. so good we wanted the cookbook (and our friends got it for us!). outside seating is key on a sumer day. my wife liked the quail. i liked the flat bread. the eggplant was divinely buttery. the only big miss was the vegetable crudite. i'd go back here in a heartbeat.
(4)Amy C.
my favorite place to eat in Boston.
(5)steve p.
One of my favorite restaurants in the area. The food at Oleana is always amazing. Very cozy indoors space and a beautiful backyard dining area when the weather is nice.
(5)Ashley M.
my parents took me here for my birthday and i just loved the food and the outdoor patio. no one seems to have mentioned that they don't take reservations for the patio. you need to show up early (i think the open at 5pm) and wait.
(5)Kristie P.
spending your 30th birthday in braintree, ma for work is not the best thing to have happen to you. however, my week in braintree was made brighter by eating at oleana on the night of my birthday. i hade the veggie tasting menu and it was wonderful. the menu changes nightly so i won't bother with the details. i will say everything was very fresh and it was nice not eating at a crappy chain restaurant for one night of my work trip (please if anyone knows any good places to eat near or around braintree tell me!). i can comment on the pumpkin falafel, an extra appetizer i ordered, which was perfect. the falafel melted in my mouth and the pumpkin puree-the falafel were placed on-reminded me that even though i was spending my week in braintree, at least i was getting to enjoy some real fall weather on the east coast.
(4)Rico B.
I read a lot of review about Oleana before deciding to go there for my girlfriend's birthday. People say the place has its on and off days. Sadly, I probably come on an off day. We got the table by the bar, with high chair and small table. (My girlfriend is vertically challenged, so its not a comfortable setting). Servers are not very attentive, often just pick up plates without any word. I called in for reservation before and tell them if they can do something since its my girlfriend's birthday. They say they will put a dessert with candles on it. Nope. Didn't happen either. Foods are good though, but not really impressive. The only saving grace was the baked alaska. The only romantic part of the restaurant was the patio, but they don't accept reservation. Oh, and its a very casual place. I would wear jeans and blend in with the crowd better.
(3)Joey M.
I had pretty high expectations for Oleana and they were met for the most part. The za'tar on the warm olives was nice and I loved the spice served with the spicy carrot puree, which was delicious. I also got the warm buttered hummus (without the basturma), which was decent but nothing impressive. The bread they serve with the pret a mangers was kind of just average, crappy white bread. The best thing of the night was the spinach falafels. It was attractively presented on a very thin flat bread with an interesting pink beet sauce. It was much chunkier than most falafels, but in a good way. I would come here just for that again. I had a bite of the ricotto and bread dumpling and they were also very good, but very rich. The spicy fideos were dissapointing, it was just think spaghetti noodles in a strange but tasteless sauce with like 4 chickpeas and a gross orange juice falvored aioli. I didn't think we ordered that much since we just ordered all appetizer portions but it was very filling. I would've liked to try the almond cremolata. We also had white wine sangria and a sake martini which were both good. The outside patio is nice but I wish they played more music. I would definately come here again sometime.
(4)Eli G.
Even though i went here a year and a half ago, seeing the featured review today inspired me to write about my bad experience. It was my second date with my now long term girlfriend and we were still getting to know each other. We decided to goto Oleana, because one of my old friends used to work here, unfortunately he was not working on the night in question and our waitress had a really terrible attitude. I really hate when restaurant staff make the assumption that because people look young they know nothing about food and will probably tip badly. To add to the problem, the wine we ordered was bad, like un-drinkable bad and after we tasted it and sent it back she tried to give us a lecture on wine, which only aggravated us more. Needless to say, I don't even remember the food because I was so angry about the situation. I should probably get over it and try Oleana again since most Yelpers love it here. I will update if I return.
(2)Akilesh A.
Gourmet mediterranean food in an intimate atmosphere with attentive service. I have only a couple of caveats. One, the food here really is gourmet in the half-way pejorative sense. Exciting, interesting taste combinations, and tasty, but not the kind of food I want to eat day in, day out. Two, I thought the food could use a little salt. Perhaps that was deliberate, but I am not the kind of person who usually craves salt, and the flavors seemed to lack the necessary kick. I am a vegetarian, and I ordered the vegetarian tasting menu. It was five courses + dessert. Plenty. The first course was bread with a pungent whipped orange-colored feta, and warm olives on the side that melted in your mouth (though not, unfortunately, the pits). The second course was a refreshing salad with a sauce made of yogurt and a certain middle eastern chile whose name evades me. The third course was a striking falafel dish covered with tahini, sitting on a bed of red vegetable itself drenched in tzatsiki, paired with some greens and pickled vegetable, all lying on a bed of lavash bread. Tender, warm, cold -- this dish had it all. Then there was a cheese bread dish served with a long slender variety of chile and an eggplant cut to a cube and cooked almost to a sugary-bitter, chewy consistency. Finally there was a turnip puree dish with escarole and a dressing. The dressing was a little too acrid for my taste, though this was clearly an intentional flavor to offset the sweetness of the local turnip used for the puree. Finally, dessert was a toffee pudding with candied kumquart. The pudding was mild and satisfying -- a dignified comfort food. The latter was a happy flavor, vaguely reminiscent of marmalade. All in all, I would certainly go back again -- but only for a special occasion, not least because of the unfortunately steep price.
(5)nancy l.
I had one of my best meals in the Boston area at Oleana. It was about a year ago, so I don't remember what I had, but I was a very satisfied customer when I left.
(5)Stella S.
This is one of my favorite restaurants in the Boston area. Have to wait until I've visiting home and my parents take me out, because it's pretty expensive, but wowww. I am especially in love with the Baked Alaska with a tropical twist. Overall awesome.
(5)laura l.
I've been a couple times now and I must say this place is great. Inside and outside seating is lovely. Service is friendly and attentive without being overbearing. There are classics and really unique seasonal dishes on the menu. The wine list is nice and fits the food perfectly, the cocktails are absolutely delicious, even the sangria is great. The menu has the depth to go back to over and over for carnivores and vegetarians alike. My mouth is still watering over the lamb I had last week. To answer the review who said: " it's one of those places where you wonder if the more traditional, and cheaper turkish/middle eastern foods aren't comparable for much less money. There's no question that the food at Oleana is different from Brookline Family Restaurant or Falafel Palace, but to say that it's definitively better is difficult. " -- this person is being ridiculous. The quality of the ingredients, inventiveness of the menu, the way the meat is cooked... everything is better -- and I've been to plenty of family middle eastern joints in Boston and New York.
(5)Barrett G.
try the hummus
(5)Juliette V.
I had a fantastic New Years Eve meal here last year. I highly reccomend the deviled eggs and if it resurfaces on the menu again, the brie soup!
(4)Nicole D.
Oleana is my all-time favorite restaurant! I first went there a few years ago for my birthday. I chose it based on a review which gave the restaurant top honors for al fresco dining. It was one of the best birthday dinners ever, and my family and I have been going ever since. The cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean dishes from Turkey, North Africa, and the Arab world. Chef and owner Ana Sortun fuses old world recipes with modern flair. Everything is delicious and the service is great. The garden is beautiful and serene, making you forget you're in Massachusetts.
(5)Alejandra C.
Lovely experience at Oleana! I have tried a couple of times to get in without reservation and this past Wednesday we were lucky to get i! We loved the distinctive flavors of a variety of meze dishes and the chicken on the pancake. The Moussaka was exquisite as well as the octopus and a special for that day o scallops and shrimp nested on a phyllo dough with a distinctive dill and other herbs and or spices! This last one was my favorite. Great variety and defined flavors for all dishes! I ended up getting the book which I "devoured" on my way back to California. Cannot wait to go back! I should make a list of the dishes we tasted so next time I don't repeat them! It doesn't matter they were all yummy. Service was great, friendly and there were a lot of "unexpected very pleasant details from the waitress and managers!
(5)Dr. H.
Last evening: Cacik Falafel Quail Kebobs Moussaka ...and six other dishes between the four of us OMG!! nuff said.
(5)Michael J.
This place completely lives up to its reputation. We decided to order exclusively off the smaller meze section of the menu, which allows everyone to just get a taste of each appetizer (we had four people with us). With the sole exception of the pita bread we started with, which tasted a bit bland, every single dish was excellent. Stand ours were the octopus, a lamb special, the moussaka, the quail, and an eggplant dish. Alas, I wish I could say more about the individual way each was prepared, but all feature a very well balanced assortment of middle eastern flavors, especially cumin and coriander. Tahini was also in there. And lots of hummus and yogurt based sauces. Take advantage of their eclectic mixed drinks. We especially liked the "hestia's remedy," the rose hip cocktail and the sangria. Wed certainly come back. Seating on the patio is first come first served. We got there at 6 on a Monday and got the last table. It's popularity is well deserved. The service was also impeccable. Parking is limited, it being Cambridge, but there's a lot across the street with some spots they have access to at the fitness center. Wonderful experience and the back patio is very well laid out.
(5)Laleh J.
This place is excellent. The food is delicious, the ambience is wonderful, and it is a great restaurant. Highly recommended!
(5)Dina C.
Pros: Food is beautifully presented and the combinations of ingredients are truly artistic to the palette. They really pay attention to the details. Nice wine list Intimate and warm ambiance Cons: Friendly service, but surprisingly slow and confused service at times. Mezze plates came out at an odd sequence and multiple servers delivered dishes. The wrong mezze was brought to our table once. Drinks were very slow in coming and we had to wait too long for our server to check on us so that we could order more drinks Bread served with dishes came out slow and it was weighed down and saturated with oil. Some crispy pita crackers would add a nice touch for the whipped feta The whipped feta was delicious with a light kick, but the approximate 1 tbs serving of this plate for appx $10+ was a bit stingy. Tiny short rib mezze plate was overly sweet and our short rib was more fat than meat
(4)Barnali D.
Oleana was quite good, but I felt it didn't quite live up to all the hype. Good food, great service, nice ambiance...but not exactly out of this world. My friend and I shared the vegetarian tasting menu and 3 additional mezze plates: Tasting Menu: - greens beans and corn with a kick (tasty) - mixed greens salad with cherries, labne, and sweet nutty morsels (excellent) - bulgur served with cucumber (very good) - fideos (vermicelli) with greens (not very good - too many unusual flavors at once) - milk pudding with fruit (just okay) Mezze plates: - spinach falafel (delicious!) - casik - garlic yogurt with cucumber and mint (very good!) - deviled eggs (very flavorful) Dessert: - baked Alaska with coconut ice cream and passion fruit syrup (okay - not as amazing as everyone said it was) The service was excellent, and our waiter was friendly, polite, informative, and non-intrusive. The food came out quickly, which was nice. Overall, we had a lovely meal, but I was not blown away.
(4)Raina B.
Ah, Oleana. I had heard about for 4 years before I finally made it there - and it was everything I heard and more! Reservations are hard to get - but bar seating and the outdoor patio (depending on the weather) are first come first serve. In the fall you can show up early and get a table outside - they have heat lamps and blankets. Tons of vegetarian options. I don't even remember everything we ordered, but it was pretty good! spinach falafel, the potatoes, baked alaska, borek - everything. The falafel is tiny though. Definitely very good food! They've since changed their wine list, but I had the best wine I've ever had here. Pretty sure it was a Gewurztraminer? Had never heard of it before but I loved it!!
(4)Sophie P.
GREAT FOR MEZE / SMALL PLATES AT A DATE --------------------------------------------------Â----- I booked a reservation for an 8:15 dinner on a Sunday night two weeks in advance. Even in the dead of winter with all these snowstorms, Oleana is still packed! PARKING Free parking at 139-145 Hampshire Street. AMBIANCE Casual, yet classic. Nothing is pretentious about the restaurant, which I appreciate. There is a rustic but modern feel to the restaurant. The layout of the restaurant is definitely catered towards parties of 2, making this an ideal place to take a date. I have heard great things about their patio, so I will definitely return in the summer. FOOD + Fatoush: The pomegranate seeds, grapefruit, and crispy pita pieces really made this one of the best and most flavorful salads I have ever had. 5/5 + Dinner special: Cheese fondue with shrimp, beef, and onions. Although this was a great fondue to dip our complimentary bread with, I expected a classic fondue with skewers where we could cook the meats in the cheese fondue. 3/5 + Spinach Falafel: The presentation of the falafel on a bed of beet yogurt and pita bread was fantastic. We were able to wrap the pita around the falafel like a wrap, and all the flavors came together with a finishing bite of the softest and most tender falafel I have ever eaten. 5/5 + Quail kebob: Definitely my favorite of the night. The quail was so tender and tasted like a mix between chicken thigh and lamb.The pistachio and barberries added sweet and nutty tastes to the meat and it was amazing. 5/5 + Octopus coca: Essentially an octopus pizza, this was a very unique dish. The octopus was so tender that it almost didn't taste like octopus. 4/5 + Sultan's delight: This tamarind beef was so soft that I did not need to cut it at all. It literally broke into pieces the minute you put your fork into it! 5/5 + Baked Alaska: Literally the best dessert ever. The browned meringue meshed perfectly with the coconut ice cream and passion fruit caramel (which I was nervous about). 5/5 SERVICE Our waters were never empty, our courses came one dish at a time, and we were never left looking for our waiter. Overall, this was an excellent experience and I now have an obsession with Turkish/Mediterranean tapas!
(5)Catherine V.
Great food, presentation and ambiance. Mediterranean dishes tapas style. Great place for a romantic dinner or just with a group to try different tapas.
(4)Billy S.
The decor was wonderfully done inside and out, the wait staff was well trained and very knowledgeable about the food and the specials and the pairings. The chef was extremely creative. it's not your mother's Mediterranean food. Everything had a unique taste and contrasting textures, good seasoning and flavor. Delivered in a manner that showed that they understood that the customer was the center of their attention.
(5)Jane L.
I always wanted to try the dishes here as I always see the great Zagat and Yelp reviews of this restaurant. Unfortunately, I grew up in Asia so I don't know how authentic this place this. But the sure thing is that the food here is amazing. Even the bread is great. Dessert is heavenly. We tried the special dessert and I though it was better than the Baked Alaska.
(5)Maria L.
I am embarrassed to say, I almost didn't eat here because I was so sure it was too good to be true. Actually, I still think it might be too good to be true, that's how good it was! Thank you to my boyfriend for stopping me, because I would have eaten until I died. Ok, I'm gushing. But really the food is outstanding. And very authentic. My family is Syrian and I didn't think Za'atar existed in America outside of my Sitto's kitchen. It does and if you haven't you should try any dish that has it. Have the sultan's delight and the lamb and grape leaf tart. You won't be disappointed. I'm not a huge fan of falafel, but my boyfriend is and he loved them. And drink whatever they tell you to. Wine pairings were perfect. Also, do not skip desert. The profiteroles. To die for. Enjoy!
(5)Christina T.
DELICIOUS. Fun alternative to tapas, especially if you're into Mediterranean food. It will be crowded so definitely get ready for more of a casual, lively feel. Bread basket was very flavorful. Our favorite dishes were: -Baked Alaska: Very, very delectable and lots of layers! The amount of dessert is actually perfect for splitting between 2 or 3 at the end of the meal - Eggplant pita with pomegranate sauce: My friend really enjoyed this one, but I thought it was ok - Fried Cauliflower: this was hands down my favorite dish. I could probably eat a whole tub of this by myself. Super flavorful and not overly fried. - Quail kebob: More like quail meatballs rather than a kebob. I really liked the crispy rice at the bottom. - Sultan's delight: Also a solid choice, especially if you like short rib. - Fried mussels: Probably my least favorite of the night -- nothing too special, half of the dish was peppers. Drinks: Sangria was nice, A-75 was refreshing
(5)Tuli S.
I was expecting greatness after everything I heard about this place. I enjoyed everything but wasn't wowed by any particular dish except the spinach falafel. I came for a work dinner so we had a pre-fixe menu. Whipped Feta with sweet and hot peppers- Good..but it's just cheese Olives- did not enjoy these, nothing special Grilled Pita- normal Falafel- Out of this world. I've never had falafel this moist and delicious. Apple fatoush- cute salad but that's about it Quail Kebob- tasty! I liked these and found them to be very unique. Lamb and cabbage Sarma- Had this as as my main, it was a bit heavy and the lamb tasted kind of gamey to me. Striped Bass- super fresh, wish I got this as my main dish..nibbled on it :) Profiteroles- eh Baked Alaska- MMMM get this Nightingale nest- good Almond ice cream- this came with one of the desserts but I'm not sure which one (we ordered 1 of each). Delicious! So overall it was good. The ingredients were fresh and everything came together nicely, I enjoyed the apps/desserts the most. It was about 65pp + extra for the desserts so the price was fair. I would come back and order some of the other items! But be prepared to drop $$$.
(3)Chew B.
Lovely setting, outdoors in the garden. Food didn't live up to the hype and it's expensive.
(3)Kevin J.
Food: 4.5 / 5 Service: 4.5 / 5 I came here to celebrate my ladyfriend's birthday and it was amazing! My ladyfriend is vegetarian so we wanted to try the vegetarian tasting menu (priced at $40 it's a great deal!). Unfortunately, we found out that a lot of the items were made with onions and garlic (which does not suit my friend's delicate palette), so I ended up ordering it and she got some custom dishes that were made without garlic/onions. Our waittress was very informative, forthcoming and accomodating in explaining the dishes which could be made without onions or garlic which we really appreciated! (very much so) One of the highlights of the meal: the complimentary bread. There two different kinds, but both with interesting spices - one more sweet, and the other more savory. From the tasting menu, I would say the falafels were my favorite. It was delicately produced, super fresh, and a perfect blend of spices, herbs, and veggies! The presentation was also magnificent. The nomer of tasting menu is a little bit deceptive in my opinion as the dishes themselves, came not one at a time as traditional tasting menus would, but I was still very satisfied by it, as there was a great deal of versatility and I really enjoyed the variety. Perhaps it would be possible to actually have all of the different courses come at once as a platter? The meze that both me and my ladyfriend enjoyed a lot is their cauliflower, it was very interesting! Quite nutty coated in some layer of sauce, lightly crisp and so delicious. I'd highly recommend it!
(5)Yasmin E.
Ambiance: very romantic with dimly lot indoor and outdoor lighting. We sat in the outdoor space which was a bit in the crowded side . Tables are close together. Service is ok, they could be friendlier but they're not rude. Food: excellent food! A bit on the oily side but the favors are incredible. Eating recs: meze - sultan delight, hummus wrapped in pastirma; dinner - lemon and zaatar chicken on bureg and scallop on saffron leak musakhan with almonds and sumac. Will be coming back! Bon apetit!
(4)Nancy A.
OMG so so so good!! Tapas-ish meze dishes are the name of the game. I got the vegetarian meal which came with 4 mezes and 1 dessert. I want to do that again for the rest of my life. My friend got the goat meatballs, the whipped feta and spinach falafel. Can I just say the spinach falafel is everything to me... go here, eat that and then you will remember all the ways that life is worth living.
(5)Jasmine C.
If you come, you MUST try and get a table at the patio. The inside of the restaurant is nice but quite dark, and the patio is a wonderland of its own. Especially now that the weather is better, it makes for an absolutely magical evening. The individual plates were truly delicious - most people get the vegetable tasting menu but I realize its not because its more delicious but because its more value for money: I suggest getting one vegetable tasting menu for the table, but getting a few specialty dishes off the regular menu as well. Expensive, but so worth it and the tapas-sharing style is one in which you get such a variety of tastes. The only reason why I didn't give it a 5 was because I do reserve my 5s for truly exceptional places, and I felt like this restaurant was too similar to Sarma (given that they're both owned by the same person, it makes sense) for it to be unique. What to get: - Falafel (comes with the vegetable tasting menu) - MOST DEFINITELY the lamb goat cheese tart - There were crab rollups the night we were there, but I think that was a special of the night - Try to get something meaty as well, because I think it's quite acknowledged that their vegetables are delicious, but that's also where they really shine What to miss: - There was only one unremarkable dish, which was the collard greens with hummus/lime. - The dessert was a lavender cheesecake the day I went, and I must say it tasted more like a bar of soap because the lavender wasn't quite so subtle.
(4)Leigh S.
We have been coming here for years and without exception the food and drink have been dependably exceptional. Tonight, the service was worth another star. Keep up the good work Ole!
(5)Humoud A.
One of the best restaurants I have had in a while. From my experience I would recommend to just order from the appetizers (I tried a couple of the mains they were okay). From the appetizers the sultan delight, Spanish falafel and moussaka. Oh and waiting to sit in the patio is worth it!
(5)Tressa S.
We came to Oleana with some friends after hearing about it for several months. My boyfriend was especially excited because he'd been hearing from other people how great this place is. Those people definitely weren't wrong. The entire experience was great, and the food was phenomenal. We went on a Friday night without a reservation, and were told there would be about a 20 minute wait. We were seated in the patio area where they had a small seating arrangement for waiting patrons. We got the chance to order drinks while waiting. About 20 or so minutes later, we were shown to our table. Our sever was very nice and attentive, and he was more than happy to offer recommendations and answer questions for us. We started with a few of the meze plates, which included deviled eggs (a must try!), pan-fried kalamata olives, the sultan's delight and one other tasty dish that is escaping me right now. At the start of our meal, we thought that perhaps we would just settle for a few of the meze and order more as needed (we had four people in our party), but after realizing how incredible the smaller dishes were, our curiousity was piqued to discover how the main dishes were. We had the scallops and duck shawarma plates, and they were amazing. Lots of flavors without going overboard. Oleana sure knows its stuff when it comes to concocting delectable dishes. We definitely recommend locals and tourists alike make a stop here.
(5)Salil J.
Food is food (we tried guacamole and soft tacos). Sangria was good. Service is fast and servers are professional. The indoor ambience is great. When we were there, soft tango music was playing.
(4)Leila L.
Sultan's Delight, Lamb Tajine, Duck Fatteh. Everything was perfectly cooked. We will definitely come back for more of those mouth-watering mezes and save some stomach room for the dessert!
(5)Lisa R.
The man friend and I were looking for a birthday dessert and Oleana's baked Alaska fit the bill. Celebratory and delicious. The seating outside was so whimsical. A refuge from the city life of Boston. The passion fruit sauce, the ice cream, coconut macaroon, meringue-it was pastry perfection!
(5)D S.
The decor looked so authentic. Staff was extremely helpful since it was our first time there. The food was filled with so many flavors! I'd love to go back again but they're always booked up! DEFINITELY make a reservation if you plan on going !!
(4)Dee C.
Nice atmosphere , creative dishes , the waitress was a bit bossy and did not like when i kept asking to repeat the specials which sounded like she was talking a foreign language when describing them !! Like I am supposed to know what Shishitos and Nigella Seeds are !! hahah It is not really REAL Turkish food, maybe the idea is based on some Turkish dishes but each plate took a life of its own :-) Different and mixed of many tastes , I enjoyed the experience but if you like this new concept of meze restaurants, make sure to try Sarma in Somerville !
(3)Tara S.
Amazing food, great atmosphere and best server ever! Don't let the small portions sway you; the food fills you up and has great spices. Highly recommend, but make reservations if you mind eating at the bar or a half hour wait...totally worth the wait!!!
(5)Annabel T.
Happy to report that the food here is as good as people have been saying! My partner and I came here for our anniversary dinner. We are both fans of Turkish food, and so were excited to learn that the chef had trained in Turkey. The dishes were innovative and blended all the great flavours of the Middle East and Mediterranean wonderfully. We got the octopus saganaki, vermont quail kebab, lamb and grape leaf tart soppressata pancake as meze (appetisers). The octopus was cooked to perfection and was charred in the perfect places. For the mains, we shared a lamb tagine that comes with 6 meatballs. The lamb was of extremely high quality. I only wish that we could have ordered everything on the menu. This is food that is well worth the high price point. Kudos to the chef!
(5)David D.
Wow, I just had a FANTASTIC dinner at Oleana. The vibe here is so cool and comfortable, and since the menu features a number of smaller items (meezes) in addition to traditional entrees, one's able to sample the exotic in Cambridge. I ordered a bevy of mezzes and was in love from first bite. 1) Avocado and Dukkah -- lovely, creamy, sophisticated. Nice way to start 2) Chickpea Terrine -- this may have been the highlight for me, since I have a soft spot for sweets and matching the chickpeas, apricots and pistachos was pure bliss 3) Fatoush + Spinach Falafel -- everyone was recommending the falafel and combined with the fatoush, which was very sophisticated, I was in foodie paradise. This could have been a stop to the meal but since I wanted to try more (and skip dessert), I had... 4) Octopus Shish + Greens w/ Toum side -- very good flavors, I loved the tomatoes and fava beans. The octopus was cooked well, but didn't match O Ya's masterpiece last night! The greens were a very sizable portion and will please the kale krowd. Keep in mind there's a strong touch of garlic to a lot of these items I opted to skip dessert, since I was feeling quite full. One ding to Oleana was that the service, while pleasant, was a major step down from L'Espalier, which I had enjoyed for lunch earlier. There were long gaps in service, my waitor seemed rushed (I noticed he asked the table next to me to "wait a minute" before placing their order), and my utensils were never refreshed. That said, the price point is very reasonable and the vibe is fun but loud. There was a boisterous guy telling a story, through which everyone in the dining room had to suffer. It was unbearable for his table-mates, I'm sure, and all the more worse for us strangers!
(5)Hannah R.
Allow me to heap praise onto an already towering monolith of good vibes for Oleana. I can certainly be a bit of a skeptic about expensive and hyped dining experiences, but in honor of my anniversary with the old man I decided to dive right in and try a local place with nearly 1000 positive reviews on Yelp. I was not disappointed. In fact, I was the polar opposite of disappointed. My reservation experience was simple--I reserved online a couple months out with a note about our special day and received a confirmation call two days before the dinner. When I arrived (before my handsome man-some), I was greeted warmly and wished a happy anniversary! We were seated immediately and given water options (ooh, water options! fancy!). Our server, as well as all other staff we encountered, was friendly, polite, and very helpful. Having never been there before, she was happy to explain the menu to us and to give us meal and beverage suggestions. I'm not going to break down every dish we had--I'm keeping that in my happy place--but I will say that the two of us split a vegetarian tasting menu, a few other meze's, and a dessert. We each had two drinks. It was the absolute perfect amount, and everything we tasted was thoughtful and complex. I love to eat, but my oh my, this food went above and beyond. I forgot/never knew food could be like this. 100 stars!! Well worth it!
(5)Karin W.
Amazing meze plates to share! Definitely need to make reservations at least a week or 2 beforehand, not at the last minute. But three of us were able to sit at the bar immediately. We ordered 6 meze plates and 2 desserts. We are so happily stuffed! Oh and the cocktails were refreshing. And bartender was awesome and gave great recommendations. Do plan your visit here!
(5)William M.
Good, but I was expecting greatness with the incredible reviews of this place. It is quite inconspicuous, in a quiet part of Cambridge. The place itself is very small, and you have to slide by waiters and tables to get to your seat and to the restroom. The service was very welcoming, and we had no issues getting a table for two on a Friday night. I went with the vegetarian tasting menu, based on the solid reviews. In addition, we ordered a few other items. The burrata was not the best I've had. It was a bit too creamy, and it didn't have a ton of flavor in my opinion. On the other hand, the spinach falafel was outstanding. Possibly the best falafel I have ever had. Seriously unreal! The other items were largely forgettable: one was a salad with pomegranate seeds and some other little items, but the lettuce itself was iceberg and not that appetizing. I would return, but I wasn't blown away by this place, particularly given the glowing reviews.
(3)Rachel D.
Delicious and definitely worth the hype. I'm going to start off by saying that I had the best cappuccino here. The minute we walked through the door at 9:30p for our 9:45p reservations I knew I needed a pick me up to get through dinner (especially with the low lighting). The hostess delivered me one of the best cappuccinos ever and with two brown sugar cubes plopped in, I was in heaven. After about 15 min. of waiting over on the bench we were seated. It's a small space but everyone is quite pleasant. We started off with 6 mezze's (1 was a special) and then 1 lamb entree dish. We shared it all. The stand outs were definitely the falafel (I could eat this dish every day) and the Sultan's Delight. Even if I had only ordered those two dishes alone I would have been satisfied! The Sultan's Delight melts in your mouth and the creamy dill sauce goes exquisitely with the meat. I paired the meal with a glass of red wine and enjoyed every bite. I highly recommend this spot. We didn't save any room for dessert but their dessert menu sounded out of this world.
(5)DineoutGal A.
Wow! This place actually lives up to the rave reviews it gets! A unique and exceptionally delicious place. The Turkish and Arabic influences makes me fall in love with the flavours of that region. This place was packed on a Monday evening. Seating is tight and intimate with your neighbouring diners. Server was knowledgeable and helpful. Food service was like rapid fire as the dishes came out as fast as we ate them (which was fast). You can order a several small dishes to each person and share tapas style. We were hungry so we ordered 3 small dishes and 2 larger dishes. Whipped feta with sweet and hot peppers ($5) - good but not great and tastes like how it sounds. Eat it with the complimentary bread basket that they serve you. Sultan's Delight - tamarind beef, smokey eggplant purée and pinenut ($13). A signature dish and lives up to its yummy reputation. Tamarind is quite subtle with the beef which was melt in your mouth tender. The eggplant pairs so well with the beef. Kohlrabi Pancake, hot pepper labne and Caramelized green tomato ($9) - it's like a potato pancake with shaved cabbage and a thick yogurt and tangy peppers. Great dish though the peppers were a bit too tangy and sort of overpowered the dish. Swordfish scallopini, Sicilian tomato sauce, garlic crema and green bean ($23). UNBELIEVABLY TASTY! I would return just to have this dish again and again. A thin slice of swordfish and it's filled with a thin fine bread crumb with light tomato sauce and red currants. The dish is then baked and it almost looks like a pizza but it's not. The interplay of flavours is great. One of those dishes I will remember for a long time. Lemon chicken, za'atar and Turkish cheese pancake ($25). This is a signature dish that's been on the menu since day 1. It's good but after trying the swordfish, it's hard to top that one. The lemon chicken is subtle and not like what you would imagine. Very moist chicken breast that's cooked perfectly. The cheese pancake is almost like a Greek spanokopita minus the spinach. Overall, great food, excellent service and vibe. Would eat here again on my next visit to Boston.
(5)Catherine J.
Had a wonderful experience at Oleana this summer! A family friend was in town and we met at Oleana to sit out on the patio. We started the evening with cool cocktails and then were shown to a table outside by a very gracious hostess. The food is incredibly unique and delicious, and you can make an entire meal out of small plates. Don't miss the deviled eggs or the Sultan's Delight! The patio has twinkle lights and beautiful flowers and terrariums hanging from the trees. You feel transported to another world even though you are just steps from Central Square.
(5)Lindsay L.
My husband and I had a lunch reception here after our city hall wedding. Stellar service! They went above and beyond. I was touched by the attention the staff gave to us and our guests. The food and atmosphere on the lush green patio were also killer. Our friends and family kept telling us how beautiful the event was. Total home run. You can't go wrong with this place.
(5)Aanchal J.
I finally made it Oleana this weekend after waiting for a whole year, the reservations are pretty hard to get. And it was totally worth it. For the two of us (we are vegetarians) we shared five of the meze and two desserts. The spinach falafel were the the best - I would keep going back for those. The whipped feta was pretty nice too!! Their home bread is delicious, but I wasn't a big fan of the pita - was a bit on the drier side. For the desserts - the blueberry and pistachio was heavenly, the profiteroles were good but a bit too sweet for my liking. We did not save a lot by not going for the tasting menu, so it may be a better idea to just go for the tasting menu.
(4)M L.
Oleana most definitely lived up to its hype. I had been trying to get a reasonably timed reservation here for months, so when I finally landed one, I was thrilled. Our waitress walked us through the different ways to order (e.g. all small plates vs 2 small plates per person and a shared main course vs. each get a main course and share an appetizer), and since all the appetizers sounded so amazing, we decided to go four 4 small plates and then share a main. We tried the sultan's delight, lamb and grape leaf tart, octopus, and a soft shell crab special, and then split the chicken. Everything was fantastic, with multiple layers of complex flavors ranging from sweet to savory. The sultan's delight and soft shell crab stole the show though - the sultan's delight was a tender, fruit glazed short rib, paired with a fantastic whipped dip, and the soft shell crab had this incredible fruit and tahini salad that it came with. Delicious. We were practically licking the plate. While the octopus and lamb and grape tart were good, they just didn't have the same effect on us. The octopus was actually a little salty for my liking, and I love salt. The lemon chicken was also delicious, and the zaatar seasoning was great. The meat was served on top of a rich, feta stuffed crepe that still tasted light and refreshing despite being anything but a "light" component. My dining companion never orders chicken and she loved it. The only thing that left us a bit unsatisfied was the service - while it was great at the beginning, we started feeling very rushed and as though we were being shoved out the door by the time we were finishing up our main course. While I understand how busy the restaurant is, when you have people paying a decent amount to dine at your establishment, you shouldn't be grabbing plates left and right and hustling for the check to be paid so that you can get the next people in...
(4)Baris C.
You can't go wrong with Turkish food. The food was very delicious. however the service was slow. we ordered our drinks while waiting and our order was just sparkling water. another party that arrived after us got their cocktails.. when I reminded the waitress about our water she said we are very busy at the bar:/ the dining experience didn't start off well for us but the food was great. Sultan's delight was our favorite as well as the moussaka.
(3)Sonia S.
This restaurant never disappoints. Food and service have been impeccable every time we have visited. One of the best restaurants in Boston!
(5)Mark S.
This place was fantastic. I am not usually vegetarian, but I have trying to eat less and less meat. After coming to Oleana I almost want to be exclusively veggie if all the veggie food I ate tasted like it does here. I had the vegetarian tasting menu which is not preset, so you do not know what you are getting, but I am telling you you can't go wrong!
(5)Shanthi P.
Loved everything about our experience at Oleana! The three of us (9yo foodie son included) sat in their magical patio on a perfect August night. The waitress was very knowledgeable and helpful, suggesting appetizers and a main course to share since we could not decide what to order. Was a great way to try many of their creations. Thank you for a delicious meal and beautiful outdoor experience!
(5)Cindy C.
I went to this restaurant quite a few years ago, because I kept reading rave reviews. I found out since then that when I went there, the chef was on leave, so my bad experience may have been a fluke. When we arrived at our reserved table on the lovely patio, a waitress and a waiter promptly had a prolonged, ugly fight about who was going to serve us table side. Needless to say, we didn't get our orders taken for quite some time until this kerfuffle was ironed out. No one apologized for the unseemly, uncomfortable, and unprofessional spectacle. I was underwhelmed by what I ordered, but it was at least edible. My companion, who likes to appear as a good sport in public situations asked me to taste his meal, because he was concerned that there was something wrong with it. I took a forkful and said that I thought that it clearly had gone bad and that he should ask them to get him something else, but he soldiered on and ate the whole, nasty thing, because he doesn't like to make waves in public situations. He got very, very sick. The next morning I called the restaurant, and the person who answered accused me of making up my complaint to scam a comp meal. Talk about adding insult to injury! Seriously, it was such a terrible set of experiences, that I never went back to Oleana. I did think the patio was lovely, and I do like Sofra, but Oleana was an expensive kick in the wallet, stomach, and sensibilities from start to finish.
(2)Ruth K.
Delicious food! We ordered a bunch of mezes (not knowing what many of them were) and one fish entree to treat as a small plate. Everything was delicious and the presentation was beautiful. One complaint--We ate on the patio and as it got dark we truly couldn't see the food unless we turned on the iPhone flashlight. So--totally delicious, but a little more light would be a good thing.
(5)Elif K.
One of the most best Mediterranean restaurants I have ever tried. The food is unbelievable. Very tasty and the meat is very tender. We order several small plates instead of getting a main dish and we get to try all the food they have! You should absolutely try this place.
(5)Christine C.
As a disclaimer, this is the first restaurant that I've been to that I think truly deserves 5 stars for great food, service, atmosphere. Came here last night on a friday evening. Usually you would need reservations but they have a patio outback and have a few tables there that are first come first serve. We got there around 6 and did not wait more than 5 minutes to get a table. would definitely try to get there right when it opens to avoid a wait. Tip for PARKING (which street parking sucks in cambridge apparently): they have a small lot available to customers after 5:30pm that is unadvertised- we found out by calling the restaurant prior. the decor of the patio was adorable. they have 3 heat lamps outside and the staff will kindly adjust it for you if you ask. (it was maybe 60 degrees, but we were kept warm). They even provide blankets for you if that's not enough. they also have little lights hanging in the back. the atmosphere is very quiet and the noise level isn't loud at all. you're able to get absorbed into the atmosphere. oh right..and the food! favorite dishes: swordfish scallopini ( yummmm), and the Sultan's Delight!! the other dishes were delicious as well: spinach falafel, duck shish. Did not get a chance to try the fried oysters but that will be on my list for next time. We had trouble picking the dessert because we wanted everything, but ended up getting the baked alaska which is a must-try here. delicious, texture with toasted meringue that cuts right through with coconut ice cream and passion fruit caramel. HOW delicious does that sound? overall, loved this place. lives up to the hype of 900+ reviews. Will be back in the future for sure.
(5)Carla B.
Definitely recommend to order from the appetizer list and save room for dessert! The wine list was great with several excellent European wines to choose from and received help to select those to match best with the food ordered and our personal taste. The Sultan delight and spinach falafel were excellent. The dessert special which was a mascarpone crepe served with raspberry gelato and blueberries was delicious.
(4)Laura O.
This place has incredible food. My boyfriend and I went here for my birthday dinner. He chose this restaurant since I am a vegetarian and it was a great choice. We had so many dishes but the ones that stand out are the shakshuka, felafel, and fried cauliflower. To be honest, everything we ate here was delicious. The only thing I could have gone without was the fatoush. It was still great, just not my favorite (too fruity for me). We also got drinks. I got a red sangria and was disappointed that there was no fruit and kind of tasted like it came out of a bottle. The only reason I am not giving this 5 stars is because of the atmosphere. I really liked the lighting and fireplace, but it was just way too crowded in there and I felt like I was sitting on top of the people next to me. I couldn't get out of my seat without my butt touching our neighbors table and I'm not a big girl. I also felt like our server was frazzled and because of that, came off as unfriendly. He wasn't that great at explaining the dishes to us, but there is a much-needed glossary at the bottom of the menu to help you figure out what is what. Between the 2 of us, with about 2 alcoholic drinks each and way too much food, the bill came to about $125. I'll definitely come back.
(4)Jeanie P.
The food, service, and setting are just perfection at Oleanna. Two of us shared the vegetable tasting menu and 4 additional mezze plates. Highlights included snap peas in a tahini sauce, greens with figs, goat cheese and pistachios, and grilled haloumi cheese in a minted pea sauce. Wines were gorgeous. A memorable meal!
(5)Sarah W.
SUMMARY: I can tell you a lot about Oleana's food, because I went as part of a party of six food lovers celebrating a major life event, and we literally ordered almost everything on the meze menu and actually everything off of the dessert menu. This is an amazing, wonderful restaurant. I've lived in Boston for 8 years and so happy that I finally got a chance to go there. - Service: unobtrusive, properly encouraging of things like a second glass of wine, and helpful in being sneaky around the check and putting a candle in one of the desserts. - Tips: Reservations are NOT optional, although if I lived nearby, I would totally try to sneak in there when there's a blizzard or heavy snow storm... - Also: I'm a mom. I love my kid. I love kids. I believe in bringing kids to restaurants. Please do not bring a small child here unless they are super well-behaved and can really appreciate what they're eating. It's already so hard to get in as an adult. DRINKS & BREAD: We didn't drink a ton. We had a sour beer, a sangria, and the one hard cider option, all of them good. Wish there had been one more cider option. Bread was tasty! MEZE: Basically tapas -- definitely worth ordering a bunch and sharing! We did 16 for 6 people, which sounded absurd but wound up being very reasonable! Probably 3/person is a good number to shoot for, depending on what else you're ordering. *LOVED SO MUCH WE CONSIDERED ORDERING MORE WHEN IT WAS GONE: - Fried Cauliflower, Moroccan-Style Almond Butter & Dukkah: So, so tasty! I love when the lowly cauliflower gets elevated into something you want to inhale, it's so tasty. - Spinach Falafel, Tahini Sauce, Beet Yogurt & Cress: How can falafel be so much better here than everywhere else?? You get 3 per order. - Apple Fatoush--Romaine, Beets, Pomegranate, Crispy Pita & Sumac: Fresh and clean and amazing! I would like to try and make this... - Sultan's Delight--Tamarind Beef, Smokey Eggplant Purée & Pinenut: The tamarind beef was SO SO tender and had an amazing sweetness. I know why they called it the sultan's delight, because we were totally delighted with it! - Vermont Quail Kebob, Baharat Spice, Barberries & Pistachio: Tasty, perfectly-done meat, wonderfully spiced. - Cigar Borek--Fall Vegetables, Yogurt Sauce, Turkish Spices: Almost like little mini skinny enchiladas. Very, very good! *VERY YUMMY: - Cacik--Garlic Yogurt, Cucumber, Spinach & Mint: Similar to tzatziki if you like greek food. Not life changing, but very, very yummy. - Octopus Coca--White Bean, Chorizo, Saffron, Tomato: This is a little flatbread, topped with some of the best octopus we'd ever had. - Fried Mussels, Hot Peppers & Turkish Tarator Sauce: Like a play on calamari. Amazing. - Shakshuka--Shirred Egg, Crispy Sweet Potato & Zhoug: Very yummy. Didn't change my life, but one of the people in my party pretty much wept over it with joy. - Kohlrabi Pancake, Hot Pepper Labne & Pickled Carrot: It's like a latke, except four hundred times better. *LESS MEMORABLE, BUT ALSO YUMMY: - Chickpea Terrine--Apricot, Pistachio, Tahini Sauce & Watermelon Radish - Lamb & Grape Leaf Tart--Cumin, Orange, Orzo & Spicy Feta - Moussaka, Tahini & Crispy Brussels Sprouts - Special: Potatoes with string cheese and haloumi cheese *DIDN'T LIKE: - Spicy Fideos, Chickpeas, Swiss Chard & Orange Aioli: Just didn't work for us in terms of flavor profile. DESSERT: You might think that we were done eating, but seriously, becoming a doctor and finishing residency can be a 12+ year process, and it must be properly celebrated! So for dessert, we ordered... one of everything, including the special! Normal people should probably order 1 dessert for every 2 people. *CRIED WHEN IT WAS GONE, CONSIDERED LICKING THE PLATE: - Tahini Katmer, Espresso-Halvah Parfait, Halvah-Stracciatella Ice Cream, & Walnut Crumble: Why isn't everyone serving this everywhere? It was amazing. Sesame desserts need to be more of a thing. - Baked Alaska; Coconut Ice Cream & Passion Fruit Caramel: Just order this. Trust me. There is no one in the world who doesn't like this. I promise. Holy crap. So much amazingness. *YUM: - Bergamot Loukoumades, Cocoa Sherbet, Cocoa Nib Hot Chocolate: These are donuts, chocolatey goodness, and a little side of hot cocoa. Your "I love chocolate" dessert. - Honey Cheesecake Kadaifi, Blood Orange Sorbet, Citrus Spoon Sweets, Pistachio: Doesn't look like your standard cheesecake. Tastes like heaven. *LESS MEMORABLE, BUT ALSO YUMMY; - Special -- floating island - Frozen Brown Sugar Soufflé, Asure Brik, Pistachio, Dates & Apricot - Caramel Bavarian, Roasted Pineapple, Almond Markouk, Agave Olive Oil
(5)Aziz O.
One of the best restaurants in Boston for Mediterranean food strongly recommended but with reservation in advance have fun
(5)Mary P.
Y-U-M! My husband and I have been here a couple times and have not been disappointed. Both times we ordered an array of mezes, mostly vegetarian ones, even though we're not actual vegetarians. Wish I could remember without seeing the menu what we actually ordered. Outside seating is great, if you can get a table. Definitely will be returning!
(5)Hana A.
Spinach falafel came with tahini sauce, beet yogurt and cress- it's an appetizer course and came in the form of meatballs over thin pita bread Sultan`s delight was the clear winner of the day- tamarind beef with smokey eggplant puree and pine nuts Duck fatteh with crushed beets, hazelnuts, garlic yogurt, and fiddle heads Local burrata cheese- I actually didn't like as much. I liked the yogurt inside but I thought the cheese was not as creamy. Baked Alaska- not my favorite as I didn't realize there was coconut ice cream inside a marshmallow type of layer with drizzling of passion fruit caramel Peppermint tea- actual tea leaves and very soothing after a long day of traveling and jet lag The hostess was super accommodating- she stored our luggage while we ate. All the others were super nice except for our own waiter. He totally forgot our dessert and we were waiting for at least twenty minutes. When I asked about it, he told us it takes time because it's baked in a condescending tone. He was not very friendly and we didn't see much of him.
(4)Annie S.
This is one of those restaurants that makes me want to completely change my profession and career path to one that makes a whooooole lotta money so that I could at places like this EVERY NIGHT. Oleana is DELICIOUS. My parents gave me a gift card here for Christmas, and I went with two of my friends. Boy o boy were we happy campers!!!! Honestly I think we still dream about the Sultan's Delight. It was the most tender, flavorful piece of meat I've ever had. Would do anything to come back here. Also, Top Chef was just filmed in Boston and one of the judges, Gail Simmons, went here and also loved it. So you KNOW it's good, not just for my amateur palette :). bostonglobe.com/lifestyl…
(5)Otis M.
Oleana didn't come together for me, which is especially disappointing because it was highly praised by friends whose opinion I respect. The concept is Middle Eastern meets farm-to-table, right? I think of the first as characterized by sharp bitter herbs, pickles and sour sauces and the second by bright fresh tastes and maybe a bit of cream and butter. So there's the potential for conflict but also some exciting juxtapositions. But in two of the three mezzes I tried the tastes were too dialed back. The first was an evening special, a "fondue" with melted cheese (feta and kasseri I believe), battered and fried eggplant and squash strips, some radish and turnip pickles and roasted corn topped with popcorn dusted with spice. The corn was a misfire and the popcorn was squishy; would have been better with more cheese, the tasty squash spears sticking out of it, more pickle and no corn. Next was the octopus coca. I'm a sucker for octopus but this was just disappointing--basically a few bits of grilled octopus in tomato sauce atop a mini pizza. I finished with the Sultan's Delight which was actually pretty good: a square of very tender short rib in what I thought was a pomegranate syrup but turned out to be tamarind, next to a mound of baba ganoush. I had already finished my bread (an excellent foccacia, two varieties, served with some unassuming olive dipping oil) which was too bad because I could have made a couple of nice sliders. These items plus a couple of somewhat tight pours of the house Greek white came to $70 with tax. The atmosphere was pleasant, service was fine and everybody seemed to be having a good time. But not the destination restaurant I expected.
(3)Alex M.
My girlfriend and I went to Oleana for her Birthday dinner, which was also the monday after Valentines day. When we arrived at 8:45 the restaurant was still packed. I love the decor and the ambience is extremely romantic, which is what we expected from reading other reviews. I'll get the couple nitpicky things out of the way first; the tables are VERY close together; we felt a bit like we were sitting on top of the couple next to us. In addition, one weird thing was that the servers were all wearing red tee-shirts. Not sure if it was due to Valentine's day weekend but it's such a lovely restaurant that one would expect the servers to be similarly well-dressed. Service was quite decent but we expected a little more knowledge in terms of describing the dishes. -1 star for these little issues, and now... on to the food! Amazing. Delightful. An absolute experience. I could go on and on. My girlfriend is a vegetarian and was delighted at the selections available for her. We got a number of small plates including the falafel and shakshuka which were both incredible. The cauliflower was also divine, bursting with flavor but not overwhelming. I got a lamb tagine, which was incredible and the meat was great quality and perfectly cooked. A good drink selection, albeit a bit pricey. We each had a cocktail, a main, and split some meze (small plates) as well as a dessert each and the bill came to about $150. We came away full and satisfied. I would definitely recommend Oleana for couples wanting a romantic night out or for a special occasion. Great for Vegetarians!
(4)Cami F.
The food here is amazing!! Derek...goes above and beyond to accommodate the guest's every wish. He was able to provide me specific recommendations and also obliged by my detailed dessert requests. I cannot recommend this place enough and hope every server is as dedicated and kind as Derek. Favorites were the Sultan's delight and the Quail kabob. Really cannot go wrong this place is fabulous!
(5)Lina F.
This place has a very interesting menu! The flavors of all there entrees are very fresh. The staff was incredibly helpful in fitting our growing dinner group. Though it was a bit pricey for just an entree and drink, I did enjoy my halibut and the favors. Others at the table order falafels, but I don't know if was that memorable. It does get packed in the evening so I recommend reservations!
(3)James H.
Food and table service is quite good and worth a visit as reported...unfortunately, hostess was not helpful or polite with our issue with the wait list/queue. Told us they would call us on our cell when table was ready, never did..and when they tracked 1 member of the party down they threatened to give the table away unless everyone was present ...even though they failed to call the person in our party who put us on the list as agreed. Stressful experience.
(3)Michelle P.
We had a reservation here but still had to wait 20 minutes to be seated... But it was worth the wait. We were visiting Boston and needed to find a place that my vegetarian son could eat at but that my non-vegetarians would also enjoy and this was the spot! The vegetarian sampler platter was a wonderful sampling of what they had to offer and I would recommend it if it is your first time here.
(5)Toddi N.
After probably 45 visits to this restaurant over the past 10 years for anniversaries and other special occasions, (almost always 4 to 5 stars) I have to say my most recent visit was really mediocre. We sat on the patio which was overfilled and jammed with people and the servers were clearly too busy. On a typical visit, you got a much better description of the dishes than we had last night...and for the first time there, I felt that the quality of the service was spread thin. On every other visit there, you felt that you might be the only person the waiter was attending to. On this visit, we wondered if our orders even got put in. We got our meze (appetizers/small dishes) quickly but waited forever on our food and deserts. Maybe it had to do with it being one of very few perfectly beautiful New England evenings, but it was completely packed for a Monday evening; and we got there at 5:50. I don't think anyone was seated inside. And they couldn't find the reservation we made. My dish of soft shell crab was definitely not its usual either; not as crispy fried or flavorful as usual. My husband had the duck shawarma, which was really good. The deviled eggs were fabulous but the hot buttered humus seemed dry, like it sat too long under a warmer; no extra bread was served with it. Our dessert was good, but tiny. That has never been the case before. Prices here are steep; I'm not sure I would return after our dinner last night. It was really a mixed experience and not up to its usual.
(2)Andrew L.
We started our night of our 1 year anniversary with drinks at their bar because there was a bit of a wait. Drinking the refreshing "hip rose" and a local Somerville cider ended being quite nice at the outdoor patio. The patio is outfitted with lovely greenery and Mediterranean ornaments. We got seated early and ordered the vegetable tasting menu, crudite, moussaka, and duck shawarma. Highlights for us were definitely the falafel (came with the tasting menu) and duck shawarma. Falafel was slightly crisped while soft and crumbly on the inside-- and packed with flavor! The duck shawarma had great balance and really came together as a dish. There was a bit of a mixup when my girlfriend asked the waitress if we could choose our dessert in the tasting menu after being told the tasting menu "comes with a dessert." We felt as though the waitress could have been more patient answering our question/misunderstanding but we were happy with the dessert. All in all a good meal with a great environment. The vegetable tasting menu is pretty savory so be prepared. Thanks Oleana!
(4)Anchisa P.
4.5 stars. Really good entree - we ordered a bunch of Tapas and everything was good. Dessert was too sweet though. Great service and ambience. Definitely one of the best Mediterranean places in Cambridge/Boston
(4)Jeff D.
Great restaurant for some different and definitely a great special occasion place. As most people say, the way to go is to get a few Mezze and share; I'd say 5 are good for 2 ppl. The highlights include the spinach falafel (I could've eaten 12 of them), the quail, and the Sultan's delight. Also, the hummus was pleasant surprise in that I wasn't expecting anything more than nice quality hummus, but it was much better than expected! One nice thing as well, is that when ordering the mezze they bring them out one at a time and pace them so you can enjoy each as opposed to a tapas joint which bring all at once and then they sit and get cold and you feel the need to scarf them all down. With drinks, the tab can definitely add up quickly, but worth it.
(4)Chenkai L.
I came here with my girlfriend for our 3 month anniversary and we decided to try this place due to recommendations from both friends and Yelp. Oleana offered some of the most unique and creative dishes I have ever seen so it gets a star just from the innovative options. The bread and olive oil came first, we also got some tomato cheese spread that was absolutely delicious to go along with the bread. The sultan's delight was cooked to perfection and very moist and tender. The use of spices (tamarind) in this dish made it especially unique. We also got the deviled eggs, which was stuffed with creamy tuna and packed with flavors. The Vermont Quail had one of my favorite spices in it - cumin, which is traditionally found in Indian cuisines. This dish definitely stood out in my mind and is a must try for someone with a curious palette. For dessert, we had the classic Baked Alaska, an item I have never seen before but nevertheless found it very delightful, especially the passion fruit flavors mingled with the coconut ice cream. The atmosphere is also quite intimate , great place for a celebratory dinner or perhaps a romantic dinner with that special someone :)
(5)Miwako S.
It is a perfect place to come if you feel like Mediterranean food in Boston. My husband has been praising about this place as the best food he ever had since we moved to the US. I finally had a chance to try it tonight. Everything we had was full of flavors with the right salt level. I recommend ordering many different kinds of appetizers.
(5)Emily D.
Get the Vermont quail kebob! The food here is delicious and the service is good too. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu, which can be a little overwhelming when everything sounds good. The only gripe I have is the small, squished seating, but it doesn't prevent me from enjoying my meal.
(5)Rosie A.
Awesome experience. Quail kebab was phenomenal. Special carrot salad was exceptional. Lemon chicken was remarkably good. Both the chard sarma and profiteroles were great, but not quite as special in my opinion. Our server was helpful and gave great recommendations.
(5)Julia D.
So absolutely amazing!! *** The food that is.... The restaurant itself is sooo cramped, which would be fine if they brought their prices down a little. You literally couldn't bend your arms without the fear of smacking the wine glass off your neighbors table and this was at 10:30 at night! For the prices and reputation they have garnered they should just: TAKE OUT THOSE EXTRA TABLES!!! Come on! I'm surprised they don't have ppl just standing and eating, heck as long as you can squeeze in I guess they'll serve you. At the expense and enjoyment of everyone else. OK, now I'll start with the FOOD!! I don't remember the exact names but I'll do my best to describe them: Quail: This was my boyfriends favorite dish, perfectly cooked and spiced. There was a red berry (?) sprinkled on top that added a touch of sweetness to the savory spices that made this dish hard to forget. Octopus: This was my FAV dish. The octopus was cooked perfectly and the flavoring was slightly sour/tangy which made my tongue sing! Sultans Delight: This was my OTHER FAV dish. The meat was soooooooo tender it just surrendered as your fork closed in. Melt in your mouth mixed with the pine nuts... yummm Carrot soup: Very good, the goat cheese was such a surprise and the spices were nice and heavy. This was the dish I was least excited about (not a big fan of carrot soup) but their interpretation was mouth watering. I would absolutely get it again. Service was good and attentive, almost knocked us over a few times... but you can't blame them when there are mere inches between tables. GRRR... Parking was in an unmarked lot across the street. very convenient.
(3)Lana T.
Outside of the seafood, I have generally found food to be pretty disappointing in Boston. Oleana was an amazing surprise. Firstly, Mediterranean is my least favorite type of food. After being let down by Craigie on Main and Hungry Mother, I agreed reluctantly to check out Oleana with my friend. We tried: -Whipped feta: honestly I thought this was overrated. I know this is one of their most famous dishes but it was just... like a regular spread. It was pretty good, but nothing spectacular. Probably wouldn't order again. -Sultan's delight: amazing. I don't even like eggplant but this was delicious, the softest, most tender beef I've ever had, succulent and savory. Must get. -Vermont quail kebab: very good but not AS good as the other dishes we ordered, which I guess is the sole minus of everything generally being stellar. Although I wouldn't order it again, I think it's worth a try once to sample quail. -Spinach falafel: best falafel I've ever had. At first I was kind of hesitant to order this because I thought... well it's falafel... but the falafel here is truly unique. It's very light and airy, almost melts in your mouth. Must order. -Oxtail and orzo: this was a special that night that was just so so. It just tasted like a regular pasta dish. Would not get again. -Lamb tagine: the waiter actually told us to stick with the small plates instead of the entrees, but my friend LOVES lamb and wanted to get an entree of it. This was actually some of the best lamb I've ever had and I would definitely recommend it. The yogurt sauce was perfectly tart and creamy. No knife needed. We were too full by the end to try dessert, and also a passionfruit baked Alaska sounded kind of odd to me, but maybe next time! The bill ended up being 40/pp which I thought was great considering how much food we got as well as its caliber. The only thing is that Oleana is not really T accessible--about 0.7 miles from the closest T stop. Still, I would definitely brave the weather to come back here again. Thank you Oleana for giving me something to be excited about food-wise in Boston!
(5)Mister M.
My favorite restaurant in the Boston area, this would be my only 6 star review if that was possible. Every part of each course is deep - the sauces, crispy things, drizzles, etc are all complex in and of themselves. Lots of variety for all types of eaters, and they are into the Local Food thing, as well as local BEER. I love beer. The baked alaska is great - burned meringue, lemon ice cream i think, some kind of coconut flavor, one of the only desserts that I'd spend more than $10 on and feel like it was more than worth it. Pricey, but worth putting on your "special occasion" list, unless you're one of the 1%, which there are, unfortunately, more and more of in the area...
(5)Lea V.
Very good food & wine, but nothing particularly mindblowing.
(4)Elica Y.
My first time trying Turkish food and I loved it. Every dish was perfectly executed and service was great as well. I loved the ambiance at Oleana. There is plenty of seating, both indoors and outdoors, and the interior makes it feel more authentic. We were seated immediately but within 30 minutes the entire restaurant was packed. I definitely suggest that you get reservations before coming here. The food was innovative and delicious. I love the mezes because they are perfect to share amongst a group of people. (That way you can try as many dishes as you want) We ordered: 1. Whipped Feta - a nice cheesy and creamy cheese to compliment the bread. A nice appetizer. 2. Sultan's Delight - Extremely tender/fall off the bone meat and paired with an eggplant puree. One of the favorites of the night. 3. Falafels - My favorite dish!! You have to get this. Paired with a tahini sauce and pickles which added a tangy and refreshing finish to the dish 4. Some special (I forgot the name) but it was a zucchini pancake served with spinach and shrimp. Amazing. The shrimp was juicy and very flavorful 5. Lamb - Tender, juicy, succulent, and delicious lamb. Much different than a Greek style lamb but still cooked to a perfect medium rare and did not taste gamey whatsoever 6. Baked Alaska- A huge dessert. Definitely share this with someone. Kind of got sick of this halfway into the dish Overall, had a great time at Oleana. I will definitely come back here.
(5)Lily F.
More than a year later I return and left even more impressed. The octopus meze BLEW my mind! Next time I will attempt to order three of them plated together as my entree. Lovely wine list- chose a French chard from a discontinued produced that held up spectacularly with each of the six dishes I enjoyed. Our server (Alex?) was very helpful in explaining and displaying the specials featured that evening, and had a lovely attitude. Only less than perfect comment was that we had essentially 4 courses, and EACH of them arrived maybe a minute early. That could have been the server firing early for the kitchens speed, or it could have been intentional. That itself was not what bothered me, but that the food runner dropped them with a hasty explanation and did not offer to clear our dishes from the previous course or replace our silverware. Then again, he's running food and not selling us on wine. Understood. Perhaps more teamwork, but overall, an excellent and VERY memorable Monday dinner!
(5)Gene L.
When they get it right, it's some of the best food I've ever had. The sultan's delight and the farm egg were two stand out dishes. The falafel was ok, not texturally very interesting. The octopus shish was cooked really tender but the flavors weren't memorable. Overall the food was great. The lows were above average for most places and the highs were high above other restaurants. The service is also great. I'm amazed at the number of staff they have. The server we had was also very direct, which I tend to like.
(5)Laura L.
I have been here a couple of times, and I am still impressed. Here, don't skip the veggies (cauliflower). The dessert was beautifully complex and my favorite part of my last meal.
(5)Carol M.
I have visited Oleana periodically when I come to Cambridge. I have always looked forward to the inventive menus, beautifully layered tastes, perfectly cooked food, and friendly attentive service. A few months ago, my husband visited Oleana. He hadn't been before but came on my recommendation and I was shocked to hear that he was disappointed with the dinner. Tonight, I was back in town and decided to go. I was shocked. From beginning to end, the experience was disappointing. I was alone, walked in sort of early (6 pm) and asked to sit in the bar for dinner. the hostess told me there were seats available and I should seat myself. I proceeded to take off my coat, hat, scarf, gloves, and stow them and hang them up. The hostess asked me if I was indeed going to the bar. I said yes - just getting the coat off. She walked away and I decided to visit the rest room prior to sitting down. When I came out, she asked me again - "are you going to the bar?" in a strange tone. What is up? I didn't think I looked sketchy. I went in and took a seat. The bartender ignored me for quite a while. Finally he came over and asked me if I wanted bottled water. No - just tap. He slapped down a wine list. Finally he came back - I ordered a glass. He asked me if I'd like some bottled water. No - just tap. about 10 minutes go by, and finally my glass of wine came. I was left to myself for another 10 before he asked for my order. I selected an Octopus appetizer (I'd had their grilled octopus before and it was phenomenal), a Monkfish dish, and a side of greens. By the way, ordering was a real challenge. The bar is so dark that where I was sitting, at the end of the bar, it was impossible to read the menu. I kept having to take out my phone for light. The octopus came and it was a "taco". Meh. Very little flavor. One of the joys of octopus is its beautiful texture. this was like mush. Overly soft, very little flavor, with a tomato sauce on some sort of buttery crust. what were they thinking. I wasn't in love with my wine, so I ordered a trebbiano (white) to go with my Monkfish. Quite a bit of time goes by and the bartender comes over and pours Trebbiolo (red) and walks away. When I am able to get his attention, we have a discussion - he sort of begrudgingly pours me a trebbiano. My main dish comes. More overcooked fish! Monkfish is another fish with a beautiful, robust texture. This fish tasted old and fishy. the sauce and other parts of the dish were okay, although probably a little overwhelming. But it is hard to say because the fish itself was so disappointing. My side of greens didn't come. I was slowly eating, while reading, and I waited and waited. I had eaten half of my dish when I finally decided to ask the bartender about my greens. He told me he was sure they would bring it soon. They didn't. Eventually it came, about 15 minutes later. It makes me sad to write this review, as I have had some truly beautiful meals there. But I don't think I will be back. The food is no longer of the caliber I expected (and loved).
(2)John I.
A fantastic restaurant located in Cambridge, I highly recommend you visit Oleana Restaurant. From start to finish, the restaurant delivered on my expectations. A very busy establishment, I would highly recommend reservations to secure a seat. Service was excellent with solid knowledge of each of the dishes and drink offerings. The wine/cocktail list was excellent and fairly priced. It was incredibly nice to see a sherry section, which only added to the charm of the restaurant. In terms of ambiance, the restaurant has a unique decorative and intimate style. A bit close between tables and although noisy at times, it didn't seem to distract from my dining experience. Here are a few of the dishes sampled: Whipped feta with sweet and hot peppers - amazing starter with fresh ingredients and great flavor. Sultan's Delight - A very popular dish. I loved the flavor connection between the eggplant and the beef. Kohlrabi Pancake - a potato pancake with shaved cabbage and a thick yogurt and tangy peppers. Loved the middle eastern yogurt flavor. Amazing. Lemon chicken, za'atar and Turkish cheese pancake - The lemon chicken is subtle and the medley of spices compliment the chicken. A highly recommended dish and from what I know has been on the menu since the restaurant's opening! The cheese pancake is similar to a spanokopita less the spinach. A true delight. I highly recommend you visit Oleana Restaurant. Best of luck in Boston and Cambridge!!!
(5)Xiao Z.
5 stars, 5 stars, 5 stars. Stop reading this review and put your name down immediately! Thank you babe for bringing me here! Still reading? Alright, then I'll do everything I can to convince you non-believers. First of all, the decor is really awesome: really nicely lit place, it has a nice romantic vibe to it, and there are plenty of available parking spots around the establishment. The service? Terrific, if it weren't for our waiter, I would not have had as an amazing culinary experience. I don't usually buy the whole "oh, everything is good here," but he was right, and I'm glad I got more appetizers than main courses. Food: alright, I want to focus a lot of time here. Each meal was like an artistic design and took both of us by surprise. Dish by dish, we were pleasantly surprised by how the chef took a creative twist to common dishes and it felt like being a judge on Iron Chef. Not only that, the portions were perfect and we barely had room to move by the time we were done. Warm buttered hummus - it come in a pair, wrapped by some form of meat jerky and lightly fried? I don't know, the flavor was amazing and I thought it was just gonna be a dip. Octopus - my girlfriend loooved this dish. The octopus was so tender and fresh and it paired so well with the lightly sauteed hot peppers. The base of the tart may have been a little soggy, but it was still delicious. Vermont quail - two little wonderfully marinated and seasoned bird breasts over rice. It was the only thing I recognized, but my taste palate was still blown away. Msakahn - I think it was mushroom? I don't know, it was my favorite. End of story. Wild striped Bass - one of the main course meal, very unique, comes in a bowl and excellent sauce. Overall, I had an amazing time and I strongly recommend all food lovers to experience it. Food/Service/Price - 5 stars
(5)Ryan J.
My experience here was a memorable one, My first taste of Boston and I enjoyed every bit of it. Located in the Inman Square neighborhood in Cambridge lies Oleana, it was either this or Jody Adams Restaurant Rialto for our dinner (I chose this because there are tons of Italian restaurants in Boston and I wanted to be adventurous and try a cuisine I've never tried). We walked in, hung up our jackets and we were led to our table by the front door, they put us in the corner next to the Wine shelf (don't mind if we help ourselves) it was hard for me to shift my weight cuz I didn't have a lot of Space. The Atmosphere is Rustic and the lighting is a little dim and the Patio looks nice out back. The restaurant showcases Mediterranean Cuisine with Turkish, Arabic and North African Influences and likes to highlight exotic spices. Our waiter Ryan (what a coincidence) brought us a pouch of Bread for us to snack on while we decided what we wanted to Order. My dad decided to get himself a beer, called a Bohemian Pilsner (he liked it), then we shared an appetizer from the specials: it was a Butternut Squash Kibbeh with Roasted Brussel Sprouts, a Black Garlic Yogurt and topped with a Hazelnut Dukkah (Kibbeh is made of Bulgur Wheat, it was light and crispy and had a nice nuttiness, Sprouts were Delicious, Black Garlic Yogurt, it sounds odd when you think about it but it had a lemony Tang to it and the Dukkah which is a Blend of Hazelnuts, Fenugreek, Caraway, Cumin and Mint added some Crunch, Nice start). The Meze (Turkish word for Appetizers) are more Popular here I'm guessing, choosing from 21 Appetizers and only 6 Entrees, Its nice for everyone to get a different Appetizer and share it amongst each other. We asked if Ana Sortun (the Executive Chef/Owner and Genius behind all this was here, but Ryan said she was in Istanbul, oh well). Next my Dad got another Appetizer Fried Mussels with a Turkish Tarator Sauce (It was light and crispy and the Mussels were Plump and Tender, the Sauce which is made from Almonds and Garlic (it wasn't overpowering it was Sweet, Nutty and a bit Tart). The dish I got was the Reason I wanted to dine Here, the dish that Gabriella Gerhenson (Food Editor of Saveur Magazine recommended on the Best Thing I Ever Ate episode: Bird is the Word) Lemon Chicken with Za'atar and a Turkish Cheese Pancake. Its both Dark and Light meat with Lemon Confit and Butter stuffed in the Center and the 2 are folded together and Cooked under a Brick to get that Crispy skin then coated with Za'atar (a wild Thyme mixed with Sesame Seeds and a Lemony Herb called Sumac over a Pancake (which is a cross between a Crepe/Tortilla (which was Crispy) filled with 3 cheeses (Basseri, Feta and Ricotta). I like the contrast of both Light and Dark Meat so Juicy and Moist, some acidity from the Lemon Confit, that Herbaceous scent from the Za'atar, I loved the Nuttiness and creamy mixture of all 3 cheeses plus a bit of Diced Onion for some Crunch and some Arugula). For Dessert we had the Baked Alaska (my first time eating one) which had Coconut Ice Cream inside and with a Passionfruit Caramel (You take your spoon and you dive into that Meringue and get that Toasty, Nutty, Bruleed, Marshmallow Texture, that Sweetness from the Coconut Ice Cream and some Tartness from the Passionfruit, just a little bit at a time it can be overpowering) also they brought over another Dessert: Turkish Style Profiteroles (which were filled with a Brown Butter Creme, topped with a Sesame Caramel and finished with Cashews and Halva (which is a Sweet Confectioner) Sweet, Rich, Nutty (I actually like the Cashews). Wow I used the word Nutty like 5 or 6 times, I think I'm Nutty myself sometimes. Me and my Dad both enjoyed our time here and Ryan did a good job, The People, Atmosphere, Food and Service were all Outstanding. Thank you Oleana for making my 1st meal in Boston something to Remember !!!
(5)Michael C.
For my 1,000th review I wanted to revisit one of my first truly great culinary adventures. Made a reservation about a week in advance and was able to get an early seating on a Sunday, even though this place has been a staple of Inman Square for more than a decade this James Beard award winning restaurant has not slowed down a bit. I have been here well over a dozen times and the service has been impeccable on every experience, never once has there even been a mediocre visit. The menu is seasonal here which helps this place stay fresh. The outdoor seating makes this place perfect for any occasion Rose Sangria - Their sangria is seasonal and while I think the red or white I've had is better than the rose it was still pretty good. Deviled Eggs - On par with some of the best deviled eggs I've ever had Sultan's Delight - This is some of the most tender flavorful beef you have ever had. This appears to be a slow cooked short rib. Only a few bites but you wish it could be your entire meal. These are always on the menu Fried Mussels - Another item that is always on the menu. I've never had such a light and fluffy fried mussel. The fried peppers give the dish a good kick while the yogurt sauce offsets it. Hangar Steak - This item was on special. It was good, very good actually and cooked perfectly but it was a little too boring for me. When dining here it is best to go a little outside your comfort zone. Duck Musakhan - I tried duck for the first time here many moons ago so I'm always willing to try their latest incantation. The duck meat was served on a flat bread with a medley of veggies. Great flavor combination Baked Alaska - The holy grail of Boston desserts. I'm going to go ahead and unofficially crown this Boston's best dessert. The combination of meringue, ice cream and coconut macaroon drizzled with a passion fruit sauce is so much more than the individual components. I have come here to the bar just to have this. It alone is worth the trip.
(5)Stefan B.
I get that it's really acclaimed and everything and that a lot of people go in with super high expectations... but this was so bad. If I went into a restaurant in a strip mall or a cave or like a basement and I was served this stuff I'd be annoyed. My boyfriend visited me in Boston and chose nice places to eat the four nights we were here... and this was the last one because of all the acclaim. This was the worst place we ate at on our trip. (We ate at Orinoco, Myers + Chang, Toro, Alden & Harlow, Row 34, Saus, and here.) Everything was just... so boring. The sultan's delight just tasted like a soft piece of meat, the SINGLE puny cheap shitty looking lamb kebab tasted like nothing, the fideos was just weird and not good, and the bay scallops dish was so boring and weird... I just picked out all the scallops and left everything else. I don't understand why this place has acclaim and why people say the flavors and shit pop. The food didn't taste like ANYTHING. Seriously. My boyfriend makes fun of me for being super Asian and saying everything is too salty... so if I say that something is bland it's SUPER bland. The service was weird, the place was cramped. Huge gap between meze and entree... which was annoying. The servers lacked polish and seemed like they belonged at a $$ restaurant, not a $$$.... The place has no justification for the prices they charge. Shitty tasteless food, weird service, shitty location not in high rent part of town, cramped... And tacky as fuck decor. Like Applebee's trying to be ethnic. The only memorable things were how bad it was, and how awkward the couple next to us was being. Some guy was trying to impress this girl who had a really bad attitude about life and it was fucking hilarious.
(1)Kristen M.
Enjoyed dinner with a friend here at the bar. Restaurant was busy the whole time on a Wednesday. Great place to share some small plates. Bartender was nice and had some good food.
(4)Heidi L.
Definitely a favorite, the food is always amazing and the atmosphere is fantastic. LOVE the Sultan's Delight, whipped feta and falafel, just to name a few. Highly, highly, highly recommend this restaurant.
(5)Jack C.
This is easily five stars. From the friendly staff to the delicious, creative dishes, I cannot be more pleased with my experience. I highly recommend the sultan's delight (tamarin beef that melts in your mouth), the Turkish fondue (Brussels sprouts and other veggies delicious on their own but phenomenal in a sea of cheese), and OUTSTANDINGLY perfect the octopus empanada. Just get it. I'll save the gustatory surprise for you to find out. The quail kabob is yummy, just a bit too chewy. Their sangria is also large and fruity, aptly captioned with "drink me."
(5)Ramy N.
Had trouble securing a reservation for 6 - the place is in high demand and for good reason. Our table ordered a wide array of dishes to share, and they were all phenomenal. The flavors were both distinct and intense. The most outstanding was the short rib. We have our waitress to thank for many spot-on recommendations. I look forward to coming again.
(5)Michelle B.
Um, what? If all three Ana Sortun Camberville restaurants are sisters, Oleana is the oldest and wisest. Her flavors are solid and confident, and she knows herself like a world traveled, Ulysses-memorizing, farm-share buying, journal-writing, effortlessly beautiful and calm knower-of-all-things. Sarma is the punchy new kid, and Sofra is the middle sibling peddling food and killer pantry items so everyone will like her. And we do! (Also, where else can I get Aleppo?) Oleana is serious. Not stuffy, but also not pandering to the "grab a drink and a small plate" crowd (Sarma) and not bowing down to the brunchers and pastry munchers (Sofra). All three offer similar flavor profiles but at Oleana, the execution feels inherent. You want to eat in the garden surrounded by fig and pear trees. You want to hear people talking and listening and the clink of glasses and low murmurs of satisfaction through bites of moussaka and perfectly seared scallops. You can taste the love. The service is great. This was our first visit, and we were treated like familiar friends. Our waiter had excellent suggestions, and we left happy and cared for. Which, is hard to get these days at a casual-ish eating establishment. I love each of the above mentioned establishments for different reasons and will continue to frequent all three, but Oleana, keep setting that bar high for your sisters, it's working for you!
(5)Anand S.
Was finally able to get a reservation here, but had to make one 2 weeks in advance for a Thursday, so make sure to call way ahead if you want a weekend day. We had been trying to come here for a long time, especially because it's one of the better vegetarian friendly restaurants in the area, and by and large, the food did not disappoint (nor did the service). We told our waiter ahead of time and he was very good about suggesting what we could have, and also explained to us the chef could make an entree based on what was in the kitchen (although he explained it was at the chef's whim and thus he couldn't actually tell us what would be on that plate - more on that in a second) Between 4 of us, we ended up ordering one vegetarian tasting menu and adding on a few additional items and were more than satisfied. Our vegetarian menu started off with the fried cauliflower with moroccan style almond butter, and I think that ended up being the hit of the night. The cauliflower were cooked just about perfectly and went so well with the almond and spice mix. Just a really great dish that everyone was happy with. Next came the pita with red pepper, pomegranate molasses, and nigella seed. This one was fine, but sorta boring. Just didn't get enthused by it, even though there wasn't really anything wrong with it. Next came the spinach falafel (the tasting menu came with 2, we ordered a standard meze plate with another 3), another highlight. The falafel had a nice crisp outer layer and a creamy inside (though I would've preferred it be just a tad less soft). It was served on a thin pita with cress, beet yogurt (surprisingly good, I don't normally enjoy beets, but this didn't overwhelm with beet flavor), and tahini. Next on the menu was flattened potatoes with herbs and lemon. It was served with some sort of sauce that I just can't remember. Either way though, a pretty standard dish, tasted sorta like high quality home fries, but I did really like the touch of lemon. The menu also included dark greens with an eggplant puree of sorts - nothing to write home about, but another quality item. One of the specials the night we were there was a grilled asparagus flatbread (the word I'm calling it, I forget what the term was at the restaurant) with bechamel, haloumi, a mint-asparagus puree, and a fried egg. The flatbread portion was just a touch on the soft side, but besides that, I really loved this dish. We also ended up ordering the chef's special entree I mentioned above. This was kinda meh. It ended up being a large plate consisting of 4 smaller items, 2 of which we'd already had (the greens and the potatoes). It also came with a chickpea dish served with whipped goat cheese which tasted fantastic. The 4th dish was unmemorable. The lowlight on the menu was probably the spicy fideos. The menu described them as toasted vermicelli, which made me thing there would be some sort of crunch (maybe my mistake). In the end, just ended up being a sort of not very spicy, not very appealing dish. Dessert on the tasting menu was a dark chocolate ganache tort and we also ordered the pistachio white chocolate bar, both hits.
(4)Allen P.
Obviously this contender for one of Boston's top restaurants doesn't need my approval, but nevertheless, Oleana warrants all the praise it's been given. The service was very good---we were seated quickly and comfortably, and our waiter knew a lot about the menu (and wine list---which is a plus for this guy!). The food is also excellent, very well-done Mediterranean blend with flavored and spices you won't find elsewhere readily---even more, they use them WELL, and not just as a novelty. Great experience, will definitely go back. I'd recommend any first-time patrons to order 3-5 small plates rather than going for one of the larger entrees...half the fun is trying the breadth and variety of their dishes...
(5)Andrew R.
Oleana is the kind of restaurant that when you look at the menu, it doesn't do it justice. The menu is simple, and there is absolutely no way you'd be able to tell how something is going to look, taste, or feel when you order it. Even familiar favorites follow this rule. The best way to get a sense of what a dish is like is to ask your server. They will describe the menu like it was the most beautiful piece of art on Earth, praising every element, every detail from start to finish. You'll almost get more out of the translation of the menu than you will out of the actual food. I could listen to them talk all night. And I almost did. And because of all that, the food probably tastes better. Note that there is complimentary bread of two kinds, a sweet and a less sweet, that pair nicely with several of the dishes. Ask for more when you finish the basket. As for what we ordered... Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers - Looks small but packs a huge flavor punch, mostly of feta, of course. Good but I wouldn't get it again. Spinach Falafel, Tahini Sauce, Beet Yogurt & Cress - My personal favorite. Kind of expensive when you consider it's $4 per falafel, but it's also unique. A heavier falafel than most without feeling like it's just all deep fried. Those who love crispiness will be disappointed, but I would likely get this again. Sultan's Delight--Tamarind Beef, Smokey Eggplant Purée & Pinenut - Another favorite. The beef and eggplant puree are separated, and both are very good. I'd probably get this again. Lamb & Grape Leaf Tart--Cumin, Orange, Orzo & Spicy Feta - This one is going to look burnt to you when you get it, but it's just the grape leaves after they've been baked. Almost like a dolma but with different ingredients and a less processed feel. Good but not necessarily worth it to get again. Cigar Borek--Summer Squash, Yogurt Sauce, Turkish Spices - Thin, long rolls or wraps that are pretty good, but you might not be able to tell what's in it. I may or may not get it again. Moussaka, Tahini & Heirloom Tomato - I like moussaka, a lot. This was a great version, especially with the addition of tahini and/or hummus in it / on top. Yet it tasted like most moussaka other than that, like something I've made at home several times. So while delicious, for that reason I wouldn't get it again. Dark Leafy Greens with Toum - The least impressive dish. Just greens with a little bit of fat. I'd pass on this one. Turkish-Style Profiteroles--Brown Butter Crème, Sesame Caramel, Cashew & Halva - It was someone's birthday, so they gave the table a single profiterole. That turned out to be perfect because it was so, so super sweet. Way too sweet. Even the sweet tooths at the table agreed. So four people splitting a single profiterole was more than enough. I can't imagine getting more. They suggest 1.5 to 2 dishes per person, and I agree with this because the dishes are sauce (ergo, fat) heavy, so it fills you up. It's actually decently affordable at under $20 per person for food. Sorry that was so long, but some things require a detailed explanation. Also, this was an ode to the servers at Oleana whose eloquent description are unmatchable.
(4)Hayley B.
This is my favorite restaurant in Boston. I have eaten here about 10 times and each time it feels like a warm hug. The first time I went I was a vegetarian and went with the tasting menu which was excellent. Now that I am eating meat again, I can honestly say the sultans delight is the best piece of beef I've ever had. Personally I would stick with ordering a few mezes. They are all so good. If they offer specials for mezes get them all as the special is always what is fresh on that night. Last night I had the pork belly and it was wonderful. If you can, definitely sit outside as soon as they open the back porch. It's the kind of place I would want to get married. There's a pear tree, heat lamps, a little fountain and seating area. I really can't say enough about this place. I'm on my way to creating a separate review for Sofra, the breakfast place linked with Oleana, but if you haven't been there, go right now. Overall, Oleana is the best of Boston. Oh yeah, and make sure to end the night with profiteroles. You won't regret it.
(5)Nicole B.
After hearing all the buzz around Oleana I figured I had to try it! We went for an anniversary meal and had a unique/wonderful dining experience. Finding this restaurant can be tricky if you are not alert so make sure you know where to find it. We sat outside in the courtyard area and enjoyed a nice summer evening. The wait staff was knowledgeable and seemed to really care about the food that was being served. We started the meal off with a bottle of white wine and decided to order a selection of the small plates as dinner. We ordered the following: Whipped Feta with Hot Pepper: the portion was smaller than I expected, but the actual dish is delicious nonetheless. You first taste the saltiness of feta with a secondary wave of hot spice. Fried Mussels: Again, this portion was smaller than I expected. On a small dish fried mussels are intermingled with fried spicy peppers and a neutralizing lemony Turkish tarator sauce. Spinach Falafel: This dish is one of the "must haves" here. This falafel is the creamiest I've ever tasted. Very yummy, but a little difficult to eat with the wrap and the generous tahini. Walnut Muhammara, Beet Tabouleh & Spicy Cheese Sarma: This dish was as pleasing to the eye as it was to the mouth. Everything tasted amazingly fresh and clean. Bread & Cheese Dumplings: This dish was also quite tasty, but not one of the "must haves" if you are only getting a small number of meze. Sultan's Delight Beef: This was the star of the night. The beef was cooked to perfection and fall apart tender. The flavor had a sweet savoryness too it. Anyone who enjoys meat in any capacity should order this meze. The eggplant accompanying the beef was also great, super smooth and melted in your mouth. To round out the meal we ordered the baked Alaska with coconut ice cream and passion fruit sauce. This was light, fruity, and delicious. I can't wait to go back.
(5)David B.
One of my top 5 restaurants in the Boston area. Everything is beyond flavorful and so well prepared. The amount of important that goes into the quality of the food reaffirms any price a dish is. You cannot find something bad on the menu. The summer time is best, when almost everything on the menu is local and fresher than anything you can buy at a grocery store.
(5)Shalin D.
One of the reasons to leave your kitchen and head out to a $30 per entree restaurant is the expectation of good food and good service. Oleana is five stars on the former, it's about negative four stars on the second. We arrived for Sunday dinner around 7 PM. We were seated immediately and then sat... and sat... and sat... waiting for 25 minutes until our server stopped by, filled up our water glasses, and took our drink order. We waited another 20 minutes until our drinks - glasses of wine for the table - arrived. After another 20 minutes, the waiter took our order. Mind you, at this point we'd been at Oleana for more than an hour and our order was only at this point taken. It broke down even further from there. The kitchen must have been backed up. My table and a few neighboring tables received complimentary meze dishes while we waited for what we actually ordered. Two hours into our meal, we were only one course in. Needless to say, we left Oleana around 9:45, immediately after we finished our last course. Worse, the server was unapologetic. No apologies for the wait. No welcoming words. Not once did he stop by to ask how the meal was going. It was terrible service for what is ostensibly a fine dining restaurant. The only redeeming factor was the food. Yummy fatoush. Delicious fried green tomatoes, sprinkled liberally with sumak. Monkfish that was hearty but also prepared with little fuss. All so yummy. I want to go back, but given the service, I wouldn't recommend this place to anyone.
(1)Amy R.
This was absolutely amazing from start to finish! I am visiting a friend in Boston and haven't lived here in years...to start, the hostesses were SO SWEET and helpful. They got us two delish glasses of wine while we waited and promptly seated us asap even though we didn't have a reservation. We sat at the bar and the service was great. The ambiance is awesome. The food was the best part...got 5 mezes, one better than the next!!! GO TO THIS RESTAURANT.
(5)David L.
Food: 4 Decor: 4 Service: 4 Came here for dinner on a weekend night. 1. Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers 5 ~Really good. A nice bit of heat that worked really well with our bread. 2. Spinach Falafel, Tahini Sauce, Beet Yogurt & Cress 12 ~Really good. Perfectly seasoned falafel. 3. Vermont Quail Kebob, Baharat Spice, Barberries & Pistachio 13 ~Pretty good. Cooked nicely. 4. Sultan's Delight--Tamarind Beef, Smokey Eggplant Purée & Pinenut 13 ~Delicious. Beef was cooked perfectly, and it went incredibly well with the eggplant puree. 5. Baked Alaska; Coconut Ice Cream & Passion Fruit Caramel 14 ~Okay. I'm not a huge fan of meringue since it tends to be too sweet. This baked alaska was okay, but I only had about half. Service was pretty good, although it would have been nice to get a bit more attention.
(4)Christine J.
Really delicious and a wonderful restaurant to dine at. Service wasn't as good as the food but decent still.. A completely different taste that you will not forget.
(5)Daniel B.
One of the best meals I've had this year. My family selected just from the small plates (called "Meze") on the menu. We began with an Apple Fatoush (salad) with sumac which was interestingly spiced... I'd not had sumac before. Then came the Fried Cauliflower, Moroccan-Style, dipped in almond butter and spices, which was absolutely delicious: I actually said "Wow" out loud on my first taste. This was followed by a chickpea terrine (very good), Sultan's Delight (meat was outstanding, babaganoush was only so-so), Cigar Borek (vegetable roll-ups in the shape of cigars, which were terrific), and a special fried calamari with peppers that was yummy. The only disappointment of the night was the Octopus Coca, which was served too hot, making the octopus taste mushy. For dessert we had the Baked Alaska with cashew ice cream, which my teenager pronounced excellent, and a white chocolate + apricot dessert that we all liked as well. The service was friendly and efficient. Our table was near a window and a bit cold, but we warmed up as the evening went on. This was my first time dining at Oleana; my wife has been before and said I had to try it. I'm glad I did. A terrific meal overall... my mouth was very happy.
(5)Kerri Y.
This place is ALWAYS busy. I have tried on many occasions to get reservations on weeknights- only to be provided with inconvenient times like 530 or after 930pm or no availability at all. Finally ... finally with persistence, I got a reservation. Was it fantastic? - yup! The atmosphere is perfect for a date- very romantic. Lamb Shish Kebab and Vermont Quail Kebob were exceptionally tasty. Pan-Fried Kalamata Olives melted in your mouth. Beef Kebob was good, but not my favorite. Vegetarian menu looked tasty- maybe next time. Wine list is lacking if you don't get a bottle (half bottles are available)- there are only a few options for wine by the glass and i heard that they do not have a full liquor license. Its a pricey- but on par with what you would expect to pay at a tapas or small plate place. Overall worth the wait- yes.
(4)Ricky M.
Our family's experience to Oleana was superb. The beautiful lighting gave an amazing mood to the calming environment. It is a comfortable place for couples, but for our 4-person family it still met our expectations. Also the beautiful paintings and chandeliers were inspiring and beautiful. The Mediterranean cuisine was brought to an indescribable level. Even ordering quite a number of mezzes could be appetizing, with an optional entree. One of the most decadent mezze was the tender quail. Biting into that succulent meat was a heavenly taste with their tenderness and succulence.
(5)Gonen M.
The food is amazing. The best restaurant in town without a doubt. However, the ambience is not all that great for such fine dining experience (except their cute patio). Make sure that you have a reservation at least a week in advance. There's a good chance that you won't get a table for dinner if you just walk in.
(5)Phil B.
This is arguably one the best restaurants in the Boston area. All the mezes we tried (~10) were flavorful, very well prepared. Also, you can tell that every ingredient used was fresh and high quality. Nice ambiance and the outside patio is wonderful.
(5)Laura R.
Amazing food! Great selection and diversity. The service was wonderful and quick. The only odd thing was alcohol - it's wine or beer only. I would definitely return!
(5)Maureen D.
Made a reservation weeks in advance for a weekday at 6pm. Was promptly seated but, as usual, squeezed like sardines next to the 2 other parties already seated. The staff was constantly whizzing past my table and brushing me each time. I ordered 2 mezes at the approval of the waitress but found these to be unsatisfying . In particular, the chick pea terrine was cold hummus surrounding stringy spinach. The mushroom dish was at least warm but also lacking enough stick-to-your-ribs quality. My dining companion did enjoy the striped bass on sweet potato pancakes which had more flavor and texture variation!
(3)Ashley D.
I love oleana!!! I came here with a friend on a Monday and it was great. I did not know if I would be able to get in but called the day of and they had room for us. I usually can never get a reservation so I must of been lucky. They were pretty busy but not full. Our waitress came over and she was very knowledgable about the menu. She thought we were ordering too much food so she told us to order 4 plates and if we are hungry, then we could order another dish. I thought this was very honest. She explained each dish and gave us some great recommendations. We ordered the octopus, lamb and grape leaf tart, hummus and eggplant. My favorite was def the lamb and grape leaf tart. The lamb was so tender and delicious. It was also a pretty big size. I do not usually like tapas food because I eat a lot and usually need a huge pizza when I leave HAHA but I was actually full. The portions were a pretty good size and I was full when I left. Oleana is pretty small inside so you def need a reservation if you go. They have a garden that you can sit outside but that is first come first serve. I would of eaten in the garden when I went but it was too hot out. Next time, I will def eat in the garden. They do a very good job here and will recommend this place to all my friends. Enjoy!!
(5)H. A.
Yet another enjoyable experience here! It's very difficult to get a reservation, though. Recommended: Sultan's Delight (tender beef) Whipped feta spread Moussaka Whatever the baked potato dish was The awesome breads & olive oil Was great, but not my favorite: Spinach falafel (too dense) Finish it off with the Baked Alaska-- it's great!
(5)Liz B.
Have to echo Hailey L's review. After hearing so many fantastic things about this restaurant, I chose it as the place to celebrate my recent birthday. I was seriously dreaming about how great this meal would be, particularly since I had been living abroad the past few months in a place with few decent restaurant options. Sadly, the beyond terrible service obliterated any chance of enjoying the experience at this restaurant. From having to wait for over half an hour after our reservation to be seated (the "waiting area" is in a really sad, depressing, dim corner of the patio) to the surly and apathetic attitude of our server to the disjointed arrival of our dishes, my initial excitement deflated like a balloon poked with a needle over the course of the evening. I actually decided not to get dessert there or celebrate my birthday at all, so I'd be less disappointed by thinking of the dinner as a regular dinner instead of my birthday dinner. We went elsewhere for the candles, cake, and singing. The food was good but not spectacular, and certainly didn't make up for the crappy impersonal service. I'm pretty shocked that such a highly regarded restaurant could overlook so many basic service details. After our long wait, we were hungry and irritated, but could have easily been won over by a drink or appetizer or some gesture that indicated we mattered. Unfortunately Oleana couldn't be bothered. They really made me feel like my party did not matter, and they didn't care about making our experience pleasant in the least. Won't be back unless someone else forces me to return. I can't recommend that anyone come here to celebrate anything. Come for the food and nothing else.
(2)Alixandra M.
I almost want to give this hidden gem a bad review just to keep people away because it is already incredibly hard to get a table!! Hands down one of the best restaurants in the Boston Area. I have only good things to say.
(5)Dolphia N.
I heard so much about Oleana and it took 3 weeks for me to get a reservation there for my family. Food was okay, but I expected more from there. First, they tell themselves as Turkish restaurant and they do not have Turkish black tea or lentil soup. Seriously?! Waiters were very rude. Portion was small, food was okay. Their food is very far from Turkish or mediterranean. Starters were very much delicious but main-course I found was uninteresting. If I want to have Mediterranean, I will go to other places - not here.
(3)Katrina N.
I don't know how this place doesn't have five stars right now. It was epic. Ehhh-pic. We sat in a cozy corner high table surrounded by bottles of wine, and shared delicious and decadent apps, mains, and dessert. The spinach falafel was a fun presentation of what I normally consider street food, and the fried cauliflower was very tasty. It is pan fried - not battered and deep fried, so it was a good starter. I ordered the lamb kofta and enjoyed every bit. The spices were true to the restaurant's Mediterranean theme. C had the zatar chicken, which was quite good though a little heavy on the zatar for my taste. We finished with the baked Alaska. There are some pictures on Yelp, so you can see what you will get. It was very sweet, and a nice birthday treat. Plus: Great wine selection! It's pricey, but worth it for foodies and special occasions. We can't wait to go back and sit at the small bar to try all of the other appetizers. You should go immediately. (To my friends at Oleana - I saw another person comment on the staff at your restaurant wearing t-shirts. It's something I noticed as well...)
(5)Brian W.
Just as incredible the second time, as the first time! My wife and I had one of the first seatings of the evening which made seating easy compared to the last time we were here. The restaurant was jam packed the last time, but was filling up as the evening went on this time. Parking is easy with choices either on the street or in a parking lot adjacent to the restaurant. Make sure you park in the spots without any "warning" signs as there are threats of towing. The restaurant decor is very fitting of the style of food, everything from the choice of light fixtures to the chairs. Ana Sortun who is the Executive Chef/Owner has a few other places that she owns that are also really great. The staff was friendly, and the waitress did a good job. Nothing amazing, but she came when she needed to and stayed away when she was supposed to. Meze Courses - Delicious! The beef is fall apart at the touch tender. Spinach Falafel, Tahini Sauce, Beet Yogurt & Cress Sultan's Delight - Tamarind Beef, Smokey Eggplant Puree & Pinenut Main Courses - The lamb stew was really good. I'd never tried Fried Quinoa before, but it was the perfect, subtle addition to the dish. The duck soup broth was so good, I wish I could buy it by the can. The duck skin is cooked crispy and had a slight "burnt" taste to it that I didn't love. I'm not sure if that was intended or not, but I wasn't a big fan. Outside of the skin on the duck, the rest of the meat was moist and tasted great. And like I said, the broth was AMAZING! Lamb Tagine - Sweet Potato, Preserved Lemon, Fried Quinoa & Almond Duck & Iranian Noodle Soup - Blacked Eyed Peas, Lentils, Spinach, Herbs & Yogurt Sides - The Flattened Potatoes with Lemon and Oregano were excellent. The potatoes themselves did not have a note of dryness to them. Very well seasoned! Dessert - The Turkish Style Profiteroles, Brown Butter Creme, Sesame Cashew Caramel & Halva was very good. The sesame cashew caramels were really, really good. I good eat a bowl of just that! The profiteroles themselves were a little dry in the middle to me. I didn't love the creme portion of them. They were missing some of the "puff" that I was expecting. Great meal! We'll definitely be back!
(5)Devorah G.
We won't be back here. This place has alot of hype going for it and thrives on a celebrity chef. The food is good but the service is terrible. We've been probably 5 times in the past year and I've held out writing a review because we used to know a few employees and as I've said, the food is good. But the food isn't great. I think the restaurant is going off the fumes of great success of years past. In early January we had the vegetarian tasting menu and they forgot a course...so when we reminded them, they brought it after dessert. Not when I want a savory dish. In March, we made a reservation and arrived 10 minutes early but weren't seated until one HOUR after our reservation. Several people were seated ahead of our party of three...which I realize needs a different table than a party of 2 but we did make a reservation, were not offered a cocktail or complimentary snacks in the meantime. Poor service. We then waited 20 minutes to order. The burrata was tasty, we had a fish and it was good and the spinach falafel is fun but I'm so over it. Sarma is definitely a better pick if you want this mediterranean food. If this was unusual, I wouldn't complain but we have had poor service before. We tried them again just recently because the garden is spectacular but after 40 minutes without of first mezze, we just left.
(1)Murilo S.
Amazing service, knowledgable staff when it comes to wine, tasty food (you must try the Feta Pie) and great atmosphere. Make sure you make reservations as the place is always packed.
(5)Andrea L.
I can't find a thing to not like about Oleana. I wasn't trying, but I'm not particularly generous with the stars in most cases. It was a beautiful night in early October (day after my birthday). My brother and his family were visiting my neice at MIT (from the Philly area) and recommended this place for my birthday dinner. They had already been there at least once before, and anywhere I mentioned it around town, the reactions were similarly thrilled and impressed. They have a rep! From the outside,this place is nothing to write home about - hard to even place where you see it, but you know you've driven past a million times. Inside and out back in the "garden", the place is quite nice - a bit squishy, but beautifully, tastefully if not a tad lavishly decorated. We stood and sat out back with cocktails while we waited for our table (yes, we had to wait about 15 minutes even though we had reservations). There were 6 of us, and we had a little of everything. I can't exactly remember names, but everyone loved their food. I had a duck entree, and the lamb entree was also great and two of the larger dishes. Many are quite small. The eggplant and veggie dishes were great. We even had a whipped dessert that I can't recall and isn't on the online menu - bakes alaska? maybe - but it had a flamy caramel topping and was delicious! The place has a lovely and romantic feel. The service is good and not stuffy, the food is wonderful and the price is dear - but worth it - especially when it's your birthday!
(5)Jeff F.
I headed into Oleana last night after having it on my short list for the last six years. I'm glad I experienced Oleana and would highly recommend it, but didn't share the genuine love everyone has for this Cambridge gem. Great atmosphere. Here's the rundown on the grub: - (A+) Carrot Soup - (B) Spinach Falafel - good, but I found it a little odd - (A-) Octopus, Persian Lime, Spicy Greens & Mougrabieh - really good, but Craigie still owns best Octopus in Cambridge - (A+) Vermont Quail Kebob, Baharat Spice, Barberries & Pistachio - ridiculous, I would go back just for this - (B) Chick Pea Terrine - Unique, but I couldn't appreciate this one - (B+) Lamb Tagine - somewhat average, I should have ordered a different main
(4)Alex Y.
Oleana deserves five stars. It goes beyond the typical restaurant experience by treating you with unique dishes. Every part of the meal stands out for me because it was so different than anything I have had before. Not only were the tastes unique, but the experience of eating the foods was unique as well. Flavors and foods that I typically do not associate with one another join forces in many of the dishes, for better or worse. The wait staff is helpful every step of the way as well. Oleana's effort to make the dining experience so memorable is how it earns five stars. Continue on if you want details on the dishes we had at our meal. + Breads The breads come out first, and they are a sesame bread and spiced dense and dark bread, both of which pair well with the olive oil (and balsamic if you ask for it). + Farmer Chris' crudites This dish is fun. You take raw vegetables, dip them in the almond butter, and then cover the almond butter in the dukkah crushed nut mix. It's a party putting all the pieces together, and then it's a party in your mouth shortly after. + Sultan's delight WAAAH! The tamarind beef is so tender and flavorful. I cut pieces off and wanted to forgo putting on the accompanying eggplant and pinenut puree because of how delicious it looked. Good thing I didn't because that dip worked well with the short rib. + Lamb and grape leaf tart This is a rather large tart. The cumin flavor is quite strong, and it overpowers the grape leaves flavor. Nevertheless, the tart overall is a tasty dish. + Special: Carrot puree and hummus with fried cheese This was a special dish that was off the menu. As a whole, I don't like cheese, but I really liked this dish. Fried anything is appetizing to me, and the unique combination of carrot, hummus, and cheese flavors was great. - Crispy duck entree Of the five dishes, I liked this one the least. It came out last (as it was an entree), and at that point, I was pretty full already; my review of it may consequently be slightly biased. The dish is soupy with a strong mint flavor (too strong, in my opinion). The duck was prepared to be quite crispy, but it still had a tough texture after the crispiness. The flavor overall was too minty, and I don't think I was able to appreciate the duck flavor because of that.
(5)Kiki P.
Oleana is a cute Mediterranean restaurant located near Inman Square. Each of the dishes is a filled with creative bursts of Eastern Mediterranean flavor. Most of the dishes have Turkish spices and blends, but some have an added hint of lebanese and armenian ingredients. The food is really amazing and unique. You will not find these dishes anywhere else!! The ambiance is also quite cozy with a fireplace right in the center of the dining room. During my visit to Oleana, I started off my evening with the chickpea terrine served with apricots, pistachio and tahini sauce...an absolute delight! For dinner I tried the scallops with parsnip kadayif, brown butter, tahini and curry spices. This dish was filled with oh so much flavor!! One of the best scallop dishes I have ever tasted. My boyfriend ordered the tamarack tunis lamb with turkish spices and he really enjoyed his dish as well. The portion sizes are generous, which left me little room for dessert. I would really love to make a trip back here just to try the dessert! Overall, I had an awesome dining experience. You MUST check out Oleana!
(4)Ojus P.
Shared a bunch of small plates and while there were some superstars, the majority were mediocre. The cacik was great but overall it was disappointing given the reviews.
(3)Felicia C.
This is one of my top #1 restaurant in Boston so far. My husband and I decided to go on a monday night, an hr before they close. (We expected less ppl cus it is monday night) we passed by the front and found it pretty packed. We got excited and went in threw their ramp. (Good idea for strollers and wheelchair) Sat down by a friendly host to a table for 2 into a cozy space which was decorated in middle eastern decor. My husband wanted a bigger table and we were able to move to a 4 ppl table. The table was behind a wall which gave us some privacy but the waitress that served us was very tentative. She was very friendly and formative and checked on us at the right times. She also took time to explain dishes we wanted to know about. What we ordered: 2 x deviled egg Tonight special pork belly Fried mussels Entree crispy duck Entree lamb The mezzes were rich and flavorable. The entrees were not as rich, which made the whole experience better cus we didn't feel so stuffed after the richness. 5 stars for amazing food, flavor and service.
(5)Rebecca L.
The service was amazing. Hostess updated us regularly about status of our table (we were walk-ins), food was phenomenal (mezes: haloumi, falafel, octopus, cauliflower, kumpir). Best food I've had in a long time.
(5)Kimberly N.
This place was tasty. We were celebrating my sister's last day in Boston and wanted to go out with a bang. Oleana was a good choice, but there's much to discuss! Service was friendly and attentive. Spacing between tables was a little tight, which made for overlapping noise amongst parties. The place is a lot more casual than I expected. Sis and I ordered 8 meze, side of potatoes, and dessert. Probably 2 meze too many, but whatev. Before I begin, I will say that I have had better meals. However, I appreciated the complexity of flavors developed in each dish. A few things seemed unusual, but still had me interested. Sis drank the ginger lemonade, which was tart and bubbly. I had the lemon verbena iced tea, which was floral and delicate. Deviled eggs: as someone who hatessss olives, the way the olive was cured (presumably) was really lovely. The saltiness gave the egg filling what it desperately needed. This one was yummy and fun to eat. Spinach falafel: one of the best falafel I've ever had. The spinach made for a really moist falafel. The beet purée was perfect, and the tahini was smooth and flavorful. It was a very delicious bite. This was my favorite. The pickled veg were good: tart and crunchy. Warm butter hummus: interesting take on hummus, but not a variation I would have again. The hummus seemed overly thick (paste like, instead of velvety goodness) and un-fun to nom. Cacik: yogurt dip. I didn't like this. Something seemed off; too much garlic or too much herb, something I can't put my finger on. The spinach was also very chewy. I think it would have been more successful if the spinach was cut smaller. Fried mussels: mussels were big and juicy. Peppers were crispy and mildly spicy, but left a nice heat in your mouth. The sauce, though, was too thick. I took off as much sauce as possible. Sultan's Delight: this came towards the end of our meal, I wish it would have come out first. The short rib was beautifully cooked and sauced. Eggplant purée was good but I only tried a little bit bc of my allergy. The short rib needed some type of pickle to cut the fat and sweetness. It would have paired nicely with the pickled veg that came with the falafel. Chickpea terrine: Sis enjoyed this a lot; I did not. Interesting flavor, but I felt the texture was a little... One note. Summer squash patties with cheese, prosciutto, and figs (special meze that night): very tasty bite. Perfect union of textures, and you must eat this hot! After it cooked down, it was less appetizing and turned a little dull. Flattened potatoes: Sis has a potato obsession and HAD to order these. These came out last, and she only managed one bite bc we were so full. She didn't like them, and said there was too much oregano. They were literally crusted. Baked Alaska: this could have been a 10/10. The meringue was perfect, the sorbet decadent, and the coconut cake on the bottom was sweet, chewy, and gooey. But I hated the passion fruit caramel so much that I tried very hard to not have any in my bites. It overpowered everything and didn't let the subtleties shine through. That sauce needs to go away, and the rest of the dessert could have berries or something. Sorry if it's mean, but I really hated that sauce. Overall, a pleasant meal.
(4)Boston Penguin D.
We came here for our anniversary and it was amazing. We had a reservation and although we arrived 15 minutes early they were able to seat us right away. We shared two meze (the melt in your mouth Sultan's Delight and whipped feta). I had the lamb meatball tangine and my partner had the special hanger steak. Both dishes were outstanding. For dessert we had the Baked Alaska. That was the best meringue I have ever tasted! Only four stars for two reasons: it is hard to find a reasonably priced bottle of wine on their list (although we did love the way they categorized them according the flavors) and the coconut ice cream in the Baked Alaska was really hard, meaning it was also not as flavorful as I would have like. We would definitely come back though.
(4)Andrew M.
The vegetarian tasting menu is a great feature, but looking over some of the other reviews here I feel a bit cheated -- the lineup on the night I went wasn't as spectacular as some of the ones described below. I did enjoy the fideos and chick pea dish, but one or two of the more salad-like meze felt a little bit like filler. Came with a great mascarpone-based dessert as well. Also, is there a better or more varied pre-meal bread basket in greater Boston?
(4)Svein Halvor H.
This was the most excellent meal I've had in quite a while. We were a couple of vegans and celiacs, and they had no problem what so ever to accommodate our needs. After having a few dishes to share, we had to order the potato/chickpea purée again because it was so unbelievably good. They even gave us a free dessert to share when we wanted to pay. Highly recommended.
(5)D J.
My favorite dining destination in Cambridge thus far. From the outside Oleana looks rather plaid, but dining in the wonderful little outdoor space was perhaps one of the most charming things about this mediterreanean gem tucked away in Cambridge. Waiting is pleasant too - sipping some splendid Moroccan mint tea while waiting in a private area overlooking the patio, prepares one for the flavors to follow! And if you needed help picking out those flavors - the Oleana menu provides a very smart and thoughtful glossary of ingredients to help sift through some pretty cool menu options. The tables are tiny, even for a steady flow of small plates - perhaps it's an effective way to control the supply and consumption and keep the crowds moving? I lingered...for a pleasant dinner...and definitely intend to get back there sometime!
(4)TinoX T.
Nice PLace,Cool Staff
(3)Nancy R.
Amazing doesn't begin to describe Oleana. I had warm hummus,which was delicious, a favabean hummus, to die for, puréed eggplant-ok....went well with the crudités. The snap peas with hummus butter was so wonderful, my husband even liked it. And the melted cheese (I can't remember the actual name) was unreal. It was a true gastronomic party! My husband loved the spinach falafel and the soft shelled crabs. He had this blackberry thing for dessert, which he really liked. The service was overly attentive and very professional, answering all our questions. Can't wait for my next visit to Boston to come back!
(5)Lizzy S.
I love this restaurant. We come here whenever we have something to celebrate and we have never been disappointed. I recommend the Lamb Tagine and the Baked Alaska.
(5)Tina D.
The meat was so "tender" "fall off the bone" succulent"...whatever, these are the most common phrases idiots use on yelp! Don't need to describe the food, everything kn the menu was good. Just eat here! Hands down one of the best restaurants in Boston! Book reservation at least a week in advance if you want a table on Fridays or Saturdays. Easy to book, open table
(5)G G.
literally one of the best meals I have ever had. great drinks, amazing food, great atmosphere. everything was delicious, especially the lamb mezze special. will certainly be back.
(5)Adam B.
Sat down at 1030 after making reservation on open table. Ordered some shareable starters and drinks. Food was good but not spectacular.,humus tasted like nothing, broccoli dish was good, octopus as well. Consensus was that the drinks were the best part. Went to order a couple other things at 1103 and were told the kitchen was closed! So you seat us at 1030 but tell us nothing about this important fact. Told the manager about this and he said sorry .. But really didn't seem to care. Even bragged that they seat till 1045. Heard such rave reviews but won't be returning. Suggestion. 1) don't seat that late 2) tell you customers this information 3) respond in an appropriate manner when your customers give you feed back
(3)Janet Y.
Excellent meal tonight. My friend and I ordered several mezes. Avocado and Dukkah - If you want your omega-3s, this is a good choice and I am officially in love with dukkah. Dukkah may be a spice, but it will not sear off your taste buds like a habañero. Whipped Feta with Sweet and Hot Peppers - Very balanced flavors. At first it has a mild taste, but then you get a bit of spice and it just elevates the entire dish. What I loved/appreciated is that the spice wasn't overwhelming. If I wanted to blow out my taste buds, I would chug a bottle of Tabasco sauce. Warm Buttered Hummus with Basturma and Tomato - Probably the best hummus that I have ever had. While I was hesitant at first that the cured beef (basturma) would be overly salty, it was actually very subdued. Sultan's Delight - Tamarind Beef, Smokey Eggplant Purée, and Pinenut - I can see why this is a crowd favorite. The beef was tender and not stringy like some of the other complaints on this site. Although, I have to say the eggplant purée wasn't extraordinary. I was expecting a little more punch, but I think the main focus is supposed to be on the beef. I would have gladly just had the beef and maybe left out the purée. Musakhan - Hen of the Woods, Spring Onion, Hazelnut Broth & Sumac - This was my favorite dish of the night. The hazelnut broth was to die for. If this was a restaurant in Japan, I would've gladly picked up the bowl and just slurp away. I don't how they did it, but the broth was rich and flavorful yet not egregiously overpowering. Maybe they are just damn skilled at making a good roux? Oh and if you love mushrooms, you can't go wrong with Hen of the Woods. Almond Cremolata, Marcona Almond Butter, Semolina Pancake & Candied Cocoa Nibs - If you don't like cloyingly sweet desserts, this is the dessert to get. The cremolata is not rich like ice cream and the cocoa nibs balances out the cremolata if you think that it's sweet. The semolina pancake was good, but I feel that it could have been left off the dish. I guess to each his or her own? Moroccan Mint Tea - I was expecting it to be more potent like what you get in Morocco. There isn't a strong mint taste, but it wasn't bad either. I think I might have set my expectations a little too high...Yeah, I know, I sound like a pretentious asshole. Feel free to call me out on it. While the dishes were executed very well, there's a reason why I'm only rating this place four stars. I'm sorry, but the service isn't exactly spectacular considering the fact that we were celebrating my friend's birthday. Don't get me wrong, it's not the worst service you will have a restaurant, but it is still kind of underwhelming. Expect great food, but don't set your standards too high when it comes to the service. Also, I like how the restaurant is not loud. Finally, a restaurant where I can actually hear my friend talking at a normal decibel.
(4)Tommy B.
MOST OVERRATED PLACE IN THE WORLD and I know FOOD & RESTAURANTS. I just moved to boston from nyc and come from a long line of family owned Italian northern cuisine restaurants in nyc. So I'm a foodie. Everyone in Boston said I must try this place so when my parents came into town I made a rez for us. ***WORST EXPERIENCE IN RESTAURANT HISTORY. #1 we were forced to eat in the cold rain under a leaking umbrella (it was 5:30 pm. We said we'd be out before the next table showed. They said no) they then offered a fleece blanket three times by three different employees. Not one employee followed through, so I took the liberty to get up and get my own. Fine, the food was okay. If I knew the Meze was that small we would've ordered 10 not 6. #2 the staff kept TALKING about how busy they are. Meanwhile we were in the cold rain staring into the window of the restaurant at empty tables. A busy restaurant never talks about how "busy" they are. After buying an expensive wine, we apparently bought our way into the indoors and out of the rain after our apps and in time for out ice cold (not exaggerating) ice cold chewy duck that tasted like chicken. Everyone's main dish was cold actually. The dessert was great. Overall this place was awful. The appetizers came out one by one in small butter plates every 20 minutes. And of course wet as well, since we were eating in the rain. Oh and the pita bread was the last thing to arrive AFTER we finished all the dips etc. Doesn't make sense at all. Never going back here.
(1)Bianca Z.
This place may or may not have redefined my idea of good food. I exaggerate but a few dishes definitely stood out. I agree with everyone - the sultan's delight has the most tender meat. The chickpea tartin had a great combo of flavors and textures. The lamb manti was disappointing - obnoxiously tiny "ravioli" or whatever you call it. All the sharing plates are pretty small. The drinks were also unique!
(4)Priya G.
Great for vegetarians! The dishes are a little on the small side (tapas style). We got the olives with za'atar, the whipped feta, the spinach falafel, and something else that I can't remember. The whipped feta is good but it's too small, they should serve bigger portions. The olives were good but I ordered them because I thought they came with the za'atar bread and they don't.. they just have that spice. The spinach falafel was our favorite dish but again it's relatively small (3 pieces). Luckily they give you all the pita you can ask for to eat with the dishes. I loved how flavorful the dishes were though. Ambience is date night-ish (intimate and classy). Pretty elegant and nicely decorated. I'm rating it 4 stars because our waitress wasn't great (she was kind of rude and didn't really answer our questions). They served us despite being about to close which was kind of them but I really wish the serving sizes were bigger because its hard to share the dishes. I would rate it 5 stars if the serving sizes were larger and our waitress was nicer.
(4)Gauravi P.
This restaurant deserves 10 stars. Hands down best restaurant in Cambridge. We sat at the bar and had such a fun time with the bartender! She made me The Isla which was a very yummy drink. Some of the dishes we ordered that I would recommend: fried mussels, octopus coca, baked Alaskan!
(5)Malavika R.
Vegetarian tasting menu - delicious! Seriously. I don't even like salads and I'm vegetarian but this was excellent. 1. Goat cheese with almonds and cherries + farm greens = great intro. 3 key elements in any good salad. Definitely implementing this any chance I get! 2. Spinach falafel with beet yogurt and tahini = I have never had falafel that was this creamy. Not crispy which is what I'm usually used to but still a pleasant surprise 3. Collard greens with smoky eggplant purée = I could've done without this, to be honest 4. Turkish cheese pie = super rich. If you like cheese, you'll enjoy this. Sort of like a quesadilla 5. Dessert: semolina cake with blackberry and white chocolate ganache = small portion, not my absolute favourite. Couldn't get enough dessert so we ordered an additional one. The profiteroles wth caramel and cashews... oh man. That did it! In addition to all of the above, we also got sultans delight (slow cooked tamarind beef plus eggplant purée with dill) was very very good. Overall, great ambience, great service, very very interesting food definitely worthy of remembering. And expensive.
(4)Irvin H.
Overpriced with very small portions. Some of the items are really good, but others are sorta gamey. Our waitress was snobby. Won't be going back here.
(1)Jiashen H.
Perfect outside table to have dinner. Beautiful environment. We were sitting next to a tree with long and many blanches.
(4)Julie V.
Had a lovely meal here tonight, even though I'm not a huge fan overall of Mediterranean cuisine. My favorite part was the Vermont quail kebob with baharat spice, barberries, and pistachio -- quail cooked to perfection, perfectly balanced spices. For entrees, my bf and I split two dishes, the scallop dish and the grilled lamb. The scallops were tasty, but not particularly memorable in terms of flavor. The lamb, however, was tender and paired well with the pomegranate glaze. I also especially enjoyed the farm veg chips. For dessert, we had the palace bread, which consists of caramelized bread pudding, white chocolate creme, pistachio granite, and hibiscus. It was a particularly unique dessert, and the rich caramel and creme went well with the lighter flavors of the hibiscus and passionfruit. I would note that service was not great. Dinner took nearly two and a half hours, from waiting to be served appetizers and then finally waiting for the main courses, it seemed like the kitchen must have been very busy. I have been here before, though, and also had a similar experience. Worth a try. However, I personally would prefer going to Craigie on Main, which has a similar price point (referring to the Chef's Whim).
(4)E M.
We ordered seven dishes. With the exception of the somewhat dry spinach falafels (tasty though) and a not too inspiring salad, the others were most delicious: kale and mussels fried to a light crispy perfection, juicy tender meat in the sultan delight, deviled eggs with fantastic texture and flavor. I also enjoyed very much the baked Alaska desert. The service was attentive and courteous.
(4)Eyal R.
I had the sea Bass and it was delicious. The restaurant is cosy and pleasant. Prices are a bit too high than expected from the kind of dishes and menu. Smell of the kitchen is too strong, at least in the bar section which is next to the kitchen.
(3)Lee H.
We had a great meal at Oleana. If you want to eat on a Saturday, you'd better book a reservation a month in advance. We got a table for 5:30, which is when they open. This turned out to be fine, since they don't rush you and the meal moved at a nice pace. We sat in the courtyard on a nice day, which also helped. The food was delicious. I started with the octopus - very tender on a bed of chickpeas. The lamb main course was very good, although perhaps it could have been more highly marinated. My wife's scallops were about as good as it gets. The baked Alaska was uncharacteristically large, although my wife found it a little too sweet (I disagreed). Portions are modest, but prices are reasonable so it turns out to be a good value for such high quality. Service is exemplary - friendly and attentive, but not overbearing. Finally, for a Cambridge restaurant parking is remarkably easy, due to available free parking across the street (for patrons), as well as some parking on the street (it's far enough from Inman Square that there are some spaces. Oleana is a new addition to my top 10 list.
(5)A E.
(Would be 3.5 stars...) Oh, Oleana. I loved you for so long; now I just like you (as Pee-wee would say, "I LIKE like you." But still. It's not the same.) I've been coming here since the very beginning, and while it's still such a special experience, there's a sense of "We're #1; we don't try as hard" that seems to have infected the place. It's recent (my last two visits over the last few months) and it's sad. The food isn't as amazing across the board as it used to be. The portions of the mezze are much smaller (even from back in the heyday of the tiny pret-a-manger menu.) No more z'aatar bread. (And speaking of bread, the grouchy bread guy is no longer charming, just grouchy; so please, just give us a basket-full at the beginning...) The chicken was fatty. And even my favorite of favorites- the spinach falafel- was dry- no tahini...just dry. Yeah- I know these seem like picky criticisms, but the thing is...It used to be so, so special, such a 'wow' dinner experience, and now it's just really good.
(3)Danielle S.
I'd go so far as to call this the best restaurant I have been to in Boston. My boyfriend took me here for my birthday. Everything was delicious, but the Sultan's Delight (meat was super tender) and Baked Alaska were highlights. The place is tough to get into and a little cramped, so it's ideal for smaller groups.
(5)Emily G.
There are a lot of restaurants I love in Boston (Or the greater Boston area) but when people ask me to name a favorite I have to say Oleana. Now having been there multiple times and having been consistently blown away by the quality and creativity of the food, Oleana has cemented itself as number one for me.
(5)merqurious z.
1. Not kid friendly. They went in search of a kids menu and never found it. 2. Have your dinner else where and come here for socializing / drinks. The portions and extremely small. The portions are smaller than appetizer plates at other places. 3.$$$ expensive for very small portions
(2)Vivian R.
I was excited to try this highly rated restaurant and it did not disappoint. The small dishes explode with flavor and are so rich that even two of them left me stuffed. The waiter recommended the spinach falafel and I was doubtful because it seemed very mundane, but it was unexpectedly delicious. Great service and décor, I will be back as often as I can get a reservation! Food - 5 Décor - 4 Service - 4
(4)Julie C.
Ah, this might be my favorite restaurant. But I only went here once.. I went right when they opened for the day so I was lucky and didn't have to wait. All I can say is, I can't wait to go back!
(5)Alon R.
Ambiance is super cute! The bread with sesame seeds on it reminded me of bread I would get on the beach in Israel as a child. The falafel is a necessity but it is a bit mushy and not as crunchy as regular falafel. The moussaka is a must! Non traditional and broken down but super tasty and filling! The olives are great but not a must get. Expensive for the amount of food you get. The sultans delight is good but basically tastes like short rib - wasn't life changing at all. Overall great experience and with some of the best Mediterranean food in cambridge/Somerville. Sarma however is better.
(4)Sari C.
I love Oleana, we go about 2-3 times per year. We tend to order 2-3 appetizers and one main to share, and if we're feeling it, a dessert to share with coffee. The staff is always extremely friendly and helpful, and they don't mind the sharing requests or charge extra. Their coffee is totally amazing, definitely recommend. I love that they organize their wine menu not by region but by flavors. I've definitely greatly expanded my palate at Oleana by ordering this way. Their wine people really know their stuff and always make fab recommendations. Some recent favs include: * The monkfish main OMG so savory and delicious (Monkfish, Carrot Kibbeh, Black Garlic Tahini, Orange, Pinenut - the black garlic tahini I could just pour directly into my mouth) * The kohlrabi pancake with hot pepper labne :) :) :) * Chickpea terrine!! * Sultan's delight (tamarind beef... drool) Always great are their fish dishes, and their vegetarian dishes are unparalleled. I would be a vegetarian in a heartbeat if I could cook as good as Oleana! A few years ago they had an amazing beef stew-like dish on their menu that my mom got... that was insane. The salmon spanikopita is not currently on the menu but you can get the recipe in Ana Sortun's cookbook! I made it a few months ago and it was wonderful. anyway quit reading this review and go make a reservation! You won't regret it.
(5)Hailey L.
Came to Oleana for a special graduation dinner, expecting a special, memorable meal. The majority of the food does not disappoint -- the world's best hummus. They even provided a special order of muhammara and crudite. The octopus shish is amazing. However, the tables in the dining room are SO PACKED IN TOGETHER!!! We could hear every word from the tables on either side of us, making it impossible to have an intimate dinner with friends and family. Good thing we knew two other foreign languages to chat in, so we could converse comfortably without feeling awkward about everybody around us listening in. Having to go past the tables to go to the restroom is a true struggle, having to be excessively careful not to topple a table or the one next, not to bump your arse into the person squeezed next to you. The service was more of a let down. The waiters make you feel very rushed. Since the tables are jam packed together, there are also waiters rushing around everywhere, making the diners feel flustered. Not a calm, welcoming environment to enjoy a nice celebratory dinner. When I asked my waiter about the makings of the spicy fideos dish -- my least favorite of the night -- the waiter spoke in a very demeaning and impatient manner. The service does not do the food justice. A serious damper to a potentially lovely meal. For the price you pay here, especially for a special celebration dinner where we are there to eat and drink to our heart's content, we should have been greeted with something far better.
(3)Sim S.
It's a really good restaurant with great service and food. It's very gourmet
(4)Jeff N.
Dined here recently with a business colleague. Pleasant space and unique wine list. The stripped bass wasn't all that exciting, but had a lamb chop meze portion that was delicious.
(4)Jessica B.
I'm a little intimidated to review a restaurant with over 700 reviews, but here it goes! First, there's parking in a lot across the street. Very civilized. When I came in I was surprised how small the space was, and how close our dining neighbors were, but it was fine. No screaming kids to be found, it was all a quiet, adult crowd. We started looking over the menu and the waiter came to take our drink order. I asked if they had a Retsina, which is a resinated white Greek wine. It's a bit of an acquired taste, but I love it with Mediterranean food. The waiter responded that they didn't have hard alcohol, so I told him what it was. I ordered another drink and then the wine director came over with the best bottle of Retsina I'd ever had. I don't think it's on the menu and we had a nice talk about Greek wine. I was very impressed, not only that they had it, but that the waiter bothered to tell her I had asked about it. The food was just fantastic. Of course. Chick Pea Terrine with Apricot, Pistachio & Tahini Sauce was like a sublime hummus cake that melted in my mouth. The Trout Spanakopita with Cucumber, Avocado & Roe was also delicious. It does not have the phyllo dough I associate with spanakopita and is delicious fish and spinach. We had to get the side of Moussaka--Minced Lamb & Eggplant Pie with Whipped Fava, because of course we did. It was the best I'd ever had with a unique green tint to the top layer. It's a bit lost as a side, I think I would put it with the Meze. Of the three things I tried, the Chick Pea Terrine was the most out of this world. The next time we visit I think we will stick to the Mezes because they were incredible. But it's going to be a little while. Because my pants don't fit. We didn't have dessert because I was so full, but they looked amazing. As a dining experience, from the food to the personalized service, this was hands down one of my favorite meals in the greater Boston area.
(5)John M.
My wife took me here for my birthday and it was exceptional. An intimate dining room with great food and service. Baked Alaska for dessert, yum yum yummy!
(5)Erin S.
Filtered Cambridge tap water came ice cold in medium size glasses and was refilled often without my request. Just fantastic. Initially it came with a few more ice cubes than I would have liked, but was delicately refilled without spilling more ice into the glass. Perfect for a cool August evening.
(5)Ece A.
I went to this place with great expectations to have a Mediterranean fusion food after i have read and heard so many good things about Oleana. I have nothing against the place, but I couldn't feel the Mediterranean taste as much as i hope. BTW, i am Turkish. So maybe i was slightly prejudiced. The place is quite pricey. Portions were very small. Everything was pretty fresh. Meat was very well cooked. Very friendly waitresses. Only shakshuka surprised me a lot, because it has egg in it.
(4)Candy W.
So disappointed! The food was fine, just didn't match the expectations from reading all the rave reviews. My partner and I went to try the vegetarian tasting menu. From other reviewers, we thought the dishes would be different for both of us, so we could try more plates. However, this was not the case and we ended up ordering one tasting menu and other a la carte items. I'm a vegetable lover so the disappointment definitely wasn't about the lack of meat or fish. The flavors were too heavy in some dishes and just didn't work well together in others. Mainly, I felt overwhelm with the taste of heavy cheese without balance from other ingredients in the dish. Perhaps we got unlucky but our waitress wasn't the friendliest either. She seemed very strict and authoritative with how we should proceed with our meal. We felt afraid to ask her for anything because of her demeanor. Sadly, I don't recommend this restaurant and would not be coming back.
(2)Marie W.
Came here for the vegetarian tasting menu, which did not disappoint. Great flavors, lots of variety, and dessert! Other dishes that were tried by my companions: Short ribs appetizer - by far the best dish of the night. Next time we're going to order a few of these to eat as an entree, it's that good. Pork appetizer wrapped in leaves - 4 stars Hummus - nondescript Entree - Halibut - 3 stars, a little bland and a little disappointing. Flavors all came from the lentil sauce. The fish itself was not impressive. Overall a good experience, though their overall attitude is a little snobby so that's one of the downsides. Food was very good and I would come back again for a special occasion.
(4)Z D.
Go with friends, sit out on the patio, sip on one of their refreshing wine-based cocktails, and share your fill of small plates. You could not hope for a more delightful evening.
(5)Stephanie R.
Great place! The only reason I'm not giving 5 stars is because we made a Friday night reservation for 830 and they didn't seat us until around 9pm. The restaurant is quite small and the table before us was taking their time. Looking back our meal took around 2 1/2 hours...but it was well worth the experience. All the Mezos were to die for. Their red sangria was perfectly spiced and not too sweet like most sangrias are. The red pepper whipped feta, eggplant, shrimp special, braised beef...we ordered so many little plates. The main courses (the lamb with yogurt) and the swordfish skewer were delicious mains. This restaurant is unlike anywhere else in Boston. This place is perfect for a larger group or romantic, yet casual date outing. Order lots of small plates and be sure to share!
(4)Chris C.
Perfection. Just go, and be amazed.
(5)Amy P.
Surprisingly casual, expectedly delicious. Every single small plate, big plate, drink, bread, and dip I ordered I would order again (and again, and again). This is a truly unique restaurant perfect for a date or a family outing. I was too full (and fulfilled) to try dessert, but I'm sure it would not have disappointed. One thing I really appreciated was the server's knowledge about the cuisine and wine pairings. She was casual, friendly, and not overbearing. Oh! And the women's bathroom is darling!
(5)Cindy S.
Oleana, you're the best, and one of the few restaurants in Cambridge I actually enjoy. Fantastic ambiance and even better food. Lots of vegetarian options, good wines, and delicious desserts. It's a pain in the neck to get a reservation, but they have some spots usually free at the bar and it gets a bit easier in the summer when the outdoor seating is open. The dishes are on the small side, so get a bunch to share.
(5)Ziyan C.
The vegetarian tasting menu (got this a year ago) was DELICIOUS. And they aren't like other snobby restaurants that make everyone at the table buy the tasting menu - my boyfriend and I were able to share one serving. On a Saturday night.. you pretty much HAVE to have reservations. But we were fine with sitting at the bar as it was just the two of us, and the bartender was very knowledgeable and nice. I thought he had a good NPR voice..
(5)Jocelyn W.
Not really impressed. Started with the spinach falafel - just eh. Needed more taste. Also had the fried peppers and home-made string cheese: pretty good. Entrees: we had the lamb and the lemon-pressed chicken. Lamb: okay, really not much meat at all; Chicken: good, moist. Wait staff: though friendly, seemed very harried.
(3)Lauren D.
I know there are already so many good reviews, but this place really is a food-lover's dream. I wouldn't necessarily say it's a Foodie's dream-- for small portions of delicious exotic things, head to Bondir, but if you want exceptionally delicious reasonable portions in a great atmosphere, you can't go wrong with Oleana. I've been here several times now and recently had the pleasure of experiencing the passion fruit baked alaska with a candle on top for my birthday. It was fabulous. I really loved the coconut base in combination with the passionfruit ice cream. You really can't go wrong with the entres. I've had chicken, beef, lamb and seafood here and all were worth having. One thing you have to try is the Muhammara. It is a pepper dip (very mildly spiced, promise) and words cannot describe how good it is. I would kill for the recipe. Also, the Maneesh bread is the best. They give you an assortment of bread to try (pita, breadsticks, etc.), but usually we ask for a second basked of bread that only has Maneesh in it. It's that good. Don't doubt. Don't question the price. Just go! Oh, and one time we saw Julia Stiles here. That was cool. :)
(5)modhu s.
One more acclaimed Boston restaurant that sucks. The Spinach falafel tasted doughy and awful. The humus felt it was sitting in an oven for hours. The octopus was just awful. But I must say all the sauces that went with the food was very well made. I am completely dissappointed with this city.
(1)Anne W.
I went here with giddy anticipation as this place was impossible to book.. I needed about a month in advance to get a table for six on a weekend. I am not a fan of Mediterranean food... so you can probably guess, that's one of the reasons why I don't appreciate this place as much as many people do. I do think I can recognize good food.. but I do think what you order is a hit or miss... I would stick very close to the recommendations. So first off... I really didn't like the parking situation. There is no parking available really and you simply need a permit to park on side streets. There is no valet.. no lot nearby.. nothing. I ended up finding some parking on a side street and parking illegally sans permit. I looked at the Yelp reviews at the table as we tried to decide what to order for the six of us. I didn't try everything.. but I can tell you what I did try.. Bread basket: It is plentiful and of course free.. the bread isn't awesome mind you nor warm. But it's good for any of the appetizers you might try. The olive oil was very good.. definitely had a flavor then what you buy at stores. Carrot Puree: I thought it was good.. not great.. it's grated carrots and then some spices on the side you mix together and put on your bread. It was interesting but the portion is very tiny.. a small dish. Sultan's Delight: I read this dish was awesome.. so we ordered two for our table as the waiter warned us it was very small. Of course.. this is an expensive restaurant. No problem.. so we ordered two of them. Indeed, it was quite small.. one plop of hummus.. and then tender beef. The hummus was standard. The beef was quite tender but I'd like to comment.. also, quite sweet. I also thought there was eggplant in this.. but there was none. Duck Breast Special: This was only available the time I was there. Omg.. the breast was cooked very tenderly. So.. I will give them this that it was done very well. I also liked the veggies underneath but I thought the tomato cream sauce they serve underneath the entire plate was too rich.. and too plentiful for this dish. Lamb Dish: I can't recall the exact name... but I'll just point out that it was bad. Probably the worst lamb dish I have ever had in all the Mediterranean restaurants I have ever been to. It was ground up lamb meat that was placed in sausage form and cooked. Served on top of a cold pita with some yogurt on top and veggies. The yogurt and veggies were okay but the lamb dish was very dissapointing. My friends also got the soft shell crab.. I didn't try it.. I heard it was okay.. less than spectacular.. not too much crab meat more shell. We skipped dessert as everything had underwhelmed us at this point. Perhaps it is good.. but I think this place is a bit overhyped.
(3)I M.
I have been to this unhidden gem two times and while they say three times is the charm, one was enough for me. The place reminds me of spanish tapas but instead you get Mediterranean themed cuisine. The apps come quickly so if you come hungry you won't find yourself ogling passing by plates as you await yours. Wether it's spinach falafel, eggplant or olives, it all comes out just right. Their side of potatoes rich with thyme and whatever else are wonderful. For the main course I ordered sea bass and it was very well done, with flavors perfectly complementing each other rather than competing. Our waiter was nice and knowledgable even though it was really busy. He took the time to stop by regularly and see if we needed anything after our food arrived. To add the cherry on top, they were able to oblige my girlfriend who is vegan with an off the menu dish that was really well done. Coming back here soon!
(5)Lauren P.
My best friend was in town and I made reservations far in advance to take her to Oleana. I had taken my parents here months ago and it was hands down some of the best food I'd had since living in Boston. Unfortunately I was disappointed with my second experience. We loved our moroccan spiced fluke nayeh but were disappointed in the seafood stew. And the worst part - our sticky toffee pudding (you know I live for desserts) was so dry we didn't eat it. I had to stop at 7-11 on the way home for a pint of ice cream. I'm hoping it was just an off night because I really wanted to love Oleana.
(3)Stacey D.
The food here is like Mediterranean/Turkish food on crack! It's so good, fantastic for vegetarians and omnivores. Service is eh, we had a reservation and was lead out to the garden to find out our table was not available. Twice. Sad to see a glimpse of the soft lights and trees only to be denied. Oleana, that was just cruel, you are such a tease. Our server was efficient, but I don't think he cracked a smile once, and seemed slightly annoyed when I ask for details about the drinks. They could work on the whole service thing a bit.
(4)Paloma M.
I was thinking that this place would be big and fancy, but that's not the case. It's really small and not that fancy. I didn't like the tables and chairs at all, very uncomfortable! The decor is kinda meh, not my type, and I have to admit that mediterranean food is not my favorite either. But the food was good, hummus was very good, bread with olive oil was amazing, and the cheese pancake was also very good. I ordered the sultans delight as an appetizer and I didn't like the beef, was too sweet for me, but my lemon chicken with cheese pancake was great. For dessert I had the baked alaska (so famous, everyone seems to love it) and it was ok. Super sweet, could be a little less sweet. The french pressed coffee was really good. Service was also very good, the waitress was very nice and friendly. It's a good restaurant, but overall, too expensive for what it is. It could have been a better experience for 100$ (2 people).
(3)Denise M.
Ode to Oleana's... O-orgasmic L-luscious E-elegantly A-astonishing N-notoriously A-authentic Oleana...you had me at the O!!! The warm olive plate and the quail appetizer are my favorites. The lemon chicken with potatoes was delicious. I've been here several times and have not been disappointed. If your looking for a seat at the bar, you'll have to wait a bit. Get there early!! Don't expect a reservation of convenience if your trying last minute. I do believe the staff appreciate reservations more than guest appearances. The bar was scantly crowded and remained so for the night. Surprise appearances were ushered to a bench seat or to the patio. Luckily I ushered myself to the bar. Either way...I think everyone should come here at least once. Great place to celebrate or have a romantic dinner! Enjoy!!!
(5)Jamie Y.
I WUVV Oleana! Their homemade string CHEESE is soo good! And the mozzarella and haloumi with spiced figs! I would suggest just getting a bunch of meze plates to share. Last time I went with one other girlfriend and we split 5 dishes. Each meze is small but we left totally satisfied! OH AND DON'T FORGET to order the Baked Alaska for dessert!!! Umm..don't even try to come here without a reservation...you'll sadly end up eating a second-rate restaurant down the street. I speak from experience.
(4)Nick S.
Finally made it to Oleana for my birthday dinner this year. We made a reservation for 8 on a Thursday as there were no early reservations for the weekend. Parking was easy as there are two lots across the street. It may be tough to get one on the weekend but it was the easiest time I've ever had parking in Cambridge (for free, that is). We were seated promptly and our waiter was very nice. The ambiance inside is dark, but with character. My girlfriend and I weren't sure how much food to order, so we went with 5 Mezes and split an entree. 5/6 dishes were great. We got the whipped feta, which was a great start and has a nice balance of hot and sweet from the peppers, along with the creamy texture of the feta cheese. Next was the grilled octopus carpaccio, which was delicious. The octopus was meaty and tender, with a nice balance coming from the salad it is served with. After that was the lamb manti, which was a food experience I had not tasted before. The lamb manti was served with confit tomatoes, yogurt/chilies, all brought together with a perfect runny farm fresh egg. The creaminess of the yogurt went well with the lamb manti (think: tiny dumplings), and the punch of the acidity kept me wanting more. This was a really interesting dish that I thoroughly enjoyed. A special Meze of the night was an artichoke and chorizo croquette, which was lovely as well. It was served with mushrooms, and the crunch on the fried ball of goodness was perfect. Finally, for the Mezes, was the great equalizer. We ordered the spicy sardines (with shaved fennel and meyer lemon mousse) which I was genuinely looking forward to. As the plate hit the table I was smacked in the face with the pungent, fishy, oily aroma. Now I will eat just about anything, and have eaten fishy fishes (and 'like' but not 'love' them). However I could barely get one bite of this down. It is probably a personal preference (and I just don't know enough about cooking sardines to make an overarching judgment), but it was rough to say the least. My girlfriend (who is Jewish and likes that fishy flavor) barely got one down. The flavor profile was not for me, and the bones got stuck in my girlfriends throat. A rare dish that we both thoroughly disliked. But anyways, onto the entree. It was also a special: hangar steak with cucumber, pickled cabbage and what I'm calling tiropita (Greek for cheese pie). The steak was served on a skewer and had a nice char and cooked medium-rare (a little over in some spots). That with the cheese pie, and the acidity from the slaw to cut through it all was great. Oleana was a great experience with some really interesting Mediterranean flavors. I'd love to come back and try out some more dishes, but I'll stay away from the sardines.
(4)James S.
Nice and friendly wait staff. Great atmosphere , the food is delish tasty and nice presentation you got a 5 *****
(5)Traci K.
Happiness is labne. My heaven will include unlimited baskets full of delicious rusk and all the labne I can imagine. Focacia type bread dipped in a thick, creamy, crazy flavorful yogurt? How can you not want that all the time? Let me eat. Come into my belly. Jess W. & I went to Oleana for a lady dinner date. We had the vegetarian tasting menu (5 meze plates and a dessert). We assumed since we were both ordered the tasting menu, we'd receive five plates total with larger portions for sharing. This is not how Oleana rolls. Ten plates. Let me repeat that for you people, TEN DIFFERENT PLATES (and two desserts). Each meze was different and interesting and delicious! Turkish cheese pancake topped with arugla. Crudite with Mahamara (red pepper and walnut dip). Heirloom tomato on top of green beans and farro. Hot pepper labne with olive oil and mint. The hits keep coming! The dishes were so tasty and what's more? They were beautiful! The spinach falafel came topped with a little tahini and perched atop a flat bread that was slathered with beet tzatziki! The tzatziki was a hot pink that couldn't possibly exists in nature (but obviously does!). In.cred.ible. The food alone is 5+ stars - so adding in the lovely, relaxed atmosphere and the incredible service? Oleana is unbeatable!
(5)Matt L.
Exceptional service and an amazing find. A friend and I were visiting from out of town and were looking for something low key and solid. Definitely has the appeal of a local that I feel out of towners won't usually know about unless they make the track and do some research. We ordered a variety of small dishes and each dish had a fresh, rich quality to it. Their seafood selection was top notch, accompanied by a rich smooth scotch. If I ever find myself in Boston, this is the place to check out for a nice meal.
(5)Rachel F.
Wow the vegetarian tasting menu. And the baked Alaska. Every dish was flavorful and fresh. The tasting menu is great too because, I probably never would have chosen the 'braised greens with Israeli garlic sauce with pine nut baba ganoush' and yet it was my favorite. The place itself was dim and full of people but quiet enough to have a conversation.
(5)Harry H.
My absolute FAVORITE restaurant in the Boston-Cambridge area! Everything they make is absolutely delicious. Love the flavor profiles, and the attention to details that clearly shows through. Decor and service and nice and efficient, but also allow for the food to be the biggest star. Bread salad was a winner and the most memorable dish...though their baked Alaska dessert was also awesome.
(5)Big S.
this place lived up to the hype. every dish we got was great, and our server was awesome. he had great recommendations about all the dishes and was super friendly. the quality of each dish was also great. we got the vegetarian dish and a few other small plates. we got the fried cauliflower, spinach falafel, vermont quail, whipped fava, little lamb, spicy fideos and a crispy pastry cheese dish. everything was incredible. We didn't love the spicy fideos, but would get everything else again. for dessert we got the profiterole, which was the best choice. we were really happy here and for being as nice as it is, the price isn't over the top, especially compared to bondir down the street. we loved it here
(5)Sarah T.
If you have a small-ish private party or celebration, it's a no-brainer to have Oleana be part of it. It's not expensive (for a wedding). You can book lunchtime any day of the week, choose the menu and drinks you want, and pay with credit card. We actually only had a lunchtime wedding reception here, but couples have the ceremony here too. When the weather's nice, they set up on the patio, and we got really lucky with the weather. It was gorgeous. There were a few not-wonderful things, that were just ok. Service was fine, but the event coordinator was not very present, and I had to frequently ask someone to go find her so I could ask a question. I would have thought she would have been on-hand, very close by the whole time. Oddly, they were definitely giving us the vibe when it was time to head out (which I understand, because they have to prep for Saturday dinner), but there was a fairly long lag before dessert, during which we were wondering if something was wrong in the kitchen, and guests were wondering if the meal was over. The experience could have been more seamless. The email exchanges leading up to the day included a fairly nasty one *the day before* about how I lowered the headcount too close to the event, even though it was more than the required 48 hours out. They do have parking across the street, which is no small factor for Cambridge. My biggest tip, though, is to stick to what Oleana does best, which is mezze and vegetarian. We tried to incorporate the Chinese tradition of a steamed fish dish, done Oleana-style with harissa. It was ok -- people said they liked it, but it wasn't up to our expected Oleana standard, if you know what I mean. I would rather have had a double (or triple) helping of spinach falafel. We were also steered to some side dishes we didn't think were very interesting (potatoes and greens), and they weren't very interesting. Chances are you know what you like at Oleana, so just go with that.
(4)J B.
I have been to Oleana more times than I can count, most recently I went a month or so ago. I miss the way you used to be. The small plates are still great (the carrot, the labneh, oh my) but I got the bread dumplings and they were terrible (nothing like the incredible ricotta dumplings you used to make). Fideos are always the same, really good. Desert is always a disapointment (I stopped getting it a while ago).
(3)Lin Z.
Will definitely get the sultans delight again. Also enjoyed the grilled octopus. The plate though small is very filling. The four of us came very hungry. We ordered two entrees and 3 small plates each and was stuffed with no room for desert.
(4)Abhishek J.
Excellent food. There are some places that are really good and a place like this is above all the best place for food. The chef takes real care to make it food for all eaters. The only difficulty is getting reservations. You need to book early. I guess everyone loves this place.
(5)Vincent D.
This place is excellent. I like to eat, as does my girlfriend. I particularly like Mediterranean food. Im also a New Yorker who has yet to find good Mediterranean in Boston. After a number of recommendations, Im really glad my gf and I went here the other night. The small plates were all interesting, unique, varying in flavors and textures. The food came out hot every time. The drinks we tried were balanced and delicious. I would recommend the falafel, which were crispy on the outside and doughy on the inside, and were awesome. As was the Shakshuka, the Burrata and the lamb dish we got. All in, it was about $60 each which I found extremely reasonable for this level of quality. This place would kill it in Soho or the West Village, which to me makes it a real stand out up here.
(5)Cheryl D.
Husband and I went here for my belated birthday dinner, and I approve. (Well, I may have been the one to choose the place...) I ordered the vegetable tasting menu, and he ordered three non-vegetarian mezze. This was plenty to share between the two of us, and even though he is very much a carnivore, we both thoroughly enjoyed all the dishes. In fact, some of my vegetarian dishes were almost too rich for me, which I don't even know how that happens, but I will just accept the deliciousness. The atmosphere was nice, but just a tad dim. I like how it looked like it used to be a house, kind of a cozy feeling, with interesting decor. Actually, with the tables spaced as closely as they were, it was a little too cozy. I could easily have jumped in on conversations at the next table. But eh, it's Cambridge, I can deal with a little too cozy.
(4)Laura S.
YUM! Went here and was slightly worried I wouldn't be able to eat anything (vegan and gluten free right here) - I was wrong! I ate many delicious things including the falafel, collard greens and potatoes and they were all really tasty! No complaints. Yes, it's expensive. If you're young, try to go here with parents :) The cost is absolutely worth it.
(5)Marcus A.
I've been wanting to eat here for some time now and the experience didn't disappoint. Food, service and ambiance were all top notch. I arrived about 15 minutes after they opened and opted for a table in their courtyard patio. This is clearly the choice spot since every table (17 of them) was filled within the first half hour of opening. The patio has lots of greenery and a large tree provides shade from the sun. Dining in a garden.... a very comfortable atmosphere. There was even a couple of musicians sitting in the corner of the courtyard providing soft background music. They don't take reservations for the patio though, so if you don't want to wait for a table. Show up early. Service was excellent. Friendly and well informed with the menu. Prompt both with getting the food to the table and removing dirty dishes. My water glass was always refilled. I started off with one of their "mezze" specials of the night. Crab croquettes on a bed of sweet pea puree and a mango concoction that was almost like a creamed mango chutney. Regardless, the dish was phenomenal. The croquettes were deep fried perfectly and the filling was light with lots of crab flavor. The two purees were the perfect accompaniment. If this happens to be on the menu when you go, I highly recommend you get it! Next came the Asparagus, toasted corn fondue and black garlic honey. Another winner. Perfectly grilled asparagus over a gooey melted cheese mixture and topped with something that looked like crushed nuts but had a popcorn type flavor. Nice contrast in textures. Finally, the entrée was monkfish, shrimp tortllitas, potatoes bravas, white mustard cabbage and currants. The fish was cooked perfectly and the shrimp tortillitas and potatoes were delicious. The one minor caveat was I wasn't overly fond of the Turkish spices on the fish. Minor quibble. Another huge plus is that they have their own parking lot, although is VERY small so actually finding an open spot would be difficult. Overall, a great dining experience. I think next time, I'll forego the entrée and eat tapas style. Just make up my meal by ordering several appetizers. Recommended.
(4)Beverly G.
In a word: amazing. I've been here three times and each time it's been a wonderful experience. I've been here three times, and each time, everything is just pitch-perfect, from the service to the food to the ambience. The servers are really knowledgeable about the food, and what wines pair well. The atmosphere is good for nights out with that special someone - candlelit, cozy and intimate. Everything I have had here is simply mouth-watering. On occasion, I have dreams of their labne with hot pepper. Whoever thought that someone could transform a yogurt dip into something so transcendent? The spinach falafel is deep-fried perfection, too; the perfect blend of flavors: sweet, spicy, with a light, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Make sure to bring your appetite so you don't miss their baked Alaska with coconut ice cream and passionfruit sauce - it's an absolute must-have. The entrees are on the pricey side, so you would probably get the most "bang for your buck" by bringing a group of people and splitting a bunch of meze in between yourselves. That way, you get a sampling of everything, and trust me - you *will* leave full. A word of caution: sometimes it's quite difficult to get a reservation. Simply walking in, however, will sometimes earn you a wait of upwards of half an hour (even their bar gets full), so getting a reservation a couple weeks in advance is the way to go.
(5)Mal S.
I absolutely loved this place and since I last ate here, I am fiending for more. I loved the salad with the beets and limey dressing, the falafel, sultans delight, labne, hummus, and every tapa like dish that we ordered. The only thing I did not like was the actual entree. I got the chicken and was not into it. I will return and order several of the small bites. Wines are great. Nice intimate ambiance. Get it!
(5)Xavier M.
Great dinner with a friend. Always difficult to get a table, made a reservation a week in advance. We ordered one entree for each of us: 1) Tamarack Tunis Lamb with Turkish Spices, Pita & Everything Green with Garlic & Yogurt: great flavours for this piece of meat. I don't know how to describe it, but it was like minced lamb with spices and put together link in a large sausage 2) Crispy Pork Roll with Artichokes, Celery, Giant Beans & Avgolemono Sauce: my favorite for the sauce, the crispy roll, the pork inside, the artichokes. Really good On the down side, the place is packed and even though people sound very civilized, there is some noise. Beautiful toilet mirrors
(4)Kartik S.
Oleana is fantastic! It is as good as it can get, really! The food is a delightful mix of diverse flavors, their wines are delicious and complement the food well and their service is impeccable. We got the Spinach Falafel and the Sfela Cheese Saganaki to start with. Both were really good. My partner and I shared the Tamarack Tunis Lamb which was cooked just right and the Estate Riesling I got seemed to match well with it. We topped it off with the Turkish-Style Profiteroles, which was ironically the biggest portion on the entire menu. We left happy and content notwithstanding the $$$ we had just splurged. I agree this restaurant is a bit pricy but it is perfect for those special occasions.
(5)SuzaBanana A.
We recently visited Oleana a few times over the past couple months & have been very pleasantly surprised each time. The food is beautifully prepared, wonderfully interesting flavor combinations & nothing like anything else I've found locally. I never need worry about bringing a friend with dietary restrictions as they are extremely accommodating. Favorite dishes include: Whipped Feta, warm Buttered Hummus, Spicy Fideos, Fried Cauliflower, Spinach Falafel, Sultan's Delight, Crispy Duck & Lemon Chicken, They have Lambrusco by the glass which always makes me happy & some lovely sparkling cocktails. Service is always knowledgeable, efficient, attentive but never intrusive. Food is always surprising, well seasoned & often something I crave or wish I could make at home. For anyone who is looking for a beautiful & interesting meal that isn't too fancy, I highly recommend Oleana. Can't wait for an excuse to return!
(5)Steve M.
Hostess has no hospitality. It has been my husband's dream to go here for his birthday for a year. I called to make reservations for a party of eight, and the hostess told me that they don't make reservations for that size on the weekend. I told her that's fine, and then asked if I could just make two four party reservations. She said that they couldn't guarantee that we'd be near each other. I told her I understood that, but that it wouldn't matter so long as we all could go. She then told me that she just wouldn't do that. Then she told me she would only make me a reservation for six. I told her that would be fine, and she responded immediately (obviously faster than it would take to look something up she didn't already know) that there is no availability for six and that she could only put me down for a waiting list. She asked for my name and I gave it to her, after which she said thank you and bye. That was odd because she never confirmed the spelling of my name. Literally everywhere I go confirms the spelling of my name, so it was pretty clear that she was likely not even recording the information. She was unbelievably rude. Why string me along constantly and be so dismissive? Why be so cold hearted? What side of the bed did she wake up on? I will never go here.
(1)Bobby C.
For an appetizer, we had the Octopus and Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Cranberry Beans, Pancetta & Pepperoncini. I really liked the flavors. However, if you don't like salty dishes, this appetizer might not be for you. For entrees, we got the seared scallops (special of the day) and the lamb dish. We finished off with the Baked Alaska. A definite must try. I really liked the coconut at the bottom and the fruit caramel. Service was ok. Disliked that we sat along the wall near the hostess when you walk in. It was a bit cramped. The party next to us kept getting up and bumping into our table or our bowl of bread. Liked like live music. It wasn't too loud, just right. The owner/manager would come out occasionally to speak with the customers. Looking forward to going back!
(4)sasha h.
If there is any place I probably frequent too much it's Oleana...but it's sooo good. This place is great for everything - a date, dinner with friends, clients or family, you name it. This place is the destination as nothing is really near it. I usually take a cab there and uber it back - sometimes cab come by but not frequently. Service is quick, food is delicious and ambiance is cute but not stuffy. There are many great dishes here but to name a few: Spinach Falafel, Whipped Feta, Fried Mussels, Chick Pea Terrine, Quail, Monkfish, scallops, baked alaska These dishes are OK but not as good as their other dishes: Deviled Eggs, Hummus, Grilled Seafood Zarzuela This is probably the only place i'd ever suggest getting a vegetarian tasting, even if you are a meat eater. Desserts are probably my least favorite this - they are good but not necessarily as unique as the rest of the menu
(5)Elizabeth S.
Oh god... it hurts so good. Do you want to be treated like shit and eat like a king? Please come to Oleana, where the food is SO GOOD that they can pack their tiny restaurant via numerous combinatorics without including your dignity. Birthday cake? Hell to the no. Birthday candle? Are you kidding me? This is not a place for celebrations or special occasions. This is not a place to be coddled and feel super swell. This is a place to feast, quickly, and skedaddle out of there. Anything with pumpkin: A+ Sultan's delight (beef+egglant): A+ Any of their specials (I had a marvelous duck with pomegranate seeds and eggplant lasagna): A+ Hummus wrapped in tender beef: A+ Service: not too shabby, maybe a B- Host: perfectly pleasant, B+ The owner is probably a swell gal, and the service is perfectly fine. But reservations and management... definitely needs improvement. But they don't need to, because the food is, again, SO GOOD, and the restaurant is, accordingly, so popular, that who gives a fig what I think anyway? Desserts leave something to be desired... I would've preferred my birthday cake.
(4)Irina T.
We were visiting Boston from LA. LOVED this restaurant! It was actually good that we got to sit at the bar, our waiter/bartender (Donnie I think) was amazingly helpful, suggested the best dishes and gave us a free glass of wine. We got 5 meze dishes to share for 2 people and that was plenty! Falafel balls were so amazingly tender - they melt in your mouth. The fish carpaccio dish was awesome. Duck salad was their special tonight, really good and pretty big portion. Sultan's delight was also really good but if picking one meat I'd suggest the quail kebobs. Falafel balls are a must though :)
(5)Suruchi K.
The best restaurant EVER. And I've eaten at a lot (too many!) The spinach falafel is to die for. All the meat dishes are always perfect. And the bread pudding...out of this world!
(5)Ira H.
I should have read the review from Eric F. in more detail. I'll do this review as a pro/con list. I will mention right away that if you don't enjoy powdered spices sprinkled all over everything you order, you should either request that they don't do it or.. head elsewhere. pros: Nice outside entrance. We were seated promptly. We met a nice couple at the very close adjacent table. The Chick Pea Terrine with Apricot, Pistachio & Tahini Sauce was very good. cons: -Sommelier was rude and obnoxious. -Restaurant is crowded and loud which was unexpected at this price point. -The Kalamatta olives although tasty were sprinkled with a powder of spice. -The Sultans delight was fine but the serving was too small for a $16 dish. The beef was very tender but tasted too sweet. - The Fatoush bread salad was ruined with the sprinkling of a powder all over it. It made it taste gritty. I will comment on the Sommelier. Maybe she was having a bad night. We asked the waiter about a glass of wine. He offered us a taste of it. We said we didn't care for it and he sent the sommelier over to help us find something. We were perfectly happy to skip the wine. She kept coming over with new tastes of wine that we didn't care for. She was challenging us to describe the wine we liked. At one point my wife described a wine she tasted as too oaky or too tannicy. This women quipped out that it was impossible that it was oaky because it was steel aged. Really? Saying that to a customer? I ended up taking one of the glasses of wine that the sommeilier offered. It was marginal tasting but I wanted to diffuse the tension. It was added to my bill at $16. The other wines by the glass were ~$8-9. Nice. We wont return.
(2)Andrew K.
After hearing about all the rave about Oleana's, I decided to make a special date of it and booked reservations. Protip: Make a reservation in at least a MONTH in advance. I called three weeks ahead and was only able to get a late night dinner. I took my girlfriend and her friend and decided to try a little bit of everything. But alas, I was very disappointed. Now, I'm not some foodie who nitpicks at food. Food is food to me. If it tastes ok and it fills me up, that's great. However, I was more than disappointed at Oleana's. Ambience: Very crowded, where you're virtually shoulder to shoulder with the table next to you. The decor is nice and comfy, and the noise level is quiet enough to have a conversation without yelling. Food: If I had ordered pizza, or wings, or even Chinese, I would have had a better experience. - Fideo: the only redeeming portion of our meal. - Hummus: Exactly 5 tablespoons of hummus that isn't very flavorful. I've had better hummus at a foodtruck. Also, and this isn't related to flavor, but, Oleana, what's the deal with no pitas with hummus? C'mon. - Lemon chicken: The chicken was very very dry. Almost as if it'd been sitting out all day. - Duck: I feel that it should be explained in the menu that it's...a soup? It's my mistake, entirely, but I expected a plate, not a bowl of soup with duck. The menu stated: Crispy Duck, Persian-Style Black Eyed Peas, Lentils, Spinach & Verjus Butter. The meat portion was cooked well, but the soup was VERY sour. I just picked the meat portions and left the rest. - Paella: I usually love paella, but this was very bland and unflavorful. Service: Ehh. It wasn't anything special. The server seemed a bit "off." Maybe he/she was uninterested, or just had a long day, but he/she was attentive and checked in on us regularly. Overall, we all went there very hungry, and we spent about $160 on a meal that we didn't finish. We went home and ordered wings. At least I can say that I've tried it.
(2)Sara C.
Delicious food and dessert, friendly service, inviting environment. My husband loved the baked Alaska (I did too but it was so sweet I couldn't bear more than a few bites). Only challenge was sitting right on top of our neighbors.
(4)Brittany T.
The food here is out of this world! My friend and I split 4 small plates and could have probably just done 3. Everything was so good. I recommend the falafel. I will be back in the warmer weather to enjoy the patio.
(5)David L.
Across the board, the food and drink are consistently outstanding. Ditto for the service...not to single out anyone, but Donnie is not only knowledgeable but attentive and uber-friendly. Our preferred/favorite table is next to the bar in the rear of the restaurant. An inviting and cozy setting with no hint of pretense. Even for my unsophisticated palate, all the dishes here seem to burst with unique flavors. We highly recommend the avocado & dukkah, cacik, spinach falafel, sultan's delight, lemon sole, brown butter bread pudding. For wine, I keep it simple - the Assyrtiko (white wine) or Xinomavro (red wine). Oleana is unequivocally worth the price of admission.
(5)Kaitlyn O.
First of all I love Inman Square - I just think its a great neighborhood. Additionally, I love the decor and atmosphere of Oleana. The food is definitely on the very good and I am usually a harsh critic. Unfortunately, I can't remember exactly what I ordered.
(4)Arielle A.
The food here is very good - we shared a number of mezze, the sultan's delight is amazing, the spicy fideos, on the other hand, not very good. I would not recommend ordering it. The falafel was really great, the lamb quite good, the labne as well. Baked alaska is super delicious. Overall tasty food for sure. However, the service was just OK - we ordered a bottle of wine that when I tasted it, was very acidic and I believe had turned. When I told the waitress I did not like it and thought it was not good, she did not apologize and become helpful, but rather seemed offended and became a bit rude, walking away quickly to find a manager and not asking immediately if there was something else she could get for us. It then took about 15 minutes for someone to come over to the table to get us a different wine. We ended up ordering another wine and we enjoyed it, the manager who helped us with the wine was accommodating, but also seemed a bit abrasive about the whole situation. It was a bit of an unpleasant way to start the evening and almost ruined the night. I've sent back a bottle once before, in another restaurant where the waiter immediately apologized, poured himself a taste and agreed with me that it had turned. He then immediately got us the list again and made sure we got a new bottle. It was just a much better way to react to the situation, instead of seemingly blaming us for sending back the wine, and making the situation uncomfortable - What is the taste there for, if not to verify that the wine is good? perhaps no one had ever sent a wine back before at Oleana, however the waitstaff should be trained to properly deal with the situation.
(3)Lynette M.
Yummy
(5)Alicia Z.
Without a doubt one of the best meals I have had in Boston in a cozy atmosphere. Personal favorites were the tamarack tunis lamb and spinach falafel!
(5)Lisa F.
OMG the octopus here is DELICIOUS - a must order if you come here! I had the duck dish, and I thought it was cooked perfectly. The staff is great, friendly and knowledgable. You should definitely make a reservation if you come here though.
(5)Evan D.
I have been to Oleana around 5 times and have noticed a decline over time. On my last visit, we arrived on time for our reservation and then were directed to an uncomfortable bench to wait for "our" table and told that it wouldn't be more than 5 minutes. We sat there for 20 minutes, 3 feet from other diners, looking at no less than 6 open tables. During this time we also watched a couple that arrived ten minutes later get seated. We finally were seated in the area around the bar and walked past two empty tables in that area. I am unsure how they do their seating but it seems that if you have an open table for a reservation, you seat it and let the table that is being turned go to the next people especially in a situation where there are no less than 20 open seats. The food was hit or miss but again a distinct decline from previous visits. The falafel were gummy/gooey almost as if undercooked. The quail was quite over salted. I found most of the staff to be somewhat cold/aloof and this was confirmed by my dinner partner unprompted. It really didn't feel like a welcoming atmosphere at all. The gentleman bringing out the food and busing was extremely nice. To justify my rating of two stars, I feel that the food was a 3 and that the other parts were a definite one.
(2)Andrea A.
I visited this restaurant over the weekend and have to say it was amazing. The restaurant itself is beautiful, especially the green, spacious back yard. The food was perfect. I am from the middle east and was already familiar with many of the ingredients on the menu. I was really impressed with how the chef was able to transform so many popular dishes and with how innovative the food was. We ordered the asparagus fatteh, the zaatar marinated chicken, and the baked alaska and enjoyed every bite!
(5)Tia S.
I wanted to like this place. It was recommended by the owner of the B&B we were staying in. I hated to tell her the next day that this place failed to meet basic expectations. It was loud, crowded and cold. We were sat at a two top beside the LOUDEST table EVER! We sat in the back and I don't know what was going on, but staff kept coming in and out of the side door. I had the Spanish-Style Pork Empanada and my partner ordered the Misty Knoll Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake. Both were so salty that we were unable to really enjoy them. Our waiter boxed them but we threw them out as soon as we got back to our B&B. Cold air on my legs, salty food and an extremely loud party makes for a ruined dining experience. Wait there was ONE good thing: the bread!!
(2)L M.
The food and drink here is excellent overall. Some meze dishes are better than others, but I've not been disappointed in any of them. Same for entrees. The baked alaska is one of the best desserts going anywhere. The only negative thing I have to report after my last visit is that with popularity the level of service seems to have gone down. Individual waiters I've had recently aren't up to the same standard as they used to be - and not up to the standard I expect from JBF award winning restaurants. Tableside manner (being very loud) and not spacing out dishes in an efficient way (bring everything at once) were features of my last visit. Some of the best food I've ever had, but it seems like the success has stretched the staff a bit. Success also brings a different clientele. There are usually loud venture capitalists only a table away.
(4)Elizabeth L.
I loved Oleana. It was a bit of a surprise for me, especially since the restaurant doesn't have any sign (that I could notice at night, anyway), so was very happy to eat here. It also helped that the food was wonderful! From the meze menu, we ordered the Sultan's Delight (tamarind glazed beef with eggplant), the fried mussels, vegetable tagine, and octopus with butternut squash puree. The octopus and Sultan's Delight were the highlights here -- don't order the vegetable tagine. Mostly root vegetables, green beans, and carrots in a white, watery broth. Something one might make with frozen vegetables during a blizzard. But everything else was wonderful. Shared an entree of lamb = I thought it'd be too much food, but it was the perfect number of dishes for our party. Dessert was extremely tempting, but skipping out will be a reason to go back. Also heard that Oleana recently opened a bakery -- Sofra, so will definitely check that out!
(5)Brianna B.
"And how are those flavors?" This was the question of the night. Every time one of our mezze dishes came out (much bigger than I expected, by the way--two for two people could definitely be enough if you can hold yourself back from wanting to sample everything!), our waiter would stop by and inquire about our tasting experience. And what flavors! Saffron infusions, whipped feta, cheese dumplings--everything was amazing. As a vegetarian, I was also really impressed with the huge variety of options available from the mezze menu, and there is even a vegetarian tasting menu available. Other highlights include the french press coffee. We didn't make it all the way to dessert--motivation for another visit? Also, I should add that I showed up thirty minutes late for our reservation and they held our table for us even though it was extremely crowded and the whole party wasn't there. We ended up in the corner with the wine racks, which felt so private and comfortable in the busy restaurant (very romantic!). The aesthetic is perfect--awesome textiles, a wood stove, and tiled tables. Wonderful for a cold winter night in Inman Square.
(5)Ana R.
What good review is Oleana missing? I know this is basically just more praise added to the pile of already adoring reviews, but I have to have my say!! My boyfriend made reservations several weeks in advance, and though I didn't have anything on my calendar for that night, I wish I had, just so I could cancel on whoever it was and say "I can't, I have reservations at Oleana". So there. We got there at 6pm and there was already a nice busyish atmosphere inside. The parking lot across the street is small and awkward, but it's a parking lot, in a town where any form of parking at all (not to mention, free parking!) is a godsend. The bathrooms are really nice, by the way. There was a wait for the ladies, so on a tip from a passing waitress, I just used the men's. It's not a stall type dealy, so it's not like I was peeing with dudes. Just after we finished a conversation about never being able to understand the specials when they are explained to us, our waitress came over and told us the specials. She spoke very deliberately and was very helpful and we started with one of the specials for our appetizer. Risotto with wild mushrooms, topped with fresh mozzarella. It was delicious. Everything had a complementary earthy quality that paired up nicely with the sangria, too. For our first course, we chose: Fried Mussels, Hot Peppers & Turkish Tarator Sauce - the mussels were BONKERS good, the sauce was out of this world. The peppers were tongue-numbing, so after chomping down on some bread (with the most virgin of olive oils - not my favorite, but worked well with the bread), I avoided them. Grilled Squid & Sujuk with Black Eyed Peas, Butternut Squash & Fried Prunes - I wish I hadn't been wary of the prunes. I didn't end up trying any and stuck with the squid, but now I wish I'd eaten them together. The peas and squash were excellent with the squid. Second course: Sultan's Delight; Tamarind Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Purée with Pinenuts - the most tender beef, on a delicious sauce I could have eaten off of shoe leather! Sultan's Delight indeed!! Vermont Quail with Baharat, Barberries & Pistachio - delicious spice blend, perfect with the pistachios and barberries (which I'm still not sure what they are, but whatevs) We had a lovely time, were left alone to enjoy our meal and conversation, and had just enough service to stay happy. I would go again in a heartbeat! The only annoyance was that we were reissued a gift certificate for $11 because they can't give you back cash for change over $10 amount. I suppose we could go there for a coffee...
(5)Emily F.
Most of the food was dang good (appetizers were stellar, entrees were pretty great, dessert was hideously plated and weird) but it gets only 3 stars bc it's just so expensive. $100 a person (with wine) is just crazy for what is essentially simple food.
(3)Alex S.
The best and most unique restaurant in the Boston area. Oleana is an upscale casual experience where waiters are in t-shirts but they know absolutely everything about their complex and tasty menu. The veggie tasting menu is our favorite thing to order.
(5)Le N.
Been here twice and had a pleasant experience both times. If you want to come here, make your reservations week in advance, they do get packed! What I did both times were order a bunch of the meze (think tapas like portion) and one entree to share with my party - that way we got to try more food. :) Of all the things I tried both times, most noteworthy are the sultan's delight (the beef seriously melts in your mouth! sooooo good!), spinach falafel, and the scallop entree. And if you still have room by the end of your meal, the baked alaskan is a real treat - it's very big, so don't forget to share!
(4)Vlad W.
I would give them 6 stars if I could. Had their vegetarian tasting menu as an entree , plus Vermont Quail kebobs as an appetizer , accompanied by a Louriere - an unusual Portuguese vinho verde by the glass. One of the best meals of my life. Enough said.
(5)Mac O.
Chef Ana Sortun is putting out some truly stunning dishes at Oleana. This Cambridge gem offers surprising, inventive interpretations of Turkish/Arabic/Mediterranean food. Our party of five was accommodated late on a Friday evening with no reservations. If I were going to give Oleana a report card, it would look something like: Student: Oleana Teacher: MacRae O. Subject: Home Economics Spinach Falafel, A+ Oleana succeeded in making the lightest, airiest falafal I've had the pleasure of eating. The soft interior and crisp exterior, earthy spinach flavor, and piquant pickled fiddleheads were complemented by sweet beet, yogurt, and tahini purée. Extra credit: thin, chewy homemade pita. Tuna Kibbeh Nayeh, A+ Oleana took beautifully fresh raw minced ahi, shaped it into kibbeh-shaped quenelles, and served it with pickled onion and herb salad and crunchy pita chips. The Turkish spices were readily apparent -- particularly the cumin -- but didn't overwhelm the delicate tuna. Seared Beef Sirloin, A+ Step-MIL and SIL swooned over this entrée, cooked perfectly and exactly to their specifications. Extra credit: all Oleana meats are milk-fed, pasture-raised, and sourced from local farms. Misty Knoll Flattened Lemon Chicken, A+ FIL doesn't usually order chicken out but was intrigued by the name. He was blown by the flavorful, juicy chicken, za'atar spice rub, and Turkish cheese pancake. Extra credit: all Oleana meats are milk-fed, pasture-raised, and sourced from local farms. Wine List, A+ Oleana's list is extensive and varied. We enjoyed Skouras Moschofilero from Greece and the Austrian Hirsch #1 Gruner Veltliner. Extra Credit: organic and biodynamic wines, and the paopao cocktail made from sparkling wine, strawberry purée, and pink peppercorns. Labneh-Stuffed Burrata, A Oleana's house made burrata stuffed with tangy house made labneh. The tender cheese-and-yogurt boule was set atop crunchy crostini and rich tomato chutney and served with greens. Slicing through the burrata, the rich labneh and za'atar stuffing oozed appealingly. Green Salad and Apricot Stuffed with Pork Belly, A Oleana's acidic salad was nice, and diners loved the unctuous pork belly against the subtly sweet fresh apricot. Ricotta Loukoumades, A Oleana's two-bite ricotta fritters were toothsome and fried to a golden yellow. The delicious nuggets were served on a bed of roasted asparagus with delicious hazelnut and maple labneh. Scallop Flatbread, A Oleana took big, beautiful seared sea scallops, sliced them thin and served them on flatbread with mixed greens and tart, creamy lemon sauce. Extra credit: fresh baked flatbread. Spicy Fideos and Chickpeas, A- Oleana's toasted vermicelli lent a nutty flavor to tomato and spice sauce, and the chickpeas lent a pleasant, firm texture. Sauteed green chard and aromatic orange aioli helped to cut the richness of the fideo. Fried Mussels, A- Oleana offered mussels in an iteration I have never before seen on a menu: beer-battered and fried. Also on the plate were battered and fried cubanelle peppers and Turkish tarator sauce. Extra credit: creativity. Service, A- Oleana's service was excellent and professional, but sometimes inexplicably slowwww. Ambiance, A- Oleana's atmosphere is cozy and intimate. But I have to deduct major points for lights dimmed so low it made menu-reading a chore. Final Grade: A [Top Chef: Ana Sortun] [15 Minutes of Fame: "Giada's Weekend Getaways: Boston", "The Best Thing I Ever Ate: Bird Is The Word" (Gabriella Gershensen, Misty Knoll flattened lemon chicken)]
(5)Isabella L.
AMAZING Mediterranean food. It is great for an intimate crowd or couple. Although, I felt as if I was being judged while eating there, by the couples next to us. It was ELBOW TO ELBOW seating. Just because I want to take a picture, doesn't mean I'm disturbing you. Anyway, if you don't care what other people think, then great, which I didn't... so the picture taking commenced!!! The food was SPOT ON!!! MELT IN YOUR MOUTH!!!! Ordered: Sultan's Delight; Tamarind-Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Purée with Pinenuts 5 stars -(IT WONT DISAPPOINT. It's called Sultan's Delight for a reason) Scallops & Pumpkin Kadayif with Brown Butter, Tahini & Curry Spices (4 Stars.. Scallops were a bit tough/dry for me.. but everything else made up for it, especially the Kadayif) Baked Alaska; Coconut Ice Cream & Passion Fruit Caramel (So full for dessert, I was confused by this... it's definitely a mysterious dessert, but it's so fun to eat!) I forgot what my date ordered, but he's from the Middle East/Asia, so he was the toughest critic since I chose this destination! He was impressed by the cuisine and deemed it top-notch! Hooray! Next time, I want to eat here in the Spring/Summer time because they have an outside area that is suppose to be beautiful.
(4)Kimberly P.
Tonight I shared the best dinner at Oleanna. This is the first time I ever left a restaurant and felt rejuvenated from the fresh ingredients, great service, and warm atmosphere. Every restaurant should take notes from this gem. I highly recommend the falafel and beef sultan. The number one ingredient is most definitely love.
(5)Alice Y.
Went to Oleana recently with my significant other on our date night and we were very happy with our dining experience. Our server was really nice and attentive and the food was good. For me the standout mezze dishes were the quail kebob and moussaka. My significant other was a huge fan of Sultan's Delight as well as our main course, the lamb shawarma.
(5)Nicolay S.
Order a large assortment of meze and skip the entrees altogether. Middle Eastern cuisine is all about small appetizers that can be shared with people, and this restaurant is no exception. Most meze are delicious, some are truly exceptional (whipped feta, sultan's delight, meatballs, hummus). By contrast, the fish entree we ordered was average at best, as the fish was overcooked. The lamb entree is actually reminiscent of a lamb sausage spiced to high hell. The pork was OK - nothing to write home about. The service was knowledgeable and polite. They have a nice assortment of wines.
(4)Cathy S.
Second time here, back for the vegetarian tasting menu. For anyone that doesn't like ordering on a whim and worries about not being able to see the VT menu online, rest assured since the frequently-changed VT menu will be clipped to their main menu handed to you in the restaurant. Also the servers there (not all though) have good patience explaining everything to new-comers. Being a pescetarian i find the VT menu very satisfying, both quantity-wise and quality-wise. Although i find the menu revolves mainly around peas and i wish it paid more attention to leafy greens. The dessert here is always divine. Will be back for a main entree soon.
(4)Marilyn C.
Ooo Oleana, you are what a restaurant should be. You are a gem, a jewel, and I heart you. I heart your outdoor patio and your sangria. Your amazing service and ooo your food, the mezes, ooo the mezes - especially the spinach falafel. This place is classy, yet friendly, unpretentious and low key. The atmosphere is great inside or outside. The service is wonderful. One of my favorite restaurants for sure.
(5)Andrew L.
I came here for a birthday dinner with pretty high expectations. They were not met. Pros: Great service Free parking Cons: 5 dishes, all mediocre. I ate there last week, and I can barely remember a single dish, only that I was hungry after ordering 4 small plates and an entree for two people. In all honesty, you could go to your local Stop and Shop and get some hummus, then buy a white fish from the market and bake it yourself and you'd have a comparable, and much cheaper meal than what you'd get at Oleana. In Cambridge's amazing food scene, Oleana is an ugly sister to places like Salts and Tupelo's.
(2)Varun S.
Phenomenal food especially the falafel dish. Certainly is vegetarian friendly. I didn't let the rude waitress spoil our night and neither should you.
(5)Victoria K.
I had been looking forward to dining at Oleana for quite some time. Overall it was a very pleasant experience with just a few little kinks. We were unable to get reservations on such short notice but were seated outside in the beautiful garden area without them, which may even be a better experience than sitting indoors (weather permitting). My friend and I started with a delicious whipped feta pret a manger which was served with French bread and za'atar bread. So delicious! Next we tried the appetizer special, which was a fried green tomato parmesan. Again, really great. We both loved it a lot. Onto the entrees, mine was the special, a pan seared scallop dish with a Brussels sprout gratin, while my friend tried the duck gyro. She was left seriously disappointed in her dish, which I'll agree was seriously lacking in flavor. Mine was good, and the service was excellent (I had asked our waitress to write down the specials we had ordered so I could remember exactly what they were for future reference) and I even purchased the Spice cookbook signed by the chef. I'm sure there are superior menu items that may have saved us from the unpleasant experience of having to tell the waitstaff that a particular dish was unsatisfactory, but I can see myself giving Oleana another shot. We'll just have to avoid those duck gyros!
(4)Graham S.
I love this place. Its among my top 5 in Boston/Cambridge, but yet it seems like not all that many people know about it... definitely under appreciated. The vibe in the outside area is wonderful - there's a garden and occasionally Turkish music being performed. They also have a nice liquor free cocktail menu, including a sangria which varies greatly but is never anything short of "good".
(5)Rachel G.
We've been here multiple times, but our last visit (to celebrate my birthday) was reason enough to stay away for the foreseeable future. The service was some of the worst either my fiance or I had ever experienced from a restaurant--let alone one typically so outstanding. Our server was incredibly rude (she didn't ask us if we wanted entrees, dessert, coffee, water, drinks... we had to ask for every single thing brought to the table that evening) and uttered only one-word answers to pretty much every question we asked. At the end of the meal, she silently plopped the check down on the table and walked away. From the 25-minute wait from when we sat down until when we finally acknowledged that we had no server and I flagged someone down, to her absentminded "oh, has anyone told you about the specials yet?" to having to AGAIN flag someone down to actually order entrees (because no, three appetizers did not suffice as a birthday meal), to the 45 minute wait for said entrees to be presented, to being handed a check before even being asked if we wanted dessert...the experience was not one I care to have again. Oleana has long been one of my absolute favorite restaurants in Boston--both the food and the attentive service made it a stand-out choice for any occasion. They've helped us celebrate anniversaries, birthdays, and promotions alike--in fact, we were even considering having our rehearsal dinner there! But, in light of my recent experiences there, I won't be going back any time soon. Post-script: assuming that our negative experience was an anomaly, I recommended this restaurant to a co-worker to celebrate his anniversary. Unfortunately, he reported receiving similarly atrocious service from another server and won't be returning.
(2)Armin F.
So bummed about this place, admittedly I didn't order their best dish but this place had so great reviews that our expectations were through the roof. Also having been to a much better middle Eastern place (zahav in philadelphia,pa) didn't make it easy on oleana. The service was mediocre at best, the starters were really good and the entree (pork chop with vegetables and feta) was just a regular piece of pork from the grill, nothing special whatsoever. Overall, this a good place but when you pay 100+ $ for 2 people, it needs to be more than just a good place. There are definitely a lot better places in Cambridge and Boston with a lower price tag.
(3)Jonathan G.
We had very high expectations. I've been to Sofra a bajillion times and been won over by the pastries. I've cooked several a fussy meal out of the "Spice" cookbook, been introduced to spice mixes I'd never heard of, all to the delight of my belly. Now it was time to go the the Sortun center of universe, and I would have been disappointed with anything other than mind-blowing. And it was just that. The recommended wine was delicious, and I realized how poorly I'd been doing cooking out of her cookbook. We enjoyed every morsel. Thanks, Oleana!
(5)Conor S.
Best restaurant I've ever been to. Intimate atmosphere, eclectic food offerings, friendly waitstaff. 100% recommended. Stop reading and book a table.
(5)Amy S.
The pleasures of fine dining are generally wasted upon me. I really like food, but simpler (and cheaper) preparations generally suit me just fine. However, after two celebration dinners at Oleana, I'm at last starting to "get it." Key tips from a vulgar plebeian... 1) Baked Alaska - Save room and share between your party of four. It is a beautiful tower of merengue, encasing fancy ice-cream and a crunchy cookie, encircled with a ring of tangy passionfruit caramel. This alone, is worth a return visit. Probably the best dessert I've ever had in my life, and I don't usually order dessert. 2) Sultan's Delight - amazing, tender, perfectly spiced and stewed bites of short rib. A beef eater's orgasm. 3) Muhammara - a party on the palate. Elevates the concept of "dip" to an unthinkable level of sophistication. So many flavors. It seems impossible to replicate. 4) The mezze specials - whatever they are, just order them. I promise they will be the best part of your meal. The August 2012 corncake with honey/date was out of this world. 5) Choose your wine carefully. Only twice in my entire life has someone in my dinner party tried to refuse a bottle of wine after first tasting. Both times, it happened at Oleana. What does it mean? Bad cellar? Odd sommolier? I don't know, but lightening seems to have struck twice here, so I think it's worth noting.
(4)Rebecca W.
Food was decent. Nothing super special about it. I expected it to blow me away based on the reviews. For the 90 dollar bill for two people with no alcohol, I also would have expected to have more food than we got. Overall, an overpriced OK meal.
(3)Allen Y.
The flavor combination here are delicious. My favorite two things were: -the spicy mint labne was a really interesting, but tasty -The pork belly dish with my favorite -the octopus was the most tender octopus I'd ever had. Its texture was similar to cheese, and the grilled flavor was really delicious Advice: go with the meze so you can try more things!
(5)T. B.
I am a foodie who eats out a lot, and Oleana has consistently been my favorite restaurant in the greater Boston area since my first visit years ago. Simply amazing. Chef Ana Sortun, sommelier Lauren Friel, and pastry chef Maura Kilpatrick are all geniuses - the food, wine, and dessert are suberb - and the service follows suit - servers are always down to earth and fun to talk with. I have been taking most out of town guests here for years and everyone has universally raved. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu, but I would recommend getting a few small plates per person and sharing (or not) in lieu of entrees. I won't belittle the experience by suggesting what to get because everything really is that good. For vegetarians and omnivores alike, the vegetarian tasting menu is a good introduction. Honestly, please stop reading reviews on Yelp and just go. You won't regret it. If you are in town for one night only, go to Oleana. If you have only one night left to live, go to Oleana. If you like being happy, go to Oleana. If you hate yourself and want to be sad, maybe you should avoid Oleana. Perfect fit for foodies. Excellent selection for vegetarians and vegans. Just go.
(5)Gunther F.
I have been to Oleana at least 10 times, and used to consider it my favorite place in Cambridge. I still believe their food is great, but must say that the place has become quite expensive and that the service has definitely deteriorated. On our last visit, we were asked for our table in the little seating area outside. We had to ask 3 times to be able to order drinks while waiting, which I found rather annoying (sorry, it is hot these days). When we were finally seated, our waiter had apparently disappeared; after sitting idle for about 15 minutes a kind waiter from a neighboring table finally took pity on us and brought us some food. The food was good, but the overall experience very disappointing.
(2)Kenneth R.
This short review will state simply that i'm in agreement with the 400+ yelpers who have liked their experiences at Oleana: I was at the restaurant two nights ago with a good friend. The place has totally great vibes! It was hopping at 8:30 on a Sunday evening when we arrived and still going strong an hour or two later when we left. Everyone around us seemed to be having a fine time; at the table adjacent to ours, one of the diners seemed to be a food blogger -- he was taking photos of each of his dishes with his Android phone. (Maybe he posted those photos to yelp!) We shared four appetizers, two 22-ounce bottles of Cisco Oleana 3C Ale (3C = cumin, coriander, and cardamom), and one of the daily special main dishes -- which included beef tenderloin, spinach and sweet potato fritters. The menu begins with a long list of interesting-looking appetizers (small plates) that are easy to share with a friend. I would be easy to have a large meal at Oleana and never get into their main dishes. It's clear that the kitchen likes to work with lamb, and I'll certainly go for a lamb dish when I'm next in town. Oleana was described to me as "one of the best restaurants in Boston." It's a great place that I'm happy to recommend.
(4)Carolina N.
As a huge fan of Sofra, I had been dying to try this place. We did not start off well, because they seated us half an hour late. The hostess was very apologetic, though, and brought out 4 complimentary meze. Meze: We had the warm olives, spiced carrot puree, whipped feta with peppers, and hot pepper labne. They were all delicious, but the labne really stood out. It is a thick yogurt flavored with peppers and olive oil. Entrees: The lamb with spinach and yogurt was delicious. They change their preparation nightly, and this night it was ground kebab. We also had a scallop, porkbelly, and orzo special that was amazing. Definitely the best thing we had. Dessert: Brown butter bread pudding, which was very good. Ambiance: The restaurant is beautiful, and much bigger than I was expecting, since Sofra is so small. It has a separate bar area, and the dining room is a good size.
(4)Edwin M.
The food is delish. Wife and I both had lamb. I had spicy fried mussels for app, she had goat cheese, cilantro, etc. Two tips. Don't order entrees. Order a few appetizers and share them. The entrees aren't any bigger than the apps but are twice the price. And don't order glasses of wine! They are half size--I'm talking 3 ounces and they cost $12.00. Order a bottle of wine instead. I complained but our waiter ignored me. He wasn't much help when ordering either.
(4)Lauren H.
Oh....My....God.....Becky! This is going to be short and sweet. The food was amazing! We had many small plates (mezes) to experience as much as we could. The food and service was amazing. The only reason I did not give 5 stars is because the tables are so crammed together in every available space in the restaurant, you couldn't have a private conversation, nor avoid your neighbors. Our neighbors were "like" totally "like" Valley Girls, "like". I didn't realize dinner came with a free show, and the sad part was I believe these women were of professional working age and working in a real business. I totally "like" hope, they don't "like" speak like that at work. *eyeroll*. I realize the content of the conversation was not under control of the restaurant but the 4 inch space between tables was. But you will totally LIKE Oleana. Go!
(4)Thomas G.
I've experienced the extraordinary vegetable. My boss and I were in Boston for a conference and Oleana was recommended highly by the sales rep of the host company. His recommendation was primarily based on the fact that my boss is a vegetarian. I'm not, mind you, but was told it was the most unusual, awesome vegetarian restaurant around. I like unusual very much, so I was game (no pun intended). It was exotic and wonderful. I could not even remember all the combinations of ingredients and flavors, nor the names of the dishes. We each got a different multi-course sampler. It was a tasting frenzy. When the weather is nice, dine out back under the trees and listen to a duo perform persian music. It adds that little something special.
(5)Jeff S.
Can't say I have too much to add beyond what has already been said. One of the best places in Boston. Be sure to get a reservation and it tends to book out a ways.
(5)Thomas S.
Delightful. Thrilling. Perfect. After a rainstorm the evening cleared up and we arrived early enough to find an open table on the patio. All we expected were some well-crafted, delicious appetizers to fill some space in our empty bellies before going out for a drink. What we got were some of the most beautiful, well thought out and tasty plates we'd had in memory. Some of the dishes were so good, and so perfectly constructed that it was a thrill to devour them. I began to giggle and realized I was getting a food high. All the while we were tended to with subtle, layered, warm service. At the moment the restaurant is participating in Summer of Riesling, promoting the versatile, food-friendly grape in several of its many guises. Very tasty juice to wash down simply fantastic food. Grilled avocado, and octopus with carrot and fennel were definite highlights, and the spinach falafel is consistently the best falafel there is. We were still talking the next day about how perfect our meal was. We're stlll talking about it now. What a gem of a restaurant.
(5)Hannah M.
Went for the 5th time (yeah, I love this place) for my sister's b-day and we shared the Vegetarian Tasting and ordered an additional meze (not necessary - we were FUUUUULLLLL!). Vegetarian Tasting is pretty much brilliant because you get 5 mezes (chef's choice) and a dessert (chef's choice). Spiced Carrot Purée & Dukkah - delicious! Amazing! Spicy Fideos & Chick Peas with Green Chard & Orange Aioli - spicy, but tasty. We took some of it home and ate it cold :-) Watermelon Salad, Spicy Kisir, Farm Lettuce & Mint - outstanding! I could have eaten a full meal of these little lettuce rolls (actually, not little at all) Turkish Cheese Pancake - tasty Corn chowder - really good! Octopus & Olive Shish with Carrot & Fennel Saganaki, Feta & Walnuts - spicy, but quite good and nicely grilled Summer Fruit Pudding with Strawberry Granita and Basil Ice Cream - not impressive :-( Bread pudding was dry, basil ice cream was scanty. Strawberry granita was quite good. We were also so full.
(4)Howe L.
Little hard find, but boy it's more than worth it. A top notch establishment in Boston. Go.
(5)Nick K.
My girlfriend was nice and took me her for my birthday. We had the vegetarian tasting menu along with four other dishes. cheeses plate - delicious Sultan's delight - As delicious as it is famous on here Spinach falafel - Fantastic Whipped feta - Our favorite Vegetarian plate - Constantly changing but when we had it we loved all of the dishes. and the bread pudding was fantastic. Be prepared to spend a bit of course - our entire meal with a beer was a little over $100.
(5)NCNY N.
Id have to disagree that it's an amazing meal for vegetarians. I had the vegetarian tasting menu and was a little disappointed with the under seasoned food, you're better off at boston kabob in allston or evoo. Anyway, I mooches off my companions and the meat and fish options were some if the best food I've had ever. Swordfish, pork, it goes on. The wine is what makes it 5 stars, we had an amazing red for $40, or less . The best bottle if wine I've had in a long time.
(5)Christina G.
Although Oleana is listed as serving Turkish food, to me it seemed more a pleasant mash-up of various mediterranean cuisines. The menu is exotic and inspired. The space is tightly packed, but the atmosphere is warm and inviting. I had the champagne cocktail, which was simple but very delicious. We tried the fried mussels and spinach falafel for our meze and then the Lamb and Swordfish Involtini for entrees. Each dish left us "oohing" and "aahing" and helped secure Oleana a "Top 3" spot among my boyfriends favorite Boston restaurants. Now that is impressive. For dessert we tried the Cremolata on a recommendation from a friend. It was light and refreshing, but probably won't satisfy if you prefer a more decadent dessert. I hear there is live music on Tuesdays so I will definitely be back to sample more of the goods!
(4)Kristin N.
Seriously good. Five small plates are plenty for two people. The Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets and Crinkled Cress is mouthwatering and if I could just get a lifetime supply of the Haloumi (part of the cheese platter), I'd be a happy girl. Wait staff running around everywhere but I attribute that to the spectacular service. We ended up getting our own desserts which isn't necessary since those portions are bigger than some of the Meze. Make reservations! The restaurant is right on Hampshire Street but seems hidden behind it's garden fence and parking can be an issue (street only with a ton of permit parking only side streets), so get there a little bit early. The one con about Oleana is the expensive wine list. By-the-glass options are limited and start at $10. It's more affordable to get a bottle for the table, but if you're with a non-drinker, you might have to stick to the beer menu. Similar restaurants include Casa B and Dali.
(4)Spencer E.
This is our favorite restaurant in Boston & surround. I highy recommend the vegetarian tasting menu for veg and non-veg eaters alike. It's a feast for the senses and you'll leave feeling not only full but also savoring the flavors for days...
(5)Sarah G.
Oleana you get 3.5 stars from me, but since I can't give half stars, I rounded down since the recommendations from our server may have led us astray... We were excited to eat here. This small, local turkish spot. But after eating here I'm not really sure if it is actually Turkish food based on my knowledge of it. Thoughts from anyone else? We started with their "Spicy Fideos & Chick Peas with Green Chard & Orange Aioli" which sounded amazing and our server told us there were almost 20 spices in this dish meaning we thought it would be bursting with flavor, but with all of those spices there was no bursting to be had. It was pretty good, but it definitely did not live up to our server's words about the dish. Then I ordered their roasted fish dish that came wrapped in this paper and that fish dish was pretty tasty. The fish was maybe a hair cooked too long, but that is easy to do when roasting fish, so I would have preferred it maybe less cooked for a minute or two. But the flavors were all there. Matt J. got their "Azuluna Lamb with Turkish Spices, Pide & Everything Green with Garlic & Yogurt" and it was just another average dish...For how expensive these entrees are, we kind of expected much better food. We even had a gift certificate thanks to a good friend and even paying with that we wish we had ordered other dishes and that our server's suggestions hadn't led us to her favorite dishes which definitely were not our favorite dishes.
(3)Lou C. H.
Unlike any cuisine/restaurant most of us have ever tried, the menu has a glossary so you can decipher what you might be ordering. Super expensive, tiny portions, cramped seating. It failed to live up to the hype, and the price points.
(3)Connie S.
Modern Turkish dinner spot found nestled within hanging vines-- seasonal ingredients and creative flavors, nice ambiance, and ultra-attentive service. The Vegetable Tasting Menu (5 vegetarian Meze plus Dessert for $40-- a preset menu, though it changes all the time) is a good bet for at least one person at the table. The dessert is Meze-sized, but for $5 extra you can "upgrade" to any full-size dessert off the menu. Between two people, one of us got the Vegetarian Tasting Menu, and the other ordered a meze and an entree-- this ended up being plenty to share (especially with the delicious complimentary bread basket you get). Everything was supremely delicious and beautifully presented, but the highlights: - Spinach Falafel: pillowy spinach balls, served with beet yogurt spread and cress on top of a pita cracker - Sultan's Delight: absurdly tender tamarind glazed beef with eggplant puree) - Sea Bass: perfectly cooked, served atop lentil spread with purple cauliflower - Petit Caramel Souffle: served with salted caramel ice cream and cashew crisp; absolute heaven It was a really special dining experience-- I can't wait to go back.
(5)Silvia V.
Yes, really, Oleana is that good. I made reservations for 8:15PM, but we managed to be 30 minutes late (I called to give them a heads up) and as soon as we rolled in, our table was still waiting. Thank you. I've read 78% of all the Oleana reviews on Yelp and thanks to them hubby and I had a fantastic dinner date. I recommend the 2007 French Syrah, it complemented our meal nicely. For meze we had the spinach falafel (delicious!!!) and Sultan's Delight - fall-apart most delicious beef with eggplant. The bread and olive oil were fabulous too. I had the monkfish which was very tasty and hubby had the lamb which was out of this world good (that's what I'm having next time). We had the Baked Alaska for dessert, which was very good, but a little too sweet for my taste. The decor is very simple with a few Turkish accessories. We were seated inside and the tables were too close to each other, so we could hear our neighbors' conversations. We'll most definitely be back as the food was fabulous. Our waitress was excellent too. Oh, and all the food is local, which deserves an extra star.
(5)Andrew S.
Food is quite good, though a bit overpriced. The menu is precious, with a glossary of terms at the bottom. If you aren't into restaurants that require translation, this may not be for you.
(4)Brian R.
Seriously, as good as it gets. Lovingly prepared and artfully plated fresh eastern Mediterranean food. You won't be disappointed, I promise. Our party of 6 were floored from the first plate to the last. Still thinking about it 10 days later, necessitating a purchase of Chef Sortun's book, hopefully I'll be able to bring a little bit of Oleana love to my backyard soon! I would recommend reservations of course, and that your whole party show up on time or even early so you can snag an outside table. Magical.
(5)Josh R.
Great restaurant. Awesome ambiance.
(5)Jennifer S.
Oleana is blocks from my house and adds a certain charm to my Cambridge neighborhood. I have always wanted to try it so one friday night my boyfriend and I, and another couple, made a 5:30 pm reservation. we were excited when we were greeted at the host stand and led to an intimate table in the back of the restaurant. It was cold so the patio was not open. From the minute the service started I was put off and frankly dissapointed. I have worked in the restaurant industry most of my life and I know when I'm being rushed. Frankly, when I sit down with the intent to spend over $100 per couple I don't want to be told how to order. Our waitress was extremely rude. The menu at Oleana is full of small, or 'meze' plates, as well as larger ones. It is perfect for sitting back and relaxing and ordering a couple at a time. OUr waitress however had the intent of getting us in and out and it was apparent from the very beginning she came to the table. Our waitress insisted we order everything at once. After we asked if we could order a couple appetizers at a time while we made up our minds about the entrees, she insisted she had to put the entire order in 'for the benefit of the kitchen'. Our waitress basically refused to put in anything until we had 'completed' our order. She wasn't even suggesting how we order, she was telling us that there was only one way of ordering. She went so far as to say the kitchen only takes one complete order at a time. After my friends and I left, we came up with a tag line for Oleana that still sticks in my head, months after this experience; "Oleana; Where Everything's Your Fault."
(2)L. B.
My absolute favorite in the Boston Area...! Got invited there as a wedding present and fell in love with this cuisine. Don't wait any longer, just make a reservation! (I wish there was more room though, it was very tight at the table and we could hear absolutely every word from the people's conversation next to us...:\)
(5)Carolyn T.
Disclaimer: Although I love good food, I dislike formality and pretension. I do not value distant professionalism in servers, though I realize that it is often desired by other patrons. While I assume that my guests and I were discriminated against for being unfancy, it is possible that service is a persistent issue. All I know is that water glasses have gone empty for long stretches, servers have lacked warmth and failed to attend to us appropriately. Every time I go, I leave feeling vaguely insulted. Despite numerous negative experiences with service, I go back to Oleana for the amazing food. I wish I had the strength to stay away. The chefs create unique and wonderful flavor combinations. Oleana thoroughly explores the tension between sweet and savory. My favorite starters are: Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets & Crinkled Cress Fatoush--Romaine, Cucumber & Radish with Crispy Pita, Mint & Sumac Chick Pea Terrine with Apricot, Pistachio & Tahini Sauce Crudités with Muhammara While I am not a big dessert person, Oleana offers a different breed of dessert. They generally have one option with Nougat Glace, which is a delight. I also love their frequent use of pistachio and flower essence. In short, the food manages to make up for crappy service but Olenana would be a truly wonderful restaurant if the staff treated all customers in a respectful manner. A $200 meal is a $200 meal whether you are wearing jeans or a fancy dress.
(4)Melanie M.
Went here with my husband and he got the vegetarian tasting menu. He said it was the best falafel he's ever had. I went with a duck special and it was very good. The outdoor seating was great. Went without a reservation on a weekday and got seated right away. As my personal preference, I like food to be a little simpler and without so many spices, but my husband loved it.
(4)Joe P.
Had an amazing dinner here. The whipped feta with peppers is great to start with and the lamb is also great. Amazing meal all around.
(5)Kaitlin M.
I've been wanting to go to Oleana for ages--but was kind of nervous b/c everyone says it's super romantic and I'm perpetually single. I went with 2 friends a couple weeks ago and whoa. Best food I've had in AGES. There was a grilled broccoli greek salad that I could literally eat every day for the rest of my life and still want more of. There was a great drink and wine selection. The falafel was just SO good. Every bite we had made me sad b/c it meant I was getting closer to the end of the meal. I can't wait to go back again. The garden was gorgeous. It was romantic, but it wasn't weird to be there with friends. :) Also, I was with a friend who frequently travels to Israel, and she said the food was really authentic and amazing.
(5)Lisa E.
Oleana was truly one of the best meals I've had in my life. It's a true must-try. The atmosphere is so comfortable - its casual and relaxed yet the service is attentive. The food is so creative and was unlike anything I'd tried before. We ordered four small plates to start and shared each. I think my favorite was a special of lamb sausage with manchego cheese - a special. Even the little nubs of multigrain bread was delicious, not to mention the new batch young olive oil it came with. I had a bite of each entree and all were delicious, we couldn't stop raving. Finally we ended the meal with their well-known baked alaska that was to die for. I didn't think I'd like it but we couldn't stop eating it. I'll be back for sure!
(5)Benjamin O.
This place tries, and obviously uses high quality ingredients, but a couple factors really detracted from our evening. First, we arrived, admittedly as walk-ins, and were told 30-40 minute wait. That's fine, places are busy. We made a drink order which took about 15 minutes to arrive. Then we sat for another 35 minutes...50 minutes total. Nobody brought us a complimentary snack or even a kind word, as other places have done when estimated wait time is longer than expected, they just left us hanging in the waiting zone outside and the temperature dropped. Finally were were seated. It was freezing. My 70 year old mother was rubbing her hands together to keep warm. We had noticed the temperature drop but reassured ourselves by noting all the attractive heat lamps on the patio. Imagine our surprise when we were seated and the heat lamps were off. "Could we turn one of these on?" we asked. "Sorry, were are not turning them on...some patrons find them too hot. Would you like some blankets?" Sorry? What are the heat lamps doing there then? This was 9pm, it was cold, it was windy, my older parents were freezing, no other patrons were under the lamp that was right by our table, and they want us to wrap ourselves in one of their smelly unwashed blankets???? Food and service took FOREVER...had to order a pot of tea just to warm up. Food was made of high quality ingredients but a bit uneven. Lamb kabob was not seared sufficiently so was sort of chewy rather than with a caramelized exterior and moist interior, and the meat was bland and underseasoned, though accompanying spinach feta crepe was tasty. Their version of gin and tonic (paopao) was also underflavored and weak. Some sides were tasty, such as mussels, and imam fainted, though very small. Falafal were a bit gummy without the nice crunch exterior and light, fluffy exterior that characterize the best. Anyway, this place obviously can provide a very good experience if you are comfortable and the ingredients are high quality and flavors are good, but I think it's overpriced, and if you're going to be overpriced, then you should go out of your way to provide an exceptional customer experience.
(2)Jolene S.
A new favorite! #1. The hosts seated us almost immediately (even though we didn't have a reservation on a Friday night). #2. The food was amazing (N.B. the bread in the basket goes really well with the warmed, spiced olive oil from one of our meze plates), We had the olives w/ za'atar (a lot for two people, $5), quail kebabs (delicious, tender, spicy, 2 for $13), monkfish curry (yummy, $26) and a tea-ser dessert with sour cherries that tastes a lot like vermicelli/milk dessert (12). #3. The service was excellent--perfectly timed plates, etc. #4. Ana Sortun was there! She's awesome and she was hands-on--adding things to dishes, etc. I would go back--I still like the hummus at Sofra and wasn't sure that Oleana would be more impressive--but it was excellent. Great place for a special occasion meal or a night out with tourists.
(5)Amanda I.
Good gracious. Everything was delicious!! Not cheap, but so so good! Sultans delight (braised beef) was so expertly prepared, lamb was incredible, eggplant meze delicious! For dessert we had the olive oil soufflé and Turkish style profiteroles, both to die for. Split a bunch of things and some wine among 5 people with different tastes, and everyone was happy. Cute, clean, great atmosphere...there is nothing not to love about this place. Seriously. Worth the price.
(5)Rachel N.
I alway say that Oleana is one of my favorite places in Boston, and I'm ashamed to admit that after living in San Francisco for a year, my tastebuds have been spoiled enough and made my most recent meal less memorable than those that had come previously. The flavors are still inventive and the presentation is lovely, but fewer things made me want to say, "just put it all in my mouth NOW", which is the mark by which I measure truly delicious nosh. However, it should be noted that the labneh starter is like crack. Creamy, supple yogurty crack.
(4)Dahlia B.
So, I've been living in Boston almost 5 years, and in Cambridge for 3 of those. Believe it or not, last night was my first trip ever to Oleana even though everyone I know has been raving about it & suggesting I go. So my review? The patio is GORGEOUS! Worth a trip in beautiful weather just to sit there. Literally you feel like you're in another city. Get there early though because it fills up quick and they don't take reservations for outside. The wine list is good but expensive. The sommelier is wonderful, and extremely helpful, so if you're gonna throw down you at least know you're in good hands. The reason this place isn't getting 4 or 5 stars from me is because the food was just ok. That being said,I grew up eating Middle Eastern cuisine as my father is from Lebanon and a chef to boot, so I feel like if you're going to try and make traditional different, it needs to be better than the original and almost all of it wasn't. I found their meat dishes to be their best dishes, where they really shined. (In fairness, we ordered almost all of their mezze plates and no main entrees) However, their desserts are phenomenal! If you're gonna go, def save some room! All in all, worth a try in good weather.
(3)Kathy M.
We ate here on a warm June evening at my daughter's insistence and the experience was remarkable! We were seated outside on the patio under the tree with live music playing. The hostess and the servers were all warm and kind and relaxed (but ever present without being intrusive). And the food! I don't usually photograph my food but the Spinach Falafel, Tahini Sauce, Beet Yogurt & Cress was a work of art...both visually and gastronomically. Other remarkable dishes included the Sultan's Delight--Tamarind Beef, with smokey eggplant purée & pinenut, the Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake, and the Asparagus with corn puree. Their wine list was impressive and their non-alcoholic drinks were delicious and refreshing. The only less than stellar note was dessert which was described as "Baked Alaska; Coconut Ice Cream & Passion Fruit Caramel"...beautiful but too sweet for me and tasted more like a salted caramel ice cream on top of a coconut cake with baked meringue and passion fruit caramel...perhaps a matter of preference. But bottom line is I still remember the food enthusiastically and will be back!
(5)Sonny W.
We got into this restaurant on luck...Patio is normally not reservable but because a colleage knew a chef working there, they made an exception. Service was exceptional--our waitress knew the ins and outs of the menu--but the wait was LONG. 7:30 appointment? We had to wait till 8:30 to sit. Then if you want food, well it takes a while.Luckily we just kept imbibing on the wine. The appetizers were very tasty and the desserts were fairly good, except the Turkish whatever (ball-shaped stuff). Our entree was well prepared. My only complaint was that from 8:30 seating to eating, it took forever to get food....the kitchen closed early and they missed one of our entrees. So, 3 stars for now.
(3)Jerry B.
I do not know where to begin, I talk a lot and i am absolutely speechless... this place AH-MAZING! First, make a reservation, my friend and I did not make a reservation and had to wait a hour and 1/2, but that is okay because my food was absolutely divine! I reviewed the menu online and had my heart set on "flounder and crab dish" advertise online, but oleana's discontinued this menu instead I got the salmon corn chowder dish....absolutely delicious. The Salmon literally melted in my mouth! I highly highly recommend this place!
(5)Jessie C.
I love love love love love this restaurant. I didn't eat all day long because I knew we were coming to dinner! Yay! First off - the service is awesome. I've never had better - the staff is well versed in the menu and does a fantastic job of providing interesting and informative information on the menu items. In addition - they are all super nice which is a bonus. Plus when you leave the table, they fold your napkin! yay! Food - oh goodness, where to begin... i have to say in advance that i suck at spelling so i apologize if i miss spell something in this review. we started off with barata (it was a special mozz cheese stuffed with something creamy) and fideos which were killer. Then i had the swordfish for dinner - it was really thin swordfish stuffed with pine nuts i believe. and we ordered three desserts - the crepe with pumpkin jam and salted butter ice cream was bar far the best, the bread pudding was ok and you can't go wrong with Baked Alaska.
(5)Liz G.
Besides having a great selection of vegetarian options, Oleana also offers a menu that changes seasonally. So, you'll always be eating the freshest ingredients. The restaurant even gets all of its produce from a local, independently owned farm out in Western Massachusetts. At this progressive restaurant, your inner-hippie will dine in peace, knowing that your produce grew pesticide-free! I went with the vegetarian 5 tapas sized-course tasting menu for only about 36 bucks. Seems a bit pricey, but it's completely worth it for the innovative food that your evening has in store. If you're a picky eater, this might not be the best option as your dinner is entirely up to the chef's whim.
(5)Wonder W.
Amazing, aromatic and flavorful food - one of the best meals I've ever had in Boston. We had the whipped Fetta with peppers and the octopus & olive shish to start. Both delicious. Followed with the flat chicken and salmon with corn chowder. Serving sizes are perfect. Wine list eclectic - wines from Portugal, Lebanon, Austria etc Service was good although a little sporadic at times. Maybe given it was 8.30pm on a Saturday night - staff looked run off their feet. highly recommended!
(4)Carrie P.
Was incredibly excited to try this place after all the rave reviews. Fantastic! If you have a couple extra bucks to spend, this is definitely a great place in Cambridge to do it. MAKE A RESERVATION! This is a popular joint, and everyone knows how great it is, so people show up quickly. I sat at the bar, and enjoyed every moment of my food. Three people split 4 appetizers and an entree, along with a bunch of drinks (homemade sangria is definitely worth it!). The food here is emphasized to be fresh and local, so the menu is always changing with the seasons and the availability. The sustainability factor makes the food more expensive, but the quality far surpasses other restaurants. The appetizers were brought out one-by-one, by a friendly server, and we were kept company by a friendly bartenter. I have zero complaints about the food at this place, I only wish it had more seating! Looks like a great date night place.
(5)Jason O.
Great place! Food is unreal. Beer selection is great!, wish it was warm year round ,the outside seating is wonderful for a date or group of friends. If you like rich flavors then this is the place.
(4)Veggie L.
Wow - this place was INCREDIBLE. Expensive, but so worth it. Seriously delicious. I shared 4 appetizers and a dessert with one other person and left stuffed and in awe. The falafel - SO yummy. Never tasted better. The chick pea terrine was amazing, and the pistachios were the perfect accent. Those were the best appetizers we had, although the others were wonderful too. Baked Alaska was incredible - my first time eating it, and so worth the $14 that it cost. Also a huge portion. The atmosphere was great - cozy and welcoming, and the waitstaff was amazingly accommodating and sweet. Perfect combination of attentiveness and space. I only wish it was cheaper so I could go more often!!
(5)Snowdrops C.
we celebrated a special occasion there. It has good ambiance and the service was great. Food was quite good and not too pricey for the quality. Strongly recommend it. We had a great time there.
(4)Jen P.
I won't go into much detail since the many virtues of Oleana have been extolled by hundreds of yelpers already, but I will say that it certainly lived up to the hype. My dinner was one of the best meals I've ever had--literally every item we ordered was incredible. Falafel elsewhere has been ruined for me since my visit. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Firat Y.
I had read about Ana Sortun in NYT and other food magazines. Being Turkish and an avid cook, I'm always curious to try restaurants successful at promoting the delightful cuisines of Eastern Mediterranean. So, here we went to Oleana. The restaurant is formed by three small, intimate rooms interconnected with narrow passageways. We stopped at the bar to have a drink (wine and beer, only) and perched on the one available stool to wait for our table. The bartender didn't have a problem with this, but the hostess quickly informed us that the bar was only for diners and the lone seat would have to be taken by someone on the wait list. So, we had to stand in a very tight corner by the bar to have a glass of champagne. We sent it as soon as we took a sip. Yes, it wasn't champagne, we were forewarned, but soda pop flavored grossness, we did not expect. We were then showed to our table in the back room, looking out to a yard, which, at first, I thought, was the Siberia. Quickly, though, I changed my mind, as this was the quietest area of the restaurant, a bit more brightly lit with a comfortably padded wall. We ordered a bottle of bubbly from the Anderson Valley, realizing quickly that the flavor profile was akin to the soda pop disaster. Thankfully, our server hadn't yet popped open the bottle. She was kind enough to have us sample all of the white wines by the glass and we picked an Assiritiko from Santorini, pleasantly crisp and mineral. And now, the food. Sortun is a maximalist, piling flavor upon flavor, trying different techniques in one dish. She often repeats herself, as in the ubiquitous yogurt that adorned a lackluster shell bean pilaki, too watery and bland, and the pita bread served under the many kebabs. Perhaps, this is how she thinks she can elevate the simple, clean taste of the Eastern Mediterranean cuisines and parlay them into dishes she can market at prices that can sustain a more elegant and upper scale venue. The result, I'm afraid, is a muddied, gloppy texture in most of the dishes. Among the meze platters, nothing I ordered was deserving of the accolades this restaurant has garnered. A minuscule mound of feta whipped with red pepper paste and sprinkled with spices, a child's play, was passable. The warm hummus wrapped with a slice of basturma intrigued me on the paper. However, the texture of the hummus when served warm brought to mind a mishap that is best not to mention in a food review. The basturma was crisp and wonderful and I would have been happier if it were served just by itself, yet, this is not Ana's style. Another big disappointment was the fried mussels served with an unusually smooth tarator that tasted suspiciously like yogurt, as opposed to the textured, wonderful almond or walnut spread that it is. The mussels are battered and fried and served next to fried green peppers. In Kinaliada, where my family vacations in the summer, I go to a stand that only sells fried mussels with tarator. It's a sacred dish for me and I was appalled at how badly it was rendered here. The mussels were way too small and their delicate taste obliterated with the spicy peppers and the amateurish batter. Carrot soup with raisins and spices wasn't any better and unexciting, something one can get at a food court at Whole Foods on a lunch break. The bread plate looked messy with sweet corn bread, crumbling into the other assortment, though I appreciated the savory sable batons with nigella seeds. The flattened lemon chicken was the winner among the mains. Yet, the over spicing of the bird led to a monotonous palate, thrilling at first, but quickly tiresome after a few bites. Ditto, the lamb kebab overpowered with cinnamon and a most unwholesome greasy, oniony taste after taste. The wild sea bass seasoned with z'aatar had an unattractive blackened look. It was served atop of an overcooked poached egg buried in a slice of pain de mie layered over a gloppy cacik (yogurt, again!, blended with mixed greens, instead of the traditional cucumber). A very upsetting sight, indeed. Ms. Sortun must have traveled extensively all over the Eastern Mediterranean as her menu jumps from Spain to Morocco to Turkey and Lebanon, etc. The problem is none of the dishes she serves has any provenance and no auteur behind them. They have no roots, respect no tradition, a jumble of spices and gloppy layers. Very mystifying, and sadly, a predictable interpretation of the cuisines of the Near East from a Western chef. She needs to learn to respect the ingredients she is working with. It is not enough to procure the organic local produce and write it so on the menu. I'm still looking for that one Near Eastern restaurant and chef, who can translate the vast repertoire of dishes full of fascinating flavors and textures into a Western format.
(1)Meka A.
Oleana exemplifies everything I like in a restaurant - fabulous food, unpretentious, classy but not fancy, understated but not underwhelming. This is the perfect place for a date, to bring your relatives when they're in town, for a special occasion, or just for a solid night out. The menu covers a lot of the Mediterranean, so you can find Turkish, Moroccan, or Greek influences across the menu. That being said, it's not overwhelming or unfocused as all the flavors seem to meld together perfectly. I'd highly recommend the hummus to start and the lamb for an entree. One of my friends also ordered the vegetarian tasting menu which looked fantastic (a huge compliment coming from a carnivore like me).
(5)Alex C.
In all my dining experiences never have I encountered such a variety of flavors, textures, and aromas in one meal. It's incredible how something as simple as hummus can be so different and superior to the other 100 times I've eaten it before. The trout spanikopita was delicious beyond words. I think they used red trout that has a color and texture similar to salmon but with a milder flavor. For the last 20 years I have spent the majority of my disposable income on gourmet dinners and wine. The food at this restaurant is the tastiest I've had that i can remember. Its all about flavor here. They can serve you Florida stone crabs or tofu and it won't matter because the flavor is decided by the chef. Do not miss this restaurant.
(5)Abe S.
Went here with the girlfriend to celebrate her birthday, and I must say, this had to be one of the best restaurant experiences I've had! (I'd like to think I have some experience in this space as I lived in NYC for a while). We sat on a cozy little corner high-top by the bar, and the bartender made some excellent recommendations. We did all meze - the deviled eggs, cheese platter, spinach falafel, hummus and mandarin orange salad special were all unique in both taste profiles and presentation. We loved everything! Atmosphere is nice and casual. I'm definitely going back, and recommending to everyone I know!
(5)Tammie P.
I enjoyed the food and the ambiance, but the baked Alaska was way too sweet and not the best choice for dessert after a filling meal. I will have to come back here soon so that I can write a more detailed review!
(4)Jeffrey B.
One of the best meals I have ever eaten. Just get the vegetarian pre fixe menu. Meat doesn't matter when the chef is this good and it is ridiculously fun to have course after course pass in front of you. Anyway, maybe they will bring you out a spare plate of duck wings like they did for me. This is also an incredible deal. You can expect to to pay at least twice as much for restaurants of similar caliber. $40 for a 6 course meal like this (including dessert) just can't be beat. Also, our service was fantastic. I checked Zagat while passing through a bookstore before I went. No other restaurant in the city has a higher food rating. I agree, it really is that good.
(5)Trick D.
Tried warm squid salad, two mezze, and trout. One of the mezze (quail) was not very memorable, but nevertheless well done. The other dishes were outstanding culinary experiences and paired nicely with a very reasonably priced bottle of white wine (Melon de Bourgogne).
(5)Molly W.
Couldn't wait to go back here for my birthday and had a HORRIBLE experience. I don't want to bother you with the details but whatever you do - please do not order the chef's tasting menu. What a huge disappointment! I'm used to tasting menus being the best of the best of the menu, and we were served some seriously uninspired food. The service was also Completely uncoordinated. Maybe it was an "off" day but WOW. What a hot mess. Gotta give 'em a 1 star for not making things right after several polite complaints to management. I know that it may seem unfair (I hate when people give places bad reviews for getting a snotty waitress, or some other fluke experience) but all I'm really trying to say is... go with what you know, and don't let them choose your meal for you.
(1)Rachel P.
Wow... just... wow. I had one of the best meals of my life here. I would definitely recommend the vegetarian tasting menu. The food was a great blend of familiar and new flavors and everything was delicious. It was almost too much food, but I got through it. The service was also extremely good - our waitress seemed really pleased that we got the tasting menu and was clearly super happy that we were enjoying it so much. My boyfriend was brought a free extra course of duck wings. Eating a meal like this is probably the best possible way to spend two and a half hours or so.
(5)Gladys D.
Oleana was a part of my very tediously planned trip to Boston and, after reading reviews of it, I expected a truly unique and genuine Turkish/Mediterranean restaurant. Due to my origins, I know pretty well what this cuisine is about, so, I was very, very excited. Paying bill at Oleana in the end of our dinner, both my husband and I felt very disappointed. First of all, one of appetizers, braised beef, had hummus as its side: well, hummus had a really wrong smell and aftertaste. Braised beef was good though. I got spinach falafel and that was well done. For the main course, I got trout spanakopita. All I saw was trout. I know chefs often give "artistic" names to their creations but in this case name was misleading. There was not even a sign of phyllo dough: there was a huge trout on my plate covered with cucumbers, avocado and a bit of caviar with some spinach in the bottom. Good dish bot nothing to be dying for. My husband had Tunis lamb. When we hear the word "lamb" in context of Turkish/Lebanese/Mediterranean cuisine, we automatically assume chunks of young lamb, or lamb chops, or lamb saddle -- bot most definitely not ground lamb, which, moreover, did not even taste as young one. It tasted like they took a lamb of retiring age, and put lots of spices to cover its taste. Finally, we decided to try a dessert: eh. We had Turkish profiteroles. Nothing special. Conclusion: "Oleana" acts as a Turkish place, but only coffee was truly Turkish there. We later read that chef is American, and, I guess, that explains a lot. I gave 3 stars, not 2 because we loved spinach falafel.
(3)Marilyn T.
This was probably my 6th or 7th visit there, and it remains one of my favorites. My mom is a vegetarian, so we always get the $42 5 course + dessert vegetarian tasting, and we've never been disappointed. We started with the whipped feta with sweet/hot peppers and spicy carrot puree with dukkah spice blend. The feta was nice and savory with a hint of spiciness, and the dukkah blend was a unique mix of cumin, coriander, and some other strong spices. I love the focaccia-like bread with Turkish spices on it for dipping. Next was the special salad of apple, thinly shaved fennel, muscat grapes, and a special grape (?) gastrique and mint sauce, accompanied by soft goat cheese and a refreshing apple fennel sorbet. It was a wonderful combination, and the saltiness and creaminess of the goat cheese went so well with the fruit, and the sorbet was light and cool over the shaved fennel and apple. This was definitely my favorite. We also had the spinach falafel with tahini, beets, and mache, which I always roll up and bite - fried chickpea goodness. For the mains, the vegetarian tasting had spicy fideos with chickpeas and green chard (like stir fried vermicelli), then a special stewed tomato/fig casserole with fried bread crumbs and olives, which was warm and very complex in a cast iron dish. It had so many interesting textures and flavors - not boring at all! It's another dish that highlights Oleana's ability to be creative and skilled with grains and vegetables. We also had lamb steak with fava bean moussaka. The moussaka was a tad salty but very tasty, and the creamy sauce over it matched it well. The pork loin was very tender and juicy, cooked perfectly, topped with melted pecorino. The melted cheese added a chewy texture to the pork, and it complimented the honey and celery root polenta underneath the pork. For dessert, we had the chocolate hazelnut torte with chocolate sorbet and ganache. I'm not a huge baked alaska fan, though I know many people love that at Oleana. I like dense and dark chocolate, so the dessert was perfect. As usual, we got the turkish coffee to go with it - too bad I didn't have someone who could read the coffee grinds at the bottom of the cup for me. The atmosphere was warm, as always, and the server was knowledgeable about the dishes. As always, the kitchen is very accommodating to dietary preferences and likes/dislikes in the tasting menu. I usually park on the street, but I just found out it's ok to park in the lot across the street, as long as you park along the middle road. Oleana never disappoints :)
(5)Moomin T.
This place is a lot of hype-- if you really judge food on the taste and not on the decorating or trendiness, then you know this joint isn't worth your time. There is a lot of careful attention here to making you think you're getting something more than you're getting: this is actually quite cunning.
(1)Julie M.
one of my favorite restaurants... EVER. the vegetarian tasting menu is amazing. one of my favorite restaurant meals I've ever had! Patio is lovely! Whenever I'm in Cambridge for business, I make a point to have dinner here!
(5)A V.
i left this place thinking to myself, damn that shit was good.
(5)luke b.
I wish I could give this place 800 stars. AMAZING food, AMAZING service. I'm shocked by some of the reviews here. "Not many choices"... uhh, yeah when you're used to dining at TGIFriday's or The Cheesecake factory, Oleana may seem limited in its choices. RIDICULOUS! I had a hard time choosing, everything looked so good. "Too many spices used" I hate people... YOU'RE AT A TURKISH/MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT DUMB ASS!!! If you're not into different flavors, why did you go to Oleana? And sure some people go on off nights, but i feel it's worth another try. EVERY restaurant has off nights. OH, and to the guy who wasn't let in because of what he was wearing, You must've been dressed pretty poorly because the place was full of sneakers, jeans and baseball hats. Anyway... i love this place. The food is amazing, so well done and creative, the staff was MORE than helpful especially the sommelier who talked to us at length about an amazing wine and then suggested another one to try AND brought us complimentary digestifs. amazing. I couldn't say a bad thing about Oleana. And if you DID give this place a bad review, i suggest you give it another try. Oh, the only complaint i did have was the over privileged JACK ASS sitting next to us who was splayed on his chair like he owned the place and then complained that his "dish" wasn't as good as it had been that Thursday... when we had ordered the exact same thing and found it perfectly done. I love people who will complain just to complain. Just another little note: Ok, you go to a restaurant you KNOW is expensive and complain? WTF? Yes... good food in ANY city is overpriced. But 1. think about the quality of food you're getting and 2. think about the preparation and time that goes into what you're getting. If you want cheap meat, go to stop and shop and cook it your damned self! Don't ruin a yelp review just because you're too cheap to enjoy a nice meal. You don't like the prices? Move to a cheaper city... or don't go out. Easy as that. Oh, and i DON'T eat at places like Oleana because it makes me feel ecclectic or warm and fuzzy 'cause i'm a dumb hick and i's eatin' ethnic food for the first time ever... NO! I go to places like Oleana because i KNOW i'll get good food, good service and have a great time all around.
(5)Ken C.
OK, so I've been hearing about how this place is just the jam. I've always wanted to go, and my lady suggested it for her birthday so I figgerd is was as good of an excuse as any. So off we went, after a hot tub and massage at Inman Oasis. We started with a bottle of Greek wine and two appetizers, Lamb Ribs with Carob Molasses, Brown Butter Carrot Cake & Smoked Cashews - and a special: Fritters with Shrimp, Chorico and somethin' else I can't remember. The Lamb came out first and was really good - i was getting psyched! The fritters were pretty good, didn't blow me away. They looked cool in their little bowl. Entrees: Crispy Duck with Pumpkin Bisteeya-- Leeks, Moroccan Spices & Sugared Almonds 26 Pork Loin, Pecorino & Honey with Celery Root Polenta & Mushroom Caponata 24 Decent portions (you know how some of these fancy schmancy places can be) and nice presentation. I thought the duck was a bit over cooked (more overdone and dry than "crispy") the Bisteeya was a nice touch, complimented the dish well, but overall I was looking for more flavor and excitement out of this entree. The pork dish was great - nice, thick slice of pork loin was cooked perfectly, just a hint of pink on the inside. This entree was bursting with flavor, I think in large part due to the delicious slice of Pecorino cheese on top. This was my date's meal, so I had some serious food envy! We got the Baked Alaska as a dessert to share, once again, great presentation - they even put a candle in it in honor of the birthday girl. It was pretty yummy, maybe better than yummy, but i was pretty full and drunk at this point so I dunno if I enjoyed it as much as I could have... Great service, beautiful decor, very laid back - not stuffy at all. I just was not "blown away" by the food. I wouldn't argue if someone wanted to take me there for my birthday, though!
(3)Christine C.
FABULOUS. Took my turkish friend here on a Friday night and ended up sitting at the bar, this place is packed! The food was AMAZING. I ordered the scallops and my friend had the vegetarian chef special courses. They were both wonderful as I picked at some of her specially crafted treats. The portions were decent and you get an amazing quality meal for the price. This is one of my favorite restaurants in the Boston area.
(4)Maggie B.
Oleana is my absolute favorite restaurant in Boston. Sure, Oleana is actually in Cambridge. But, for me, Oleana beats out all of those far fancier spots in downtown Boston and beyond. Oleana's menu is far more interesting and inventive than most menus in town. The flavors are amazing and unique, even for eastern Mediterranean cuisine (which is unique to begin with!) But the fine, flavorful food is one mere advantage to this hot spot. I've rarely dined in such a delightful atmosphere. The hosts are accommodating, the servers are both super knowledgeable and friendly and the energy in the air is electric and inviting. Oleana feels like a great party with loads of friends. I loved the atmosphere so much that during some down time last year, I opted to host there and really loved the experience. (That's my disclaimer: I worked there for 3 months. But still, I dined there before and after my work experience and the service and food have never faltered.) My favorite dishes: the Sultan's Delight, the Falafel (truly amazing!) and the Baked Alaska (enough for 2). Make sure to ask for the sommelier (she's there most nights) as she'll help you find the perfect wine, in a reasonable price range, for your meal.
(5)KoreanSoup S.
Love it! A very thoughtful menu. Well put together. Extremely well sourced ingredients. Our dishes were complex and delicious. The outdoor patio was great! Service was non-pretentious and friendly.
(5)Mike Y.
Went here for my birthday and we had high expectations after reading all the reviews online. I would say for the most part, it lived up to expectation. We got the homemade cheese plate, olives, sweet potato croquettes (special) and the monkfish with lentils (special). All where excellent. We also got a couple of drinks. The Sake with Quince was really good although my wife's wasnt that great - champagne with lemons and bitters. It kind of tasted like flat ginger ale. The service was very good and the atmosphere was very comfortable. Definitely make a reservation because this place fills up every night of the week.
(4)Bhuvana H.
I've been here several times and have always enjoyed the food, drinks, service, and ambience. I've eaten inside and outside; both are nice, obviously depending on the season and the weather. As other reviewers have noted, the prices are high so I've only gone to Oleana for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries, or when I've got a gift cert! Of special note are the vegetarian dishes on their menu; as a herbivore, rarely do I have so many options on a menu at a fancy restaurant. The food is clearly made with amazingly fresh ingredients; the farms where they get food are prominently noted on the menu and in other parts of the restaurant. And they have fun little touches that make the restaurant totally charming and unpretentious. For example, there's a sign in the bathroom that says something like "Employees Must Wash Hands.. and It's a Good Idea for Everyone Else to Do Too."
(5)Rachel G.
The only thing better than a dinner out is a celebratory dinner out: I dined here for my sister's college graduation, in a party of eight seated on their beautiful patio. Because it was a celebration, we ordered one or two of basically everything, and everything my fork touched was utterly magnificent; as other reviewers have suggested, the Sultan's Delight and the falafel made me want to lick the plate. Perhaps the best dessert I've every eaten in a restaurant--the Baked Alaska. I'd fill my suitcase with this pile of coconut, macaroons, and tropical fruits.
(5)Nupur L.
I can't rave enough about this place. For reasonable prices you get incredibly delicious, inventive food, very attentive and caring service and a warm, sophisticated atmosphere. This has been by far one of the most pleasurable dining experiences I can remember. Oleana elevates the mundane to the unforgettable. Their falafel and roast chicken were just incredible in their mixes of texture and flavor. I normally hate feta but found myself scraping it off the plate in their feta and roast red pepper dip. And the passion fruit baked alaska is the restaurant dessert by which I measure all others. The service is also worth mention here. My bf was torn between their special (pork loin with blood orange Israeli couscous) and their duck. The server convinced the kitchen to make an appetizer portion of duck for him so he wouldn't have to choose! For the food and experience, Oleana is a steal. Just go now.
(5)Adelina H.
Absolutely perfect. Everything at Oleana is so memorable, even the complimentary bread and olive oil. We had the Spicy Squid (complemented wonderfully with almonds), Fatoush (the golden beets are amazing), and the Vermont Quail (so incredibly tender). I only wish we had more room in our bellies to try more meze dishes. We also ordered the Flounder & Moroccan Spiced Crab and the Soft-Shell Crab, both cooked and flavored to perfection. I had mentioned in the reservation that it was my birthday, and after we finished the meal, our waitress brought us an off-the-menu strawberry sorbet garnished with raspberries, cherries, blackberries, and flowers, with candle and all. I seriously cannot praise Oleana enough for making every meal there a wonderful experience, and I am constantly trying to think of more special occasions to use an excuse to go.
(5)Ashley S.
If only I had the budget to go to Oleana more than on special occasions. Now that would be the life! Tucked away in the side streets of Cambridge, Oleana's take on contemporary Mediterranean/Arabic sets it apart from Boston's other top restaurants. Their use of local herbs and vegetables gives all the dishes an extra flavor punch too. It's very vegetarian friendly, has superb service that makes you feel both welcomed and important, and never rushes you through your meal. I've tried different things from the menu each time (many items change seasonally) and have been pleased every visit. The wine list is moderately priced and the wait staff can help guide you to a perfect match for your dinner choices. Oleana requires a reservation (often weeks in advance), but the real treat is to sit on their patio, by candlelight, under canopies, surrounded by greenery and terracotta. The patio specifically doesn't take reservations, but here's how you do it. Make your reservation for the main restaurant. Come 30-60 minutes before your reservation time and put your name down for the patio. Walk down the block to the B-Side for a pre-dinner drink. Come back and a patio table awaits you. Boston is fortunate to have so many standout chefs/restaurant owners who are women. Oleana's Ana Sortun is firmly among them.
(5)Stel B.
I'm not a vegetarian, but if there is but one possibility of my giving up the meats, it would probably involve feasting daily at Oleana. Now while Oleana is not a vegetarian restaurant, I just happened to order the vegetarian prix fixe menu plus wine pairing. I know... I went all out, but no regrets here. Looking back, stopping short would have been a terrible shame. Oleana takes a lot of pride in their food and in their wine pairings. You can taste all the thought that went into that menu...how all the ingredients melded together into the perfect crescendo in your mouth. I was hoping the interior would be more romantic. It's stylish with one of those bare, yet hip decores, but the tables are all very close together and the noise level can get up there. (Mind you, all of this is no matter after a few drinks). I came here in the summertime when the patio was open. On my way out, I caught a glimpse of that serene space out back and knew I shall return and give that meal its proper setting amidst the shrubbery and trellises...
(5)Chandler L.
This has been our favorite restaurant for years... birthdays and anniversaries are always spent here. I dont think we have ever had a meal that was not heavenly. Consistently excellent service, amazing wine, locally sourced ingredients. Thank you Oleana for bringing us so much joy!
(5)Smitha S.
The falafel roll ups and tomato dish were just amazing. The feta cheese dip goes really well with their complementary zatar bread.. Just can't have enough of this food. I'll be heading out there again to try some of their chicken solvaki and lamb dishes. A great choice for vegetarians! Nice to go with a group of 3-4 as you can try out most of the things on their menu.
(4)Olivia L.
Ok, so I've heard a lot about this place, mostly involving flaming, ouzou-soaked haloumi. But, I wanted to go somewhere special for an anniversary, and we hadn't been yet, so ... There were two of us, and we decided to go unconventional. Meaning: just one of us got the vegetarian tasting menu, and the other ordered two courses. Well, that was a great call! (pats self on back) On the dishes that we ordered: They had a gouda fondue appetizer that I highly recommend. It came with amazing eggplant fritters, red potatoes wrapped in prosciutto, charred brussel sprouts, three chutneys to cut the palate, and a bunch of other stuff I don't remember. The gouda was surprisingly smooth and not oily (after that review in the NYT food section, I expected a lot of oily separation, but they did it really well). Of course we had the lamb as the main course. Well seasoned, and perfectly medium, but I felt that the portion was pretty small (3 chops??). The tasting menu was very good as well, but stuck to the menu more than I would have wanted. We did get the olives (briny tasty good) and the dumplings (eh, not a fan) from the normal menu, and a very oaty re-formed pate something with tasty home made string cheesse. But there was a shaved fennel citrus salad that was fantastic. There were at least three other dishes (yes, there was a bonus), but they all ran together after the fourth or fifth course. Overall: A lot of food, but a lot of money. For special occasions, maybe. Don't get more than one tasting menu at the table.
(4)Erin E.
My boyfriend and I tried this place a while back. It was arguably the finest gastronomic experience I have had in Boston (maybe tied with Monica's in the North End). Everytime we find occasion to treat ourselves to a nice dinner, I enthusiastically suggest this place because it was so good. I am a bread basket fiend, and the server had to refill it twice because we devoured the warm, delicious focacia-like bread. The bread can be used to dip in their featured spreads. We tried a hummous-like one. We had the appetizer special- fried oysters in peach butter. This was my first oyster experience. They were delectable. We had our entries but I forgot what we chose, as the oysters out-shone all. Also of note- we had a coconut baked alaska for dessert (forked over $14 for it) and it was very unique, enormous, and tasty. So, as I mentioned before, I suggest this place everytime we plan a nice dinner. The boyfriend always counters with somewhere else (usually Monica's, now that I think of it). I called him out on this, and he explained to me that he fears he'll throw down $60 for his part of the meal and come out hungry. The portion size here is following the trend of so many other restaurants in the area- you pay a lot for not so much. In Oleana's case, this does not bother me one bit.
(4)nm n.
I went there last night for dinner with three friends after reading all the good reviews. I'm giving this restaurant three stars because the food didn't wow me. They do use fresh, quality ingredients, but I didn't think the food was bursting with flavor. We started off with three appetizers, which at about $12 a piece were tiny, tiny portions. Ridiculously tiny. The hummus was below average. Have had better in Brooklyn, New York. The red pepper & Feta cheese was just okay. I can make it at home. The Sultan's delight came with one small rib, which was good, but for $13 dollars, give me at least two ribs. Sigh. I ordered the lamb (thinking in a Turkish restaurant, it's the way to go) but it came inside a puff pastry and they were only a few slivers of lamb inside the pastry. It was okay, but not wow. Putting lamb in puff pastry and charging $26 dollars for it is just not right. For that price, I expect a lamb shank or at least, alot more meat. My friends ordered the swordfish and the sausage dish. Again, good, fresh ingredients. The food is light (you can tell it's not bolted down with heavy uses of butter or lard) - but for the price (about $26 dollars per entree) - it's just not all that. Oleanna's is nothing more than a good, homestyle Turkish/Meditarranean meal. If like me, you've lived & grown up outside of America and have traveled quite a bit, it's the way most people in the world eat -- i.e. they use fresh ingredients from their farms and that by itself can make food taste very different to those not used to it, but I bet if I went to Turkey or Greece, this is exactly what I'd be served in most people's homes and it wouldn't cost me almost $30 bucks an entree.
(4)ruby m.
I had high hopes for Oleana after reading all the great reviews. The waitress we had was all business and no personality and the wine was so *grossly* overpriced, it felt like a personal insult. The food was delicious. I would have liked to try the vegetarian sampler, but was told that I would not know what it was until it was in front of me. For $44, I'm not willing to take a gamble on receiving food that I don't enjoy. What a disappointment, and how easy it would be to just allow diners to pick 4 appetizers from the menu instead of it being at "chef's prerogative" . Interestingly, the two tables that were on either side of us had the exact same questions/comments as we did. Also, none of the specials were vegetarian friendly. As a restaurant that touts itself as Turkish/Vegetarian, I'd expect a more well-balanced offering. Sadly, I won't be back.
(2)Julia Megan W.
If you look for a restaurant to satisfy your physical and spiritual hunger, look no further than Oleana. I have been consistently delighted with the food and atmosphere here. I'm a big garden dining fan and it is not easy to be this in New England. However, Oleana understands: wool blankets are on hand for those who want to dine on the garden patio (or can't get an inside table) and for whom the braziers are not enough. As for the food: just delightful and constantly changing. Even the blase-sounding items are enchanting in some way: the deviled eggs, for example, bear little resemblance to their picnic staple namesake as they overflow with spices and tuna.
(5)Carrie M.
I was just putting together a list of good vegetarian restaurants and wanted to add Oleana, only to find I hadn't reviewed it. The vegetarian tasting here is AMAZING. Such a value ($40), SO MUCH FOOD! I went with a friend, and it was the first tasting I had ever done. We lost track of what round of food we were on and were clearing our plates, only to realize there were about three more rounds to go! I don't know if I've ever felt so full in my life, but the food was too good to let go to waste! I love that if more than one person at the table orders the tasting they vary the dishes between you. That way you get to try even more delicious food! I also love that the menu changes with the season, makes we want to go back and try it again, and again, and again. In fact, that's it, I'm gathering a group of people to go sit out on the patio before it gets too cold!
(5)Betty H.
Jesus. Probably one of the best meals I've ever had. Boyfriend and I, along with good friends Jeremiah W. and Kevin S. happened to be visiting Boston on Greg A's birthday. He mentioned going to Oleana for his birthday and with that it was set. We discovered it could possibly be difficult to score a table for 7 on a days notice, but our minds were made up, and we were going to do whatever was necessary. Since the patio was our only hope for a table, boyfriend and I arrived around 6:30 with the hopes of having a table around 7:30, giving our entire party time to join. We knew they wouldn't seat incomplete parties, and since two of the people weren't able to show up until 7:30, we figured we would just take what we could get. We informed the hostess of our situation, and she told us to go ahead and take a seat at the bar. Just as we had ordered drinks, Don, a front-man of sorts, grabs us from the bar, and tells us he is going to seat the two of us outside at a table for 7 because he doesn't think it would be available for much longer. Are you freakin' serious? I was shocked. And grateful. Amazing. Three more from our party arrive shortly, which made us feel a little less awkward at such a large table. Off to a great start.... We are shortly greeted by an enthusiastic waitress, and she got the drinks rolling in no time. Much appreciated! Plenty of refreshing sangria and white wine to go around. Also worth mentioning, the Cisco "Oleana 3-C ale" is a must. It is brewed just for Oleana, so you can't buy in anywhere. Bummer, because it's delicious. We started out with a few appetizers, all of which were delicious, and done family style is a must. Everybody gets a little of everything! We're well into our drinks now and feeling pretty good. Onto the entree's! Seriously, nothing short of spectacular here. Boyfriend and I decided to share one, obviously. And as the waitress is detailing the special of the day, a salmon of sorts with squash and goat cheese... Hello, you had me at goat cheese! And let me tell you, it was the most delicious dish I have ever tasted. Yes, I have probably said that like 30 times of yelp before, but I really mean it this time. I've never had salmon cooked so perfectly. The desserts as well were delicious. I mean, "Chocolate-Hazelnut Baklava & Hazelnut Cremeux with Honey-Caramelized Figs" Seriously? It speaks for itself. I'll be honest, I was a little hesitant at first. I mean, this style of food isn't normally my first pick. I have never been so pleasantly surprised with a meal, and restaurant in general. Two weeks later and I'm still full and happy..
(5)Aashna S.
Great food. Nice ambiance. Good service. Try the burrata and falafel. Decent wine list as well.
(5)Marc L.
As a discerning food snob I consider this the best food in greater Boston. Their food and desserts are consistently "pitch perfect" always wonderfully prepared and creative and ingredients with obvious integrity. One thing that bowls me over is that some of the simplest items, things I normally don't order when I'm out because they are easy to cook at home--are show-stoppers-- like the flattened lemon chicken (few dishes enter my dreams but this is one). I also love the flexibility of the menu with the little teeny dishes (pret a manger) and appetizers, it's makes it easy to eat light, or try many things, or to have a more economical meal. The outdoor seating is fantastic (and first come first serve, not by reservation) and between the big wool blankets they'll give you and the heat lamps it's fun to be out there late into the fall. The place has a few minor drawbacks--the seating can be crowded and therefore activity at other tables can be distracting. They're quality of service can at times include a few minor glitches. Their wine list could include more range. All of this said, the food is so remarkable and consistent that these things hardly matter.
(5)mike y.
so if i was ever to stop eating animals...i would eat here !! but wow..i was quite surprised how good the veg food is here...yah pricey but great food !! atmosphere is great ( went for dinner ) ..kinda dark with the lighting..but a great place for a date patio was cool ... meter parking was easy to find
(4)Mardi L.
Every bite bursts with flavor. The spinach falafel is one of my favorites.
(5)J W.
Went to Oleana's a couple weeks ago and was I ever impressed! Some nice variations on typical Mediterranean cuisine. Flavors were complex, but delicate and the fish is superb. The feta cheese fondue appetizer is worth trying. Highly recommended, but make reservations as it was quite full and fairly small.
(4)Meredith K.
I've gone here a few times and the food is always solid - I have a hard time finding something I feel like eating. The menu is inventive which is cool, but can be intimidating - luckily everything I've picked so far I have liked. So it doesn't appear there is anything bad on the menu. Take a risk - you may just find you like it! They have a very cozy restaurant with a nice fire in the winter, and I love the summer outdoor seating.
(4)Hywel J.
Tired of Italian food? Sick of Mexican? Don't want Chinese again? Longing for the exotic spices of Turkey and the Middle East? This is the place for you. Oleanna is in a strange location. The street is quiet and bordering on sketchy. There's a scruffy gas station down the street and not many signs of commercial life. It's worth making the effort to track it down though, as the eastern Mediterranean fare is both unusual and fabulous good. Go for the deviled eggs, the spicy carrot puree, the lamb, the chicken with zatar and all of the desserts! The little garden at the back is quaint and romantic and a delight in the summer. They also have a great vegetarian tasting menu if that's your thing. Oh, and order of bottle of the excellent Lebanese wine, Chateau Masur. It makes for a happy evening.
(5)hannah p.
The spinach falafel is amazing. On the appetizer menu, only $10 and big enough for a meal. We live around the corner, so it's nice to go and sit at the bar, order the falafel and a glass of wine and it's easy and cheap. We've also sat down and had a full three-course meal, too. Everything we ordered was ridiculously good. Our waiter was super knowledgeable and helpful, but slightly on the pretentious side.
(5)Mark T.
One of my new favorite restaurants in the city. Our table was ready on time so we didn't have to wait to be seated. The restaurant is a hike from the train - I will surely drive next time since there is free parking across the street. The tables are a little close together, but not so quiet where you feel like the tables next to you can hear every word. Very cute decor - seems elegant yet casual at the same time. We had the Spinach Falafel after reading the review on here and were quite impressed. I had the lamb - which had good flavoring that was well balanced with the cucumber sauce. My date had the cod -- which was interesting, but a little bland in my opinion.
(5)Sean E.
Perhaps 102 glowing reviews just isn't enough. This place is fantastic -- the perfect restaurant for a la de da date or when you want to impress your parents or something. The food was top notch across the board. Even something like hummus was singing like a choir of angels. The flavors for everything -- chicken, seafood, lamb -- were big and on point. The waiter was very cordial, fun and knowledgeable. Everyone was impressed and I'm already making plans to return here -- especially when spring returns and we can try to take advantage of their back patio area. Huzzah, dear Oleana!
(5)John W.
It's no secret that Ana Sortun's Mediterranean-influenced cuisine is served in the city's most enchanting al fresco dining atmosphere. Sip white sangria at the bar while you wait for a table in their lush backyard garden patio. The menu is infused with flavors from Greece, Turkey, Armenia and Morocco. Start off with a small order of the warm olives fragrant with oregano and sesame seeds or the tangy-toasty Armenian bean and walnut pate with homemade string cheese. Their "grains & greens" entres offer a few delicious vegetarian options, and there is a five-course vegetarian tasting menu; they also have plenty of fish and meat dishes as well. The ideal spot for a romantic date or to bring yr parents when they visit.
(5)Penelope T.
yes yes yes. vegetarian tasting menu all the way. amazing food. A++++. negatives: the tables are too close together and the chairs are pieces of crap, but the food makes up for this.
(5)Laura F.
Unique blends of flavors, Mediterranean, Californian, Middle Eastern? You must make reservations because it is warm and intimate. One thing, the food is very rich. That is usually a plus, but it seemed too much, but that was really all my fault (ordering all the richest things on the menu!). My second fav place in Cambridge/Boston.
(3)E. A.
My husband and I had dinner at Oleana on Saturday, June 30th at 7p.m. We had been looking forward to it for quite some time, and we had to wait about two months to get a Sat. night reservation. We are lucky that we eat out quite a bit and nice restaurants, and Oleana was NOT worth the wait. First, the waitress, Makenzie, came to our table and immediately rattled off several specials, before asking what we would like to drink or allowing us to familiarize ourselves with the regular menu. We then ordered a bottle of white wine which was delivered without a means to keep it cold. When I asked if they had a cooler/ice bucket, she said that we could either keep it on ice in the kitchen or she could bring us a marble cooler. We chose the marble cooler, but wondered why this was not offered automatically. Second, there were tons of fruit flies/gnats in the restaurant. We understand that it is summertime, but it is disappointing to experience this indoors a nice restaurant. Because of this, a big bug landed in my husband's freshly poured glass of wine. He did try to remove it, but it was difficult as the glasses were deep. We told our waitress, and she took the glass and said it would be taken care of. Another woman returned with a fresh glass and just poured another glass of wine from our bottle and immediately departed. We told Makenzie that this was disappointing that there are only 4 glasses in a bottle and we just lost one, through no fault of our own. The other woman came back and said they could give us another glass but then they would have to open an entire other bottle and she suggested taking 25% off our the cost of the bottle. I find this extremely tacky in an elegant restaurant. In the end, that is what we did. We will not be returning to Oleana.
(2)Karyn S.
Good wines by the glass. The Sultan's Delight was incredible; I would eat that as an entree if they offered it for sure. The spinach falafel was great. Whipped feta was a little odd and very strong. I would pass on the deviled eggs if I had to do it over again. Flattened lemon chicken for my entree was good. My friend got the lamb and found it a little difficult to finish because it was so rare but the taste was good. I got a pistachio and cherry dessert that I didn't like; tasted a bit like licorice to me. My friend got the farmer's market strawberry dessert and loved it. Overall, a great, quiet dinner experience with a very good waitress. I would go back.
(4)Aarti C.
It was amazzzzing!! Went there with my fiance to celebrate our engagement and we loved the food! We made last minute reservation sand got in at a decent time for dinner...We both agreed that it had been a long time since we had enjoyed food! the oohs and wows went on through out the dinner. There are loads of options for vegetarians and it was a wonderful experience. I would highly recommend Oleanaaaa!
(5)Dianna B.
Three hours of food bliss! My friends and I gathered here last night and had an amazing the time, the food was so interesting, fresh and varied. Two of our party had the vegetarian tasting menu which is a steal at $40 and it was a ton of food! Our three mezes for the table were the carrot puree, spinach falafel and octopus salad -- all were big hits! Dessert was amazing, so be sure to save room.
(5)Bryan M.
I had a relaxing dinner for two here last weekend after returning from a hectic business trip to Portland, OR. My date and I started with the warm spiced olives with za'atar -- perfectly ripe, with just the right amount of herbs. My date ended up with three appetizers: Summer squash stuffed with shrimp, spinach falafel, and fried homemade Haloumi cheese. I had the roasted lamb with manchego mashed potatoes. I wish I could tell you which one was better than the other, but I just can't. They were all fantastic. The falafel had the perfect texture, held together nicely, and wrapped with fresh lavash bread to make little yummy wraps. The summer squash tasted like it just came from the garden (it did). The cheese was definitely not the stuff you buy at the store -- delicate and light, perfectly fried. The list of wines by the glass featured a white lambrusco -- normally a fizzy-sweet Italian red made famous by Riunite -- but this white was complex, fruity, and refreshing. Service was attentive, friendly, and casual, just the way I like my friends. I'd go back in a heartbeat.
(5)Flora B.
Oleana is delicious. The deviled eggs were to die for (w/ tuna and curry flavor) and I loved the spinach falafel. They use chickpea flour to make the falafel really light and fluffy. Really tasty combination of flavors... I'd take a foodie here any day. Oleana is now one of my favorite Boston-area restaurants! And there is a lovely outdoor seating area in the back. A peaceful dining experience.
(5)Jason L.
It's taken me a week or so to write this review -- too much wining and dining to catch up with! But Fri., 7/20, Lynn and I went with friends (also attending the law conference) to Oleana. This was our second visit here, and the first after they remodeled -- they did an excellent job. The interior, as well as the outdoor patio, is more inviting, more warm, and more comfortable. The food, compared to our visit three years ago, was even better. (So was the company, but that's another story!) We began our meal with two appetizers "for the table" -- the Spicy Carrot Puree & Egyptian Spice Mix with Nuts & Olive Oil and the Warm Buttered Hummus with Basturma & Tomato. Both were absolutely delicious! We paired with a delightful 2005 Gruner Veltliner by Salzl, which we continued with our next round of dishes: the Grilled Octopus with Spicy Sicilian-Style Bread Salad & Cauliflower; Heirloom Tomato Kibbeh & Heirloom Tomato Dolma with Labne; the Summer Squash & Squash Blossoms Stuffed with Sesame, Walnut & Homemade Cheese, and the Cold Tomato Soup & Lovage Granite with Greek Rusks & Whipped Ricotta. Each was spiced beautifully, full of flavor and perfectly prepared. For our entrees, we had the Hake & Crab Kibbeh with Basil Brown Butter, Kolrabi & Corn Chowder; the Softshell Crab Saganak- Stewed Tomato, Fennel & Peppers with Feta & Rice Cake; the Sea Bass & Homemade Grape Leaves with Cabbage, Chanterelles, Rosemary & Mastic; and the Lamb Steak with Turkish Spices & Fava Bean Moussaka. We were all in Heaven . . . Over the years, Oleana has just gotten better and better . . . . (thanks to Lindsay Tusk of Quince in San Francisco for the original recommendation, or we never would have found this place!).
(5)Irene R.
After reading so many good reviews here, I expected far more from Oleana. Yelpers, do not lead fellow yelpees astray!! So I am writing this to tell people who haven't been there before: don't have too high expectations!! My opinion is to the contrary of several posted here, but do read and note that not every yelper thinks Oleana is a godsend of a restaurant. I thought the food was good (5 stars) but far too expensive and the choices are limited (minus 2 stars) -- they have about 10 total entree choices (4 fish/4or 5meat/ 2 vegetarian) and 1 daily special. Nothing immdeiately appealed to me on the menu. Every item had one ingredient I didn't know of and hadn't heard about, and the menu lacks any further description. When we asked the waiter for more description, I felt he was rather snotty to explain! As if everyone entering should be familiar with fiedos and aioli!! He splashed wine when he poured and they splashed water when it was poured. They served our bottle of white wine without a chiller, which I thought was shameful, but our small table really didn't have room for more. They dimmed the lights up and down several times, which we thought was funny and ended up laughing about, doing "eyebrows" when the lights got lower and lower. The restaurant got very full by the time we were leaving, so that one couple was hawking our table -- they gave them menus while they stood at the bar! In the end, the food was good, certainly different and a treat to experience, but everything else not good -- I did not like the waiter, the service, the prices, the ambiance. I found all of those very distracting to an otherwise nice dinner.
(2)Colin N.
Disclaimer: I'm very price sensitive! Fancy Mediterranean Food. That's basically what Oleana is. They do it pretty well! I had very high expectations after reading that they were one of the top 10 restaurants in Boston. I took my girlfriend there last night for one of our occasional special dinners. We got a starter (shared), 1/2 bottle of wine, main courses, tea, dessert (shared). How much you ask? Gulp.... $145 incl. tip. Granted, it wasn't as painful to pay for as the $250 taster menu at L'Espalier 5 years ago when I was a student. I still left feeling as though I didn't get good value for money. I give it 4 stars because it's the best darn meditterranean food you'll find in boston, but at the same time $13 for the dessert special seems a little outrageous!
(4)Curious V.
Delicious and diverse. Went to Oleana and got the Vegetarian Tasting Menu. It's five dishes and a desert for a fixed price. Every dish tasted delicious and the flavors of each were so unique and distinct from the others. After every portion we were wondering what they were going to give us next. As a vegetarian, I love when a restaurant has a variety of foods for me to eat. The dessert was a sorbet on top of a pastry "nest" with pistachio cream and candied lemons on the side. So unique and delicious. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED. We showed up without a reservation and we were extremely lucky it was a Sunday and we got a table.
(5)Nicole S.
Yelp did not lead me astray. Great food, service and value. I loved the veg tasting menu and the concept of serving me one version of a veg menu and my husband another is genius. We truly got a sense of the talent and creativity in the kitchen. A $36 price tag for a 5 course meal is hard to beat. I am so glad we were able to experience Oleana.
(5)G S.
I wanted to really love this place but it turns out I only liked it, which is fine. We just had dinner here this past Saturday night. No reservation but the website said none was needed for the patio seating. We arrived just before 5:30pm (no, we're not senior citizens, just wanted to beat the crowd). Well, the crowd was already lined up outside the doors and spilled onto the sidewalk waiting for the 5:30pm open. "Wow. This is a good sign," I thought. Thing is, everyone waiting in line ahead of us filled up the patio and we had to wait at the bar. No big deal. We should have gotten there earlier (or later). We waited for about an hour and 20 minutes - understandable. The white sangria was delicious though not the greatest I've ever had. Refreshing and pleasant but not outstanding. We had the Kalamata olives pret a manger which was very nice. Good bread. After sangria, I opted for something red - a glass of the Italian Pinot Nero for $12 a glass. I wished I had waited a couple minutes before the first few sips because they had just opened the bottle for me and I densely didn't think to let it breathe first. It started out nice but ended up beautiful. Very nice glass. I ordered a second with dinner on the patio. yum! Lovely patio! Green, cool, open, not too crowded with tables. You could tell it used to be a Cambridge back yard but it was very nice and comfortable, classy too. We opted to share the halibut entree after having our olives and a half serving of the ricotta dumplings with oyster mushrooms and kale (I think it was kale). The dumplings and mushrooms were great but the sauce they came in was way too soupy for my tastes. The halibut was by far the best part of the meal (second only to the yummy pinot nero). It came with stuffed grape leaves and was wrapped in one, too with tomato something or other and a covering of some sort of breading and spices - delicious!! It was baked on top of a hot terra cotta roof tile which made for a really cool presentation but also served to keep the fish warm as we ate it. Brilliant! For dessert, we had baked alaska (w/coconut ice cream inside on top of some kind of coconut cookie). The passion fruit caramel tasted strange. I found it to be more like burnt orange sauce than passion fruit and caramel though I could detect both. It just wasn't my favorite sauce. I think just caramel would have tasted better. We also had the special dessert - I cannot remember what it was called. But it was sort of like a pancake filled - FILLED - with pistachios and topped with strawberries (though we were told it would be mixed berries, I saw only strawberries) and some type of middle eastern yogurt which was not very sweet. It was tasty. I also tried a glass of the driest dessert wine on the menu - an italian muscato, I think - which was just fine. So, overall it was a very decent meal - tasty, yummy - but not spectacular and I didn't think it was quite worth what we paid for it (about $125 with tip, plus the $40 at the bar for 3 drinks and our olives). Our bar service was just okay but the guy looked super busy. Our patio service was way better - "Terri" I believe was her name. (She even added a little candle to the baked alaska when I had only barely mentioned we were there for a birthday. Nice touch. Thankfully, no singing.) A solid 3 stars. Maybe 3.25.
(3)Rebecca R.
Great restaurant! The food was very interesting and all had a great flavor. We ordered 4 small plates, got a basket of really yummy bread, and had desert. The Spinach Falafel was great as well as the Focaccia bread and Baked Alaska.
(5)Ladyjane S.
I've been to Oleana a couple times and the food has been exquisite each time. The Sultan's Delight and Ricotta Bread Dumplings are a MUST. I have to say my experience indoors and outdoors on the patio were very different. Indoors, it tends to be very loud and tight...as in you might almost be sitting on top of the person at the table next to you. Outdoors, it is nicely spaced, the decor is beautiful and they have these awesome heating lamps that kept me mesmerized and toasty warm in the cool autumn air. The service is wonderful, very attentive and they really do make you feel special there. All in all it was a great experience and the food was amazing. Get the Vegetarian Tasting menu... so much food and SO worth the price.
(5)Lucy M.
The food was amazing, well flavored and cooked to perfection. We only ordered the Meze or small plates for dinner, and the Tamarind glazed beef was to die for, we also had the hummos, falafel which was also amazing. I have had many falafel sandwiches and they are usually dense, but these were so fluffy and light and then complimented by beets! yummy. Olives were pretty good, we actually ate them after our meze and before dessert. We made sure we had dessert as the pastry chef is also well known. I had the almond cremolata and chocolate panino, I could have eaten a dozen of those paninos. My bo had the bisteeya which was ok, but the nougat was insane and even if it was just that, it would have been enough. We also got a bottle of champagne and the bill was not bad at all. Our taste buds were satisfied all night as every bite was filled with spice balance and perfect texture. My only negative is the lack of personal space, my hips are not small and was worried I would knock someone's glass over when I squeezed between the tables, but if that means they fit one more table in so I can eat there, so be it!
(5)Jeremy S.
I thought dining in Boston was second tier until I tried this place. Wonderful food and amazing desserts - try the apple ice cream Souffle!
(5)Jessica T.
One of the best meals I have ever had. I went here for a celebatory work dinner and it was incredible. The staff were so helpful and patient - and the food was simply - breathtaking. The flavors were so unique and precise - and each course was arranged with care and a masterful artful eye. The ambiance was also perfect at Oleanna. We were a large group, but were treated like royalty with never empty wine glasses - and food that almost made us tear - it was so good. Would recommend this place to everyone and anyone. I can't even think of one complaint or suggestion for the place. It was perfect dining.
(5)Andrew K.
This place was so good! I took my girlfriend here for her birthday and it couldn't have gone better. I had the scallops and she had the monk fish, and both were delicious. One of the cool things about the restaurant, is they own a farm, so most of the vegetables are seasonal, organic, and don't travel very far. Fresh ingredients, with no pesticides mmm mmm tasty. The desserts were delicious as well, but the highlight was the pure white jasmine flower tea. It was served in a tall wine glass with the actual flower in the bottom and as it steeped the flower emerged and looked incredible (it tasted great too). I told our server how impressed I was with the tea and he said their "tea guy" puts great pride into the teas on the menu. I have never heard of a place with a "tea guy" but I want one at every restaurant I visit in the future. We also bought chef Sortun's cookbook and can't wait to TRYand recreate the Oleana menu at home.
(5)Maggie G.
I love this restaurant! It's wicked expensive but worth every penny! Definitely a special occasion place, and the food and drinks are so ingenious and delicious. I love interesting flavor combinations, and Ana Sortun is a master of blending rare and unusual spices into tasty meals.
(5)Angelo V.
I have been going to Oleana since it opened, and have been a devoted fan for years. Overall, this is still one of the top restaurants in the Boston area. However, the portion size of the entrees have gotten ridiculously smaller over the years, while their prices have been increasing. For instance, their signature dish, the lamb with mousaka, is probably one of the best dishes in Boston. Today's portion is probably half the size of the same dish served just a few years back. Although I really enjoy the restaurant, it has been increasingly more difficult to justify the prices given the morsels served -- although quite tasty morsels they are! Oleana, either decrease your prices (unlikely) or increase portion size!
(4)K F.
Oleana has an extremely creative head chef who very successfully combines unusual ingredients and offers dishes for a wide range of palettes (veg vs meat, popular vs obscure tastes). We also dig the fact that it buys all summer vegetables from a CSA farm in MA. The service was very good, our courses were timed very well, and the space had great ambience. A perfect place to celebrate a special occasion! For the pret a manger, I highly recommend the spicy carrot puree and the homemade string cheese with mint (the complementary walnut pate was pretty good, although not outstanding). These dishes had just stunning flavors. The Berkshire pork belly appetizer special paired with dates stuffed with feta was excellent---and local! Both grains & greens entrees I found delightful and creative. I preferred the fideos because of their unique seasoning, and think that the dumplings may appeal to a broader audience. For the meat dishes, both the salmon kibbeye and rabbit were well-done. The kibbeye would be good especially for folks who might like to steer clear of strong + unusual spices. The rabbit meat itself was a touch bland compared with previous rabbit dishes that we've had. I would highly recommend the falanghina red and the proseco wines, as well as the paopao and white port cocktail apertifs. My only complaint is that I would have preferred for the waitstaff to have split the drinks so that our table could share them more easily. All in all, an excellent and very memorable meal!
(4)Alastair G.
Ab-so-lutely incredible! I proposed to my fiancee yesterday and wanted to take her to Oleana for a celebratory dinner. A few things amazing things about the place: - The manager and staff went out of their way to get us a beautiful table in the back even though there were no open spots in the system - The food was out of this world. My fiancee was blown away; the veggie tasting menu was terrific and some of the larger meze dishes like the Sultan's Delight were absurdly good. A lot of fancy restaurants have tons of dainty dishes but no hearty, manly courses that will fill you up. Not so here - everything was delicious and very filling. - The service was impeccable. In addition to very friendly wait staff, the server brought us some sort of nice champagne at the end of the meal on the house. - The prices are not as bad as you'd think. True, you will definitely break $100 for two people with drinks, so it's not cheap. But for a restaurant that is pretty firmly in the fancy category, I was expecting to pay more than I did. Could just be expectations, but I thought it was good value given the category of restaurant we're talking about. Maybe I'm being too generous (I just got engaged after all), but I was impressed and even a little bit touched by a restaurant that went to great lengths to make our special dinner even more incredible. Will definitely be coming back next time I'm in town!
(5)Amikam R.
Oleana occupies a large dining room and a smaller one where the bar is next to the open kitchen. The tables touch each other and the noise level is high. We were four for an 8:30 dinner on a Saturday. We had to wait for our table. If you don't want to wait in the bar you can sit on a small bench in a narrow passage where the servers go to and fro. The meze were overall very good - the warm buttered hummus, the hot pepper labne, the octupus and the cheese plate. The sultan delight - which is a piece of short rib beef next to a spread of eggplant with pine nuts - was excellent. The halibut was very good and so was the lamb. The sword fish was excellent - served thinly sliced. The cremolata and the pumpkin crepe were excellent. The service came in waves - one minute it was knowledgeable and attentive and then for long minutes it was absent. Nobody said anything when we left after leaving a very good tip on top af a substantial check.
(4)Nathan H.
One of my favorite restaurants in the price range. The falafel is awesome. They use local ingredients and their menu changes frequently. I've been here four or five times and only one experience wasn't fantastic.
(5)LouLou C.
The food here is heaven! The atmosphere and decor are beautiful as well, albeit a bit small and noisy. Go in summer and get a seat in the terrace in the back. The other plus is that they have parking directly across from the restaurant.
(5)K P.
We had a leisurely dinner here sitting out in the garden on one of the last nice days of fall. The appetizers and desserts here are excellent, but I was not as impressed with the main courses. Standouts were the spicy carrot puree and almond cremolata and chocolate panino dessert (almond ice cream with toasted almonds and a chocolate panini pressed on brioche). It's possible our expectations for the main courses were too high given the outstanding appetizers. Next time I go I'd order a bunch of the appetizers and skip the main course.
(4)Brendan M.
Probably the best dining experience I've had in Boston. The atmosphere is classy without being stuffy, the service is friendly and professional, and the food...Ah, the food... I went with a large groups of colleagues, and we all ordered different things so we could get a taste of as many dishes as possible. Everything was lovely, but here are some gems not to be missed: the hummus wrapped in bastourma, the tamarind glazed beef (appetizer), the turkish spiced lamb, and the ice nougat with pistachio pot de creme to finish it all. At this stage you will be so contented that you'll barely bat an eyelid at the 3-digit tab.
(5)Jody G.
My new favorite restaurant! Been dying to try it for years and we finally went to celebrate our wedding annivrsary. Hoping my husband takes me back again for my upcoming b-day. The food was spectacular, the setting romantic; just perfect! Made my tastebuds dance!
(5)Jess P.
As others have mentioned, the food is fascinating and flawless, and hasn't missed a step in my 5-6 visits. I'd add a 6th star if I could for the following reason: Ana Sortun has racked up a few very prestigious accolades with her work at Oleana, but none of the fancy pants attitude. I took my little brother (an aspiring chef) here to celebrate his cooking school graduation, and Ana came out with a flight of free appetizers and some kind words of encouragement for him on a hopping weekend night. That generosity, and the community-mindedness of her partnership with the Fam School via her husband, elevates Oleana from great restaurant to great restaurant doing great things.
(5)Hal W.
We have been for the last year trying to get in. When we finally do-had to with notice break the reservations so far in advance. Finally we make it. Last night Feb 12. Always tough when an anniversary falls next to Valentine's day. First unlike the North End and the rest of Boston- FREE PARKING Next the host after a welcome talk gave us a nice table. Very nice. Waitress was very attentive , answered, and anticipated all questions. The support "busboy" was also right there with the water and cleaning. Yes we had to take either a 6 pm or 9 pm reservation (we took the 6) But it was a relaxed dining experience. We left at 8:20 pm. The wine was great. The fried mussels were unreal. The four of chose 2 of the smaller (dips) and then 2 of the larger appetizers. The other was the spinach falelfal. They will create a fourth for sharing. Three had the salmon and I had the cod. My wife usually gets salmon so it is unusual for her to comment how great it was. She is a stickler for freshness and way things are cooked. I had the cod. It was also great being so flavorful. I usually do not order fish outside home-usually shellfish, prime rib, or unusual dishes. And the desserts did not disappoint. All portions were fine. We reworked the bill to tip the waitress more. For this type of restaurant we felt the pricing was very fair. Our friends that we invited were also impressed. This was worth the trip from Newburyport and we look forward in trying other dishes in the future. But, I will have to reorder that mussel dish again.
(5)Daphne M.
Oleana was a real dining experience for me. John F. and I went for my birthday in July and I'm constantly looking at the menu and trying to plan the return trip, though we can't frequent these kinds of restaurants. If you are a vegetarian seeking fine dining, look no further. The vegetarian tasting menu dazzled me with creative flavors and fresh ingredients: only the best vegetables and spices. Course 1: Armenian bean and walnut pate rife with fresh herbs and served with delicate homemade string cheese, and a divine whipped feta cheese flavored with sweet and hot peppers; when I finished the fantastic bread with it, I continued to eat these divine spreads plain. Course 2: summery and fresh, a barley rusk bread soaked in cucumber jus and topped with chopped yellow tomatoes, a seasoned whipped ricotta that was almost yogurty, a bit of olive oil and some basil shreds, with warm olives on the side, and eating this I was purring with delight. Course 3 was the famous spinach falafel, with thick tahini and delicious yogurt and beet sauce; John had the tamarind-glazed short rib and I scooped up the delightful eggplant and pine nut puree. Course 4 arrived, a rich fried zucchini pancake (like a latke) in tomato brown butter, melting heavenly in my mouth. Course 5, finally: ricotta and bread dumplings with porcini, kale, and red wine sauce...lots of onion, tomato, and herbs as well, delicious though could have been salted a little less. While I didn't get the famous baked alaska because my menu came with dessert, I didn't mind so much; my frozen cocoa bean souffle, served between two cocoa nib tuille cookies and drizzled with a high-cocoa chocolate sauce, was delicate yet decadently delicious. The sangria I ordered with the meal was one of the most delightful drinks I've ever had. The fabulous food was enough for 4 stars easily, and the lovely atmosphere of the garden patio, complete with musicians in the corner, elevates it to 5. The polite, respectful, and attentive service makes it deserving of more, were they here to award! This place was a delight and a real treat; do not hesitate to try it yourself!
(5)B P.
Always wanted to try this place, but went here by chance this weekend. Parking was hell, but when we got there we were seated immediately, which was a wonderful surprise. The bread basket had two kinds of bread, the tiny pieces sprinkled with spice were tasty. My drink was quite miserable (cocktail with mint and grape) and tiny (thankfully) and I found myself drinking most of my husbands beer :). We tried the appetizer special which was duck...man..was that good!! Service could have been more pleasant. On a date night, I don't need attitude to annoy me..as a side to that drink they just poured me! The food came out, modest portions.. we were starving, but it was pretty tasty, and we were surprised that we were quite full by the end of it...and yes my lovely server had to tell me the portions were quite generous..not a word I would use to describe it...but why bother on a great evening with fabulous company and good food?
(3)Abdullah A.
Perhaps the toughest table to book in Cambridge/Boston. But once you are granted entry to this place, you realize why. Each dish was prepared with so much thought and soul. The ingredients are beyond superior. You want to explore the exotic world of oriental cuisine, there is no better place. The only time I have been here I was sitting inside, so the ambiance was not great. But I hear the outside patio is exceptional.
(4)Annie P.
As the 57th reviewer I'm not sure it would make an impact to say anything at all but I still want to write this review. DO NOT BE SCARED OF THE MENU. It seems a bit too ethnic authentic (which makes no sense---but think simple and you will understand) when you read it but really look at each item, narrow the key ingredients of what your taste buds love and just order. You will like. I went with two extremely picky eaters and they each found some thing different in each course to enjoy. Had two PRET A MANGER's. Which is basically cute and colorful spreads made for the side house bread basket. I'd go for the thick but spice heaven Armenian bean again. One tiny order of it is enough. Out of the three entrees-- I had the Lamb Steak even though I had no idea what Fava Bean Moussaka that was served on the side was.There was serious rub down of herbs and seasonings. Loved every medium rare bit of it. The french press for three was the size of my head... pouring it for friends at the table felt like I was in my own home just using my own press from Macy;s. If you like a non traditional but overdone all over restaurants dessert to chose, go for the Baked Alaska. It's inside filling of coconut ice cream and passion fruit caramel is pretty insane. It's similar to fried ice cream with a Mediterranean/Caribbean flavor twist. It's huge. Worth the price. Sicilian Almond Cremolata part was bland and not too memorable.. Overall time wait for everything was short. Service was good but not so special.. just fine for eating and leaving. Which is too bad because I'm sure if they put in a little more effort.. tons would come back weekly. Presentation is damn amazing. Each dish spunked up with a unique platter. Whether some rustic looking pan or plain white dish bowl ..they knew how to draw the eyes and appetite. Also noticed the table next to ours ordered the same dishes but the plates were mixed up in the bunch. Guess there's no certain pattern just a stack of beautiful plates. Plus for me since everything seemed so organized and tidy in there. Music included a lot of Buena Vista Social Club and other dreamy, romantic and full tunes. WINE LIST is extensive... bit of everything and makes you crave travel. There was a woman carrying around her big baby to tables and the baby almost hit heads of diners and made the staff cringe. Not baby friendly. Draws a lot of yuppie like Cambridge old money humans, boring couples and tons of loners. Just how I semi-like my little more than ordinary fine once in a blue moon dinners. So I'm not sure I;d go back so soon. It's comfortable in there though... for sure. Make sure to make reservations.
(4)Nicole D.
I was thoroughly unimpressed with Oleana. After reading the reviews on Yelp, we were excited to go for a great meal. We were sorely disappointed upon eating the food. The appetizer we ordered, brisket, was quite good, but both of our entrees went unfinished. I ordered fish stew, which came with overcooked fish with no taste, and boiled potatoes with no taste. My boyfriend's dish, the rabbit, presented a strange cacophony of flavors and seemed like it was put together haphazardly. Finally, the price was outrageous, especially given the fact that the food was inedible. Afterwards, we went to the nearby KFC to eat an actual, affordable dinner that tasted good.
(1)Sweta B.
Oleana was a really warm and romantic place to have your meal...the outdoor patio is really cozy with its fireplace beside every table...and when I still felt a little cold they gave me a soft shawl to wrap around...they have some of the most elegantly presented mediteranean food in town.... If you want to spend a cozy evening with the speacial people in your life and you have thing for mediteranean food this is the place to go...
(5)Hibah H.
Delicious, if not a little overpriced. Worth it for the Sultan's Delight alone, although the various dips were also wonderful.
(4)Ahmad A.
The best restaurant!!!!! Falafel is amazing. Baked Alaska is the best I ever had. Chicken with zaatar and phlio pastry is amazing also. Everything I tried was memorable. Even the tap water tastes better here lol
(5)Johnny Y.
overpriced, uninspired, not tasty. Bland, standard fare without a flare of anything really. and everything kinda tastes the same. I wouldn't say they suck, they're just not good, a significant disappointment. Drinks menu is very limited as not a full lic. Would not recommend this place at all.
(2)Logan J.
this place is amazing without a doubt, but it falls a little short for me because of the price. im all for paying a pretty penny for a great meal, but in this case, i think that a lot of people are judging that the food is so much better than other middle eastern places only because this place is more expensive. the food was great here though. the hardest part is deciding what you want to eat. they have a great little tasting menu, which i would highly recommend. when i had the tasting once, they had a nice mix of typical items with some very interesting, original items. the set-up here oozes romantic. candles, close seating, dim overhead lights...oh yeah, very romantic. the place is pretty small, but i think that they have a few different smaller areas sectioned by walls, which gives it an even more intimate feel. i would definitely return here, but it would have to be for a special occasion or an event. its not an everyday kind of place, but its worth trying and worth returning to to share it with someone special.
(4)Alyssa A.
Favorite place in boston. Great atmosphere, charming and warm staff, and the food is incredible. Every dish. I will never stop going back.
(5)B T.
Went there with my bf and we love every bite of it! My soup with lemon broth filled with mushroom, scallops, clams, etc was DELISH!!! Try the vegetarian tasting menu and it makes me want to be a vegetarian EVERYDAY if I can have such yummy dishes!!! Must try and book your table early!
(4)Taylor Y.
unique dishes, great cozy atmosphere.
(5)Chris F.
Our first visit was too quick, but we had time to try four small plates that were, when combined with the wonderfully varied bread basket, just right. Service was exceptional, had us out the door with time to spare, without ever making us feel rushed. Bravo! We will be back again soon, probably to order several small dishes again, to dally over the inventive, delightful fare!
(5)Stephanie G.
This is a great restaurant! Everything here is so delicious! I love the mezedes - it is my dream one day to just go and have a meal entirely of mezedes. What bliss. But the main meals always lure me away, and with good reason. We had the falafel (yum yum!), the sultan's delight (OMG YES) and I had a special amazing chicken-stuffed eggplant. It was all just so good. And, bonus points because the beef in the Sultan's Delight was grass-fed, so I felt no compunctions eating it (beef usually being a meat I avoid because of antibiotics, etc etc). One thing to prepare yourself for - this is fusion. The menu uses 3 different languages for "garlic flavor" (toum, skordata, and aoli), which seems little excessive to me. But, whatever, learn something new I guess. Also, it's frickin' amazing food, so if that's what you care about, go.
(5)Jan Marie D.
Went here for a belated birthday dinner with my coupled friends. Sat on the gorgeous patio. We all shared everything. Got the vegetarian tasting menu. All delicious things. But you would think that people that passionate about food would be as passionate about the eating experience. We waited almost 20 MINUTES before someone took our order, because our waitress was at the next table telling her other customers her life story as it related to food.
(4)Morgan H.
I wish I could give Oleana 4.5 stars. My best friend and I went for her birthday and decided to order a bunch of meze instead of two main courses. Though I'm glad I got to try a lot of different dishes, I started to feel overwhelmed with each dish that came out. We ran out of room on our small table so there was pressure to finish the dishes on the table before moving to the next. The next time I go I think I'll get a main course instead; maybe even the chicken dish featured on The Best Food I Ever Ate ("Misty Knoll Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar & Turkish Cheese Pancake"). Definitely make a reservation before going. I'm really glad we did since the restaurant was bustling. We were in the back room with the bar and the open kitchen and I felt like our neighbors were a bit on top of us. That said, sometimes "intimate" quarters can be fun. We also got to observe Ana Sortun herself hanging out at the kitchen counter. Our waitress was impeccable. Friendly, easy going, and knowledgeable, and she checked in with us just enough (but not too much). The glossary on the menu was extremely useful as well. It saved us from asking our waitress a million embarrassing questions. And now, for the meal: Drinks - delicious. I had several Islas (Cocchi Americano, mint, and bitters) and finished with a Cocchi Americano on the rocks. If I hadn't eaten so much I probably would've been wasted! Spiced carrot puree and dukkah - sweet, spicy, and flavorful. Tip: don't fill up on the delicious bread before your meze arrive because you'll need to use it for the dips! Whipped feta with sweet & hot peppers - like the carrot puree, it was sweet, spicy, and flavorful. Octopus and crispy Brussels sprouts, cranberry beans, pancetta, and pepperoni - very good. Savory and salty. The octopus was incredibly tender and a bit smokey. Grilled squid and sujuk with black eyed peas, butternut squash, and fried prunes - the fried prunes were a bit too sweet for me, but I'm sensitive to sweetness. The butternut squash puree was to die for, and I absolutely love black eyed peas. The squid, like the octopus, was cooked perfectly. Spicy fideos and chick peas with green chard and orange aioli - my friend had ordered this the last time she ate at Oleana and recommended against it, not because it was bad, but because it wasn't as good as the other things she'd had. I have to agree with her. The texture was nice and the flavors were neat, but there was too much orangey sweetness. It almost reminded me of those chocolate oranges people give out at Christmas. It was closer to a dessert than an appetizer. Sultan's Delight (tamarind-glazed beef & smokey eggplant puree with pinenuts) - this was to die for. The beef was melty and uber flavorful and the eggplant was like heaven. We also had one of the evening's specials that ... at this point I can't really remember. It was like a very thin flatbread with delicious handmade mozzarella and ... other stuff. Man, I have a horrible memory. Anyway, it was quite good. It cost around $170 for the two of us, and we ate and drank a lot. Not bad for such a lovely gastronomical experience. Bottom line: go. Try it. You'll enjoy.
(4)Sasha B.
So so so good! One of my favorite restaurants in Boston! I have to take off a single star, because there are a couple dishes I didn't enjoy, but if you go and order well, this is a 6 star experience! You start with bread and the most delicious olive oil. It has a strong olive taste, I had to forcefully stop myself from finishing our basket. My suggestion is to order family style, and based on the number of people you have, order main entrees for half your party size and 3-4 small plates for the other half. (ex. Party of 4 = 2 entrees and 6-8 apps) The entrees really are to die for, every one I've had has been delicious. Such a great combo of flavors and spices, they some seriously artistic creations! The best small plates are the Sultans Delight (fall apart lamb and unreal baba), the spiced carrots (seems simple, but they are amazing!), the falafel....ok, there are a bunch that are great, but those are some favorites! I would skip the deviled eggs, multiple people talked them up to me before I went, really not that exciting. The chick peas in vermicelli, also not great, in fact I really did not like it with the fake orange taste. It reminded me of one of those chocolate oranges you can break apart. The black eyed pea soup was nothing special. For dessert, please get the baked Alaska, it was unbelievable!
(4)Deborah T.
I have been going to Oleana at least twice a year for the past 7 years and have been 100% satisfied every single time. The ambiance is perfect! Cozy, not pretentious, and during transition seasons (fall, spring) the outside garden makes Oleana my favorite place to dine at. Great wine and beer selection. The food I consider more of a french Mediterranean twist than just Turkish (as it is listed here). I tend to order a selection of appetizers rather than an entree. The appetizer selection goes from deviled eggs to tamarind glazed beef. Regardless of what I eat and my mood I always make sure to leave room for my favorite desert - the Baked Alaska! - I have been loyal to Oleana's baked Alaska for as long as I have been loyal to the restaurant itself. It is a perfect mix of coconut ice cream and passion fruit caramel cooked to perfection! Oleana is my restaurant of choice when I want to forget about life and indulge myself in amazing food and wine while sitting at a cozy, beautifully decorated room filled with interesting people. If you want to make your trip to Oleana a special night I recommend making reservations... unless you know someone that can save you a place at the bar like I do :-)
(5)Lynn C.
tuesday night we got a table for 8:30 and there happened to be live music. very cool. service was okay. food was phenomenal. - spinach falafel was very saucy and flavourful without being too salty - sultant's delight (braised beef) was okay, but the brioche made it better - sirloin special was insanely good. the beef was marinated perfectly with turkish spice and cooked exactly as we asked (medium rare), the gnocchi and ricotta cheese paired with it was a surprisingly great complement to the flavour. i wished we discovered this place earlier.
(4)Val S.
Oleana is my favorite restaurant, by far. It's some of the best food I've had and I've been to a lot of places (around the world). You can tell the food is SO fresh and is just perfectly made. I would recommend this place for a good date, it's a bit weird with a lot of people because its small and intimate. I don't come here often, unless its an occasion because its a bit pricey, but completely worth it. Make a reservation in advance because it's a popular place. I would recommend getting a bunch of starters instead of full on meals because they're so unique and all are totally different.
(5)Dee C.
My favorite part of the meal was the WATER. Food was good, tho a bit pricey for the quality and quantity. My waitress was awesome tho food did take over an hour and it wasnt that busy.
(3)Andrew M.
Wow, this is a fantastic restaurant. I went with my fiancee and my parents, who usually don't get excited about eating anything other than Chinese food (their native.) We ordered the vegetarian tasting menu as well as some mezze and entrees with meat, and shared everything. The dishes were creative and fantastically delicious. My parents both loved the food and when the bill came, we were surprised that it came out to only $30 a person, since we got much more delicious food than expected. One gripe: in the summer, they need to put out some mosquito zappers and/or repellent. I got bit around 10 times during the meal, with corresponding itchiness afterward. Make a reservation in advance if you want to sit inside!
(4)Elizabeth S.
I had such high hopes for Oleanna. We were there last night celebrating our anniversary. We had an 8:30 reservation. When we arrived, we asked for outdoor seating (they don't take reservations for outside) and were told that it was full. When we said that we didn't mind waiting, we were told "there isn't enough time" by the host. Not sure what that meant. We were seated and it was 5 to 7 minutes before we were given water then another 15 minutes before the harried waitress took our drink order. While the waitress was nice when she was at our table, she was also a master at avoiding eye contact so as not to be brought over. We ordered a bottle of wine that was taken away to keep cold. That meant our glasses were often empty and we were at the mercy of the waitress to come fill them. Service, not up to snuff. The food. We had fried mussels and the Tuna Kibbe for appetizers. They were the absolute highlight of the meal. The mussels were crispy but not over cooked. The tuna Kibbe was so interesting and different I loved it. The entrees were a real let down, almost to the point of sending one back. My husband ordered the special Duck entree and it was just ok. Nothing spectacular. I ordered the lamb which is a house specialty. While my lamb was cooked well to a nice medium rare. It was the toughest lamb I have ever had. It was also not butchered well as there was a line of gristle going all the way through the cut I got. I had to ask for a steak knife to even cut through the lamb. At $26 for the entree that is unacceptable. Desert was so underwhelming I won't bother to tear it apart here. Based on everything, I have heard, read and seen on yelp this is supposed to be stellar. Perhaps a bad night?? There are so many excellent places to eat in Cambridge and Boston, that I won't give this one another chance.
(2)Hoang L.
Pretty much one of the best places I've ever been to. Highlights of our dinner: 1.) Spinach Falafel - Delicious, creamy, soft, flavorful - probably one of the best dishes 2.) Grilled Halumi with Peaches - tart, salty, and extremely savory sauce... only "so good" can describe it. 3.) Sultan's Delight - a creamy, mashed eggplant dip with pinenuts, accompanied by a small piece of beef that has a sweet savory, barbeque-like sauce 4.) Pork Meatballs with Sauces - delicious mix of onions + other veggies with the meatballs. Veggies really made it flavorful. 5.) Quail Kebab - More subtle than the previous, tart barberries, and loved the crisped rice below. 6.) Baked Alaska - Too big, but good. overall, we thought that the vegetables were probably the best part. The bread was delicious, especially the wheat flatbread. Music was awesome and the service was awesome - not too many places that would potentially allow us to grab a pear from their tree =)!
(5)Kerry T.
I thoroughly enjoyed all of the dishes at Oleana. My favorites were the whipped feta, spinach falafel, Sultan's Delight, and Fluke Nayeh. For dessert, the Baked Alaska was quite a site! The food is very unique and tastes amazing! The space is very small and cozy. The tables are close together, but that really did not bother us. Overall, we had a fantastic meal and would come back!
(5)Michael A.
What a great experience! From the mezze appetizers to the main course, I truly enjoyed my meal overall at Oleana Restaurant. I started with three mezze dishes... 1. Warm olives and za'ater 2. Spicey labneh 3. Hummus wrapped in basterma (cured beef.. looks like bacon) I never had warm olives, they were a pleasant delight. Small table olives sitting in a warm bath of EVOO and generously sprinkled with za'ater (a Middle Eastern mixture of spices of sesame seeds, thyme and sumac). The spicey labneh was amazing! For those who do not know what labneh is, picture it as a smoother cream cheese. I could not figure out what type of minced hot peppers they added but this spread had just the right about of heat! I could eat this with olives and bread all night! My last mezze dish was the hummus wrapped in basterma! Man oh man, I never had hummus like this before. The way the hummus was made was very different.. it was blended with a load of cumin and believe it or not, butter! The sliced basterma melted in your mouth and it was very tasty. I could have eaten a hundred of them! All these dishes are rather small however its well worth it in my opinion since they are quite unique. For my main dish I opted for the lamb (there's only one lamb dish). It was also excellent even though it was different than what I expected. The lamb comes rare (cooked only around the sides (not bloody though).. middle is very pink. However it cuts like butter and tastes flavorful with the spices they seasoned it with. I thought that I would be turned off by it but was not. The lamb sits on a bed of a yogurt sauce (yogurt, cucumber, garlic, mint) and a side of veggies. Overall great experience, nice ambiance, nice service and I would definitely come back again!
(5)Kevin L.
The unapologetic, frosty (literally) welcome we got nearly made me lose my appetite. As our friends warned, the portly fellow manning the door would be the worst part of the experience. Us (looking around the tiny foyer): Where should we wait? Portly man: You're welcome to stand outside. You're lucky it's a balmy evening. Me (muttering): Gee, I'd hate to see what his idea of "cold" is, given it's probably under 40 with the windchill. So, standing outside it was. True to our friends' word, eventually after being seated, the rest of the dining experience here was solid. Questionable non-liquor cocktails, a quality beer selection (including some of my favorites from Unibroue), and truly exceptional execution of the contemporary twist on Middle Eastern food. As others mentioned, the veggie tasting menu is heartily satisfying and offers a varied selection of dishes. Most noteworthy, to me, was the spinach falafel served on soft lavash, bright greens, and a bed of brilliant fuschia beet tzatziki. All told, with significant volumes of food and booze, we left with checks of roughly $50 a head. Our final piece of entertainment was the extremely messy table of diners standing around smoking outside the venue as we left... a server came out and effectively told them that they had shorted her $50 for their check. How you manage to leave a check short by $50 is amazing. I'm kind of curious how they sorted -that- out...
(4)Aimee C.
Dear Oleana, You were worth every bit of the 2-hour wait, for many reasons: Your service (A big thank you must go to the manager that night, whose great menu advice and hospitality went above and beyond), your wines (the red from Lebanon will be re-ordered - sooner than later), your atmosphere (a night under the stars on the backyard patio). Your food. Ah! The food ... I'd recommend hitting the meze's hard, and ordering the blessed Baked Alaska. Now I see what the big deal is. You have earned your reputation, and I count you among the city's best.
(5)Jessie E.
So I have been going here over the years and I actually worked here for a couple of years when it was first opened. I must say Ana and her partner Gary are the two nicest people I have ever worked for. I recently had a 30th bday celebration here with a few of my girlfriends and we were blown away. We sat outside on the beautiful patio and sweated our behinds off. We shared an amazing octopus appetizer, a salad with watermelon in lettuce cups and a fresh corn soup, all were amazing. We also had the haloumi cheese app which was good but not noteworthy. For mains I shared the flounder stuffed with crabmeat, served over a bed of gorgeous green couscous and the flattened chicken with a tasty cheese pancake. For dessert my favorite is the Baked Alaska which is a coconut macaroon topped with homemade toasted coconut icecream, toasted meringue and passion fruit sause. This has all of my favorite dessert elements rolled up into one; hot and cold, crunchy, chewy and smooth and the tartness of the citrus contrasted the toasty coconut perfectly. Seriously the perfect way to dive into my 30s.
(5)Mark S.
Loved it! Loved it! Loved it! The Shakshuka was spectacular. We did an assortment of appetizers and every one was delicious. Enough reason alone to go back to Cambridge.
(5)Xinlei L.
love it! romantic place~~ try quail and the vege tasting menu.
(5)Erica M.
From the street, its facade is modern and minimal, but inside is inviting, elegant and the outdoor patio is a gem. So relaxing, the branches of the large tree shading the space. Small lights hanging from the trees create a romantic and lovely al-fresco dining experience. The food was divine and I can't wait to go back and try the things I didn't have room in my belly for the first time. Stand out dishes - the Muhammara, the falafel, and the kale salad were amazing. The Sultan's Delight was so flavorful and tender that you could shred it with a fork. We were lucky enough to try the buratta special which was cheesy and delicious and everything one could hope for. Service was good - attentive but not intrusive.
(4)Erin C.
Definitely creative and lots of good vegetarian options. A little overpriced. It's best to come with a group and order tapas style so you can try a lot of different things. All dishes are flavorful and most are executed well, but some dishes are a little too out there where the flavor combinations don't work as well. Atmosphere is fun and casual.
(4)TszHang T.
Oleana is a wonderful restaurant with warming atmosphere and tasty Middle-Eastern inspired food. I have been to the restaurant twice, and I am planning to go there again when there's a "major" date to celebrate! Overall the food is delicious and delicate. I tried the vegetarian tasting menu last time which comes with several small-sized dishes and the Baked Alaska as dessert. I would definitely the Baked Alaska! Service was good, and they even had a duet playing Mediterranean music live! Most of the tables are for 2-4 people, which is a great place for dating couples :)
(5)Jim F.
Oleana is a foodie's delight, and has a Turkish menu that is one of the most interesting in the Boston area. On Tuesday nights you can enjoy live acoustic music to make the cool ambiance of this place even cooler, or enjoy the toastiness of the (gas-fired) "wood stove" to make the warm feelings you get here even warmer. Parking is available, but it isn't a sure thing that you'll find a free spot. We got lucky and found a place to park across the street. Oleana serves wine, beer, and specialty Turkish drinks, but does not have a full bar menu, despite having a bar area. Bottles of wine can be pricey, but are on par with the wine prices of other excellent restaurants. So expect to pay a bit more and get more... this is going to be a nice experience. Appetizers are a real treat. We started with three selections from the Meze menu: Sultan's Delight, described on the menu as Tamarind Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Purée with Pinenuts, or what I would describe as melt-in-your-mouth succulence, bursting with flavor, with an amazing texture. Next was the deviled eggs with tuna and black olives, which was mild and fine but not exceptional (I would pass on these next time), and then the Whipped Feta with Sweet and Hot Peppers (salty, but bursting with incredible flavor). After this start, your tastebuds don't know what's coming at them. For the entree we had (a) Cod Baked in Red Pepper Sauce with Fried Clams & Marmalade of Greens, which was the most tender and fresh fish we ever recall tasting, and (b) Vermont Lamb with Turkish Spices, Pide & Everything Green with Garlic & Yogurt, which was bursting with interesting flavors and textures. Nothing was left on our plates. I've been to Oleana once before and had the salmon entree. I was less impressed with that, but both the cod and the lamb were wonderful. For dessert I opted for chocolate (no surprise, if you knew me), going with the Chocolate Crème Brulee, Date Terrine, Rose Petal Jam & Cocoa Sherbet, and my other half went the way of the lemon, choosing a mini-Mayer lemon souffle with a shredded cookie topped with a pistachio paste. We all know the danger of judging books by their covers, but I'll also mention that the place was populated with an eclectic combination of stylishly dressed people, young families, professionals, old friends, and other fellow diners who I would say, as a group, looked like a pretty interesting crowd to be part of. We loved it.
(5)Tiffany Z.
Wonderfully creative dishes and plentiful appetizer selections (so you can easily sample more than just one dish) finished off with equally inspiring desserts. And all of this in a beautifully decorated, classy (but not pretentious) setting bursting with character. The servers are friendly and knowledgeable, too. You really can't ask for anything more. I've been here twice -- once for an intimate dinner for 2 and the second time with a group of 10 where we sampled the entire appetizer and dessert menu. My favorites included: deviled eggs w/ tuna, warm hummus with cured beef, hot pepper labne (a yogurt dip but really amazing!), spinach falafel, kohlrabi & radicchio pancake, fried mussels, sultan's delight (glazed beef and eggplant), celery root dumpling, king oyster mushroom soulvaki, and moussaka. All of these dishes are more complex and beautifully plated than you might think from reading the names. And, definitely sample the Baked Alaska and bread pudding desserts -- you won't be disappointed. As a final note, this place is also great for vegetarians and you'll need to make reservations regardless of your party size.
(5)Terry C.
The Spinach Falafel is D.E.L.I.C.I.O.U.S.
(4)Claire G.
I had an ok experience here. It is hard to get a table. If you want to be seated at the beautiful outdoor patio, the average wait is 45min-1 hour. I think the key is to come here with low expectations. They do have a very creative menu, but the small plates (meze) we got were hit and miss. We tried 5 meze and none of them blew me away (and for the prices we paid, they should have!!). Dessert prices started at $11 so we didn't even try it. Service was just ok. If spending $60 per person for dinner and drinks doesn't weigh heavy on your conscience, I would recommend trying Oleana. The atmosphere is wonderful and the food is different.
(3)Elizabeth G.
I was apprehensive about going to Oleana. Some reviews say it's sublime, other say it's so-so. Well, this is a lot of money to drop for food that's just so-so. Luckily, it wasn't. Went there in a party of four and we all sampled each other's dishes to bring YOU this in-depth report: THE FOOD * warm olives with za'atar (Mediterranean spice mix) - I don't know what folks are complaining about, these things are phenomenal. Loaded up with spices and floating in olive oil that you can use as dipping sauce for the delicious complimentary bread. * carrot puree with dukkah (also a spice mix) - Wow. Truly pops with flavor. One of the best items we tried. * hot pepper labne with olive oil & dried mint - A block of firm yogurt, doused in olive oil and topped with a single (large) mint leaf. There were no peppers per se, just their flavor infused in the olive oil. It was hot and spicy and a great complement to the sweet of the mint and the sour of the yogurt. My favorite dish all night; this one had me licking the plate clean. * octopus and crispy brussels sprouts - These are served shashlik style on a skewer. It's a fun idea but the octopus came out a bit chewy and dry. The accompaniment has changed since the online menu was posted, so I can't remember exactly what it was, but it involved a substance in the polenta neighborhood, with ground nuts (walnuts?), pomegranate seeds, something green chopped up (parsley?), and a sauce... Not that helpful, I know, but whatever it was, all of us loved it. Also one of the best things we tried. * spinach falafel with tahini, yogurt, watercress - a little plainer on the flavor spectrum than other dishes, but still great. * "sultan's delight" (tamarind-glazed beef and smokey eggplant puree with pine nuts) - Everything you would hope it would be from the description. A mouthwatering mix of sour, smoky, nutty, beefy goodness. * trout "spanakopita" with cucumber, avocado, & salmon roe - What a fun dish! The skin was left on the trout to form a crispy shell like the phyllo dough of spanakopita, so the dish does not actually contain pastry at all. The fish was perfectly cooked and the sides were interesting - the cucumber was sliced into pasta-like ribbons, and the salmon roe perched on top of a dollop of avocado. * only one of us had dessert, an apricot thingy with ice cream and sesame brittle that was part of the vegetarian tasting menu. It was pretty small so the rest of us didn't try it. There were also a couple of other dishes not listed on the menu, that were part of the veg. tasting menu, including a white bean dish with green garlic. Everything was good. After dinner, one of us ordered decaf and it came out in a French press - classy. THE DRINKS A long, distinctive wine menu - wow. Lots of unusual grapes here, instead of the usual suspects. We tried a $38 bottle of Barbera from Italy (Casina Roera) and it was so, so mellow and smooth and soft - kind of the opposite of what I think of when I hear "Italian red." Really wonderful. THE SERVICE Impeccable and unobtrusive - our server had an eagle eye and magically managed to stop at our table only when we actually needed something, rather than randomly coming by and stopping the conversation just to check in. This place is popular - get your request in early. I tried to reserve three weeks in advance for a Sunday night using OpenTable and the only availability was 5:30, but I called and got a reservation for 6 (and they had other, later times too). Guess they save some reservations for call-ins -- good to know. I so want to go back.
(5)Ela G.
First of all, Oleana is a Turkish restaurant, and according to the yelp reviews, not only is it the best Turkish restaurant in town, but also the best restaurant in town, PERIOD! That is so cool, my pursuit of even a decent Turkish restaurant in my hometown of Chicago has been a challenge, so it is very cool that one is so highly regarded in Boston. If you have any choice or ability whatsoever, sit outside on the beautiful patio. It is 10 times more fabulous than the inside seating, which although all well and good, it pales in comparison. We had a large party, but our server was patient and attentive, answering all of our questions. The appetizers at Oleana are delicious, in my opinion better than the entrees. You must try the Sultan's Delight - a delicious glazed beef short rib with pureed eggplant. Probably most amazing is the chef's ability to use spices in such interesting, flavorful ways. For entrees, nothing was that exceptional in my opinion, and I would recommend staying clear of the salmon, it did not get rave reviews from our group. The desserts, like the appetizers were amazing. All in all Oleana is definitely worth a visit - it is not pure Turkish, but more a mix of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors that should suit everyone.
(4)Barbara M.
We'd heard about Oleana for months, but it far surpassed our expectations! The space is small but nicely decorated, intimate, and atmospheric. The hostess was gracious, and our terrific server, Meghan, was attentive without hovering and very helpful in answering our questions. What a feast! Bread: along with plentiful pita, there was a moist dark bread dusted with the most intriguing and elusive spices! How often do we include bread in our reviews?? Shared appetizers: a heavenly special of duck breast in pomegranate puree on a borek filled with sweet potato all garnished with delicate orange slices, slivered almonds, and barberries; the kale salad with apples and tahini dressing was the first kale I've ever enjoyed; and the quail with baharat, barberries, and pistachio was divine. Entrees: a wonderful monkfish served in a sweet and fragrant carrot soup with spiced prunes and almonds; and flattened chicken -- its top caramelized to a delightful crispness -- sitting on a Turkish crepe filled with marvelous cheese. Shared dessert: Turkish-style profiteroles with caramel cream, caramelized nuts and sesame seeds, thick chocolate sauce, and an AMAZING, cinnamon-dusted sweet orchid sauce on the side. And thanks for the complimentary Sicilian Almond Cremolata to go with our Turkish coffee! It was an unforgettable meal in which every dish was "my favorite" until we tasted the next one, and the close quarters actually enhanced the ambiance, lending a sense of a shared dining adventure. We can't wait to return!
(5)Coreen C.
5 stars for the creative vegetarian tasting menu!! My husband's favorite for the night was the bbq octopus. We dined here Feb. 2011.
(5)Corey B.
What a great place, especially one to visit with a group. My first time here was with a group of six and we sampled almost everything. The appetizers are portioned so that if everyone orders one, each person will get a bite or two of each and be left wanting more - I like this, I really feel like this is a great way to try a place out for the first time, plus if there's something you really liked you can always order another. The second time I went it was just two of us and we tried a couple of apps and entrees. The food and service is great. Some menu items of note are the Octopus app is great, actually all of the apps are great. I have noticed the entrees change from time to time and the ones I've tried are no longer on the menu. I don't think one could go wrong here with anything - especially the seafood. I would definitely recommend a reservation, and for those nice, sunny days I have heard that there is a beautiful garden that has tables in it.
(4)stephanie c.
Had dinner here on Friday night and it was superb!! Cute ambiance...great for intimate dinner or date place. Dim lighting, nice decor, not too loud. Service was excellent as well as all the recommendations. Started with the Moroccan-style Octopus and Fatoush. Tasty, light, unique flavors, great presentation. Everything was quickly eaten up with smiles. For entrees, had the Beef Kabob special (which was the hit!, beef with delicious flavors and cooked perfectly med-rare tender), Cod, and Lamb. Everything was tasty yet light, with delicate complimenting flavors. Dessert was the winner-Passion fruit Bisteeya....goodness what is this?? IT was to DIE for and a perfect ending to the meal. I think we literally ate this in 2 seconds and contemplated ordering a second. It's light, tart, fluffy, creamy, and thirst quenching all at the same time. Needless to say Oleana became a favorite in one evening...the food is just very unique. I love have great flavors without feeling like I gained 10 pounds eating a wonderful dinner. I'll definitely be back soon!
(5)Eli D.
Very cool! Very trendy- I loved it- Good food- Super for Vegetarians! ;) !
(4)Andrew H.
Excellent experience. I was able to get a 7:30 reservation for two on a Saturday evening. What luck! We were seated in a row of several freestanding tables and chairs, which were in the middle of two banquettes. We felt neither cramped nor ignored. While there was a large party (10-12 people) at my back, the noise level was more than reasonable - a compliment to my fellow diners who know how to have a good time without causing a ruckus. Our server Terry was phenomenal. She made excellent suggestions - including a bottle of 2009 Leitz 'Eins Zwei Dry' Riesling (Trocken) and the Chocolate Hazelnut Délice - and was neither pushy nor overly friendly/familiar/comfortable. She knows what she's doing and has hit that sweet spot. It was my friend's birthday, so we started with two glasses of Sparkling Cot, which was refreshing, but didn't rush to our heads. The bread they brought (3 kinds) was excellent by itself as well as a nice accompaniment to one of our mezes, which was warm goat cheese in a tomato coulis with crostini layered with prosciutto and eggplant. Our other meze was the Sultan's Delight. Both mezes were phenomenal, but the Sultan's Delight edged out the warm goat cheese and tomato coulis for the win. The meat pulled apart like slow-cooked short ribs, but tasted much, much better. I would love for them to create a main dish out of that (perhaps over some polenta?). For dinner, my friend decided on the Vermont lamb, which was succulent and nearly melted in my mouth. I enjoyed the Azuluna pork and thought the honey and fig on top knocked it out of the park. As for wine with dinner, we were deciding between two Rieslings - Riesling Kabinett Feinherb and Riesling Trocken (not the 'Eins Zwei Dry' from above) - and Terry recommended the 'Eins Zwei Dry' because she believed it suited our preference for a dryer Riesling. Looking at the wine list now, it was also the least expensive of the three. Well done, Terry. Dessert was Baked Alaska for my friend (thoughtfully presented with a candle without any birthday song fussing, which was greatly appreciated) and Chocolate Hazelnut Délice for me. I was trying to decide between that and the Sicilian Almond Cremolata, so I asked Terry to make the call and surprise me. I was secretly hoping for the délice and also that she would explain her decision with something other than an uninventive (although mostly true) "Everyone enjoys chocolate"...and Terry did not disappoint. She explained that the cremolata can be deceiving, because it seems like it might be ice cream but has nothing but a passing acquaintance with it. She furthered her explanation by saying the cremolata would be an excellent lighter dessert, but thought the délice was a decadent (though in no way overwhelming) end to a flavor-rich meal. Including tip, our tab came to $232, which I considered money extremely well spent. I would absolutely return...and request Terry. Nicely done!
(4)Cheryl G.
Went to Oleana for the first time Saturday night (12/18/11) for a date. Staff are very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. The veggie sampler was fantastic, particulalrly the falafel ... incredible! Must eat it rolled up for full and incredible flavor! Only downside is the place is small and seating is really tight so it doesn't lend itself to a very romantic experience, but other than that, it was a great experience.
(4)Bill H.
I don't get what's the big deal with Oleana. I had dinner here with my partner last week, and we both left a little disappointed. Service and ambiance were both excellent. Our server knew lots about the menu, and the dishes we ordered were explained as they were served -- always appreciate that. The food wasn't vegetable-heavy so much as it was floral-heavy. Our first drink, the "saketini," was spiced so much that it tasted like perfume. Same for the last round of desserts; our ice cream was put in a sauce that really overpowered everything else. The vegetarian tasting menu was hit and miss. We were served a sorrel parfait, which sounded interesting but tasted really, really sharp -- like eating-grass sharp. Meanwhile, the falafel dish was delicious, with a nice soft ball of falafel and some of the best tahini I've eaten. Maybe the meat dishes are better -- we also ordered the lamb and eggplant dish, which was our favorite. In any event, we didn't receive the dining experience that we expected given the (very) high prices and the overwhelming positive feedback from friends and Yelp.
(2)Rachel J.
We really enjoyed our recent celebratory dinner at Oleana. I imagine that it's not quite as nice in the winter, when you have to sit indoors, but sitting in the garden patio is really lovely. I was able to get a last-minute dinner reservation, though, and when we arrived we were seated immediately. As a vegetarian transplant from the West coast (Portland and San Francisco), where it is much easier to find good vegetarian restaurants (or even non-meat entree choices at omnivorous restaurants), I have been pretty frustrated by my choices out here. Plus I think living in San Francisco turned me into more of a food snob than I'd like to admit. But Oleana really won me over with their vegetarian tasting menu. I was pleasantly surprised that unlike at some upscale restaurants, they don't make everyone at the table order the tasting menu. So my boyfriend and I split one, and added an appetizer and an entree, and it was more than enough food. Probably the tasting menu on its own would have been plenty of food for us. As others have mentioned, the spinach falafel is really excellent.
(4)David P.
4.5 stars. Excellent food: sultan's delight (tender), spinach falafel (melt in your mouth), bacon scallops (perfectly cooked, firm but soft and nicely seared to a golden brown). Like people have said before, go for the mezzas and you won't go wrong. Cisco ale is refreshing. Service is kinda slow and a waitress even sprayed some white wine on my shirt after she opened another table's bottle. But I just rate food.
(4)Todd D.
We had a fantastic meal here. Spinach falafel appetizer is a must. Every one in our party loved their entrees (chicken, monkfish, scallops ... and the pork was a stand-out; incredibly moist & flavorful). Desserts were also quite good. Sit on the patio if you can, it's very intimate & romantic. Only (slight) disappointment were the cocktails. They were fine, just nothing special. Stick to the wine list.
(5)Grace C.
this tops my list as one of the best restaurants. the food is amazing, so fresh, high quality, and tasty. the staff are wonderful and let you linger as long as you like. i've never felt rushed and have had long 3-4 hours meals on busy weekend nights. get a reservation if you want to be seated on the weekends. it's a romantic place to dine for a date. it's fun to share all their mezes with a large group. i recommend the Sultan's Delight; Tamarind Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Purée with Pinenuts. it just melts in your mouth. the lemon chicken is really tender. top it off with Baked Alaska; Coconut Ice Cream & Passion Fruit Caramel. yumm...
(5)Allen B.
The chicken is excellent! The feta stuffed pita under the chicken id amazingly good! Profiteroles not up to par.
(5)Shanna R.
My husband and I went out for an early dinner as we made last minute reservations, and had a fantastic time. We ordered five mezze, one of the sides, and a main dish to share. I was a little hesitant to ask to share a dish, but I wanted to try so many of the mezze and couldn't decide on just a couple. Our server didn't bat an eye, however, and everything was wonderful. The timing of the food was excellent. The mezze came out one at a time, so we were never overwhelmed or felt rushed. We had: Hot Pepper Labne with Olive Oil & Dried Mint Lamb Manti & Poached Farm Egg with Brown Butter, Yogurt & Turkish Chilies Pork Bombetta with Pancetta, Cauliflower, Green Olives & Rosemary Bread & Cheese Dumplings, Saffron Soup & Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Nigella Seed Flattened Potatoes with Lemon & Oregano And a special entree - duck breast over quinoa with brussels sprouts and a citrus dressing. The hot pepper oil was an amazing addition to the labne and the pork bombetta was a delicious burst of piggy flavor, but the star of the night was the bread and cheese dumplings. (I didn't try the lamb, as I'm not a fan, but the tomato confit with it was amazing; the flattened potatoes were good but not great.) The dumplings were wonderful, but the saffron soup and brussels sprouts were standouts. Really fantastic. We finished the meal with Turkish coffee (very good) and bread pudding. The bread putting was lovely, but a little underwhelming after the fantastic meal we had. It wasn't too sweet, which I like, but it didn't knock my socks off. Next time I will probably splurge on an extra mezze and skip dessert. The service was prompt, although our server seemed like she was new or inexperienced. She often seemed a bit distracted, although she never neglected us or forgot anything. She just had a very aloof vibe. I was a little jealous of the table next to us, as they got a free order of the spinach falafel, since they wanted to try it but opted for something else. I did, too - I just didn't tell my server that! Sour grapes. Guess I'll just have to order that next time.
(5)Aisha L.
I have been here twice now with my Boyfriend. We came about a year and a half ago for Valentines day and had an amazing time. We got the vegetarian tasting menu and it was fantastic. We came here again two days ago for my birthday and got to experience the beautiful summer patio that they have. The flowers grow up the side of a fence with a sweet little fountain and twinkly light/lanters on the trees. We got the veg tasting menu again and a couple Mezas (Appies). It was as incredibly delicious as we had remembered. Our server was attentive and knowledgeable, he was also personable which I like. He engaged with us and joked around when we invited it. Also we had to be somewhere by 8 and he moved us a long at a perfect speed (cant remember his name but he had a redish pony tail and was in his late 20's I would guess). This place is well worth the price. Unfortunately I can only afford to go on special occasions.
(5)Stephanie B.
The flavors and exotic choices really impress, and I bet the patio rocks when the weather warms up. The hummus took our breath away. Hummus! I just was underwhelmed with my main is all, the lemon chicken, which isn't one bit lemony except in a preserved lemon and Turkish spice kind of way. Not even that good on a sandwich the next day. We talked the birthday boy into the veggie tasting menu, which was really great.. man the spinach falafels are everything everybody says.. except for that dessert! Really? A tiny muffin and 3 berries with a smear of lemon curd? Hmph. I would def go again, especially with a group on the patio on a summer day drinking sangrias, but for the mezes and skip the main.
(3)Raoul C.
A fantastic dining experience: the drinks, food, waitstaff, all perfect to the t. It's rare to find places that succeed on all fronts, but Oleana does so in spades. Drinks: started with sangria, ended with an incredible pear and cardamon-flavoured cocktail. The sangria was pretty good, not as chock-full w/ fruit as I'd like, but the pear drink was superb. Appetizers: grilled octopus and hot pepper labne (a yogurt dish): the octopus was so tender, not rubbery AT ALL, and distinctly different from the usual calamari one has more often. Mains: I had the lamb, my guest had the veal sausage. We're a caring/sharing bunch, so I can attest to both being out of this world. If I had to choose, I'd probably have the lamb again. And again and again. Dessert: baked alaska. I shared this with two others, and it was a perfect treat at the end of the meal. I absolutely cannot wait to go back. Their sister bakery in Watertown (Sofra) has amazing brunch too, if you're willing to hike out there.
(5)Amanda C.
Major Bonus Points to the Date that took me Here Last Night ---- This is a fantastic restaurant in Cambridge. The decor, music and smells will make you feel like you are in another world. I was a little skeptical when I heard Turkish Food, but those feelings were quickly squashed when I had the food. We started with the Fried Mussels with Hot Peppers and Turkish Tarator Sauce. The Mussels were fried to perfection and the batter was very light. I could have eaten a thousand of them, but I love fried food. The Vermont Quail was very tasty as well. The quail was very tender, which is hard to do because those little guys are so small. The last starter was the Sultans Delight. The Tamarind Glazed Beef was so tender. The Smokey Eggplant Puree went well with the dish and was even better slathered on the bread. We shared an entree for the evening. I highly suggest the Azuluna Pork, Crispy Pea Paella, Fried Fiddleheads and Paprika Sauce. The pork was just as tender as the beef and the accompaniments went so well with the meat. The meal was very flavorful and seasoned to perfection. I wish I could have gotten dessert, but I was so full. I did see them bring some out and they looked wonderful and decadent. I had the Sangria to drink, it was refreshing because it was humid outside, but it was not the best in the world. I think I might try something new if I ever go back again. The servers are great, so nice and knowledgeable about the menu. It really means a lot to me to see someone get excited about a menu.
(5)Andrew S.
Recently stopped in for a dinner on a busy sat night. We were seated in the backroom by the open kitchen which although a bit cramped was nice for watching the action. Once again we had a great meal, but we were a bit disappointed that they no longer do a double tasting menu if 2 people order it. As a result, my wife had the tasting menu and I had the lamb. Highlights were the spicy labna and falafel. I had the lamb which was cooked perfectly with a great blend of flavor. All in all it was another hit for oleana
(5)Kenny J.
Easily one of the best restaurants in Cambridge. Reservations are must, especially if you have a group larger than four since the restaurant is not very big. As mentioned in another recent review, the tables *are* quite close together. I hope we weren't too rowdy, lol!! A bunch of friends organized a small reunion to celebrate a professor we know stepping down as head of dept and moving to Singapore. Oleana is one of his favorite restaurants. Too bad tropical storm Hanna had to send some crazy rain on the night of our dinner, so I had my parka and an umbrella to avoid getting my camera and gift for the professor soaked. They really should have had a coat check and an umbrella bin at the host desk for such a nice restaurant with cramped tables. Still the food makes up for it. We shared a bunch of appetizers, the best being a special with prosciutto and the spinach falafel. The spinach falafel was a little hard to share though. For an entry, I had the swordfish. OMG, sooo good. As soon as they brought it out, everyone else was immediately jealous. It was so tender and a perfect balance of flavors with a delicious honeydew charrmoula. Highly highly recommended. Hard to go wrong at Oleana's though. I tried a friend's sea bass and another friend's duck and both were excellent. For dessert I had the Arabic coffee creme caramel. Mmm....soo good. The fig caramel sauce was a nice contrast. We shared two bottles of wine between five people since the professor was on meds and unfortunately couldn't have alcohol. This is a great place for a special occasion or if you're rich. Paying for the prof, the tab was $85 per person. I ATMed it since I needed cash anyways. lol! :P
(5)Greg A.
Man, what a gem this place is. I just moved to Cambridge from Austin, Texas, and Oleana was recommended to me by a friend as the go-to place in East Cambridge. Indeed, coming from uber-hip Austin I have developed high expectations for restaurants. I want loads of personality without sacrificing a welcoming atmosphere and quality foodstuffs, and let me tell you, Oleana delivered big time. In a twist of fate, my apartment is just a few blocks away, and to my surprise one afternoon I found myself strolling by the infamous eatery. Even though it was a few hours before opening, I walked in and introduced myself. Theresa, the GM and wine guru (I believe that is her title?) and Don, the other man at the front desk, were remarkably hospitable. In fact, they were probably the friendliest people I've met during my first week in Boston. I came back later for a drink and an appetizer, and the place was packed. Nobody was stressed, however, and Theresa and Don were just as welcoming as before. I sat at the bar, met a woman named Terri and Erin, the bartender (I believe that was her name), and was once again treated as not just a customer but a neighbor as well. Seriously, I get a warm fuzzy feeling inside just thinking about my experience there. Oh, and the deviled eggs were amazing. Went really well with an ice-cold can of their finest beer, Pabst Blue Ribbon. I had to keep the joint a little classy, no?
(5)Irem N.
Sultan's delight is the best, humus is also successful. I tried lamb its fine. As a dessert we tried profiterole but didn't like so much. Love Turkish Coffee. Ambiance, decoration and background musics are really nice.
(4)Haley T.
This place is expensive, But it's priced around what you'd expect from a restaurant of this caliber in the Boston area. I went with my mother and sister for their birthday. (Yes, same day-convenient considering that I'm uber-forgetful) I'm vegan, they're not, and the menu seemed to have an option or two for me, so we checked it out. On a Sunday, with no reservation, we got a table immediately, which was nice. We started with the falafel, which had to be the best falafel I've ever had. The carrot spread was very good as well. My mother had the salt cod special that was apparently insanely good, a well-balanced dish. My sibling had the tuna entree that apparently was overcooked. I had the veganized chickpea dish, which I liked a lot. It was spicy and filling, but I think it needed something- probably the aioli which I omitted. The desserts were very good as well. The server was nice enough to point out that the almond sorbet was vegan, which I appreciated. It was pretty good, though I have to admit I've had better no-moo from Herrell's. The desserts my company ordered were apparently very good as well.f Either way, I'd visit again. Quiet, upscale and pleasant atmosphere, with attentive service.
(4)josh n.
The food is fantastic...but when you operate at this high a level...what speperates you is the quan... Serivce...great. Outdoor seating area...unreal...how this exists in cambridge I will never know...and the live music was perfect. Cocktails...STRONG... what else does one need? perfect date spot...if you bring friends...make them sit at a seperate table...they'll thank you after...
(5)Susannah W.
Food + ambiance + great service = Oleana! The night after we got hitched, my husband and I wanted to celebrate by going out to dinner. He had actually made reservations for another place, but after driving around for 15 minutes with no luck finding a parking spot, we gave up and decided to go elsewhere. On the way to "elsewhere," we happened to pass Oleana. We recognized the name because our former landlord had told us he played the oud (it's like a lute) there once a week. We spotted a small parking lot across the street with no tow away warnings in sight - jackpot! So we parked, entered the restaurant, and thus the happiness began.... We started with the deviled eggs with tuna and black olives (pictured in one of Kara S.'s restaurant photos). Since their menu is seasonal, I can't use the website menu to look up the exact names of the main dishes we ate... but I'll give you the gist of it. I had some wonderfully crispy duck with a delicate yet flavorful pumpkin pastry thing (another reviewer called it a terrine?). My husband had lamb, and I can't remember the side... but I do remember that it was good! For dessert I got something with chocolate, and my husband had the Baked Alaska. Both were divine, but the Baked Alaska was my favorite (and coming from someone who thinks dessert isn't really dessert unless it's chocolate, that's saying something!). Oh, and it just so happened that the night we went was the night our former landlord was playing his oud. It was just him and one other guy with a drum. I thought it added the perfect touch to Oleana's atmosphere. They play on Tuesday evenings; I don't know if they have live music any other night. I can't wait to go back during outdoor seating season!
(5)Joe M.
3 stars from this carnivore. +1 for being a great date spot to come with my vegetarian girl. First off, the biggest complaint is this place is a pain in the arse to find. Maybe not if you live in the area, but I don't, so it was. But hey, nothing's perfect. I made reservations through OpenTable.com and ordered flowers through their recommended site to order flowers from (can't remember that site's name, but if you make reservations, it'll tell you). The flowers arrived and were placed per my directions and my table was ready and waiting for me. The flowers were there to start with, so they had actually reserved a table for me, not like some places that use reservations as a way to just say you go to the top of the waitlist. Good show. We got the vegetarian tasting menu + an order of the string cheese. I'll have to rate this from, as I said, a carnivore point of view. I tasted everything she got. The hummus was great. The rest was okay. Distinct lack of meat though, so nothing stands out. The girlfriend was floored though. So, as they've all said before me, great for herbivores. My meal came through though, settled on swordfish. Guess I'm just not a fan of the Mediterranean style of cooking, as I wasn't impressed. Nothing wrong with what they did, I was just sorta meh about it. Dessert came along and the girlfriend received some little tiny bit of cake she said was similar to a Russian cake dessert she's had before. Very thick, not her cup of tea. My bread pudding though, dear god. To die for. I was a very nonplussed panda up until dessert, it was so damn good. Creamy, soft, delicious... They've also got a surprisingly decent selection of beers. It's no sunset, but you can go and enjoy a tasty brew at this place. Better than the usual Bud Light crap. Would I go there again for HER birthday? Yes. If she specifically asked. Would I remind her of the place to see if she wanted to go? No. I like to be able to enjoy my meal a bit more than I did here for the price I paid. It was worth it that one time for her happiness and the excellent service, but I'll try somewhere new next time. (For those surprised by a 4 star rating yet I don't wanna go, I can appreciate good food and a good job. I just didn't like it myself)
(4)Dennis L.
We came on a mild April day, about twenty minutes before opening, and staked out at the door and managed to get the second-to-last patio table. The garden is immaculate, but we could not figure out what that oddly sculpted tree represents. The falafel was very good, served piping hot with a measure of watercress with yogurt on a lavash. It's lighter in flavor and more packed with whole herbs than my lunch staple of going to Falafel King every so often. The crabcakes that were a special of the day had a very rustic and homespun appearance in keeping the herbs whole, like the falafel. Also very good in flavor, the crab and herbs complementing each other rather than one taking over. For entrees, we did our usual routine of dish-swapping. My friend ordered the rabbit bisteya and I ordered the duck buried under vermicelli. The duck, I did not enjoy that much. The 'vermicelli'... seemed like it was Chinese 'ha zi mein', a noodle made with bits of shrimp that has an aftertaste that just does not work for me. The duck seemed a little overdone to me and the sauce very light and delicate, but it was hard to find a flavor that was not overwhelmed by the noodles. The rabbit in appearance was inpressive, two cones of phyllo filled with a 'stew'. It was 'good' but it was hard to define the dish as rabbit. In flavor, it could have been any meat, only the texture indicating that it was rabbit. It tasted like... well... 'stew'. However, we were much more impressed by dessert. The baked Alaska was amazing, done just long enough for the meringue to be visibly hot, the chilled almond ice cream inside preserved in its chilled state, a wonderful contrast. The pomegranate syrup that accompanies the dish was delicious, really bringing out the flavor of the fruit. We ordered their dessert special, which was a dish of ice cream and cake, but I fear the baked Alaska has overwhelmed my memory to finer details. I want to come back just for the baked Alaska. Overall, I was a bit underwhelmed by the entrees, but the dessert was indeed impressive. The service was excellent, the staff working as a tag-team to make sure our experience was alright. We'll be back. Dishes to try: Falafel, Baked Alaska.
(3)Maia B.
An old friend was in town for the weekend and asked me to find a place for us to get dinner. Yelp directed us to Oleana, and I wasn't let down. We didn't exactly fit in -- in our early twenties, we were easily the youngest patrons, and probably the only who weren't dating each other. We were able to handle the romantic atmosphere though :) Service wasn't top-notch, our water glasses were empty for longer than they should have been, but this is a classy place overall. While the food was good, the portions were much too large, so we skipped dessert. Great if you are looking for non-standard, fresh food, but nothing too exotic.
(4)Chris H.
Absolutely fantastic. We took the vegetable tasting menu and several mezes. By far the best tasting were 1. fried mussels 2. Sultan's delight 3. Falafal 4. Whipped feta. Can't wait to go back again.
(5)T K.
Beautiful Outdoor seating and excellent food! They are one of the best! Your taste buds will thank you over and over again. They know what they are doing here. The food is fresh and cooked perfectly!
(5)Sara M.
Had wanted to try this place for 2 years and was so disappointed...I was surprised by the lack of flavor (bland polenta, not enough salt on the sardines). The lamb shoulder was pretty good but not good enough for me to return there... :(
(2)Sue B.
It was good but not knock your socks off like I thought. The Whipped Feta was good but such a small amount. The Hummas was dry Good service though. My entre was good The texture on the baked alaska was the best part of the meal! Like toasted marshmellow! Would go there again someday.
(4)Soham B.
It's good. It's very good. It's not great. Concept.. check. precise, consistently good food.. check. excellent space...check. well operated.. check. the chef took a risk by doing the turkish/middle eastern/mediterranean thing, but i didn't get the boldness i was looking for-- a kindof statement like: "this is decidedly my style". I suppose my bias comes into play here. I'm indian, so the spice palette utilized in this kitchen is a bit similar to what i grew up eating-- the uniqueness was lost to me. but i went with someone else raised on indian food-- and without an assertion of flavor to differentiate, we registered a strong indian flavor from many things (namely through use of coriander, cumin, cinnamon, cloves, chili, etc.) we took our first bites, and immediately we were transported to street vendors in india selling food alarmingly similar to this. And i tried to get it out of my head, but the flavor memory was so strong-- it was like proust all over the place. The DB waiter didn't help. what's the deal with this odd napkin twirl he would do above his head? some lame-ass choreographed embellishment to service? gfy. The baked alaska was quite good-- however the macaroon's sweetness combined with the passionfruit syrup was cloying-- it killed the subtley of flavor in the ice cream. highlights of our meal: falafel, carrot soup with yogurt, baked alaska i still recommend a visit, take some good friends, have some wine, make a good time out of it, and it's worth it.
(4)Tammy H.
'Twas great, but one star off for the anti-climatic entree. Thanks to some gracious friends, The Boy received a $100 certificate to Oleana for his birthday (in 2007!!), so we were able to enjoy a random night out and give our stomachs a bit of play time. Because we tend to order a bunch of appetizers, we got 3 things: olives w/ za'atar (an herb), the crab kadayif w/ egg-lemon soup, and the rabbit shwarma. Olives went great with the bread (pita?) which was fantastic in itself. The Boy loved the crab, and I was madly in love with the egg-lemon soup. Rabbit shwarma wasn't our fave, but it was still good. I actually preferred the radish salad that came with it. As for entrees, The Boy got pork which was topped with a SLAB of pecorino cheese and honey. Gaw, was it delicious. The Boy cooks pork all the time, and was in awe of how perfectly cooked the pork was. We have to try making this dish ourselves sometime. Now the anti-climatic entree: I didn't like my tuna. Up until now, I was perfectly happy with everything, especially The Boy's entree. The tuna was encrusted in some olive+almond "crumb" as described on the menu, but all I could taste was FENNEL SEED. Now since fennel seed has such a strong taste, I suggest they include it in the menu. I found myself scraping the tuna clean because it was just too much for me. I did like the barley couscous though. I bet I would like their greens+grains entrees, even as an omnivore. And then we got some chocolate-laden dessert ... frozen chocolate "souffle", a cocoa-hazelnut tartlet, and cocoa sherbet. It all tasted great and made me feel a little better after the tuna, but the "souffle" was nothing like the name suggests. It isn't a souffle, and it's not soft at all. Instead, it's a tower of icy ice cream, and it's super tough to dig into. The "tower" slides around as you attempt to dig out a spoonful ... too much effort. At least make a different shape! something that's not so TALL. Decor is fantastic. Oh, and our server was awesome. I should've listened to his recommendation for the bass. $120 total for (1) pret a manger, (2) appetizers, (2) entrees, and (1) dessert.
(4)Susie C.
This place has a lot of buzz so we were excited to try it. We went at 6:30 and the place was packed. The outdoor area is lovely, but we ate inside. Here's what we ordered: -The hummus appetizer - we found it underwhelming, kinda bland -Some other appetizer that we don't even remember... -My sis ordered a veggie pasta and was unhappy with it -I ordered a moroccan fish stew that was delish, however, it was something that I could easily recreate in my own kitchen for alot less money - My mother had a salmon dish, I believe. Just OK. We love trying new restaurants and all kinds of cuisine, but this was a really blah experience. We were all three equally surprised that we didn't like it more, and I'm wondering if we just ordered the wrong items. I've heard great things about their beef. Perhaps we should give them another go.
(2)Paul S.
Must go again. This place is a great combination atmosphere and food. And since it is a Mediterranean cuisine restaurant all the more to try something out of the ordinary.
(4)Mcslimj B.
One of Boston's best chef-owned restaurants, a culinary trip around the Mediterranean that doesn't leave vegetarians and vegans behind. There's a round-the-Mediterranean tour going on every night at Oleana with stopovers in countries usually overlooked in so-called Mediterranean restaurants. Few local kitchens produce dishes from Armenia and Turkey, southern France and Spain, Egypt and Lebanon. In so doing, Oleana offers vegetarians a unique and novel little world of options. My strategy is to go the meze route here, ordering several dishes from the prêt a manger section of the menu, each of which yields three or four bites, plus a more traditionally sized appetizer or two. And what wonderful flavors these present: olives sprinkled with herbs and sesame seeds; purees to spread on bread and flatbread, like an otherworldly Egyptian-spiced carrot puree, and a simple, sublime whipped feta with sweet and hot red peppers. Salads here are similarly swoony, full of incomparably fresh greens, herbs, fruit, and cheese, tasting as though they were pulled from the earth or the vine or the branch a few minutes before arriving at your table. If I still have room, I get a half portion of the ricotta and bread dumplings in red wine with porcini, gnocchi's even more rustic cousin. I'm not a vegetarian, so I sometimes opt for dishes like the deviled eggs (with fresh tuna in them, awesome), lamb kefta (Moroccan style kebabs with great little sides), or Turkish-accented brick chicken. When the weather's warm, you may find it worth the inevitably hour-plus wait to get a table on the gorgeous backyard patio, one of the most pleasant outdoor dining spots in the city.
(5)Al A.
Great service. Great food. Great decor. Priced accordingly. Get reservations. Dissapointing desserts if you are looking for more cuinary classic dishes. Why does everything have to have ice cream in it???
(5)Tim H.
A friend of mine lives around the corner and had always wanted to stop in so I made reservations one night a few months back. You walk up the tight walkways, by the outdoor patio, and the space is dimly lit creating that intimate setting. Maybe it was the large group next to us, but it seemed a bit noisy. I don't know what it is, but from the get go the service rubbed me the wrong way. Every solicited recommendation came with a cost counting comment. I couldn't help but feel ageism and possibly more might be at play, surprising to me considering I was dressed the part. The fact that the group next to us ordering only drinks and dessert saw so much more attention and the pret a manger and appetizer dishes stayed empty on the table for so long left me feeling neglected, slighted, overlooked, whatever you want to call it. Service aside, you can see the quality in the food and the mix of spices at work. The dishes are well thought and the tastes complement each other. I've always been a fan of olives and lamb and they didn't disappoint in the least. Cost-wise it can be pricey and the portions are on the order of fine dining. Anytime I encounter a sommelier, I expect nothing but the best, although I did fine the wine list to be old world heavy. Service is such a big part of the dining out experience that the slightest rub either way can entirely skew your experience. Food-wise, everything sounded great but I felt things fell short of what I came to expect. While I won't go out of my way to setup a return engagement, I wouldn't nix an encore. Hopefully next time I'll see and understand what all the fuss is about because right now I just feel it's grossly overrated, but then perhaps I just visited this establishment in the wrong age bracket.
(2)Oleana B.
The food here is wonderful and creative. I woke up the next morning and felt like I wanted to go back for dinner again. We only got 4 appetizers when we came but I wanted to try all the appetizers on the menu because they all looked really good. In addition to the menu the specials sounded equally amazing. We ordered sultan's delight, fattoush, something with quail and the scallops which were a special. Everything was delicious. My favorite appetizer was sultan's delight. The meat just melted in your mouth literally. I do not think I have ever tasted anything like this in my life. The atmosphere is dark and romantic. The service was great. For desert we got the baked alaska which looked and tasted fabulous.
(5)Betsy A.
Do yourself a "flavor" and visit this place. It's one my favorites in Boston/Cambridge so far. The tastes are impecable and the execution beautiful! I don't want to leave everytime I go here. From the entrees to the desserts to the Sangria. Everything is executed with care and you notice it. The flavors are mediterranean but the mix of spices makes it so that it has an extra "je ne sais quoi". Very special. Highly recommended! Now looking to try the bakery.
(5)Candi S.
this place is perfection!! seriously, everything from the wine selections to the specials to the dessert list is amazing! i wish we could eat here every night! i should mention that the staff here is always friendly and really knowledgable. it's the one restaurant we are going to miss about this city!
(5)Zee S.
My husband and I enjoyed a birthday dinner at Oleana last night. I stumbled upon the place by way of Yelp reviews around 6 in the evening and decided to call to see if there were any tables available. The gentleman who took the call said that we could get a reservation for 10:30 P.M. or sit at the bar, I asked if I could get a reservation for the next day and he said that it would again be at 10:30. This was curious since open table was letting me reserve a 6.P.M. spot the following day. We opted to take our chances with the bar and the 10:30 reservation and showed up around 9:30 in the hopes that we might be seated early. To our pleasant surprise the restaurant had plenty of seating (it was a Friday night) and we were seated as soon as we arrived. The above incident is the only reason I have not ranked this place 5 stars. Whoever answered the phone was rude and unaccommodating and flatly lied to us about the availability of a table the following day (or failed to check), aside from this mishap, the experience at Oleana was impeccable. Once seated, our waitress provided us with some basic information about their "Mezze' or tapas menu and about the days meat preparation. We started with light cocktails, mine was the sparking wine with mint and peach and my husband's the white port, both were delicious, though the white port cocktail was a bit too sweet for my taste. We switched to wine to accompany the rest of our meal. The wine selection is varied with many options for half bottles and glasses. For our meal we ordered the spicy Buttered Hummus with Basturma, the Hot pepper Lebne, the Octopus, the Quail, and the famed spinach falafel. For our entrée we shared the lamb. The Quail and the Octopus were the highlights of the meal for me. the Octopus was tender and flavorful, soaking in delicate sauce that was poured on at the table. The Quail arrived perfectly tender and seasoned over rice looking a bit like nigiri. The quail combined subtle sweet and sour berry flavors with pistachio crunch. The spinach falafel arrived on on a bed of bright red beet and tahini puree, which was a little on the sweet side for my taste but my husband thought it added just the right amount of sweetness to the savory spinach flavor. The lamb was delicious on a bed of spinach and yogurt with the most delicious pickled onions on top. In addition to taste each dish was aesthetically presented with special care to color composition. We ended our meal with the Baked Alaska. The coconut flavored ice cream stuffed macaroon with a meringue topping was delicious, but the accompanying passion fruit sauce was a little too salty for my taste. Aside from that little complaint the desert was delicious and satisfying. Oleanna's cuisine is delicate, inspired, whimsical but best of all delicious. A return visit is a must!
(4)Michele C.
My first thoughts: Delicious tapas, mediocre entrees, overpriced. If you're giving Oleana a try, I'd recommend splitting a bottle of wine and a collection of tapas. We tasted several wonderful dishes (the bread and cheese dumplings in saffron soup were my favorite), but I don't feel that we got great value. The lamb entree sounded wonderful from the description, but was very fatty and nothing to get excited about. A friend got the pork empanadas, which were quite greasy and unflavorful. Also, when going out for a special dining experience, I prefer to have more space and privacy. The restaurant covers a small area, which leaves patrons feeling cramped and nearly bumping elbows with those at the next table. Not the best atmosphere for fine dining. The service was decent, but not fantastic. Our server forgot to put in one of the entrees and didn't realize it until everyone else's food had been served - Not a huge deal, but like most everything else, it was just not what you'd expect for the amount of money being spent.
(3)Susan B.
We are repeat visitors and come for the most delicious and savory food! Thanks to the manager last night for holding our reservation and helping to accommodate us after we were stuck in traffic! Greatly appreciated!
(5)Stephen Y.
The vegetarian tasting menu is creative and delicious. All of the desserts are amazing; their pastry chef really deserves the awards she's won.
(5)Christy V.
On one of my few trips to Boston from NYC I was very lucky to dine with one of my best friends at Oleana. A few people had recommended the restaurant to me, but I didn't do much research and I didn't know what to expect. As is obvious from the stellar reviews on this page, I soon discovered for myself that Oleana is incredible: a lovely ambiance, a talented chef and outstanding Turkish-influenced food combine to create an unforgettable evening. Because the restaurant was full and we hadn't been able to make a reservation, we sat at the bar - always a great option when trying to dine at a hot spot. My only complaint about the whole evening was that the service was slightly unfriendly and rushed - we were debating a few different dishes and asked the bartender/order taker for help with our decision. He really didn't have much patience for us and didn't take the time to explain our options. A small fly in the ointment, but the reason that I removed a star from my rating. The food we ordered was delicious - my favourites included the tangy whipped feta with hot peppers and the fantastic homemade sujuk (sausage). The garden looked lovely and I can't wait to return (next time I'll make a reservation!).
(4)Purvi R.
I am on a roll with 5-star places, but I guess I just ate well in April. Anyways, another date night with the man, this time we ventured to the other side of the river. I scored a 7:30pm reservation at the hot hot hot Oleana, so we did it up. The restaurants is nesteld on an unassuming strip near Inman Square, near a lot of residential side streets. [Note, it is a further walk from H Sq than you'd think - the man was late.] We were seated promptly, in a center table (not my preference, but there wasn't much else open. I had read up before coming in, so I knew immediately that I'd be getting the vegetarian tasting menu. Man, was I delighted!! Everything that came out was absolutely delicious, creative, and best of all - it came out in a timely manner, spaced out enough for us to enjoy it, and in cadence with the food that the bf ordered (an app, Sultan's Delight, and lamb entree - all of which he thoroughly enjoyed and ate every bite). The service involved in managing a tasting menu is not easy, let alone trying to match it up with all the other demands that table might have, so for that I am very impressed. Of note: whipped feta. OMG. They also have a lovely patio, which to our chargrin, we only learned after the fact that it had heat lamps (the evening weather wasn't quiiiite warm enough yet). But a definite repeat for the summertime. Can't wait to go again. I can see why this is one of the "most booked" on Opentable!!
(5)Mathew L.
The food is amazing! Service was great.
(5)Mimio G.
Oleana has great tasting food and drinks. Unfortunately the price is on the high side and you are crammed into tables that feel like you are eating with the strangers next to you.
(4)Lily L.
A, this is a 3-star restaurant with a 5-star price tag. B, I wouldn't recommend taking a blind date to this restaurant unless you think you'd really like your date. It's not because you'll be spending way too much on a person that you'll dump soon, but rather because you need to munch on food when you have absolutely nothing to talk about. I suppose you can drink water like a whale, but more on that later. I honestly do not understand what the hype is all about. Ana Sortun of Top Chef Master fame, her husband with Siena Farm, and 4.5 stars on Yelp: my natural assumption was that the food would be a winning combination using the freshest ingredients and the most inventive cooking techniques. Maybe I'm not a fan of Turkish food, but I am a fan of delicious food. And somehow, for me, Oleana just missed the spot. I didn't find a single dish to be extraordinary. They were mostly just okay and well, over-priced. We came here on a Friday evening, 6:30PM and were promptly seated. In celebration of the restaurant's 10-year opening, my dining companion opted for their $48 tasting menu. It featured food from the first days of the restaurant. I supplemented the dinner with spinach falafel, octopus and chorizo hotpot, and their special of the evening, fried haloumi cheese (which I first thought was 'halibut cheeks') and pork belly. The pro: The appetizers are fairly large in their portions. Of course, at $12, $14, and $14, I think it's probably the price of an entree at lesser restaurants. But what about the quality? To be honest, the falafel didn't taste anything special. I only ate 1 out of 3. It's a bad sign when a glutton like me passes on food. And to be honest, I can't tell any difference between this falafel vs the falafel from Aceituna, which is $3 or so? The octopus was admittedly very well-cooked. It was tender. The sauce was okay and it was one of the better dishes of the evening. The fried haloumi and pork belly was okay. One thing I like about pork belly is when the skin on the belly is perfectly cooked with a certain amount of crispiness balanced by some fattiness. This pork belly was more or less just the meat, none of the fatty goodness that you'd crave. Skin? What skin? There was none. Somehow, I still felt as if I'd eaten too much fat and grease even though I couldn't see any. The broth was probably the highlight of the dish. Now the other food that we had were from the special $48 pre-fixe menu. First, the deviled eggs and spiced carrots. This was actually pretty good. Second, we had fried mussels. I could do without the sauce. And the mussels were pretty good. But honestly, nothing amazing. Third, we had some sort of chickpea with vermicelli. This dish, we didn't bother finishing. And for a miser like me, that says a lot. Fourth, Misty Knoll chicken. Again, nothing spectacular. And again, didn't finish it. Fifth, the baked Alaska. That was good. But is it $14 good? I don't think so. The service was inconsistent. Our water was always filled. I think there were times where my water was filled after I've taken a single sip. Sip, mind you, not gulp. But the timing of the food was way off. We got some bread before the first course. And the bread here is really, really good, maybe even one of the highlights of the dinner. The first course came immediate after our bread was served. Between our first and second course, we waited for about 30 minutes or so. Other courses were slightly less slow but slow nonetheless. They took away our bread basket after our first course. Hence, if you want to take a date here, be sure that you like him/her. Otherwise, you'd have to mindlessly stare at each other. You can't even nibble on any grubs in between the long pauses between courses. But on the plus side, you can guzzle as much water as you'd like. I really wish I liked Oleana more. I felt we spent way too much money at this place and the food felt less than satisfying. But hey, at least I know what Oleana food tastes like.
(3)Heather W.
I get that it's a snow day, but lots of restaurants are still open. If you're going to be closed, I think it makes sense to call people who've made reservations.
(1)Jennifer B.
My husband and I are living in Boston this summer. Before we left New York, we asked friends for recommendations for things to do and see while we were here for the next three months. A good number of them said Oleana's was a "MUST." Not being especially familiar with the city (and especially Cambridge), it was a bit of a confusing trek trying to find Oleana, but oh man...it was worth the effort . The food here was like art- a beautiful composition of flavors that equaled its gorgeous presentation. This is by far the best food I have had in Boston, and I dare say Oleana is one of the best restaurants I have ever had the pleasure of patronizing. The main dishes are superb but I would say it's even better to order several mezzes to share. I especially recommend the spinach falafel and the beef short ribs. The other nice thing about this restaurant is that although everything is very sleek and well presented, the ambiance is unpretentious.The outdoor eating area is like being in someone's backyard, the effect of which is heightened when you realize that you're pretty much smack dab in the middle of a residential area.
(5)Lynne S.
After wanting to try Oleana for a long time, I finally got my wish! My boyfriend and I were lucky enough to score a table on the patio for a terrific spring evening meal! Because we both wanted to try a little of everything, we decided to split the Vegetarian Tasting Menu plus a couple of appetizers. At our waitress's recommendation, we ordered the Lamb & Eggplant Dumpling with Garlic Yogurt & Everything Green and the Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets & Cress. Both were absolutely delicious! Our tasting menu started off with a Cucumber Spoon Salad with Sorrel Ice, which was one of the most unique and refreshing dishes I've ever had--perfect for a warm spring evening! After that they brought grilled asparagus with a honeydew melon salsa and goat cheese. This was hands down my favorite course! Next came a dish of fried zucchini in a creamy tomato sauce. Scrumptious! And then Spicy Fideos & Chick Peas with Green Chard & Orange Aioli. This dish was very complex and almost overpowering. It was actually my least favorite of the tasting, but at that point I was so full I could barely eat another bite--that was, of course, until our dessert came! Sesame Ice Cream, Sesame Cashew Bar & Roasted Pineapple with Pineapple Granité --Oh my god, was I in heaven? I almost swiped the entire plate and at the entire thing myself, it was that good! For all that, two glasses of wine and two bottles of sparkling water, our bill only came to just over $100! I thought it was a very reasonable price for everything we ate! I would absolutely recommend this restaurant to everyone!
(4)Dana C.
Hands down one of the most unique and delicious meals I have ever eaten--and I don't say that lightly. We split one vegetarian tasting menu (with a great selection of mezes plus dessert), two additional mezes and one lamb entree between three people and it felt like the perfect amount of food. Each morsel was filled with unusual and compatible tastes and made of the freshest ingredients possible. The service was attentive and friendly and the restaurant is comfortable and elegant. When we weren't 100% thrilled about our wine choice the sommelier came to talk to us about it and happily advised us and replaced our bottle with another one that would better complement our food choices. Oleanna seems perfect for a special occasion or an evening when you want to have an unusual and delicious experience. We sat inside but the garden is lovely. Noticed that they have a wheelchair accessible ramp which is good to know for people who need it. This place is clearly a labor of love, staffed by people who care about what they are doing. A not to be missed culinary destination in the Boston area.
(5)Leighann F.
You've seen the accolades: "Best Chef Northeast" - James Beard Foundation Top 10 Restaurants in Boston - Zagat Best of Boston - 2002, 2003 You've read the reviews. "Exquisite. Gorgeous. Decadent. Perfect." - Allix T. "Ohmygoodness. " -emily f. "Service, atmosphere, taste, and even price went beyond my wildest expectations at Oleana." -Shaina G. What more is there to say? Probably not too much, but I'll say it anyway. Give credit where credit is due. Their patio is a sultry garden party with live music and decadent food. Their service is chic, timed perfectly and coordinated well between all of the staff members. They move about the floor flawlessly and without a hint of snobbery. The food is incredible. The wine list is put together well. And the dessert is mouth watering. The sounds of sitar, the smells wafting through the breeze, a long, conversation-heavy dinner...it was hard to believe that I was sitting in the middle of Cambridge. Every last detail seems to transport you to another world!
(5)Sarah E.
So delicious. Wish I could afford to eat here more often :)
(5)Dawn E.
In short: wow. I've been meaning to check out Oleana for a long, long time but its price-ology kept it up there in "special occasion dining" territory and nothing thus far had merited the right kind of special. Enter the generous gift card from my inlaws. (Yelp-within-a-Yelp for my inlaws: five stars, as gift givers as well as human beings.) Time to check it out! There were so many choices, I decided to go with the much-lauded vegetarian tasting menu just to get a little bit of everything. To me it seemed each dish that arrived topped the last. From the spicy whipped feta with warm olives to the zucchini pancake with mango and cilantro to the fabulous frozen chocolate dessert, I was in heaven. We spent two hours lingering over dinner, enjoying every carefully considered bite. Upon ordering we asked our server if appetizers were appropriate with the tasting menu; he suggested that if the two of us split the tasting menu, one starter and one appetizer would be perfect. I think I'd definitely do this next time because we were both so full by the end, but this time we wanted to try as much as possible so we got a full appetizer and my husband got the duck entree which was excellent as well. I'm giving 4 instead of 5 stars because we purposely waited for a beautiful summer night and ended up being unable to get seated on the famed patio. Apparently it's first-come-first-serve even with a reservation, and when we inquired about the best way to snag the coveted al fresco seats, the greeter suggested getting there an hour before your rez. in order to be in the running. The food made the inside location a non-issue, and hey, there's just another bit of incentive to come back and possibly add another star. If that doesn't do it, I'm sure the baked alaska will. I'll be saving my pennies for another Oleana occasion in the near future.
(4)Sonia G.
Excellent food Amazing vegetarian tasting menu You must come here at least once, it's a little pricey, but so worth it! It's a little out of the way and hard to find, but is def one of the best restaurants in Boston.
(5)Sidanshu G.
This is a very good restaurant both in regards to food and the decor. Make reservation way in advance. Try the vegetarian tasting menu and let the chef surprise you with the amazing variations with vegetables. This is a place to go for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries etc.. The prices are a bit high for this place to be a frequently visited. But I would go there again.
(3)Matt S.
One of the best meals I've had in Boston...which says a lot since I love food, am part Lebanese and am obsessed with mediterranean / middle eastern food. Everything is fresh and flavorful...many ingredients come from a local farm. They import special olive oil from Crete and serve it with delicious flatbread seasoned w/ za'atar...yum. Eaten here twice (once in winter, once in summer). Menu changes seasonally. There's a cool outdoor patio during warm months. Definitely get reservations in advance. Not cheap, but not overpriced...much better bang for your buck than most fancy meals I've had.
(5)Hussam B.
The food in here is generally good. Their sultan's delight is always a good choice for appetizer. Their lamb dish is tasty too. They only issue is they are over priced for their location.
(3)Mike G.
3.5 stars an ideal Oleana dinner would be 2 orders of the grilled octopus mezze, a bowl of salad, the house focaccia and a glass of red. simply good stuff. last visit, though, was decidedly mixed. the roast halibut dish was dry, the zucchini bland but the herby-hummus pancake livened the flavors. the pork dish that night was ribs! i thought Oleana might do something creative, but it was. just. fatty ribs. have eaten through the Med & north africa and found the taste of the region in my ideal dinner. so stars for that, excellent service and Amanda.
(3)Daniel S.
I rarely give out five stars. Maybe a few restaurants over the past few years have given me the pleasure of Oleana. The quality of the food, the thoughtful tastes, the terrific service, the lovely atmosphere -- all exceptional and worth a trip. There were too many things on the menu that I wanted to try so I'll have to come back again soon.
(5)b c.
I find this place a bit overrated, sorry. There's little excuse (we weren't given one, anyway) for being made to wait 30 min past your reservation time, for a table to become available. I found the interpretation of Mediterranean cuisine to lack the clarity and freshness that I've experienced in the actual region. This, to me, is less appealing. Maybe it doesn't match our climate? In any case, I haven't felt compelled to return.
(2)Arik C.
I love the food at Oleana but what does not get enough recognition is their wine list. If you are passionate about food AND wine they you have reached your mecca. Of all the restaurant wine lists in Boston, Oleana is in the top 5. You won't ever find any brand names on this list. What you will find are amazing gems that represent a wide diversity of delicious wines from the greatest wine regions in the world. You even find some new world wines that pair deliciously with the fantastic cuisine at Oleana. Amazing by the glass selection likes you pick and choose so really cool esoteric wines. The cuisine is original, fresh and fantastic. They sourced from a farm they work with west of Boston and the menu changes with what is in season. Spring time is a favorite as I love their fiddleheads in tempura. The heirloom tomatoes are awesome in season and I am psyched for the fall menu, probably my favorite time to visit. Oleana is small so get reservations ahead but if you want the patio, its a first come, first served basis. Enjoy one of the area's greatest gems for food and wine.
(5)Lara E.
gorgeous middle eastern food done elegantly. turkish coffee panna cotta was insane. in.sane. stumbled upon this place by accident, but fully intend on returning everytime i am in MA.
(5)Simon D.
Consistently great. Food, service, outdoor seating all fantastic.
(5)Emily C.
Came here on my last visit to Boston a few weeks ago. It's located in Inman Square. When I was in college I didn't venture too far into Cambridge so I never knew there were so many ethnic restaurants in the area. I guess if it wasn't easily accessible by T, I didn't really make it there. The food was so good. My friend and I shared a few appetizers and one main course, as well as dessert. To start, we had baked hummus, which I didn't really think was hummus, unless my definition of hummus is wrong. There was chickpeas in it, but they weren't mashed. But the chickpeas were accompanied by an assortment of goodies, including avocado, pita chips, and sprouts. Served warm, it was a nice start to the meal. We also had the deviled egg with tuna and black olives. The filling was nice a creamy. The last appetizer we got was the spinach falafel. Amazing. It had tahini and this yogurt that wasn't to yogurty. We were advised to mush up the falafel and eat it kind of as a taco. Probably my favorite dish of the night. For the main, we ordered the duck in vermicelli. I thought it was pretty good. The duck was juicy and tender, though I didn't really see what the vermicelli added to the dish. Lastly for dessert, we ordered the Baked Alaska, described as "Coconut Ice Cream & Passion Fruit Caramel." The meringue on the outside went nicely with the coconut, and I usually don't really like coconut. I did think the passion fruit caramel was too sweet and tart, and halfway into the dessert, I didn't know if I could finish it--and this was with two people working at it. Though a bit on the expensive side, I really enjoyed the food here, and I'm glad my friend coming here.
(4)Jo B.
If I could give Oleana 10 stars, I would. It is truly a symphony for the palate. First off, let me just say that Oleana is all about the food. There's not a whole lot of atmosphere to speak of, and it's located in a mostly residential neighborhood, about a half mile from the nearest T stop (Central). But don't let any of that stop you, because I personally would journey to the bowels of hell to eat at Oleana again. That being said, let me tell you about the tantalizingly good eats. After deliberating over the "Meze" part of the menu and wanting to try every item, we settled on the Sultan's Delight. Oh my golly golly goodness gosh, I just about died and went to Tamarind glazed beef heaven . The portion size isn't huge, so we broke it down into tiny bites, and that was just fine because each bite was loaded with flavor and completely succulent. Mmmm, yum, yum, yum. For dinner, my dining partner got the lamb and he said it was the best lamb he ever tasted (and he lived in the Middle East for a while, so that is saying a lot) I got the Hazlenut Crusted Scallops, which was a special, and I am seriously considering calling and begging the owner of Oleana to make it a permanent part of the menu. I have NEVER in my entire life tasted scallops so completely and utterly delectable. I will be daydreaming about those scallops for a long while.....ahhhh. For dessert we got the baked Alaska, The waitress explained that due to the Cambridge fire code, they can't flambe it at the table, so it is done back in the kitchen. I know it can't be helped, but there is just something about taking that first bite of JUST now flambeed baked Alaska, so that was lacking, but Oleana's baked Alaska still delivered a fittingly amazing ending to an amazing meal. You must try this, particularly if you are a coconut lover. Suggestion for a good cheap wine - we got the white wine from Greece for $34, we were a little leary about ordering the cheapest bottle on the menu, but it really did complement the food very nicely. I am already looking forward to my next visit to Oleana. If you go, make sure you have reservations. When we arrived at 8pm on a Friday night, another patron asked how long the wait would be and they were told they could have a table at 10pm - ouch! One more thing, parking seemed to be pretty readily available. When we went there were several spots available within a block of the restaurant.
(5)L M.
My fiance and I came to Oleana by accident. We wandered in at prime dinner time and managed to get a table (though I understand we were very lucky). The staff are attentive and professional, though perhaps a bit snooty, but when we tasted the food, we understood why! It was perhaps the best meal I have ever had, and I don't say that lightly! It was the kind of meal that was beautiful in its simplicity--drawing flavors from traditional Middle Eastern cuisines--and yet completely unique, using locally-sourced produce, in ways that can only be described as the meeting point of science and art. I realize this sounds over the top, but I promise I'm not exaggerating!
(5)Julie M.
I had heard so many great things about Oleana from reliable friends, but nonetheless was pretty disappointed. If i were to go back, I would probably try the veggie tasting menu. The service was good - especially the people at the front who were able to get us in without a reservation. Our waiter was fine. He went on an on about how buttery my chicken dish was. Needless to say I was pretty bummed out when it came out fairly dry and boring. The cheese thing underneath was ok, but way too salty to finish and I'm kind of addicted to salt. My husband's lamb was ok. My mother in law's pork was so tough it was hard to eat - but the pilaf that came with it was good. We started with a fried green tomato appetizer with corn pancakes. THAT was great, and why I'm bumping up my a star! Bread was super dry and lame-o. I can see how the 5 course vegetarian tasting menu would be fun, but for meat and potato people like us, Oleana was a major downer.
(3)David F.
When you have 330+ reviews and 4 1/2 stars, there's not much left to be said. So, I'll give you my seasonally-dependent preferences for experiencing Oleana: 1) On the patio, with a Cisco 3C Ale and the veggie tasting menu. 2) In the back hallway (glass facing patio), with a bottle of red wine (or can of Dale's Pale Ale on a budget) and the non-veggie tasting menu (yes this exists, ask ahead of time.. maybe even call). That being said, I've never had a disappointing experience here in the countless other ways I've tried Oleana.
(5)Hallie B.
I never ate at Oleana while a Boston resident (despite my desire to do so, it just never happened for one reason or another) so, when I came back as a tourist, my boyfriend made a point of taking me here. I figured, it's a Sunday night, during an economic recession - we should have no issue getting a table around 6pm. Boy, was I wrong! When we arrived (sans reservation) we were told that it would be at least 2.5 hours until we could be seated in the dining room. Yowza! Luckily there were seats at the bar - which, to be fair, is my preference as it lets me sit next to my sweetie and steal bites of his entree! The lesson here? Make a reservation no matter what day or time if you want to eat in the dining room. I started to get very hungry looking over the menu - the combination of ingredients listed for each dish made it clear that the the chefs at Oleana understood how to combine flavors and textures in interesting ways (that are accessible to novice and experienced diners alike). After careful consideration and a little rec from our cheerful, kind, culinary-enthusiast bar tender, we ordered the following: 1. Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers (She let us know that this was a "staff favorite" and so we went with this over a ricotta gnocchi special they were offering) 2. Duck Buried In Vermicelli, Chard, Sweet Onion, Orange Blossom & Sugared Almonds 3. The Chicken Gyro special Everything was delicious and I highly recommend ordering one of their "PRET Ã MANGER" dishes (of which the feta was a part). These are small, flavor packed ways to start your dining experience. The price of most entrees here makes Oleana, in my humble opinion, just expensive enough to be out of the go-all-the-time category. Average is about $26/entree. However, the experience was delightfully warm. I would attribute this not only to the food and atmosphere, but to the staff who are clearly well chosen and passionate about food and being at Oleana. Has a kind, familiar vibe. Makes you happy to give a nice tip because it's well deserved.
(4)Adam K.
Easily one of my top three restaurants in Boston. Tremendous food; seasonal menus; extremely consistent all around. Absolutely delicious and not ostentatious in any way; totally casual and friendly -- and relatively inexpensive -- to the point that this is one of my go-to spots.
(5)Priscilla T.
Getting a table on short notice when you want it is not always easy, but I'll live with it. I've now been twice and both times the food was good - although the first time was definitely better than the 2nd (mainly because the 2nd server was...a rookie? And they didn't have fresh, warm pita bread to go with the hummus. Boo hiss). Spinach falafel, fantastic. Crispy fideos, not bad. Definitely go with sharing a bunch of small plates instead of going for the big ones. Hummus is a must. The restaurant is pretty small so reserve this spot for a date, not a reunion dinner.
(3)Jenny H.
This place was good (all the ingredients were fresh and high-quality) but it didn't blow my mind like I had heard from some friends/reviews on Yelp. I got their vegetarian tasting menu- everything was light and fresh but maybe it's because I love meat or because I like to know what I'm getting, but all the dishes were good but not amazing like I expected. I got a chopped caesar salad to start, shredded iceberg lettuce tossed in caesar dressing, tasted like something I could buy at the supermarket. The second course I got their falafel which was a thin piece of pita with a thin layer of this red beet spread and their falafel on top- their falafel was very moist, fresh and good! Third course I got a ratatoille dish which was generically good. Their dessert was absolutely amazing though- it's a French ice cream called creme glace artisanal I think and it was a cold, creamy cone of vanilla ice cream with bite-sized pieces of cured fruit inside. It was like nothing I ate before and was a nice ending to a nice meal!
(4)Bean T.
Came here after doing a quick yelp search and fell in love. Drinks, apps, main course flawless. Save room for the baked alaskan. YUM!
(5)Jenn S.
My husband and I went to Oleana this past weekend with my friend and her parents. EVERYONE I mentioned it to raved about it and said it was amazing. So of course, I had high hopes. I knew my husband would not love it - he's a pretty simple (and slightly picky) eater and sure enough, he wasn't crazy about it. My friend, her parents and I, however, thoroughly enjoyed it. When you pull up, the restaurant itself seems like it's in an old house, which is odd, but once you walk inside, you would never know it. The decor is charming and cozy (I loved the bathrooms!) and the service is great. We started with drinks. My friend and her 'rents all got The Sortini - Sake with White Peach & Mastic - which was a bit dry for me. I went with The Paopao - Sparkling Wine with Strawberry & Pink Peppercorn. DELISH. I downed that sucker. Her dad also ordered a bottle of Pinot Gris, but I don't know which one. We could NOT decide on appetizers, so we each picked 1. We ended up with: the appetizer special - a corn cake BLT (tasty); the Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets & Crinkled Cress (barely tasted the spinach and the beets seemed pureed and were quite tasty!); the Spicy Fideos & Chick Peas with Green Chard & Orange Aioli (interesting...); the Tuna Kibbeh Nayeh with Turkish Spices, Pickled Purplette Onion & Herb Salad (I don't east seafood, but actually tried this! Did not taste like tuna, but did have a squishy sort of texture); and the Kohlrabi & Radicchio Pancake with Haloumi Cheese, Mint & Nigella Seed (this was tasty). Overall, tasty food but not the best appetizers I've ever had. For our main courses, my husband and I both ordered the Flattened Lemon Chicken with Za'atar (a wild herb similar to thyme, blended sesame seeds & sumac) & Turkish Cheese Pancake. The pancake wasn't so much a pancake as it was cheese wrapped in phyllo dough. It was tasty, but the flavors didn't go so well with the chicken. My friend and her dad both ordered the Scallops with Pistachio, Fig & Spiced Tomato Trahana (they loved it, but the couscous it came on was a bit too oniony for her) and her mom got the Duck Leg special, which was tasty, but also full of cheese. For dessert, we treated ourselves to the Baked Alaska with Coconut Ice Cream & Passion Fruit Caramel. It was definitely coconuty and passion fruity! We all thought the ice cream was actually Passion Fruit, not Coconut. I had never had a Baked Alaska before and this was a great one to have for my first one! The ice cream was a bit hard, which made it difficult to get a bite, but that didn't stop us! We pretty much devoured it. Overall, a good meal and a nice place. I don't know if I would go back (it's not so close to me, hubby didn't love it and there are SO many other restaurants I want to try), but I would definitely recommend it.
(4)Dessa R.
I'd been lusting to go to Ana Sortun's Cambridge culinary oasis for well over a year. If you know the background, it's a foodie fairytale. Oleana is the lovechild of Top Chef Master and organic farmer hubby. You just can't make that shit up. Having made reservations almost a three weeks in advance, my date and I were pretty excited to check it out. The term "tongue-woody" may or may not have been used. Luckily, we came with low hopes of getting a seat in the enchanted garden patio we had heard so much about, because we had a better chance of scoring a midnight game of beer pong with the Pope. The Sultan's Delight was amazing-- glazed beef that just sort of fell apart the minute we poked at it with our eager little forks. My only regret here is that we didn't order two, as the portion was painfully small for two of us. I ordered the flattened chicken entree, which was a little disappointing. The chicken wasn't as flat as the description might lead one to believe, a bit dry-- and it was crusted in tons of herbs, which some folks might enjoy, but wasn't really to my taste. The cheese pancake underneath was quite good, but not good enough to warrant ordering the so-so chicken again. My dining companion ordered the swordfish, which he liked, but neither of our dishes held a candle to that Sultan. We shared the famous Baked Alaskan for dessert. I was a little hesitant, for two reasons-- coconut ice cream and passion fruit caramel. But surprisingly, the flavors came together quite nicely. So Oleana, I award you a conditional and pending four star rating, despite my three star dinner. I am quite certain that the fare here is delicious, flavorful, and creative, but I clearly ordered the wrong entree this time around. Next time, I will choose more wisely, and am hoping I will have a true and unconditional four or five star experience. C'mon-- even I like fairytales.
(4)Mike R.
My date and I enjoyed Oleana. We had two small plates, one entree, one drink apiece, and two desserts, for a cost of around $100. The small plates were very good, as was the entree. Our baked Alaska dessert was awesome, and the Nightingale's chocolate nest was bad. Service was on the plus side of OK. To succinctly summarize our experience: we had a lot of fun, and we aren't eager to go back. It was fun sitting outside on a nice summer's day and eating well-cooked Turkish food with good ingredients, and maybe it will be fun again in a few months.
(4)Nadine G.
We must have been there on a off-night. The food was very filling but somehow not satisfying. Things were just a little under-realized and tasteless. It seemed more effort when into description than execution. Attentive but quite rushed service. Indoors, it's another place with a high-decibel level. It's now a bit cold for the garden, which looked lovely.
(3)Jeremy S.
A great find, cosy, eclectic Mezze and entrees, friendly service, innovative small wine list, fair prices, fine quality.
(5)Gal A.
I love this restaurant and feel it lives up to its reputation. The food is always delicious and the service is consistently good. The first time I was overwhelmed by all the choices on the menu so I ordered the vegetarian tasting menu, which was a great way to try a bunch of things. Now I have a better sense of what I like and how much to order (entree and one mezze or three mezzes). Spinach felafel and sautéed greens are must-haves. My only complaints have to do with the physical space; the tables are too close together and each time I've gone the restaurant was uncomfortably hot, even in winter. But if you're thin enough to squeeze in and out of your table and you can strip down to a t shirt, you'll enjoy a terrific dining experience!
(4)Derrick C.
Oleana is very deserving of it's highly rated reviews. We luckily landed a table here on a Friday night which was especially difficult as their dining area is a bit cramped. First off, for our party of 4, we split a few of the meze (the handy glossary at the bottom of the menu translates it to "small plates for sharing"). In order of rank, I would go w/ the Quail, the Sultan's Delight (Tamarind Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Purée with Pinenuts), the whipped feta w/ peppers, and the Fatoush (Golden Beets, Fennel & Strawberries with Crispy Pita, Mint & Sumac). All were fantastic and I'd have no problem coming here again and ordering that again. But head and shoulders above all of those was the Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets & Crinkled Cress. Holy crap what a dish - one of the best bites of food I will ever have. We also split two entrees: the Azuluna Pork with Moorish Spices, Saffron Rice, Cherries, Olives & Radicchio and the Flounder & Moroccan Spiced Crab with Rhubarb Charmoula & Pistachio Couscous. We also had the Baked Alaska that everyone is raving about but too overhyped for me. Their coffee is also pretty good especially coming from a coffee-noob such as myself. But if I had to do it all over again, I'd just stick w/ the mezes for food.
(4)Olivia v.
The reviews got my hopes up - don't let this happen to you. Yes, it's good. Is it amazing? No. Amazing is Hungry Mother, amazing is Sofra (Sofra's pastries are why I came to sister-establishment Oleana), amazing is Rialto, amazing is ... Well, I've run out of places. Because, people, not everything above 3 stars is 5-stars-amazing, okay? Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets & Crinkled Cress 12 - They served this first. 3 of them, quite generously sized. You roll up these pita rectangles splashed with beet sauce around the cress-topped falafel, and it's rather yummy, but NOT 'wow'. (If I had read this before going, I'd still order it because the other reviews suggest it so unanimously, but having tried it I certainly wouldn't get it again.) Octopus and Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Cranberry Beans, Pancetta & Pepperoncini 14 - This was the best one we tried. The cilantro-lime sauce on top of the chickpea fritter was delicious and paired nicely with the pomegranate seeds and nutty sesame garnish over a heavenly almost-custardy chickpea fritter. However, the octopus couldn't hold its own against those flavors, and a mouthful of octopus and brussels sprouts basically got you nothing more than the crunch of the blackened sprouts. I've had better octopus, though I've also had much worse. Fried Mussels, Hot Peppers & Turkish Tarator Sauce 12 - hooo boy. By now, we were stuffed! What is it with these previous reviewers suggesting 5 mezes? Crazy. Anyway, DON'T get this. These were bland, greasy, and the fried hot peppers were almost glutinous inside the bland tempura. The sauce is this white glop of blah that adds nothing whatsoever. I would suggest they season the mussels with some interesting spice before frying it, and then maybe add a complementary sauce with a real kick of something. Bland-meets-bland does not fit the exotic reputation of this place. At this point, we have 3 more dishes on the way, and we are looking at the unappealing remains of the mussels with dismay. Sated. Crispy Chicken Wings & Potato Toum with Watercress Tabouleh 10 - No. Don't do it. The potato toum was boring, the barest hint of horseradish - am I just a philistine with blunt taste buds? Surely not to this extent? Chicken, boring. Why did we do it? We should have listened to the reviewers who warned against meat dishes here. Though really, the dullness of the potato puree was what shocked me here. Sultan's Delight; Tamarind Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Purée with Pinenuts 13 - Hmm. The beef was tender and sweet. The tamarind glaze lingers warmly on your palate. The baba-ganoush type of puree was okay, I liked it more than my date did - it has soft pine nuts, and a dusting of what I think were some kind of middle eastern cousin to chipotle and some chopped dill.. I think? Not as good as the side from the octopus dish, though. We had to cancel our Moussaka order because we were already setting food aside for a doggy bag. I felt awful canceling, but we were about to explode! Bread plate: interesting zaatar-y bread, we didn't really touch the french bread. I would suggest that the olive oil be spiced with something middle eastern, it would be muuuch more interesting. I am most disappointed that we couldn't even think about dessert. I am notorious for dessert-worship, and the sweets at Sofra have just killed me with pleasure. We'll have to come back for the baked Alaska and whatnot. I am dying to try these. We received tiny complimentary rose-perfumed meringues and cinnamon jellies. The meringue was perfectly cooked - crisp shell, chewy center. The cinnamon treat was excellent. C got the special wine and then some beer. I tried the wine, and it was not anything to write home about. Overall, this was a good experience. I feel the need to tone other reviews down a bit, but if I had been the first person to discover this place without any preconceived notions of greatness, I would perhaps have given it a 4. Next time, I will re-order the octopus, maybe get two other mezes we haven't tried yet, and we'll certainly leave room for dessert. Could this review be longer?
(3)T L.
Impressive tapas dining. Delicious well thought out seasonal menu. All produce is from local farm. Great decor, service, and overall feel. Great for couples or groups. Unique wine selection. Must save room for desserts!
(5)S D.
Another mixed experience at Oleana. It feels like this happens every 4 or 5 times we go. Ordered 4 mezze. Two came out perfectly toned & v good. Then a 20 min wait for the third. Then after another 20 mins & no sign of the fourth we gave up. As before, we kept being told it was 'just coming' but it never arrived. The restaurant wasn't too busy so no idea what was up, but as before, better communication would have helped.
(3)Robert O.
We were visiting Boston and this restaurant was recommended by a friend who has two daughters living in the area. Coming from the NY metro area we were looking for a restaurant that would provide a great meal and something different than we could get at home. Oleana did not disappoint! I am omitting details about the dishes we ordered because they (2 appetizers, 2 entreees & a dessert) were all spectacular but the people around us who ordered others found them equally great and I suspect that they change their menu often enough that the dishes we ate may not be available next month. I'm not planning to drive 250 miles to eat here next weekend but if I'm in the Boston area again will definitely make Oleana a stop!
(5)Gabi R.
Food: -fried spicy peppers - the cheese was amazing in these. a good way to start an awesome meal - corn borek (it was a special) - layers of borek with ricotta cheese, topped with a corn pate and swiss chard marmalade. i thought i'd not to heaven until... -the green beans and baba ganoush - the corn and fruit compote was to die for, and went well with the egg plant puree -octopus meze - got it at the reco of the waitress and i agree with her, this is the best thing on the menu and the best octopus in a two mile radius (de-thrones my previous crowning of the octopus at green st grill) - it was octopus mounted on a tomato-cheese stew of some sort, all mounted on bread that had soaked in the bold flavor of all the spices. one day, i'll move back to manhattan, and no octopus there will ever be good enough for me... -chocolate hazelnut nest - it was tasty - sweetness is in the baclava which is baked in with a dark chocolate truffle. I think the big win here is also the fig leaf ice cream. **this is all great, but the bottom-line based on several previous experiences at oleana: you cannot go wrong. this is fine palette-pampering at its finest. Service: for a restaurant that is so popular, they could have been snobs, but instead, they were the sweetest, most accomodating service i've seen in a long long time. water glases full, staff attentive, polite, and funny. i loved it! Ambience: we sat in the garden last night (it was NorCal weather) but even in the dead of winter when I've sat by the bar, this place is romantic. Great for dates, celebrations, parents, you name it!
(5)Tessa B.
My boyfriend and I were living in Boston for quite some time and we came to Oleana minimum once a week. On the other weekdays, he would call and order around 5 appetizers as take out because it was hard to find good quality, delicious, and unique mediterranean food in Boston. We loved especially the sultan's delight, the octopus dish, fried mussels, and we always made sure to try their specials. the menu changes seasonally, which we liked because the food was always fresh and in season. I miss Oleana so much and only want to travel back to Boston to enjoy a nice dinner there again. the best is to order a bunch of appetizers and share with your party. always feel leaving light and satisfied.
(5)EV G.
This place lives up to its hype. We were visiting from out of town and wanted to try a restaurant entirely different and unique and delicious. Oleana was the place, the food was fantastic and unlike the usual fare you can find anyplace. We didn't get to sit outside as the wait was too long, maybe next time. Chorizo stuffed green tomatoes and whipped feta with sweet and hot peppers for apps, lamb and salmon with some sort of corn delight on top and god, it was all really really good. Go here.
(5)Talia R.
Really torn, have had a great and a poor experience. Didn't think I'd ever say this, but stick with all vegetarian options, if possible? The falafel are relevatory, as are some of the fish dishes. A few other things are just trying too hard, all sorts of flavors competing for space and in the most balanced of ways: fideos, octopus, scallops. Service is fine, everyone there seems like a veteran and enthusiastic to be telling you all the details (ad naseum) of every dish. The space is too tight in the front room. Last visit the waitress kept standing between our table and the ones on either side, literally resting her behind on ours (and she was quite thin), which made me pretty uncomfortable. I don't mind tight quarters and understand need to fit as many tops as possible into a restaurant, but this is just not very pleasant. Mediocre wine list given how ambitious the cooking is.
(3)Abby S.
Raw chicken...unfortunately this was my experience at Oleana this past Saturday night. I cut into my chicken and it was still pink on the inside. Further, with my first bite, I felt that the chicken was not good quality (ended up biting into a chunk of fat). Our waitress brought the chicken back to the kitchen and then brought it back out saying that it was only slightly pink (no apology for undercooked chicken - nor was there an offer to remove it from our bill). I did not eat the chicken because I was a little grossed out at this point. As other reviewers have noted, it seems like this may have been a fluke with all the other amazing reviews. My sister and her wife have been here on a few occasions and have had excellent meals. Unfortunately, they were not pleased with their meals during this trip either and especially disappointed that the apple tea is not on the menu anymore (and no...the apple/chamomile tea was not a good substitute). Lastly, I felt that the menu was a little confusing with the glossary at the bottom and little explanation of the dishes. The two bright spots of the meal (why I am giving two stars instead of one): falafel and salad with pomegranate seeds. Overall, disappointing experience!
(2)Ashley D.
one of the best meals of my life. I can't accurately describe all of the flavors that were experienced because so much of it was foreign to me, but I can say that it is unlike anything I've ever had before in the best way possible. all of the favors were so incredibly dynamic and developed and well thought out. we chose to order a bunch of small dishes rather than entrees and I would definitely suggest going with this gameplan because there is just too much good stuff here that needs to be tried. for example: Sultan's Delight- tamarind glazed beef and smokey eggplant. so tender and SO FREAKING BOMB. I also just googled tamarind and found out that it is a tree that produces a pod-like fruit. cool. Yellowfin Tuna special- topped with a deviled egg. wow INCREDIBLY BOMB. Chickpea Hummus- apricot, pistachio, and tahini sauce. this mix of flavors was AWESOME. I have to admit it sounded a little boring to me at first, but this will guaranteed be the best hummus you've ever ordered. Pork Bombetta- pancetta, cauliflower, green olives. HOLY CRAP. so tender! Baked Alaska dessert- coconut and passionfruit. woah not expecting that at all, but also BOMB. oh and can't forget the bread from god with whatever seasoning they magically sprinkle on. I don't exaggerate when I say BEST BREAD EVER. I've been wanting and waiting to come here for so long and now I can die happy.
(5)Josephine L.
So, given all the personal hype I've gotten about Oleana (several friends say it's their favorite restaurant, one co-worker is personal friends with Ana Sortun), I tried to adjust my expectations down from astronomical because I knew I'd be trying the vegetarian tasting menu and I just didn't believe anything several courses long with no meat/seafood could be all that. It definitely wasn't, but at least I wasn't disappointed. In terms of portions, this is a crazy good deal. $40 gets you 5 courses (including dessert), but if two people do it (as was our case) each person gets a different dish per course, meaning you get to try 10 things instead of 5. Score! Our vegetarian tasting menu consisted of: Spiced Carrot Purée & Dukkah - Surprisingly delicious, the sweetness of the carrot didn't overwhelm the other senses A yogurt thing with fried basil leaves - Nothing remarkable Garden Salad - I don't understand why they gave us this. What's Arabic/Turkish about a garden salad? Props for the huge, bottomless bowl of it though. Definitely enough spinach to make you strong Fatoush - This was my salad. Yu-mmy. Amazing spices, watermelon balls, crisp pita bits, just delicious Black-eyed beans with black-eyed peas in tomato sauce - I love tomato sauce and this was delicious. Basically a bean medley in a wonderfully savory sauce Broccoli with yogurt and some spice - Both this and the previous dish are off-menu. The yogurt sauce was good, but there were too many residual juices from the cooked broccoli, so it made the whole thing kinda watery, which is....kinda gross Spinach falafel with tahini, yogurt, beets & crinkled cress lettuce over pita stuffed with cheese - One of the most gorgeous dishes I've ever laid eyes on. The falafel is a smooth brown circle resting on a bed of beet mix that's bright, almost neon pink over sliced pita accompanied by rich dark greens. As delicious as it was beautiful. (We both got this dish) Sour berry tart with some kind of cream over crumbs - Off-menu but my favorite dish of the night by far. The sourness of the berries contrasts perfectly with the lightly sweet richness of the rest of the tart, and that cream with crumbs combo? So creamy yet not rich. One of the best desserts I've had Salted butter ice-cream over baklava - Also off-menu, it seems. On its own, salted butter ice-cream is nothing to write home about (no matter how unabashedly you love butter), but it PERFECTLY complements the baklava. Give Maura Kilpatrick her due--she's definitely one of the more inventive and creative dessert-makers out there Service was top-notch perfect and the interior is gorgeous without being too stereotypical, trendy or kitschy (as often happens with Middle Eastern-themed restaurants). I don't think I'd go out of my way to come back, but if I happen to be in the area, I might stop by to try some meat/fish dishes and definitely more desserts.
(4)Justin C.
If you're dining in Boston and want to try something really different, then you've got to check out Oleana. It's rare to see places do pure Turkish cuisine, but to see them do it this well is truly a treat not to be missed. The decor matches the food perfectly, and is the perfect atmosphere to impress a date in, or have a fun, sophisticated night out with your significant other. Since I was visiting from DC, I had neither of these, but the hostess and waitress did a great job making me feel right at home regardless, and I enjoyed one of the most unique meals I've had in quite a while. The menu can possibly be intimidating if you've never or rarely eaten Middle Eastern or Mediterranean food, but trust me when I say there is something here that anyone could enjoy. I was really tempted surprisingly enough by the brick roasted chicken, mainly because I love Za'atar seasoning, so I was dying to have something that used it, but I had heard of a "secret" tasting menu here which was even more intriguing. I asked the waitress about it, and she said there was in fact a tasting menu which is not listing on their regular menu, 5 courses for $55. I was torn between so many menu choices (the duck also sounded amazing), so this was an easy way for me to try as much as possible with little damage to the wallet. 1st course - fried gigante beans w/ wild mushroom & celery salad ( yelp.com/biz_photos/kLr6… ): So much about this dish was different than the type of food I typically eat. For starters there was no meat, but still managed to be packed with both texture and flavor. The cooling flavors of the celery soup/puree that fills the bowl were really great, and the texture of the fried gigante beans was an awesome contrast. 2nd course - Spanish octopus w/ pork belly, green olive vinaigrette, roasted potato & artichoke heart ( yelp.com/biz_photos/kLr6… ): Just totally freakin amazing. So many elements in this dish were perfectly executed. It happened to be the special of the night as a main entree, so I was really fortunate to be able to taste it in this manner. Note to other American chefs, cook your octopus like this and it will start to become one of the most popular items in your restaurant, so much better than the tough, chewy versions most places put out. 3rd course - tuna w/ pomegranate spoon salad & coconut rice wrapped in collard ( yelp.com/biz_photos/kLr6… ): The tuna was cooked brilliantly and the pomegranate salad added a really nice zing to the dish, but I thought the collards were too tough. They were really difficult to cut through, making getting to the rice a challenge. 4th course - duck musakhan with cauliflower, buttered pinenuts, sumac & rose ( yelp.com/biz_photos/kLr6… ): This was a neat take on a "pot pie" although I get the feeling this traditional preparation has been around long before we came up with that term. The duck was cooked perfectly and had such an amazing, strong flavor from the sumac. The musakhan bread shell was also really good and just flaky enough. 5th course - cocoa-rose ice cream with chocolate marquise, date-rose truffle & rose petal jam ( yelp.com/biz_photos/kLr6… ): Each one was good in it's own unique way, but the truffle was by far my favorite, although the ice cream was so different it was a close second. Overall I thought it was an extremely well balanced tasting menu, showing off a wide range of cooking styles and flavors, and nothing was so overpowering to mute out the other dishes. Make sure you ask your server about doing this option!
(5)Cathy B.
The boyfriend and I came here yesterday for dinner. We both had low expectations. Especially the boyfriend since he's kind of an expert in Mediterranean food. We arrived before our 6:45pm reservation and was seated promptly. I was kind of overwhelmed by the appetizer section but I went based on what I like. So I chose the grilled octopus and the Sultan's delight. The bf went with the special of the night which was the bass. The appetizers were amazing! My favorite one was the octopus, very chewy and just cooked perfectly. It went so well with the peas and vinegar like dressing. GREAT! I also liked the Sultan's delight, very tender meat and it balanced out with the eggplant puree. The bf' really enjoyed his sea bass entree. The fish and veggies (cauliflower) were cooked perfectly. For dessert we had the Turkish-Style Profiteroles& Nougat Glace with Passion Fruit Curd & PIstachio Atayif. The profiteroles were tad bit overwhelming with the butter creme but overall I liked both of them, nothing TOO special but the bf thought it was great. Glad he liked it so he could finish it off (that's what bf's are for, right?) Service was good. Towards the end, the night got busy and the waitress was not as prompt as the beginning of the night but nothing to complain about. Overall my experience went pretty well. I would definitely come back here to check out the other appetizers. Oleana did not dissapoint and went above my expectations!
(4)Jessica H.
The first time I went about a year ago, I was so excited! My boyfriend and I have heard great things about this place and I have seen Chef Ana Sortun do a cooking demo before at Boston Greenfest. I even went to Turkey last summer and am intrigued with anything Turkish. I love the concept of this restaurant, with a farm to table value on food, especially veggies that come from the husband's farm (I have met him at the Copley Farmer's Market, super nice guy). We got patio seating but had to wait awhile to sit there. That was ok in the sense there is a special seat in the corner of the patio if you want to hang out there and have a drink while you wait. We ended up waiting quiet a while until we could place a drink order which was frustrating. By the time we got our drinks we were being seated. The patio is lovely though - definitely the way to experience it. I got a sangria and thought it was really good (though i just got it again last night during my 2nd time visiting and thought it was just ok). I've been drinking a lot of sangria the past year so I think my palette is much more picky these days. For an appetizer we got the Kesir meze which was really good. My boyfriend got the pork dish and liked it a lot. I asked for a vegan entree but was pretty disappointed. I have heard for years and from reading other Yelp reviews that the vegetable plate can be amazing here (they even have a vegetarian tasting menu) but this dish was mostly just a risotto with a leafy green on top. The chef that night was lazy or just too busy to make the effort. I was hoping for a little variety or a sampling of a few different veggies, but to pay $22 for a basic risotto was boring. Because my dish was not the most exciting thing I got a free dessert - they have a vegan almond ice cream. That night it was to die for, I almost cried because it was so good. But because it was free, it was just a tiny scoop. Originally I was going to order the regular size because I wanted it so bad, oh the irony.... I ordered wine at dinner but it took forever to come out, so I was almost done with my entree by the time I got it. Thus I was still drinking it when the dessert was served and it was not a good combo. The meal itself also took forever to come out, it was just a really slow night over all. I thought the bathroom this first visit was really pretty. Our first visit was good on some places but definitely did not live up to the hype that I've read about.
(3)Carolyn L.
I honestly can say that I have never had a better dining experience. The food was excellent - couldn't be beat - but what really made this dinner for us was the ultra friendly and accommodating staff! My husband and I had our anniversary dinner here; we had a reservation for 9:00, but got there a bit earlier to see if they could squeeze us in. The hostess was a DOLL and got us seated in 10 minutes! Immediately we were served with water and given our menus. We ended up ordering the Sultan's Delight (amazing. cannot recommend highly enough! and the eggplant puree was TO DIE FOR, it was so spicy and complemented the beef perfectly. Probably our second favorite thing). We also got the buttered hummus, which was also delicious, and the whipped feta - which was my second favorite meze. We got the chicken with spices and a cheese flatbread, which I loved. It was the most tender breast meat I have ever had!! The only complaint was that the black sesame crust was a bit too salty for my husband. We also ordered the lamb, which I thought was slightly tough - I'm not a huge fan of lamb to begin with - but my husband ADORED. The couscous was delicious too - and those veggie chips were amazing. I will really say though, that the highlight of the dinner was the baked Alaska. it was roughly the size of my head, and even then I felt like I could use more, that's how good it was! Our waitress was super bubbly and friendly, and ever waiter in the joint checked up on us to see how we were doing. It was the friendliest service I have EVER had!! It truly made the night for us, and made the food taste even better. We went home after dinner and could not stop chatting about how amazing the whole experience was for us. We will definitely be back; probably tonight for another dinner!! :)
(5)Pooja S.
The food is delicious! I am definitely going back for more. We had the falafel appetizer which was honestly the best falafel I have ever had! For dinner, I had the scallops and my husband had the lamb stew. Both dishes tasted great. The server was not pushy about more apps or desert which you can sometimes get at nicer restaurants. I would highly recommend this place.
(5)Justin K.
Expertly crafted casual plates, with spicing that sends the palette to the moon!
(5)Laura P.
One of the best meals I've ever had! We went for New Years Eve dinner. I had to make the reservation before thanksgiving and available times were already limited. When we arrived we had to wait 15-20 min for our table and they do not have a good waiting area. My boyfriend was stuck sitting next to a stove and unfortunately it's usually the first thing he says when we talk about the evening. But that is the only negative feedback I have. The food more than made up for the wait and the hot stove! There were 2 of us, we ordered 5 tapas and left stuffed! Everything was delicious. Our favorites were the Falafel and Sultans Delight, amazing!!! The Falafel comes in a serving of 3 but you can ask for more which I recommend. We finished our meal with the Baked Alaska - it was the most interesting and flavorful dessert I've ever had. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Ashwin K.
The sultan's delight was, indeed, a delight. As were the cigar borek with summer squash and corn-quinoa fritters on a bed of prosciutto. Chased it all down with a Turkish coffee.
(5)Swatee G.
I am so so do disappointed by this place! I had them on my Yelp bookmarks for almost a year, and I finally got to visit the place on my birthday.. Gabriella Gershenson sent me here .. I swear, I watched the show on Food Network, added this place to my bookmarks, so here I was.. We had reservations and were seated pretty quick. The server was friendly, but disappeared to get our drink orders and came back after 10 minutes, still empty handed, then went again to get drinks! We started off with the Quail which was really yummy and the falafel dish was to die for! Extremely flavorful and very nicely presented. I ordered the flattened chicken for my entree (damn you, Gabriella Gershenson!!) and as excited as I was, I did not like it :( It was overly salty for some reason, and the Turkish cheese pancake was mushy and over dressed. MY friends ordered the Pork which was just meh.. same goes for the crab. The food was just nothing to rave about, my disappointment just grew by with every bite :( Our server would disappear for long periods of time, we were charged for one dish that never made it to the table, and we had to ask the server to take it off. We were 4 people, and then midway through dinner, another friend joined us - just to wish me a Happy B'day (Oleanna did absolutely NOTHING special for my special day, btw - nope.. not even a little cookie with a candle on it!! - pretty sad), and we had enough space on sofa side for her. However, within a minute, we had a whole posse of servers and hostess descend upon us, eyeing us disapprovingly, and make us MOVE.. in the middle of dinner - to a bigger table, so in between dinner, I had to set down my fork and move to another table just because the hostess did not want us to be 'uncomfortable' - I find that pretty ridic, My mom would have been livid at me leaving the dinner table mid meal, btw Oleanna. .. just so you know! The 2 stars they do get from me are purely for the appetizers we had. Not the ideal way to spend my B'day dinner - but now I know and i am not likely to return to this place.. thanks for making it not so special!
(2)Stephen S.
I had the great pleasure of dining at Oleana during a recent trip to Boston. With a group of 3 we attacked the meze menu, shared an entree, and happily went for the specials. Of the regular menu we really loved the imam fainted. The specials were by far the best dishes of the night though and given their focus on seasonality I'd really recommend paying attention to what they've pulled together for the night. Dinner wouldn't be completed without dessert and we opted for the baked alaska and the chocolate-hazelnut nightingale's nests. The baked alaska was a nice twist on the classic with coconut ice cream atop a macaron covered with brulee meringue and finished with a passion fruit caramel sauce. I was a little worried about a flavor clash from the menu description but everything fit together nicely and it was a wonderful dessert. The baked alaska was absolutely devoured which was more than could be said for the chocolate-hazelnut nightingale's nest. It was a little more difficult to eat with layers of filling with a little mason jar that never quite wound up mixing together in the right way. The chocolate was a little bitter and the goat milk's granita a little odd. It's a small space that fills very cozy and welcoming but the drawback to that is it's a bit hard to get a reservation here at some times.
(4)Rachel F.
I have a friend who has dined here over ten times and I wish I could say the same. For someone who finds that meals on the cheaper side can be just as delicious- I must retract my statement for this restaurant. It's by far one of the only places I'd spend more than twenty dollars on my meal alone. Plus, the atmosphere is perfect. Romantic yet casual with just enough noise and proximity to other tables to remind you that this is Cambridge! A great "hole in the wall" for people who know where to actually go to eat in greater Boston. I also love Sofra and can't wait to check out Sarma!
(5)Manfred S.
Spontaneous dinner. Called Oleana and they said they could seat us. The tiny table was a little bit oddly placed in the middle of the room. We were tired and hungry so we accepted. Vegetarian special set menu ($40), a couple of non-vegetarian appetizers (some seafood mix and a lamb moussaka) as well as bottle of dry Rheingau riesling ($34) were enough for a late dinner for two. The judgment: The dishes were simply fantastic. The portions were small, but tasty perfection. This was one of the best tasting meals in a very long time. This could become a regular destination for me. Ha ... and I remember when I landed in the Boston area Modern Times was in this location. It was my favorite destination then. Great karma in the location for sure.
(5)Yelena Y.
This is more like a 4 dollar sign place but its amazing! I went here for dinner two nights ago and we had many mezze plates and just inhaled them! Staff was great and we ordered a bottle of rose wine from greece that was to die for. I ordered the lamb souvlakhi is a main entre and wasn't entirely expressed. Very small amount of meat on some skewers, so I would not recommend that dish. The other mezze dishes I ordered were fabulous!
(4)Anya S.
This is my friends favorite restaurant. And she is a foodie. Apparently this place is so popular, you have to make reservations a few weeks in advance. However, we were lucky enought to snag a 10:15 pm dinner spot. I was super excited. The decor of this place is a bit confusing, at least it was for me. Its like turkish with pillows and long benches, modern with colors and for some unknow to me reason they had a bunch of hamsas hanging on the wall. The tables are also on the smaller side and I felt like I was seated a bit too close to the next table, but yummy real estate is always pricey. We shared the beef appetizer and while the hummus was average, the meat itself was one of the most tender and flavorful dishes Ive had in a while. The meat was basically melting in my mouth. It aslo had a very interesting smokey (?) aftertaste which lingered on for a while. Anyway if you like your beef, order this appetizer. By 10 they were all out of their specials, so we both had lamb for our main course. I cant say it was the best lamb Ive had, but it was pretty darn tasty. Also, I have to mention presentation - these people got really creative with a simple lamb/yougurt/lavash dish. For dessert we shared a baked Alaska. Also, Id like to note that everyone around us was having the baked Alaska. Now, the shoker of this review would be - I did not like the baked Alaska. I did not like the taste of the outside creamy part nor did I like the crust. It was not sweet enought and I felt that the coconut took over the other flavors.... The service was quick but not very personal. Overall, it is not my favorite restaurant but if you are looking for a solid meal and like some beef this is the place.
(4)Chelan V.
This place was perfect. Very interesting food, good service, and it exceeded my expectations. We ordered a couple specials which were good but based on Yelp recommendations we ordered the spinach falafel, sultan delight, and quail. All great choices!!!
(5)Ali W.
I am not the biggest Mediterranean cuisine fan, but Oleana has won me over! I like the mezzes here better than the entrees. My favorites are the Lamb Manti with Brown Butter, Yogurt, and Turkish Chiles and Moussaka with Whipped Fava. I must say, Oleana's moussaka is my favorite moussaka of all time! I think it is the whipped fava that adds a new texture and flavor to the traditional moussaka. 1 star off: A few dishes were misses. The Deep Fried Clams and Fiddleheads seemed like something from a street vendor -- deep fried, but nothing special. The Wild Salmon with Spicy Chraimeh Sauce was pretty much like seared salmon from any other restaurant. For dessert, we tried a special of the evening, which was a Phyllo Nest with Fig Leaf Ice Cream. It was basically a dressed up baklava, but a damn good one.
(4)Nina N.
I've been wanting to go here for awhile, and then after checking out Sarma (which is incredible) we decided to try Oleana for dinner. I had high hopes for the food, and it definitely delivered. The service on the other hand was terrible. We sat in the back room next to a large (and very loud) group, which would have been fine except that our waiter was either completely consumed by them, or just didn't care about us ( a small two-top). He brought my boyfriend the wrong beer, forgot my wine, forgot one of our mezes that we ordered and didn't offer any guidance with the menu as people who had never been to the restaurant before. I wanted it to be better, but the ambiance kind of killed this place for me. I would maybe go back in the summer and sit on the patio, or sit at the bar, but I was unimpressed with the table service.
(2)Stephanie S.
First of all, I need to comment on the service. Oleana goes above and beyond for their customers. I accidentally left a shopping bag there and they mailed it to me (back in Oklahoma). They mailed it to me not only once, but twice because it was sent back to them. So, thank you Oleana for helping me out! Onto the food - it was amazing. Our friends who were more knowledgable ordered for us, which was helpful because many of the menu items I had never heard of before. We tried several small dishes such as the hummus, the fried peppers - the real delight was the Sultan's Delight. For an entree, I would highly recommend a fish. You also can't go wrong with the classic Tamarack Tunis Lamb, a classic mediterranean dish. Save room for a Turkish coffee or a small dessert to share. Actually, save room for every bit of it. Don't even bother eating the entire day, just starve yourself for a night here.
(5)Nikhil P.
Another outstanding meal at Oleana. Even if you're not a vegetarian, they're choices are just so succulent you start to wonder who ever decided eating meat was a good idea? A few items on the hit list (and FYI, thank god for the glossary, which saves your ass from with some easy-peasy layman's terms on what you're about to stuff in your mouth): 1. Avocado & Dukkah - cheap, and delicious. avocado with pomegranate seeds. who would have ever thought. likes peas and carrots. revolutionary. We ordered two rounds of this, then got way too full and had to pack it up for the next day. I ended up eating it the next morning with toast and an omelette and I felt like packaging it and selling it to my neighbors. I discovered something new! 2. Fried Cauliflower, Beirut-Style Slaw, Pickles & Tahini - very tasty. the cauliflower fills out the plate a lot. 3. Spicy Fideos, Chick Peas, Swiss Chard & Orange Aioli - delicious. still not entirely sure what a fideo is, despite the glossary, but my mouth liked it very much. 4. Chick Pea Terrine-- Apricot, Pistachio & Tahini Sauce - amazing. 5. Muhlama--Turkish-Style Fondue, Crispy Brussels & Fried Pickles - see above. amazing. All kinds of great choices here, and really, REALLY, unique flavors. Well deserved accolades at this place.
(5)Danny C.
Great mediterranean food! The ambience in the restaurant is also nice- I've usually had A-Okay mediterranean and after trying at this place, I got to know what a good mediterranean food is- One thing though..it is a little pricy. Other than that, all good!
(4)Jason K.
Fantastic! Everything was great. Nice diversity with the menu choices. The monk fish was a very unique mix of flavors cooked perfectly.
(5)Wasim Q.
I think every Cambridge Yelper has to try this place at least once. The reason-- it's a regional-southeastern-Turkish-inspired-modern cuisine that you'll never get anywhere else. Really unique flavors and ingredient combinations, with great execution: e.g., Striped-bass-salad (sorta like a light chicken salad but with fish) in a "shawarma" sandwich wrapped in paper thin toasted lavash. The fluke nayeh was my favorite, a fish carpaccio smothered in something like harissa and preserved lemon and mint, with razor thin crispy sweet potato straws as a garnish. Some of the dishes were a miss, like the chickpea terrine (the base of the dish is a little bland) and the fideos (mushy chopped up vermicelli). You gotta go mezze style and order a bunch of small plates so you can try as many as you can. 5 for two people, with free flowing complimentary bread, is plenty. Great non-alcoholic drinks too-- ask for the Siena cocktail (not on the menu, but named after the chef's daughter; tasted like guava soda with some fruity foam). I will knock them a little for not having bottomless cokes, which is a pet peeve of mine. Decor is awesome and modern (maple wood paneling everywhere, including the ceiling), but with Turkish touches like lamps and tapestries. Free parking in the lot across the street that says "authorized parking only." No, I'm not trying to trick you into getting your car towed-- it's for the restaurant. By far the best thing about this place is the desserts. This place has two pastry chefs and it really shows in how well constructed the desserts are. The caramel tangerine parfait is one of the best desserts you'll get in Boston. Half the dessert is the parfait-- a jar of salty caramel mousse/pudding with candied orange rind and chocolate powder and surprise tangerine slush crystals throughout. The other half is a chocolate ganache tart, equally awesome. For some reason the menus are magnetic, which I can only explain by the restaurant's proximity to MIT and all the tech companies in Kendall, who I assume the restaurant assumes will be impressed by the magnets hidden inside.
(4)Guillermo M.
One of the best restaurants in Boston. However I will say it clear and simple: come here and JUST get appetizers and desserts. Avoid entrees and your mouth and stomach will be the happiest and also your wallet. As an example I got the monkfish for entree and was not excellent, however it was more that 30 dollars with tax. On the other hand got the sultan's delight, the three cheese turkish meze and the chick pea terrine and were all amazing. For dessert we got the baked Alaska and was also extremely good.
(4)Juliann S.
Baked Alaska.
(5)Khalil B.
Great service and great food . The chef's new additions to the menu always surprises me and showcases how good the combinations are. The sultan Delight is an unbeatable dish. I'll have it over and over again minus the dill. Great job Chef Sortun!
(5)Steve H.
This restaurant offers unique, flavorful entrees and small plates. It has a small seating area so it books up quickly and you may be seated "close" to others or outside the kitchen door. If you are fortunate to have a reservation on a fair weather day you have an option for patio seating or a better chance to be seated without a reservation as they can juggle more tables. They do not reserve the patio. Parking is across the street or on street.
(4)Alisa K.
I was gonna say this place was great but didn't blow me away. Then I had the caramel tangerine parfait with the salted caramel torte and everything changed. It had everything I love about dessert - chocolate, citrus, candy, salt. It had all of the dessert texture dwarves (creamy, dusty, crunchy, chewy, crispy) and a nice array of temperatures (frozen, room-temperature, warm). Officially blown away! We ordered mezze-style so I can't speak to the entrees. But the mezzes were super creative - basically each was Mediterranean inspired with some pizzazz. For instance, the chick pea terrine was hummus shaped like a mini bundt cake with walnutey goodness in the bundt-hole. (Omg i just invented a new curse word!) The inside of said bundt-hole was yummy although the hummus-y part was a bit pasty and cold for my taste. I loved the fluke nayeh- it had the texture of tartare with the taste of cerviche and some lemony zest to boot. The striped bass shawarma was good too - sort of like chicken salad (tahini instead of mayo) meets toasted golden shawarma. Bread and cheese dumplings were like a delicious Mediterranean take on tomato soup. In a good way. The virgin drinks were good- loved the sienna cocktail and the rose lemonade. They have a great vegetarian menu, attentive service, and their menus are magnetic! Overall, 4.5 stars. Right in the bundt-hole.
(4)Aaron M.
I eat meat with almost every meal, not because I'm opposed to vegetarian meals, but usually because the herbivore options sound so boring and uninspired -- afterthought menu appendages to half-heartedly appease a minority of the population. This is not the case with Oleana. I enjoyed every minute and every plate of the vegetarian tasting menu. The dishes were creative and thoughtful, with a great mix of textures and Mediterranean-inspired flavors. It was also well priced, at $40 for a 6-course tasting menu. My only minor complaints were that the service lacked the same attention to detail put into the food, and that it was as hot as a sauna in the backroom where we were placed. But, other than that, I left impressed and wishing that Oleana was located in my hometown.
(5)John L.
Oleana is a truly amazing dining experience in the Inman Square area. We began with spinach falafel and buttered hummus for appetizers. Both of which were absolutely delicious. The hummus comes wrapped in an aged beef, which adds a nice texture and taste to the dish. For dinner, we had the lamb with pomegranate glaze and the duck. The lamb was perfectly medium rare and the glaze complemented the taste of the lamb perfectly. The duck, despite being in a soup-style dish, was as advertised, and crispy. The herb and beans with the duck rounded out the dish nicely. For dessert, we shared the baked alaska, as this was recommended by a friend who had previously been to Oleana. The dessert met our expectations, and was definitely enough for two people to share. Overall, my impressions of Oleana were great. It's a unique, comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere. The prices are a little on the expensive end, but this is a dining experience that is worth every penny. The waitstaff was exceptional. When they noticed our wine running low, they promptly asked if we would like more; when water was running low, it was topped off. We did not feel rushed at all. This last point is huge, as we've been to other places in the area and it felt as if you were being pushed the entire time you were there. I highly recommend Oleana for an intimate date and dining experience. If you love food, you'll really enjoy all that Oleana has to offer.
(5)Sri S.
Food is good and definitely looks fresh and tasty. Portions are very very small for the price. We noticed few people only eating appetizers as the entree is really expensive. Deserts are really good. We went on a birthday party. Not a good option for people who only eat white meat (Chicken). Very few options.
(3)R S.
We went here for a birthday celebration. While I enjoyed some of the plates, I was basically shocked at the Lamb Tagine main course which two of us in our party ordered: there was barely any lamb. You had to search to find it. The wine by the glass list was interesting, but I found the "if you like pinot grigio, you'll like...X" a little annoying/condescending. The service was excellent, and the interior and atmosphere quite nice. Some of the starters, spreads and dishes were extremely yummy. But I found the lamb tagine, for $26 dollars, sub-par. The tuna main course was good, but again, not outstanding. If I went back, I would not even order any mains. We had a nice time, but I doubt we will be back. The restaurant did not live up to the hype.
(3)Chris Z.
I was so excited about coming to Oleana for my birthday (a big birthday, mind you) - we had been looking forward to it since December when we received a gift card. Really disappointed is all I have to say. Major flaw: we found HAIR in our food. We told the waitress and she took away the mezze, but we didn't hear anything else about it until my boyfriend went up to the people at the front (about 20 minutes later) to convey how disappointed we were. After that, the waitress was very gracious, however, I was just a little turned off by the food. We continued to eat - they were out of the main dish that we ordered (at 8:30 PM - make sure you go early), so we ordered the zaatar chicken. A little fatty, nothing too special to it (I normally don't order chicken when I go out, but it was recommended). One good mezze was the spinach falafel. Otherwise, a pretty underwhelming experience.
(1)Corey L.
I lived next door to this place for 2 years and only went once. Mostly because there are cheaper places and I'm not smart enough to make a reservation. But, that one time, was incredible. I had a piece of seared tuna that melted in my mouth. Truly incredible. And I have multiple friends that go back over and over and over - and continue raving about it. You should eat here. But only if you like eating.
(5)Roopa S.
Vegetarians, REJOICE. There is an exceptional VEGETABLE Tasting Menu offered at Oleana, and it is AMAZING! For $40, indulge in beautifully prepared ethnic dishes and a decadent dessert. Portion sizes aren't as small as they usually are in tasting menus like these, which I loved, and all the flavors were unique and truly different, which I appreciated. My favorite dish of the night was: Spinach Falafel, Tahini Sauce, Beet Yogurt & Cress. Definitely order this. The dynamic contrast between the textures of the sauces and the falafel make for an amazing couple of bites. The area where the restaurant is located is a bit seedy, so I wouldn't recommend walking if you live far away from the restaurant. Otherwise, service was great and the decor of the place was cute too! The restaurant is a little on the smaller side, but that's what adds to the charm.
(4)Augustina L.
I was expecting more from Oleana. Between my entire group, we ordered 6 different dishes. All were "just okay" with the exception of the sea bass, which was excellent. The service and wine list could be better. The ambiance on the patio is gorgeous and quiet.
(3)Kavya S.
Oleana is an absolute delight. I made reservations for my sister and myself over a month in advance to get a 7pm Friday night slot. Vegetarians, you will be in Heaven--it's one of the few restaurants in Boston with a vegetarian tasting menu. The two of us each got a Vegetarian tasting menu which was way too much food for us to finish. Each dish had an interesting combination of ingredients, but somehow, they always worked perfectly together to create an exotic burst of flavor. Each course left me thinking that the next course could not be better, and I was consistently pleasantly surprised. Minus one star because the service was a bit off with the tasting menu. We wouldn't be finished with one course and the next course would come out and be left on the table, which was a bit odd. Other than that though, I had a fantastic time! It's unique to find a truly flavorful and classy Mediterranean restaurant. Oleana is one of a kind!
(4)Jaylin S.
The shady neighborhood is overlooked once the beyond incredible menu options are viewed. It is a relatively small restaurant and reservations are strongly encouraged. We barely were able to get a seat at the bar for two. After experiencing the offerings, I am not at all surprised by the following they have earned with freshly and creatively prepared dishes. We opted for small plates to share. The Fatoush (Arugula, Plum, Fennel, Crispy Pita & Sumac) and Chickpea Terrine (Apricot, Pistachio & Tahini Sauce) were fantastic and light options that I would highly recommend. The Flattened Potatoes with Lemon & Oregano are a heavier nice accompaniment. The Spicy Fideos (Chick Peas, Swiss Chard & Orange Aioli) were not for us- it is earthy and spicy in flavor, but the presentation was nice. The white rascal beer, one of the honey's faves was as always refreshing.
(5)Christine D.
I have nothing else to say except that this place factually has the best falafel in the world. FYI- second best falafel in the world is in southern spain in Puerto banus and second best falafel in boston is at Pita Tyme in the financial district. I'm Syrian and I can confidently cosign that Oleana is THE best mediterranean food in Boston. As good as it gets.
(5)Andrew D.
Echoing what others have already said, we were very pleased with the $40 vegetarian tasting menu tonight. You've got to respect that they try to do something different here than the typical Boston New American fare, and they execute pretty well. The standouts bookended our meal: a feta pepper spread that tasted like refined pimiento cheese, a chopped salad featuring some sort of aleppo-pepper crunch, and insane desserts, including a shredded-wheat and sweet cheese cake with apricot sorbet. Why not five stars? A few of our mains could use some work, including a toasted vermicelli with chickpeas and vanilla/orange flavors that was trying too hard. And most of all the service was lackluster. Not bad or rude or even unknowledgeable, but just kind of dazed. A menu of this caliber shouldn't be paired with service that so many Yelpers have questioned.
(4)Eric F.
The anticipation built up after having Oleana on my list since my first year in Boston was huge. Though I wasn't outright disappointed, there was just something missing out of the whole experience that left me less than fully satisfied. First and foremost, the food. With so many delicious sounding items on the meze list, my friend and I opted to go with a handful of those along with the Goat Mixed Grill special. Every cut of the beast was expertly cooked and exquisitely tender - wouldn't have minded ordering several of these! Likewise, the lauded Spinach Falafel lived up to the hype with its light and heterogenous texture from the loosely ground chickpeas as well as the layered flavors from the yogurt, sauce and crust. As for the Sultan's Delight, the Tamarind-glazed beef broke away with the lightest touch of my fork and wonderfully fatty. However, the glaze was borderline excessively sweet and would've become a bit much after several bites. Then there was the Spicy Fideos - devoid of any spice and completely flat flavor-wise. Not surprisingly, we wrapped up the meal with the Baked Alaska. It provided a great mix of sweet flavors from the passionfruit ice cream within, the buttery crust underneath and the airy meringue. At $14 though, you're shelling out quite a premium for it. Which leads me to one of my gripes. I understand that my opinion may be swayed after a revisit entailing other meze and some of the main courses, but the food overall just wasn't quite worth the price tag. And as for the experience on the whole that I alluded to earlier, the service was very much lackluster for a restaurant of this caliber. Having to read specials off a piece of paper. Clearing our plates halfway through the meal...you can imagine the awkwardness when I had to tell the guy that we still had more food coming. And as some others have noted, the inside is indeed more cramped and noisy than I would prefer. Maybe I'll come back, maybe not. Somehow, I feel like my money would be better spent elsewhere.
(3)Ashley S.
Always so good. You just cannot go wrong at this place! Food is consistently good, service is consistently good. A little crowded but totally worth it!
(5)Rachel W.
Well, I don't think that I can say anything more than what other Yelpers have already stated. THIS. PLACE. ROCKS. But Oleana, why do you have to be only a 7 minute walk from my house? You want me to go broke? I kid. I love you. I don't care what anyone else says. Get the freaking Monkfish. Also, the Greek wine (white) that they serve by the glass, get that too. UN-freaking-believable.
(5)Laura A.
My husband took me to Oleana for my birthday, and all I want to know is if it could be my birthday again next week and every week after that? We loved every bite, and I can't wait for another opportunity to come back. For starters we ordered: Deviled Eggs with Tuna & Black Olives Hot Pepper Labne with Olive Oil & Dried Mint Sultan's Delight; Tamarind-Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Purée with Pinenuts Moroccan-Spiced Fluke Nayeh with Preserved Lemon, Fresh Herbs & Crispy Sweet Potato Each starter was incredible, but the Sultan's Delight and Hot Pepper Labne were really out of this world. Both are a must. Also, I thought the deviled eggs were probably the best I've ever tasted. We were especially blown away by our entrees. Have you ever had that experience where you think your dish is fine and then you have a couple of bites of someone else's and you realize you ordered the wrong thing? That unfortunate situation is impossible at Oleana. Every dish is the right dish. My husband and I were pleasantly in awe of how much we liked our own entrees as well as the other's. Our dishes were so uniquely delicious and flavorful that you could not really even compare the two. My husband ordered the Tamarack Tunis Lamb with Turkish Spices, Pita & Everything Green with Garlic and Yogurt. He has ordered lamb at Oleana before and says it's killer every time. Equally amazing was the special that I ordered, it was a bass encrusted with a pomegranate walnut glaze with some insanely good and slightly spicy sauce. Even though we were stuffed, the waitress brought me a cute little birthday dessert (I'm not sure what was even in it, but it was delicious) and my husband enjoyed Turkish coffee. I would highly recommend for a special occasion or any occasion!
(5)Looking F.
It was our night out after a month . we decided to try oleana @ Cambridge . We drove almost 50 min to reach the destination. They have a parking area so that was nice and we were able to park right away. We reached the restaurant at 7:15 pm the hostess told that there will be wait for 40 min . we waited in the waiting area and had a drinks. We were seated around 8:20 and took like 5-10 to order dinner as we were so hungry . Water and bread was served right away but I was so disappointed that no one updated us that there will be delay in serving dinner because of miscommunication in the kitchen . we asked waiters around 9pm that how much more time it will take she said not more then 10 min now . Even the people who came late than us they were served before us . At last we left the restaurant at 9:30 it was very very upsetting their manger apologized and packed the dinner to go . by the time we reach home around 11 pm . it was soggy and too salty for us . The prices are high and there are portion size is too small . this is my first negative review ever but experience was so bad I have to write this down We would never return to that palace ever again . Not worth the price and experience .
(1)Lindsee R.
My partner in gourmandise and I went for our one year anniversary. We were too busy canoodling and reveling in how sweet it is that we dislike all the same restaurants for the same reasons to care at the time but, now upon reflection, I think it's time to vent. We had a late seating and our waiter was clearly "rett to go!." He offered us water in such rushed garbled language, we somehow ended up with a $6 bottle of water! (sidenote: Oleana, darling, every other fine dining restaurant in Cam/Som offers sparkling water for FREE. ugh.) Anyhoo, no smiles, polite conversation or even patient tone was offered. On to the food. It had salt....boy, did it have salt. We ordered a chicken dish, lamb dish and scallop special appetizer. The lamb was the winner by a hair...a really short hair, think buzz cut. Outside of the salt and that there was meat...I can't really think of anything that stood out in a good way. I'm trying. Really hard. Because who wants to believe they spent nearly $200 on a meal they can't remember two weeks later? The sad thing is, we've heard such great things and read such great things, but we didn't see them. Sigh. Going purely off of the star descriptors I have to give two stars... Honestly, I like Park better AND I get more for my money.
(2)S M.
My fiancee and I had an outstanding meal here a few weeks ago and we can't wait to go back. We chose a handful of the meze dishes and probably would have gone overboard if it wasn't for our waiter who politely told us that "Usually 5 is a good amount for 2 people." He was right.... For vegetarians, this place is a must. And, the falafels are out of this world. Period. However, I must warn you. One order of consists of 3 falafel balls. Just bear that in mind if you and your loved one are prone to fight over amazing food. (As we tend to do...) It may just be easier to have two orders up front and end up with a nice even number for each of you. Don't say I didn't warn you! We booked our reservation via opentable and were promptly seated upon arriving. Parking can be a little confusing, but the staff are good at pointing you in the right direction to make sure that you're in the right spot. Certainly looking forward to heading back to Oleana!
(5)Y A.
Amazing! Lovely atmosphere and delicious food. My favorite was the amazing beer fried shrimp with avocado! I wish they had some of this stuff at Sofra (or a more casual restaurant) so I could enjoy it more often without spending too much ;)
(4)Yuki D.
The food was very flavorful and unlike any other Mediterranean restaurant have been to. I loved the numerous vegetarian and vegan options. The bar seating did not require a wait time so my boyfriend and I sat there. The bar tender who served us was extremely friendly and patient. The Sultan's delight consisted of the most tender beef imaginable. The spinach hummus plate and the moussaka were also amazing. We were too full to get dessert so I plan to go back next time I'm in town.
(5)Joey M.
I've loved dishes here and I've felt meh about dishes here. One thing you can't deny is that the food is creative and the setting is intimate and cozy. The waiters are generally on top of things. Make sure you don't sit next to the fireplace or you will get toasted. The menu changes seasonally so I won't comment on any dishes - they'll probably change soon :) I'll be back for sure, but I won't know what to expect!
(4)Kate G.
Was looking forward to a culinary adventure and really, really wanted to love Oleana... Place is a little cramped (tho the bar looked comfortable and the table in the corner by the wine is a sweet spot); the menu needs an interpreter (which was part of the adventure, so that part was actually kinda fun); beer and wine and non-booze-license apertifs only were pretty expensive. We decided to sample several appetizers to maximize the experience and the taste sensations. Portions are small. The tablespoon size of the Creamy Feta with Red Pepper was tasty - tho there was little hint of feta (and the bread in the bread basket was too soft a vessel; this spread may have been better served by some crispy bread). With red pepper and pomegranate molasses smeared over it and then the wedges stacked (for looks?), it was impossible to discern that the Grilled Pita had been grilled - the wedges were soggy... floppy... The Tunisian Styled Egg Brik was interesting with a crispy shell filled with (what tasted like ) spinach and a fried egg - the latter of which sadly was undercooked - and runny (pardon but... eewww).. The figs and pickled grapes were the most interesting taste sensation in the Parsnip Borek - which featured dry, tasteless, overcooked (?) parsnip mounds (I knew there were parsnips in there only because it was in the description!). Only the Fideos had a sense of the unique spices I expected to be discernible in just about everything on the menu, but tho it was described as 'spicy' there was little heat. I dunno... maybe my expectations were too high? Nah, the food is way overrated.
(2)Kathy C.
A culinary delight! The best Mediterranean food I have had anywhere (and I travel a lot). The reason for the 4 star and not 5 is that the portions are really, really, really teeny tiny. I have been to many tapas restaurants and I expected a little more on my plate than a dollop of eggplant purée and an ounce (or less) of tamarind beef. My recommendation is not to go there hungry and savor a few dishes that truly appeal to you. Your palate will thank you.
(4)Cayer N.
Great food and atmosphere but felt rushed. We visited several years ago and do not remember the staff trying to move us along / out so quickly. Not sure we will be rushing back.
(3)Fang's T.
Bravo!!! This place is a culinary delight. When you take a bite into possible the best appetizer dish I've ever had and are left speechless, you know that you've found a diamond in the rough. Let's start of with that succulent spinach falafel. The presentation was flawless and the taste absolutely phenomenal. It's almost like taking a bite into heaven, it's that good!!! And then the dessert. Well let's say I don't think I've ever eaten anything as good as that. By far the bear thing I've ever eaten. The coconut ice cream and then the baklava with homemade hazelnut oozing out with the crispy wafer.... Just mouth watering. By far the best restaurant in Boston and one of the best restaurants in the world in my books. Compliments to the chef and please keep serving us the best food. Wow just wow thank you for that one of kind experience.
(5)lizzie b.
Biggest letdown of the decade. So awful. I had been really looking forward to the vegetable tasting menu at Oleana for years. Ana Sortun, can I please have my money back? The point of vegetarian tastings is to really understand the vegetables and play with their strengths. Summer is a great season for fresh vegetables. What I got was tasteless shit boiled down and covered in oil. I asked for no cilantro please in my dishes, and it offensively was in two. We were stuck at a really uncomfortable table in the middle of the room with bad seating. The waiter barely care about us, and the water was lukewarm. Nothing in the entire menu was memorable. I can't even tell you what I had besides a plate of boiled down nasty fennel and bland carrots. Even the dessert was absolutely disgusting: a Shaw's-quality small hamburger bun slathered in a salty ice cream, dipped in amateur chocolate. This place is an embarrassment to the emerging Cambridge culinary scene. I would never ever go back here. I'm really really really sorry that I went and wasted a good Benjamin.
(1)Ahmad A.
Mezza plats were A++, the main dish wasn't as good as I had hoped, but that is due to the fact that I do not like skin on my chicken.
(4)Marissa C.
Absolutely amazing. I love this place. I brought my boyfriend here for his birthday and it was the best decision I made for his big day (I accidentally bought him a pink shirt that day.. oops) I made a note in my reservation online that it was his birthday and they sat us in a corner table with the most privacy we could ask for in that small restaurant. The bartender was very knowledgeable and gave great advice with a very complicated menu. His recommendation was actually my favorite mezze plate of the evening! I also made a note in the reservation to give my boyfriend a candle on his dessert. I forgot to follow up with that during dinner but they remembered. Great customer service, amazing food and beautiful restaurant. I highly recommend this to anyone.
(5)Robert D.
Great beet salad and the chicken entree with that spinach FILO yum!!
(5)Adam E.
Top 5 in Boston. Hands down. Great place for a nice occasion with great/unique food that's not too expensive and a really nice atmosphere.
(5)Suzana U.
I am not from Boston (we live in Ny) so I was surprise with the reviews being so great and the food there actually to be Ah- OK ! Don't take me wrong it wasn't horrible but wasn't something i will say go to boston to Oleana because the food is really great. Maybe if you are from Boston and want to eat something different it maybe be a good choice but is not the best I ever had. The free bread is delicious and the mezze (tapas) 3 cheeze and the vegetarian falafel. But my main course lamb (salty) and my hubby salmon they were really OK no more no less (nothing special). So if you are in the area go there for few tapas but I would not get out of my way to eat here. We spend $100 +/- (2 tapas ,2 wine glasses , 1soda and 2 main course). 2 couples beside us were having the vegetarian 6 course meal and it seems a lot of food, so unless you are pretty hungry don't order the 6 course vegetarian meal!! On the side note: we asked the hostess to call a cab for us and we got a pretty funny, excited Boston Celtics final game against the lakers (nba) taxi driver. He was super excited about the game and the most unusual driver (for us, since we live in ny) .. was eating a big ice cream while driving , with all the windows down (it was chilli) and had the game super loud and talking about it the whole way.. so funny! It was even a bit scary driver eating ice cream while driving but we got to the hotel safe and freezing! LOL
(3)Liri K.
I had to stop for a few moments and praise this place. I am Israeli, and being one, I am inherently critical of Middle Eastern food. During my last 4 years in the US I have tried every middle eastern restaurant that I came across, only to time and time again disappoint my taste buds. This place is the real deal. The service was great. The play list was authentic and fun (including songs in Arabic and Hebrew). But the food, ohh the food... My date and I ordered a special they had with four mezzes+ 2 separate mezzes (both the falafel and the muhammara are to die for)+ the salmon entree to share. There was definitely too much food (a couple can share 5-6 mezzes and be full and pleased). We also got yummy Sangrias to go along with the food. Everything was beyond delightful, and we couldn't stop eating... and making ummm.. yummm... grrr... sounds while at it. Seriously, as a foodie, all I have to say is: the only excuse you have to sit in front of your computer right now is in order to make a reservation. I am going again this week.
(5)Aboud Y.
A longtime favorite (I can't believe I've never written a review!). I really can't add much to all the positive reviews here (except that I concur), however I must say that I much prefer to visit in the summer on their lovely patio. I'll undoubtedly be back!
(4)Alan S.
Oleana is one of my favorite restaurants in Boston/Cambridge. Unfortunately, its also a favorite amongst many in the area. We made a reservation for a Saturday night 3 weeks in advance and we could only get a 5:30 reservation for 2. Overall, the food, service, atmosphere is all fantastic. We started off with a few meze including chick pea terrine and hot pepper labne. Both were very flavorful and a nice start to the meal. For my main meal, I had the empanada. Delicious and definitely not what I expected. The empanadas that I've always had in the past look like small pies. This was almost a deconstructed empanada with a puff pastry top. Lastly for dessert, I had the baked alaska. I've had several desserts at Oleana over the years, and this is the best they have.
(5)DON S.
After hearing about Oleana from several friends, my wife and I drove in on an early evening. The building itself is unremarkable, as is the interior space. Reception was distracted. Service was mediocre. We were drinking wine and our server 'forgot' to pour my glass after the ritual tasting and filling my wife's glass...twice. Food was interesting. Not sure what the buzz is about.
(2)Jessica W.
We meet again, Vegetarian Tasting Menu. Like my first visit, my dining companion and I both ordered the tasting menu. Unlike last time, we didn't get ten different mezzes, but two portions of five mezzes (+ two portions of the same dessert). At first I was a little disappointed by this, but the five dishes we received were amazing, and I felt satiated and not uncomfortably full. The one mezze I recognized from my previous visit nearly a year ago: the spinach falafel with beet tzatziki. Still delicious. Still tender. It's good to see a familiar face. The other mezzes we enjoyed: crusty, flattened potatoes, red lentils with a green curry sauce, spicy wheat berries with lettuce and a Greek togurt topping, and my favorite, mashed sweet potatoes with dukkah, this blend of seeds and spices. For dessert, we enjoyed semolina cake infused with either rosewater or orange flower water, with some cooked cherries and minced pistachios. Service was top-notch again. Even though Oleana is not an exclusively vegetarian establishment, it's home to the best vegetarian meals I've ever experienced in the Boston area. Well done, Oleana! Well done!
(5)Snuffles B.
It has taken me nearly a year to come to Oleana because none of my friends are allowed to come here without their husbands, and this is a romantic restaurant, not really a third-wheel hangout joint. I managed to wrangle a single girlfriend to be my plus one. Our evening was great in spite of/in part due to a series of fortunate mishaps: 1 - I made the mistake of trying to walk through the door on the sidewalk, which was not a door, but a window - but I got a nice view of the cozy main dining room, disrupting several happy couples, who all must have thought I was an idiot for trying to break in through the window. 2 - As soon as I got into the main door (which is apparently on the side, who'da thunk?) I near collided with a very tiny, very serious looking lady - which turned out to be Ana Sortun, good to see that the chef was in that night and doing quality control! 3 - We were bummed that we were not in the main dining room, but in the back, where we could see but were unable to sit on the beautiful patio we had requested earlier, because it was raining. Thank goodness though, because Boston is a freak show and it was freezing outside in June. 4 - After voracious watching of food TV porn and reading of food books, I was somewhat frazzled that I had no idea what half the words on the menu were - fortunately, our server did a great job of explaining for us Turkish food neophytes. (And there is a mini dictionary on their web site!) 5 - Per everyone's recs, we decided to order a bunch of Meze rather than mains - I was somewhat dismayed when our server suggested that 7 might be enough (maybe even too much) for 2 people, I was imagining a tapas type of situation where I'd gobble up 7 plates, still be starving, and become Hulk-like-furious that I'd have to wait for more food. Fortunately, he knew what he was talking about - even though it was all very well paced, we were in fact teetering on the edge of too full, but thank goodness he had warned us, so that we were able to save enough space for 3 desserts (for the 2 of us). 6 - At the end of the meal, around 11:30, everyone in the back room was gone, and our server turned off the lights for half a second by accident. He apologized profusely and for fun, we gave him a lot of shit about it, and ended up chatting with him for a bit, it turned out that he was not just great at his job, but that he was cool - cool enough to put up with our general loudness (now that we essentially had a private room, it was no holds barred) and all of our general shenanegans. Can't take us anywhere. Thanks Oleana, for a very romantic, fun, educational, and delicious girl-date. **************************************************Â****************** Oh yeah, and this is what we ate, in case you're interested: - Bread - Decent - Warm buttered hummus - we didn't pay attention to notice that basturma was meat. When it arrived we hawed and debated for 5 minutes about whether my Muslim friend dare try it, as we didn't know what it was and forgot to ask. I ate it and convinced her it was in fact beef, she was so glad I did, because it was so creamy and good. I'm not sure I can go back and finish the 3 tubs of hummus in my fridge any more. - Spinach Falafel - The lightest most yummy falafel ever. And the yogurt was delicious and so pretty (bright pink!) - Octopus - Very good, best part was the spicy, zingy wheat salad - Fried mussels - OK, typical fried stuff. - Sultan's Delight - Falling apart yummy beef, and some of the best use of pine nuts I've had in a long time. - Grilled asparagus special - The BEST, perfect with the cheese shavings and yay for more pine nuts! - Bread pudding special - Good, not great, a bit mushy. - Almond cremolata - Light, refreshing, subtle. Non-dairy (yay for lactards like me!), made from almond milk so flavor is different. - Baked Alaska - I've been looking for a restaurant that serves this for a loooong time. I know its old school and not exactly "classy", but this one is great - the meringue is smooth and creamy, and the ice cream has nice flavor. Only issue is the passionfruit caramel is insano sweet. Otherwise, the best of the 3 desserts.
(5)Liz O.
This is probably my favorite restaurant in the Boston area. Their dishes are unique, service is attentive and helpful without being (too) snooty and the food is extremely well prepared. No, I can't afford it, but that's what's great about my mom coming to town. It's her favorite place in the Boston area, too. Also, you can usually get street parking (total bonus!). It is hard to get reservations (sad face), so be prepared ahead of time unless you like dining early or late. Some of my favorites include the Sultan's Delight (I could eat this once a week) and the amazingly creative desserts. They have good selections for vegetarians, too. I like that you can order a few small plates rather than one large dish, and we often do that. The flavors are not something you'll get anywhere else. Not every dish is a winner, but I've never had anything bad here.
(5)Lil O.
duh, this place is a no brainer. it's delicious. c'mon.
(5)David R.
One of the best restaurants in Cambridge. Delightful tapas and great atmosphere. The back and porch areas are a bit cozier than the front. I've never gone wrong with an order here, but I'd recommend going small plates over the entrees, as you can get a bit more variety. Perfect for a date or a small dinner, but I wouldn't try to get in with a large group. Somewhat pricier than most other restaurants in Cambridge.
(5)Tristan H.
I wandered in here on a whim with a friend a while back, completely underdressed but on the lookout for a good meal. When we went around the side to the entrance, someone called to us from the roof--"watch out, there's glass on the floor, I dropped a light bulb. Can you go inside and grab someone for me and ask them to bring a screwdriver?" Sure, no problem--so I went inside and told the hostess, "Hey your maintenance guy needs a screwdriver up on the roof." She laughed, "Oh... that's not a maintenance guy, that's the owner." And from that moment I knew this place was special. It's a good sign when the owner of a restaurant is up on the roof changing lightbulbs--it's clear what kind of care and attention goes into every detail. If only I had known then how that would translate to the entire experience, and especially the food. Once out on the patio, we waited for only a few minutes by the fountain before being seated. I had a glass of wine and was just enjoying the patio, the bread, and the otherworldly feel of the place. You can't be stressed out here; it's designed perfectly to be almost a Shangri-La of spaces, and all in the middle of Inman square. Unexpected. Impeccable. At this point we were so confident in the holistic quality of the restaurant that we decided to trust the chef and go all out. We ordered a tasting menu, and two other mezos/appetizers that sounded good from the specials menu. If you're here, I *highly* recommend this. You probably won't end up spending any more than if you had ordered individually, but you'll taste some incredible things you might not have thought to get. The suspense factor as each surprise dish was delivered added to the whole experience, and the timing was flawless--we'd finish a dish, have ample time to enjoy it, a few minutes for some sips of wine and conversation, and just as there was a breath, the next dish would arrive. The whole meal felt like a well-orchestrated performance rather than just a meal. As for the food--there's not enough to be said. I realize this is a little cliched, but honestly, I haven't tasted food like this since living in the bay area, with creative combinations and well-designed dishes and contrasts that surprise the palette and are a delight to eat; not simply good, but joy-inducing. The highlight of the night was a dish of crab cakes with asparagus--they had a small poached quail egg on each cake, combined with a lemon flavor from a little juice and zest it almost made a meringue that was incredible. This is without a doubt the best single dish I have had at any restaurant in Boston, and I'd go back to Oleana just for this. Or any other of the dishes we had that night, frankly. Some were better than others, but each was unique and in some way surprising and fun. Absolutely fantastic experience all around, and so far the best overall restaurant experience I've had in the Boston area. These people understand that a meal is more than just about the food, it's about the service, the wine, the scenery, and on top of all that, the flavors and combinations of culinary delights. Oleana turned an otherwise ordinary night into an experience I won't forget, and I can't wait to return.
(5)Jason N.
The wife and I were looking for a good night out, as the weather was perfect, but we were having a hard time finding a reservation in the area. We ended up driving by Oleana, and on a whim decided to stop see if we could get a table since we have heard such great things about it. To our luck and surprise we got a table within 40 minutes, and as requested, out on the patio behind the restaurant. The setting is very quaint, especially on a perfect Spring night. I would highly recommend requesting a table outside. Once we sat, we were greeted by our waiter who was very friendly. He gave us a rundown of the menu and the way it is is structured. We decided to go for the Sultan's Delight and Hot Pepper Labne to start. The labne was fantastic with their house made bread, and the Sultan's Delight was butter-soft beef that you can top with an eggplant puree. Both delicious. We decided we were going to both get the Tamarack Tunis Lamb for an entree and wanted to get a nice red wine to accompany it. The waiter graciously consulted their oenophile on hand and came out with a delicious French red that went well with our lamb. The lamb plate itself was basically fresh pita topped with spicy ground lamb sausage, yogurt, and greens. Once would describe it as a gourmet Greek gyro. It too was absolutely excellent. For dessert we split the "Bittersweet Chocolate Walnut Kadayif with Sheep's Milk Yogurt Sorbet and Chocolate Crème Bruleette". It was a great way to end a great meal. Overall, the service was top notch. Our waters never made it more than 2 inches below the brim, and even our wine was continuously replenished as we ate. Needless to say, my wife and I both cleaned every plate that was put in front of us, and we will certainly be making out way back to Oleana. I'll also say that I was pleasantly surprised by the bill. For an appetizer, and nice bottle of wine, 2 entrees, and a dessert, $127 (without gratuity) was pretty good for the dining experience we had.
(5)Billy Su B.
this gorgeous, jewel of a restaurant is still one of the finest places for dining in boston. the creative, colorful menu is full of a variety of meats, vegetables, wines, and beers. it is so hard to choose a set of appetizers to start with, because there are so many, but definitely order: 1. the spinach falafel, so warm and soft and flavorful 2. the octopus- it comes with rich, rich greens, potato cake, and fava beans. it's decadent. 3. the deviled eggs- they add olive to the mix, which gives it a unique, extra salty edge we also shared a chicken dish, which was roasted with herbs and served over a CHEESE PANCAKE (what would we do without people who invent things like cheese pancakes?) i'm writing this from inside a cardboard box, because i'm so poor now, but at least i have the memory of this fine fare to keep me warm at night. ask for fernando for great, friendly service. also, he has a terrific set of glasses. well done, fernando. come early for a seat on the patio, as it is first come, first serve. it's the best patio in the city. exotic. sexy. i may have seen a wildebeest.
(5)Aditi R.
4.5 stars Even though I had eaten just hours earlier, I sat down beaming at the anticipation of the food I was about to taste. I've heard so much about Oleana over the past few years now that I feared my excitement would become the food's worst enemy. And in a way, it did. Though I have to say, for the most part, the restaurant lived up to its expectations. A tough thing to do when there are such great reviews floating around. We were immediately seated for our 9pm dinner reservations on what seemed a very busy Saturday evening. The restaurant is fairly close quarters lending itself to a very cozy, romantic, atmosphere. Had it been warmer weather, there is a beautiful patio outside as well, but seeing how it was 30 something outside, that wasn't quite a possibility yet (warm weather cannot come sooner!). Our waiter was ever so courteous and very helpful with our food choices. We decided to forgo the alcohol and jump right into the food. And since they have incredibly interesting sounding Meze, we decided to stick to that the entire course of the night. So here are the mini reviews of the following we ordered: 1. Warm Buttered Hummus with Basturma & Tomato - Basturma is a type of air dried, highly spiced, cured beef and the buttered hummus was wrapped in it. Even though I rarely (honestly, never) eat beef, this was an amazing dish and I could have eaten it over and over again. And I did, especially considering we didn't realize what Basturma was and ordered the vegetarian option :) Verdict: Great! 2. Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers - WOW! The flavors are in your face amazing and the spices are spot on. I could have eaten this the entire night and (almost) nothing else. So of course we proceeded to devour it within a few minutes. Verdict: 6 out of 5 stars! 3. Spinach Falafel with Tahini, Yogurt, Beets & Crinkled Cress - All you have to do is wrap this pre made falafel roll and you're ready to go. The bright pink taziki sauce adds to the color of this dish and it is very good. It certainly doesn't compare to the previous two though. Verdict: Very good 4. Vermont Quail with Baharat, Barberries & Pistachio - This was a very well cooked quail. It could have been a bit more tender, but the spices and flavors were spot on and we enjoyed it thoroughly. Verdict: Great! 5. Chicken Bisteeya with Moroccan Spices, Blood Orange & Cinnamon Almonds - Ah those slices of blood oranges. I don't think I've dreamed about a slice of fruit so much since I had mangoes in India 2-3 years ago. The bisteeya, a type of shredded chicken meat pie, was good, though not extraordinary. The contrast (in flavors & colors) that the fruits provided made it for a good dish however. Verdict: Very good 6. Cured Salmon Meze - I forget the name of this particular special meze for the night and the ingredients, but honestly, it was disappointing and just not flavorful. We left over half of it on the plate, the first part of it which we almost forced to keep trying lest it would provide some taste revelation. It didn't. Verdict: Bad At this point we're stuffed. But we look over to our neighbors and they're having a delicious looking bread pudding and Oleana is known for it's amazing Baked Alaska. So I decide to order the latter, but the waiter suggests the Bread Pudding instead. So we go ahead with that...and SOOOO glad we did. Never had Bread pudding like this ever! Add to that little pieces of caramel, and milk jam, that leads to a pile of mulberries. Interesting little things these mulberries - kind of a like a cross between raisins and the taste of cranberries. Loved it! The last disaster of a meze was forgotten in a daze of sweet bread pudding and cappucino dream. The plates are highly innovative and unlike anything I've ever tried in any middle eastern restaurant. For that I give the chef props for reinventing the tastes into something new while keeping the soul of the flavors from the region intact. However the execution and tastes of some, to me, weren't quite up to mark. Now this could be because of the choices we made or just an off day in making that particular dish, but I'm assuming if it's on the menu, it is deemed delicious..which some dishes just weren't. However, the place is amazing, the staff is great, and the food is highly innovative and for the most part, delicious. I can make the trek from Boston to Cambridge for this restaurant. Easily.
(4)John E.
Simply amazing, as others have said. We ate only from the Mezza menu so had essentially a tapas meal. Having lived in Syria for over a year we know Arabic food and this was not really Arabic, but was clearly based on its foundation. The spices were terrific, the meat was tender and delicious, the ambiance was perfect and the wine menu adequate. We would recommend this to anyone, especially foodies!
(5)S T.
I was in town on business, and this was by far the best place we ate at. We called to make a reservation and the first available was 2 days later and at 8pm. We had heard it was worth it and waited. Everything we heard we correct. I had saffron soup with dumplings and a special- crab and avocado. It was delicious. I would have licked the plate if it were socially acceptable. My coworkers had different items that looked equally delicious.
(5)Arnold C.
Wonderful food. Creative, tasty, and appetizing! We had quail kabob for appetizer, which was delicious. I had the lemon chicken, which was very very good. Chicken was succulent and juicy. My girlfriend has the Venison specials and the dish was great. The meat was seasoned and tasty. The vegetables were delicious. As for cons, the seating space is a bit small and lacks privacy. I can discern every syllable from the table next to us. Parking is right across the restaurant but there are limited spots. I would recommend this place.
(4)Sandy V.
Oleana is a wonderful restaurant. I have been here multiple times. I prefer to sit outside in the patio area, but the inside restaurant is nice as well. Every time I have dined at Oleana the service has been welcoming and attentive. I am a big fan of the meze dishes: Warm Olives, Deviled Eggs, Spicy Fideos and Vermont Quail. My favorite dinner dish is the Lamb with Turkish Spices. You really need to order the moussaka side as it is delicious. Attire: I wore dark jeans, a nice top and heels.
(5)Jeff M.
I just went back and was not as impressed as I was on my first visit, but, still worth 4/5. The word is definitely out on Oleana. They were booked a few weeks out and the place was packed on a Monday. Almost makes me want to stay away on weekends.
(4)Alexandria V.
Wow, I am surprised to see some of the bad reviews for Oleana. Not only did we have fantastic service from the hostess, the bartender, and our server, but the food was freaking fantastic/amazing/delicious/we left so full it was almost pitiful. Granted, we've only been one time (we do not live in Boston), but it was one of the better places I've been to for small plates. I would suggest skipping the entrees. By the time we had several small plates, we were pretty upset we ordered entrees. They do a $40 deal that includes several small plates and dessert, which I think is a steal.
(5)Lana K.
This is more of a review of the staff rather than the food, though for a restaurant that prides itself on creative in-season vegetable based dishes, the vegan platter was worse than disappointing. But when I tried to get someone's attention to ask questions about the highly indecipherable menu, it took a LOT of waving and gesturing to get someone to come over. Then, she acted as if I was an imposition on HER cause I am on a very particular diet, but it's not really vegan. She simply WOULD NOT LISTEN. Very rude. Then the food took forever, no apologies for the hour plus wait to eat, and our waiter rushed through every description of the food so I couldn't even get a grasp of what the menu actually said. All in all, I will not be going back. Totally overrated.
(2)Geoff P.
I ate at Oleana at the end of a gluttonous month - 2 weeks in Chicago (a great food city), a week in Sonoma/San Francisco and a week with friends visiting back in Boston. So, while I kind of just wanted to eat a salad at home, my mom was in from out of town and I wanted to take her out for a nice meal. Yeah, and it was awesome. Even after being potentially fatigued from fine dining, I enjoyed everything. We had 3 starters: Fried Haloumi/ Fried Squash Blossoms, Heirloom Tomato Kibbeh and Falafel. Each were great. The haloumi was very rich, the tomato kibbeh very refreshing and palate cleansing and the falafel was the best. My entree was the Sea Bass with Fried Pita. It was served in a cool little paper bag with spicy sauce on the side. Very delicious, especially if you like rich spicy flavors. My mom had swordfish with just-dug potatoes. The fish was perfectly prepared. Also, I didn't think potatoes could taste "fresh", but these did. For desert we shared pistachio ice cream with peach sorbet. I really enjoyed it, although my mom (a chocolate person) really didn't. I'm really looking forward to going back here. My only complaint is that the wine list was a little limited in the sub-$50 range. We had a pretty decent cabernet franc for forty something bucks.
(4)Polite G.
I had been obsessed with the food at this place for quite some time, I literally had said the desserts are orgasmic. I still think the desserts are good. During my last visit though I was quite disappointed with the service and the entrees were not as good as I expected. There were four of us and two vegetarians. The vegetarian tasting menu was good but not amazing, the other dishes were fantastic. Desserts = orgasmic. The service is what made the place loose two stars. The place was packed and I understand that but we waited almost 1 1/2 hours for our food to arrive. When we asked for our food the server seemed surprised to see that we had no food, I think he had forgotten about us! And then some sort of manager came to talk to us to tell us that our ticket had gotten stuck behind a party of 16 and that is why we had to wait so long. Well don't tell me that - do something about it! So the food is good, the desserts are amazing, the service was very disappointing.
(3)Michael H.
Went with my girlfriend and we split the appetizers which I think is the way to go. We had the octopus (very good) and soft shell crab special with beets (good). We had an excellent bottle of red wine (wine prices are a little over the top however). Entrees we had the monkish (excellent flavors) and the lamb (not good dry and very salty, I couldn't even finish the dish). Overall it was good, I would go back.
(4)Doug M.
awesome Contemporary Middle Eastern fusion cuisine - great wine and cocktail list - tough to get a reservation, but recently they accomodated us as walk-ins on a busy weekday evening...
(5)Christine L.
My boyfriend and I decided on Oleana's for our 8 year anniversary. It was pretty much perfect. Low key, good food, friendly service. My boyfriend ordered half a bottle of the Austrian white wine... but half a bottle later he can't remember the name of the wine and I forgot to look. Bad on us. It was delicious nevertheless. $30 I ordered the sparkling rose wine, $11, also yummy. We shared the Vegetable tasting menu- $40 (chef's choice of five appetizers, Mezes plus a petite desert) and added the pork entree $24. The waitress was super accommodating and told us that the veggie tasting menus varies table to table, day to day. Ours came with: 1. Fatoush--Chopped Iceberg, Radish & Cucumber with Fried Pita & Sumac Dressing ($9 on the menu)- This was great. I loved the fried pita, probably could have eaten that all day. 2. Kingfish Nayeh with Turkish Spices, Pickled Spring Onion & Tarragon ($10 on the menu)- This was nice, simple spread for the complimentary bread. 3. Grilled Asparagus with Pinenuts, Green Olives & Siena Farms Egg Salad ($10 on the menu)- Asparagus was perfectly cooked, and the egg salad was well seasoned. 4. Kohlrabi & Radicchio Pancake with Haloumi Cheese, Mint & Nigella Seed ($9 on the menu)- the pancake itself was delicious... we did not however like the taste of the radicchio, but that could have been chalked up to our unrefined palate. 5. Spicy Fideos & Chick Peas with Green Chard & Orange Aioli ($8 on the menu)- We were either/or about this... not bad, not amazing. We were content by then. We tried to eat the pork-- it was decent, but we didn't eat a lot. For desert we got the Milk Pudding, and the chocolate baklava came with our veggie tasting menu. Both were a little too sweet for my taste. The milk pudding was preferable over the baklava. Still, there was something a little off about the way the flavors were mixing in my mouth. The pistachio was salty, the cherries for sour and the milk pudding was sweet... and while all were good, together it wasn't great. My boyfriend got the desert sherry, which was quite nice. overall, we spent $140 before tip, which is pretty reasonable for the quality of food and service. I would probably go again if I ever had a hankering for that kind of food.
(4)Sasha R.
Well, apparently, I'm now making trips to recognized YELP hotspots; wtih 115 reviews, who needs an introduction to this place? This is what happened. My palate and tastebuds were hohumming all week and wanted some excitement. Oleana provided many original flavor combinations, delicious ingredients I don't know how to cook myself, and an intimate dining environment with a woodburning stove. The only minus is, as the four of us got tipsy with the two bottles of wine, there was absolutely no wiggle room for getting rowdy - it's so intimate and little. I can live with that minus. Force me to be civilized.
(5)Paul W.
I have no idea how we got here, but the wife and I were completely turned-around and lost in Cambridge or Somerville or both. She had to use a bathroom and I was pretty hungry. I found a parking spot in front of this wonderful restaurant. We were expecting our favorite dining experience in Boston since we moved here in the middle of an exhausting afternoon of errands, but here we were. We had our first Sangria... I never knew what it was! It's wine and fruit - delicious! Refreshing! And we drank and ate outdoors on a sunny day. (Finally!) We split calamari and swordfish and we were happy as CLAMS! Hahah. Loved it. I recommend it highly.
(5)Liz H.
After going to Oleana for my birthday dinner on Friday, I am now rethinking every other five star review I have ever given. I would give this place 17 stars if I could. I had the vegetarian tasting menu and can honestly say I was blown away. So many different ingredients and flavors blended seamlessly and balanced perfectly, it was quite possibly the best meal I have ever eaten (no exaggeration) . My boyfriend got the fish stew and he was also shocked by how delicious it was (and he is picky, especially about fish). We found every dish to be well-thought-out and beautifully executed. The presentation was great and I can not say enough about the quality and overall deliciousness of every bite of food. The restaurant itself is small and intimate, with a real woodstove/fireplace that makes for a very cozy feel. The service was top-notch -- our waiter gave detailed explanations and recommendations and was extremely nice with the perfect degree of attentiveness. Oleana is perfect for a romantic dinner or any special occasion. Though trust me, if I could afford to I would be here every night.
(5)John P.
Overall, I was impressed, but not 5 stars blown away. We ordered 3 items from the Meze section: Whipped Feta ($5) - Good and for $5 it was a great starter. Came with a lot of bread, and different kinds of it, too. I would probably order this again. Maybe not the very next time I go, but the 3rd time I go, haha. With so many options on the Meze part of the menu, it would be tough to order the same thing twice in a row. Grilled Octopus ($12) - The octopus was ok, the chorizo beneath was good, and the whipped black bean paste was very good. I would not order this again. Sultan's Delight ($13)- Amazing, definitely the best item we ordered all night. I would probably order 2 of these as my entree next time. Incredibly tender, juicy and the eggplant puree was amazing. The entree's were fairly expensive though ($25 and $26 for Chicken and Lamb, respectively), even for Boston. They were VERY good, but did not blow my socks off, and for that price I expect greatness. A few glasses of wine for my lovely girlfriend and a few beers for me. The total bill came to about $120. Next time, I would probably stick to the Meze. I think 5 would be an appropriate amount for a meal for 2. I might even do the Chef's Vegetarian Special. After I ate, I peeked out back to see the patio. WOW, I will wait an hour next time to sit out there. The inside was great, but it looked pretty baller out there.
(4)Unhappy P.
Appetizers: fine Entrees: superb Deserts: creative but too sweet Service: below expectations Party of six, seated 45 minutes after our reservation (made 3 weeks prior). Asked to wait in hallway next to kitchen - causing issue for waitstaff, and not exactly a convivial atmosphere for our party. Seated eventually at table suited for 4 people near window (if you, Oleana, knew you couldn't accomodate 6 people we could have gone elsewhere). Comped 2 amuse bouches for our trouble - $10 retail price from their menu total (so by my count they valued our waiting time at $2/hour per person). Service: brusque - just wanted to take our order and not answer questions (old people in our party had trouble reading the tiny print on the menu in the light - and unfamiliar spices and preparations, you gotta believe the staff is better prepped to answer questions). Had to ask for another bottle of wine and more water. Dishes came and were plonked down in front of us: "who had the chop." Decent service for a diner. Bad service for a decent restaurant. Unacceptable service for a fine dining establishment. The entrees were delicious - salmon baked on a clay tile that tasted almost poached. Trout spanikopita with pastry and fish both perfectly cooked. Steak and chops both tender. Some of the better food I've had in Boston. And then the dessert - creative with the spices, but almost impossible to tell through the syrupy sweetness (except the baked alaska, which was as good as advertised). After all than, tab at $75 per head with 2 bottles of wine and gratuity tacked on for a party of 6. Was it worth it? No. When I pay real money, I expect not just good food but good service. Go to Sofra instead. The food is 93% as good, and the service is just as bad, but its a lot cheaper, and doesn't pretend to be a fine dining establishment.
(2)Kaitlyn H.
Amazing. Go here. Don't continue reading looking for that one a**hole who might ruin it for you. Just go. this place is great. Awesome food, beautiful presentation, tough to get a reservation. No worries, sit at the bar and eat. SO worth it.
(5)Christabelle C.
i've tried a lot of restaurants in boston, but this is hands down my favorite! for the ultimate dining experience do the following: 1. make reservations so you won't have to wait too long for a seat (this place gets busy!) 2. order the sultan's delight for an appetizer (or i love it so much, that i think i could order 2 and make it my main entree!) 3. order the vegetarian pre fixe - it changes all the time, but it's always delicious! also, it's plenty for one person so you can share this with another person and that will give you two room to enjoy another dessert (pre fixe already comes with 1). bon appetit! =D
(5)buckminster f.
Oleana truly lives up to the hype. We dined al fresco for the bf's bday with another couple, and all of us left full and happy. The table shared two veggie tasting menus (quite a deal at $40 for 4 mezes and a dessert) and four additional mezes. The add ons were sultan's delight, the soft shell crab, quail, and salmon (which isn't on the menu). Everything we had was delectable, although a corn casserole type dish really stood out in my mind. The only minor gripe was about dessert. The tasting menu included two desserts, which we didn't get to choose, and we ended up with fruit soup and a parfait type thing, neither of which were amazing. However a small price to pay for the overall experience.
(5)Phoebe W.
My boyfriend and I went here for our 2nd anniversary and we absolutely loved it. The olive oil ice cream was amazing as were all the appetizers and entrees. I would go back any day.
(5)Dan P.
Veggie tasting menu awesome. Generally I expected a more distinct farm fresh experience with the food. While sensational I feel the food got managed one or two steps too many beyond the straight from the farm taste and experience. I also rate the staff a notch below the food. I would have appreciated a more engaging and personal approach. I DO LIKE OLEANA, but not a definite do again.
(4)Erica S.
I think Oleana needs and deserves yet another 5 star review. I am in heaven. Oleana knows food. The chef is a goddess. I'll start of by saying that our waitress was an absolute gem. She didn't hover at all, but gave us the perfect amount of attention and privacy. She was incredibly helpful and friendly, and really stood out to me as an exceptional server. I wish I'd caught her name. First off, with the vegan boyfriend in tow, we needed her to give us the rundown of what on the menu he could eat. She happily pointed out a few appetizers he could have, and also said the chef would be happy to whip up a "vegan plate," something special that she'd concoct on the spot, just for him. Of course he ordered that, along with a pureed carrot "pret a manger," a small starting dish. His food was impressive. The vegan plate turned out to be a tantalizing array of food, presented beautifully and rich with flavor. Honestly, I was kind of jealous. It included a roasted artichoke, stuffed with couscous and lentils, roasted mushrooms topped with a sweet potato and garlic puree, brussels sprouts, and two dipping sauces, one of pickled mango and the other Zhoug, a spicy cilantro sauce. I'll just say he was very happy as he devoured his plate of food. I dove right into the menu and order an appetizer of ricotta and bread dumplings with porcini mushrooms and kale, in a red wine sauce. Divine. That's the only word to describe this dish. Heaven. Jeebus, I'm still fantasizing about it. The sauce, the creaminess, the flavor of the porcini with the kale as an accent, ahhh sent me into orgasmic spasms. It was comfort food at its finest, hearty and satisfying. I want to eat it again and again. As an entree I tried the lemon sole, served with spinach and pistachio, cauliflower, and a buttery sauce. The flavors were right on, and honestly cauliflower has never tasted so good. My fish was cooked perfectly. I couldn't really taste the pistachio but I could see it. Honestly, my appetizer stole the show, but the sole was delicious as well. Dessert-- stuffed to the brim, we decided we still couldn't say no to some sweets to top us off. Once again, the waitress returned to make some vegan recommendations-- the almond cremolata, as it turns out, is made from almond milk and is dairy free. It was just like ice cream, rich and creamy and topped with almonds slivers. On the side was a warm chocolate panino, not vegan, but I was happy to gobble it down. It reminded me of a grilled cheese, with pastry for the bread and chocolate for the filling. It was a sugary, grilled chocolate sandwich. What more can you ask for? The wine list was very impressive. We didn't order any because the meal already cost a fortune and we're broke asses. But I did get a bit shwilled off my 25.2 ounce Oleana 3-C beer, and the boy was happy as usual with his Trapiste ale, a Chamay this time. Bonus: For all its fanciness, you can still get a $3 Pabst here. That's freakin awesome. My review is going downhill as I begin to ramble about beer, so I will end now... So glad I finally went here and spent 1/8 of my paycheck on such a fabulous meal.
(5)R G.
The best meal I've had in a long time. My boyfriend and I went to Oleana for his birthday, so we went all out on ordering. We started with the turnip soup with the 'crabcake' appetizer, which was creative, surprising, and absolutely delicious. We also had the rabbit schawarma appetizer, which was unique and savory. For our main courses, we had the lamb steak served with moussaka and I had the crispy duck with pumpkin bisteeya. Both were delicious, but I have to rave about the duck a little extra. It was some of hte best duck I've had, and that's saying something. I love duck (I lived in France and considered it a food group). It was a very generous portion. The skin was crisped to perfection, just enough fat was left on, and the meat was consistently tender and moist without being soggy. The bisteeya was different than any I've had: a much lighter, more delicate texture that was a nice surprise. Most restaurants would make a similar dish far too sweet, but the flavors here were subtle and balanced. There is no filler in the meals, it was all delicious. For dessert he had salty almond stracciatella dish and I had the green apple-rose sorbet dish. While mine was quite good, light, and refreshing, I think his won. The ice cream was devine: we loved the salty/sweet combination! On the atmosphere: the decor was lovely. Warm colors, tasteful style. Cozy without being too dark. I would, however, recommend requesting a booth. Our table was small and located in the middle aisle. It was a little crowded and the staff walking by was slightly distracitng. On the service: everyone was friendly enough and I have no major complaints, but something was slightly off. Our waiter was prefectly polite and helped us pick wines to compliment our meals, but he seemed a bit... distracted? Also, I noticed another woman bringing out the entrees to the tables, including ours. She was clearly a higher-up, so thise would be good, but we didn't know who she was. Really, though, this in no way dampened the overall experience. A note: I would like to commend this restaurant for achieving something quite rare. Most "ethnic" restaurants tend to fall into two categories: cheap, stereotypical fare limited to items that Americans will easily tolerate and totally lacking in creativity, or "fusion", which more often than not is simply a bastardized and/or lazy version of the given cuisine. Oleana manages to separate itself from and rise above both. The chef gives her own, contemporary take on classic dishes while remaining respectful to the traditions and ingredients. She acknowledges them and uses them but is not limited by them. Bravo! In summary: A well-rounded menu, absolutely wonderful food, well worth the price. This should be a must for anyone seeking fine dining in the Boston area. (P.S. The attire clearly should be dressy-- the decor, food, and atmosphere strongly support that-- but I saw several people in jeans, and not even nice jeans! Then again, it seems people wear jeans anywhere these days. Do everyone a favor and put on something nice-- it makes for a much more lovely experience!)
(5)Yuko I.
Amazing food, good quality material cooked in perfection. The taste is not overwhelming but spice was there to get the best out of the good material. Please do eat your dessert also! The only draw back is, the kitchen is small so it is not for a large group. We wanted to book for 12, you could with a course menu - then it is not as fun.
(5)Andi P.
In my 10-ish times here, I've ordered just about everything from the menu along with a pitcher of sangria outside on the patio in the summer. Just about everything would be my favorite. If I had to choose, however, I'd go with the falafel. It's different. It's great. Also, the string cheese. (It ain't Polly-O, not that I don't heart that too, especially outside on a patio in the summer along with a pitcher of sangria.) Also, the lamb steak. Also, the veggie tasting menu. Also, the outdoor patio in the summer along with a pitcher of sangria. (I need to go back here, like, tomorrow, and see what all can be done gluten-free along with a pitcher of sangria outside on the patio--although it might not be summer quite yet tomorrow even outside on the patio despite many pitchers of sangria.)
(5)AB H.
I still agree with my first review: Oleana is hit or miss. I have had really good meals there, and I have had okay meals. This week was just an ok meal. I like the meat we had, like the quail kebabs (which were not kebabs at all, but nevertheless tasty - this is ironic because in previous reviews I mentioned they were dry). And my main course of salmon was also very good. Some other things weren't as exciting, like the whipped feta appetizer and some of the other appetizers like the falafel. The peach and chard rib salad was misleading in name - it is not a salad, there are simply some chard ribs (tough, not tasty) on the peaches and cheese. We did love our various champagne cocktails. Dessert again was just okay, We tried four different ones and on each plate there were some funky flavors that didn't quite go really well together. We didn't get to sit outside because we turned down the 40 minute wait; that was also disappointing. We had a waitress who was working her first tonight; she was great, unfortunately the woman who was there to train her was almost militant in her demeanor.
(3)Raj B.
Several of us had the vegetarian tasting menu. While the food served was indeed interesting at times, I think Oleana is expensive for what you get. I could have been just as happy by only having two orders of their falafels which are certainly some of the best in town. Worth the hassle of making a reservation just for that.
(3)Kathryn D.
I agree with all the rave reviews of the food - this is my & boyfriend's go-to birthday/anniversary/special dinner place. They get their produce from a small farm right in Sudbury MA, and they do fantastic things with spices. The back patio is wonderful when it's warm out, and you can grab a drink and sit under a tree while you're waiting for your table (since they don't take reservations for the patio). The one note I will add is that the white sangria is absolutely amazing. The only downside is that I now can't drink sangria anywhere else, Oleana has ruined all other sangrias for me, it's that good.
(5)Christopher L.
The moussaca is good. The duck and corn was fine. The game hen was fine. The desserts are bad. We were seated 30 minutes after our reservation so don't show up on time.
(3)Liza H.
All I can say is, WOW. Went here to kick off my honeymoon, and it was a fabulous dining experience - the ambiance was fabulous (outdoor patio, on a Tuesday w/ live music), wait staff was the perfect level of attentive, and the food was absolutely fabulous. Clearly not an every day restaurant for most of us, given the price, but what a great place for a special occasion. Food recommendations below. Apps: Burrata w/ grilled peach and corn relish (was a special), best single plate I have ever had. Fried mussels, also fabulous according to the Mrs. Entrees: Duck gyro was awesome, cooked perfectly. Tuna was great, but not the best we've ever had (Miami on the beach, hard to beat). Dessert: Blew us away! The baked alaska was really fabulous, neither of us had ever had before, and it was awesome. We also had the frozen chocolate mint souffle, which was perfection. Great way to finish the meal.
(5)Amanda M.
So I have been putting off writing this review because there are so many glowing reviews and I don't have much else to add. I loved it here! My boyfriend took me here for my birthday back in October and I have to say I have not stopped thinking about that meal since. I have also been looking for an occasion to return since it is pricey. I had duck and my boyfriend had local rib eye, I'm not much of a steak person, but it was really good. For an appetizer we had haloumi cheese with pumpkin spread and they lit it on fire on the way to the table. The sangria was pretty good too. We sat at a small table near the bar and had an great view of the kitchen. To finish off our meal we shared the Salty Almond Stracciatella Ice Cream & Cocoa Sherbet with Almond Beignets & Pear Butter...I have to say not really worth $13 since it was tiny. I would love to return soon, but for the well being of my wallet I may have to try Sofra instead! STANDOUTS: The orange sauce that is park of the duck dish and FLAMING Haloumi cheese. Where can I find Haloumi? I was thinking South End Fromaggio?!?!
(5)Paul S.
We got the vegetarian tasting menu. The dishes were unfamiliar, intensely flavorful, and unquestionably delicious. If you're a foodie in Cambridge and haven't gone here yet, you don't know what you're missing. I mean that literally; you haven't ever experienced it before.
(5)Kar M.
Really good...and really well plated... The coziness factor was off the charts!!!
(4)Matthew G.
This restaurant is incredible. I had no idea what half of the things on the menu were, but they were all delicious. My waitress was very helpful in recommending dishes and wine pairings. They take their food and wine very seriously at Oleana. I have never had armenian bean paste with walnut pate and homemade string cheese before, but it's great. The same goes for the ricotta and bread dumplings I had for my main course. Words really cannot describe how unique the cuisine is at Oleana. It's no wonder the chefs have won so many awards.
(5)Andrew K.
I went with my girlfriend last night after seeing the chef compete on Top Chef Masters and were duly impressed. We started off with the buttered hummus and the fideos, both of which were great. The fideos had a savory flavor that we couldn't place, but which we found refreshing. I would certainly go again and recommend it to anyone in the Cambridge area looking for a Mediterranean meal.
(4)Leo S.
After reading all the mouth watering reviews, I was expecting much better at Oleana. For a middle eastern cuisine, at least try giving us a real middle eastern experience with real pita bread (instead of spongy bread) and zataar in olive oil instead of standard olive oil. The vermicelli with harissa sauce was probably the worst thing. The tuna tartar was probably a good try although it would have benefited from harissa here. The special of the day (flatbread) came with overcooked mushroom bathing in butter. I was utmost disappointed by the "lamb" which turned out to be simple merguez (lamb sausage) cut in half longitudinally with some bok choi underneath and another dull mix of vegetables. I might try again, but in the meantime, I'd suggest to pass...
(2)Zizzles A.
Oleana has given me a wonderful experience, but it's one of those places where you wonder if the more traditional, and cheaper turkish/middle eastern foods aren't comparable for much less money. There's no question that the food at Oleana is different from Brookline Family Restaurant or Falafel Palace, but to say that it's definitively better is difficult. There is certainly a time and a place, and sometimes, I just have a hankering for Oleana's fine dining approach. Everything I tried here is noteworthy. The Falafel is buttery smooth, not nearly as chunky and coarse as the stuff you'd get at rami's for shwarma king. The duck shwarma is perfect. The duck is super rich, as is the modified taziki sauce, but some salad greens and the pita nicely counteract all that luscious fattyness. The cod is served in a wooden bowl with a veggie stew of sorts, and it is one of the best fish dishes I have had this side of Asia. The cod isn't rare, but it's shockingly tender. It's not exactly a super flavorful fish, but it imparts its own seafoody sweetness to the stew, which is a little sweet already from some of the veggies. Hearty with veggies, but light at the same time because the protein is such a delicately tender piece of cod. The baked alaska was a bit of a mistake for me. I should have known how sweet meringue would be. While it was a little too much for me, the passionfruit caramel was super tasty.
(4)Armine N.
mmm Oleana: The Good: -Understated decor makes for the *perfect* atmosphere, especially the patio - great for a romantic dinner! -Love the pret a manger list -- especially the Armenian Bean & Walnut Pt with Homemade String Cheese (okay okay, I'm Armenian and therefore seriously biased...but it's damn good -AMAZING fried haloumi dish -Creative menu, fresh ingredients -BAKED ALASKA and french press coffee=true love The Bad: -Service is less then perfect - caught a few food runners "auctioning" off dishes at the table...tisk tisk The Ugly: - Had the salmon special - salmon was supposed to be medium rare but was rather overcooked and seriously oversalted - that said, this was the first and only time that a dish I have ordered at Oleana has been cooked improperly Overall: you won't be disappointed - Oleana is a true treat!
(4)Cara A.
This, my friends, is my favorite restaurant in the Boston area. It is official. I even bought the book (very good -- called Spice) and her collection of combined spices. I had the vegetarian tasting menu and it blew me away. Every bite felt special and over-the-top delicious. The waitstaff also were top-notch. The server recommended a fabulous wine and was incredibly attentive (but not annoying). Please -- you MUST go there!
(5)S Z.
Save your pennies, skip fancy french, and go to OLEANA! 5 of us had an awesome meal here the other night - We had a fried green tomato and prosciutto salad and the homemade cheeses to start, and I had a very flavorful hangar steak special. It was a warm night and the patio was the perfect setting. Also, the wine list is excellent - we drank sparkling malbec, loire chenin, nebbiolo/pinot nero from Valle D'Aoste, and a sparkling Rose of Gamay for dessert - truly excellent wines. Beware though - we split our bill on two cards, and their bank held an additional 20% of our bill until the charge cleared my bank. It took about 36 hours to come to the correct amount - not a big deal but definitely off putting to check my bank balance the morning after....
(5)Alison F.
This place gets amazing reviews, and so when my friend and I were looking for a special occasion restaurant, we thought we'd give it a try. I'm writing this review after only one visit, which means only 2 apps and 2 entrées and one dessert -- so not necessarily representative of the whole menu. All the people who loves this place can't be wrong -- but I wish I knew what they ordered... BUT: given the great reviews, I sure did expect more. We both ended up with something resembling stew, although we expected something resembling steak/cutlets, and desperately wished there were salt on the table (there wasn't). Which is funny, because each dish reads like a list of Ingredients You've Never Heard Of -- so you'd expect complex flavors rather than, well, almost no flavor at all (maybe they cancel each other out?). There was about 1/2 an inch between our table and the tables next to us. The service was slow, but that's not so surprising given how crowded and busy the place was. The ambience is pleasant -- feels VERY trendy with lots of Beautiful Young People, bustling, busy, crowded, loud, but that's not necessarily bad, is it? I wouldn't go back there for a main course, but.... THE BAKED ALASKA!!!! OMG!!!! I'd never had baked Alaska before, so maybe I'm just blown away by the dish -- but this was one of the most marvelous and amazing and unbelievable desserts I've ever eaten in my life. So would I eat a plateful of bland lamb stew in order to earn another stab at the Baked Alaska? You bet I would.
(3)Joey S.
Fantastic flavorful food prepared to perfection, accompanied by very cute outdoor patio seating. Great for foodies.
(5)Vasilis M.
Fantastic mediterranean food. From Moroccan to Turkish to Greek and further on. Long list of wines. Also, great place for the romantic couples.
(5)Steph F.
Truly unique, satisfying, delicious meal of shared Mediterranean mezes. Highlights were spicy fideos, spinach falafel, and a burrata special. I was interested in sitting on the patio, but we ended up sitting inside instead because it was a hot and humid day. We'll just have to go back!
(5)Chloe S.
YUM! I came here with some out of town guests and can't wait to go back. It was not easy to get in, but it's worth it. The special that night was a beef stew with kale and okra that was SPECTACULAR. Normally stewed okra is slimy and frankly, gross. But they must have prepped it separately because it was still fresh tasting and crunchy. It retained the heartiness of a good comfort food, but has intriguing (but not overpowering) middle eastern spices and flavors to it. Delicious. Everyone's dishes were great, both interesting and tasty. It's rare to find gourmet middle eastern food (instead of falafel, which is delicious, but not very "fancy") and this is a nice departure from the norm.
(5)Sam C.
First time trying this place. Started with a glass of sangria and 3 mezes (appetizers) Sangria is decent but sangria is sangria, as long as its not too overpowered with sweetness, its decent. The appetizers we got were the spinach falafel, braised short rib and the quail kabob. The falafels were a house favorite and i have to agree, it's good. However my favorite has got to be the short rib. When you dig your knife into and the meat just melts...speechless. The quail kebabs were ok... definitely like that its nice juicy and tender but the crispy rice kind of plain. My entree was an eight oz ribeye with broccoli rabe. As most steak lovers, Med rare is almost a must. The very first moment I made that first cut, I knew that I was gonna love it. The meat was right on the money! The broccoli rabe really complimented the dish. There was an ingredient that I didn't know what it was but it tasted kinda like croutons but in flakes. Gave it a nice little crunchiness. The dessert was a little unique. We ordered "The Baked Alaskan" I will try to explain this one... lol Its like an over sized torched macaroon with whip cream and ice cream inside. Its a great choice for someone like me who isn't crazy about overly sweet food and drinks. The only thing I didn't like about this place so far is that it seemed like they really over filled the place with seatings. I sat at the bar and I was butting elbows left and right with my brother and the customer to my right.
(4)Tiffany F.
YUM-azing!! This place actually lives up to the hype. I've dined her twice and it is a new favorite place. I won't repeat all the praises of the falafel and fried scallops (totally justified!). Instead if will sing the praises of the scallop entree with roasted Brussel sprout special. WOW!! Unbelievably delicious and unique! I will be thinking about this dish for a long time to come! Do yourself a favor, plan ahead so you can actually get a table, and come to this phenomenal culinary dream of a restaurant!!
(5)Chrissa B.
Pretty tasty, definitely flavors I haven't had often before, but I will say for the hype I expected a little more ingenuity. Wine was quite pricey and we tried a few different glasses yet didn't enjoy any of them much. My main gripe for the elegance, character, and price point of this restaurant is that although we had a reservation we were first steered to the only bar-stool table in the house, tucked in an awkward corner at the end of the bar. After thinking it over we asked to be moved, thank goodness, and were offered a choice between two lovely tables, one by the fire and musicians, the other overlooking the twinkle-lit patio. Why even have a table like that at this kind of place? It's not good enough for the kind of food and experience you are offering, and just makes customers feel like second-class citizens. An unfortunate blemish on an otherwise pleasantly memorable meal.
(4)Dave R.
Been dying to try Oleana for a couple of years now. Have even had reservations several times only to have plans fall through. Well, finally made it and the wait was worth it. The food (and service) were fantastic. So many great "mezza" dishes -- tapas greco style -- to choose from and plenty of excellent, locally sourced and fresh entrée dishes too. With the help of our excellent waitress, we decided to make a dinner out of 4 mezza dishes and one shared entrée. All of the dishes were very flavorful and expertly prepared. I can't wait to go back and try more dishes. My only complaint is that the setting is a little crowded. Our dining experience was spoiled (a little) by the bickering couple at the table next to ours which was just a little too close for comfort. Oh well. Despite the lack of privacy we'll definitely be back.
(4)Izzy D.
Un-gdamn-believable. Every single dish is a flavor rave in your mouth with perfectly paired seasonal vegetables and mysterious Mediterranean flare. The style is mainly small plates, which are paired perfectly with sesame seed bread and a tall glass o' wine. I tried the spiced carrot purée & dukkah (Egyptian spice blend with nuts & seeds), walnut muhammara, beet tabouleh, baby farm greens with cherries, walnuts & cilantro and the chickpea terrine with apricot, pistachio & tahini sauce. Are you not drooling? Everything is fresh and the service was friendly and helpful. The best part about this place is that you get to walk away having tried not just one but half a dozen amazing flavor combinations. SWOON.
(5)Alice A.
I LOVE OLEANA. The food is scrumptious, the ambiance lovely. Wine list a bit pricey. I have eaten here 3 times, (twice since Dec 2014), and everything I've put in my mouth -- from the deviled eggs to the falafel to the sultan's delight to the desserts --is FANFREAKINGTASTIC! Go and enjoy different and delightful mezze!
(5)Jana C.
Oh my, Oleana... I am so smitten with you, it ain't even funny (or legal). Joie de vivre maximized at this magical little place. My most solid and valuable advice to you: order mezzes in lieu of entrees (tapas, small plates). this is the perfect venue to do so, as the unique and creative menu and pairings are wonderful, and I guarantee you, with 8 mezzes ordered and 4 people, we were about 85% full! Goodness me----truly one of the most spectacular several course meals that I have had the absolute delight and privilege to try. I'm telling you... the creative flavor combos, creative spice mixes, and unique textures served up and every single item on the menu is so unique in its composition.... we spent a bit over 2 hours enjoying our dinner that was booked months ahead of time via Open Table. Though Exec Chef Ana Sortun (who I watched compete on Top Chef M) was not in the house last night, this was a meal that no one would forget. What a spectacular dinner with live music... the place is quite dim and it's a small restaurant. When the weather is warm, there is a very calm, well-landscaped, beautiful patio for outside dining. Wish I could have sat out there... Will get into the details of the food when I've the energy to sing its accolades. Kenneth R--you were absolutely spot-on in your review. Although I ate at Abba, as well as Ming Tsai's Blue Ginger, this was our very favorite experience. Fave mezzes tried: pork belly couldn't be roasted more tender; perfect skin. Crispy duck wings are wondeful!!! But my fave of all time was the roasted quail with polenta. Also notable was the Sultan's delight, as well as the gorgeous, lush spinach falafels... it was all great.. We ordered a total of 8 mezzes to share, and 2 entrees: Azaluna pork and the pounded chicken. Dinner for 4 ran $135. That cremolata was so refreshing and bright--not made of dairy, tasted a bit like a sorbet on the tongue. I could pass on that chocolate brioche thingy... bit dry! Chocolate was quality though. A wonder.....nestled right there in between Harvard and MIT. PS On second thought, this simple statement should have said it all: Full house on a Tuesday night, save 2 two-toppers that I spied. one of my most favorite dinners out.
(5)Daniel G.
This is defiantly one of the best restaurants I have ever been to, the ambiance is superb everybody is so friendly. The food is just amazing the server was really helpful and recommended a few pick which were delicious. Lamb with Turkish spices was great and so was the glazed beef, probably everything at this restaurant is worth trying.
(5)A J.
Love this place! Book 4 weeks in advance to get a reasonable date and time.
(5)Athens F.
great food and service
(5)Azi Z.
This place is definitely on my top 5 favorite restaurants in Boston. Ambiance, food, and service are all awesome. I have been there a few times and there was not a single dish that I would call mediocre. From appetizers, to entrees, to desert, everything was excellent! If you plan to visit here make sure to make reservations well in advance as it isn't easy to do so, particularly on the weekends.
(5)Pia J.
Anniversary dinner here was so memorable! The place is kinda tiny and the tables very close to each other. As a result it's a noisy place even at dinner time, keep that in mind if you plan for a quiet romantic dinner. We on the other hand like the more casual, lively type of restaurants so Oleana suited us just fine. This is a very busy, bustling place and wait for food averaged 35 minutes. Staff was fine, nothing negative or extraordinarily great. The meze menu is exciting and portions ample for sharing. We tried the Octopus which was cooked to perfection. Also tried the Sultan's Delight, spicy and sour. Main course was Lamb & Misty Knoll Lemon chicken which I highly recommend although I think the chef was a little too generous with the salty cheese filling in my pancake, I took out a spoonful of it to the side. We also ordered a side of flattened potatoes which arrived very late but the waiter was real nice & offered to take it off the check. Dessert choice for us was Nougat Glacé, have to say it was a little underwhelming. But it did have fresh fruity flavors and interesting contrast in textures between the gelee, the sorbet & the flan. I loved the Turkish coffee & the Rose petal- Cacao nibs Tea. Overall, loved the food and want to go back soon for round 2!
(4)Karishma R.
While the building is fairly nondescript from the outside, Oleana is an absolute hidden gem in Central. The tapas are absolutely amazing, and I have never tasted such an amazing falafel in my life. The bread dumplings are in itself a reason to return. I would, however, recommend making reservations well in advance, as they fill up very quickly. I do agree with the review below that the chairs are not the most comfortable (wouldn't recommend a short skirt), but overall one of the best restaurants in Boston. Can't wait to bring my parents here!
(4)Molly K.
James Beard winner Ana Sortun's Oleana has been open near Central Square since 2001 with rave reviews by all that have been. Focusing on "Arabic influenced foods of the Mediterranean with a strong lean towards Turkish", this was right up T's alley, and right up mine by being a prime example of farm-to-table with most of their produce coming right from Sortun's husband's farm in Sudbury, Siena Farms. In we headed, up the ramp (looking like a ghost), to the dimly-lit restaurant with winding turns and many smaller rooms spread about. We sat & enjoyed a chilly glass of wine while admiring the table and deciding on our meals. We decided to split three meze courses and have an entree each. The first 6 meze course on the menu are more of spreads and small snacks, while the rest range from a shared app to a full app. We started with the spicy fideos & chicken peas with green chard and orange aioli. I love spice, so I was excited, but sadly it wasn't spicy at all, and I also didn't taste any orange in the smear of aioli, but I did enjoy the dish as it was light and a good start. Next we had the spinach falafel with tahini, yogurt, beets & crinkled cress. This meze course was both T and my favorite dish of the whole night. Light, fluffy, and not even a bit dry, the spinach falafel was delicious, and especially perfect paired with the beets and the pickles on the side. Our final meze course was the one I was most excited for. As you may know I love octopus, and feel a need to order it everywhere it is offered to get my fill. This dish seemed so perfect for me, grilled octopus carpaccio with spring pea, pepper & a spicy olive salad. It was fine. That's it, just fine. I knew I had high hopes, but I was so disappointed. The octopus was not carpaccio, rather they were large chunks. The spring peas were delicious, but the "spicy olive salad" was not even close to a hint of spicy. There was a nicely crisped toast-like cracker under the components, which was a great touch, but the rest of the dish was just fine. For my entree I went with the flattened lemon chicken with za'atar & a Turkish cheese pancake, one of their most famous dishes. Oh, you can't see this picture? Me neither, because I couldn't see my food at this point. Right before our entrees the lights went low low low and we had to squint to see our food. Nevertheless, I could feel I was eating on a sort of platter, which made me feel like I was at Medieval Times or in Game of Thrones, which was exciting. The chicken was delicious, and well-prepared. Not overly lemony, a large portion, and a nice combination with the pancake, my only complaint was the fact that the cheese pancake was almost too cheesy, as I felt the cheese of choice overpowered the delicate lemony chicken flavor. T on the other hand went with the tamarack tunis lamb with Turkish spices, pita & everything green with garlic & yogurt. He was in love. The dish was like a deconstructed gyro, with perfectly balanced & prepared components. The lamb was ground and made into a sausage before being grilled, which made it quite moist and "uh-mazing" (in the words of T). For dessert we opted to split the chocolate hazelnut nightingale's nest with chocolate truffle & a fig leaf ice cream. Perfectly portioned for our needs, the salt of the hazelnuts played well with the nest and truffle, and was overall a great dessert. After a quick tea from their expensive coffee and tea menu, we headed out, but not before checking out the neat little bathrooms. With mirrored tiles mixed in with regular tiles, it's a nice surprise!
(3)Mike G.
Second time was better than the first. It's great food and service.
(5)Molly S.
Per our friend's recommendation, my boyfriend and I decided to treat ourselves to a delicious meal at Oleana. We were told to come right when they opened to get a table in the patio, so a 5:30 meal on Sunday was what we had. It's so popular that although we arrived about 10 minutes after opening, we got the last available table on the patio. We then proceeded to take a 2 hour food journey complete with delicious meats, cheeses, and vegetables that were out of this world, delicious and perfect. First came the bread, olive oil, and a carrot puree. Amazing. Then we ordered a number of other small dishes like the Sultan's Delight, ie melt in your mouth beef short rib, quail on rice, grilled cheese slices with grilled peaches and roasted red pepper hummus. Then came our shared entree of duck on a flat bread with saffron onions and rhubarb. Unbelievable. The wine pairing suggested by our waitress was perfect for a summer evening and our meal. Desert was delicious as well, especially the fig-leaf ice cream with chocolate pastry and brown butter profiteroles. Go. You won't be disappointed. And for a fancy meal it was about $50-$60/per person including appetizers, wine, and desert. Certainly not cheap but wouldn't break the bank every once in a while.
(5)Kira R.
Loved the food here. Split a bunch of mezze instead of ordering entrees. Was delicious, service was good but nothing to write home about. Only 4 stars instead of 5 bc the space was crowded and we felt like we were intruding on our neighbors personal conversation. On the pricey side, but the food was great
(4)Tina M.
Amazing ambiance, especially if you grab a table outside. Staff were friendly and very accommodating of my vegetarian diet. Every dish that came out was delicious!
(5)Kelsey C.
Oleana sounds like something you'd say to a talented lover named Leana. Except your lover is a plate of Mediterranean mecca, and your love is as short-lived as your last bite of potato pie with bacon. I initially feared that this appetizer special would be somnolence-inducing because it sounded so basic. Au contraire, this dish just made me understand why Americans wake up to bacon...and why I want to wake up to Oleana. The vegetarians at the table raved about the Spinach Falafel, and I confirmed that it was indeed to die for. It was a tough job but somebody had to do it... The Asparagus special and the hummus also achieved high marks in awesomeness. The Tamarack Tunis Lamb was tasty, but the must-have entree is the Soft-Shelled Crab. A massive crab, beautifully battered with a smattering of subtle sauce. I just love crab so maybe I'm biased, but if you're still thinking of my yelp review when there's a giant crab sitting in front of you, we're gonna need to have a talk about prioritizing! I'm starting to think I deserve a slap on the wrist for constantly overlooking Inman Square. It's clearly a no man's land and a transportation nightmare for bikeless, carless city dwellers, but so far, both onerous journeys have yielded gold mines!
(4)Meizi H.
The best restaurant in town. YUMMY YUMMY!!!! I def. recommend some early evening or late night dining in this place. So hard to get into their reservation. The rooms are warming and cozy. I was a bit suspicious after hearing all raving reviews. It is indeed amazing after dining there. The falafel were well-cooked and tasty, duck breast and chicken were tender with lots of flavor, braised fennel/carrots were phenomenal tasty. Two of us ordered two entrees and three mezes. We were stuffed but still tried their Turkish coffee coz you couldnt control yourself pigging out. The octopus was smoky and okay but the rest of veggie dishes were tasty, no wonder their vegetable tasting menu was so popular. I couldn't wait to go back to try the rest of menus.
(5)S G.
Upshot: Decent food, not so impressive ambiance or service. Please read below for details. Party of 4 - scientist, investment banker, consultant and a UN peacekeeper - with a fairly diverse set of life and culinary experiences. Everyone agrees with what I am about to write. First, the food is good but not amazing as many other reviewers have professed. There were just too many flavors/ingredients in every dish. If you like that in your meal, you will like the place. I like that too, but not this time. We had 5 mezes, 3 comped mezes, and two entrees that we shared. At the end of the meal, there was not a single flavor/striking taste that we remembered. Again, if that is what you want, you will like the food. Please note that we did not have anything vegetarian - so those of you ordering non-meat dishes might have better luck. I went against my judgment on two things - the drink and the dessert - and both were terrible. The wine list looked impressive and in hindsight, I should have picked something that would have paired well with the dominant vegetarian ingredients. I started with a 'sortini', which tasted like a cough syrup mixed with some hard-to-distinguish cocktail mixers/syrups. I couldn't finish it. Later, we ordered the 'Alaskan-something' dessert based on our server's recommendation. Forgettable again. The good part of the review is done. Now some critique to support the two stars. In my opinion, the menu needs a price correction of at least 30-40%. Based on how they have priced their food, people (at least everyone in our party) expect an experience that accompanies the expensive food. For a mediocre set-up Turkish(?) restaurant, a dinner for four should not exceed $100. We paid slightly more than $200. Here's what I am basing my opinion on: 1. The place is cheap. It is in a not-so-expensive part of town where the rents cannot be that high. It is the ground-level of a house. Also, they don't have valet parking that would have allowed us to get out of our cars right in front of the restaurant when there is slush/snow everywhere. Instead, you have to park in a lot across the street. Please be careful crossing the street as the residents/drivers in that neighborhood do not stop for pedestrians crossing in dark. 2. Uncomfortable/cramped seating. Not sure if they started with this many seats and fit in more tables as they became popular - however the place is very cramped with very little space between tables. The chairs are metal frame and are not very comfortable. Tables are small and we were constantly juggling the multiple meze plates around. 3. Also, the decor is cheap. There are about 50 evil-eye charms on one wall but that was pretty much it. There are these cheap LED lights for lighting. There were some random Turkish(?) rugs thrown on walls/bench. And there was this stove for heating/style in the main dining area. 4. The servers were attentive and polite, but you could tell they have not worked at a high-end establishment before. They lacked that 'polish' I guess. 5. The mezes came together quickly but once we had finished and our plates had been removed, there was this very long gap before the entrees came out. That killed the experience for me at least. 6. Not enough space to hang coats! The hostess sent us to this room on the side to look for space for our coats. All the hooks were taken. I think they were expecting us to 'load' our coats on top of other coats. We chose not to after noticing a coat covered with cat hair. Ugh. We ended up keeping our 4 winter coats with us in our small space. 7. We had to wait for almost half an hour to be seated even when we had a reservation. The patrons at 'our' table were just lingering on after paying off their tab. Hence they gave a small plate with 3 meze, which I appreciated. Overall, not a memorable experience and definitely not worth another trip.
(2)Fiona Z.
One of my favorites in Boston. The food is absolutely delicious. They put an exciting twist on middle eastern food. Tried the celery root mousaka this past weekend and it was divine, and totally different than traditional mousaka. Another reason I love this place is their wine selection--they have wines from exciting places that you wouldn't see at other restaurants, e.g. from Santorini, Lebanon, Portugal etc. and their wine selection is revised every three weeks. They also have a Sommelier that can help you choose your wine, and we learned a lot from her last time.
(5)Xin Z.
Fancy restaurants with very tentative waitresses. We are impressed by the creativity of the dishes too!
(4)Lauren L.
Flat out amazing. There's not much to say about Oleana that hasn't been said a million times, but all the hype is true. Incredible, inventive dishes. Thoughtful, unique desserts. Good beer and wine selection. I actually like to have their sommelier make the wine decisions and she is excellent about dialing in my options! The patio is gorgeous and romantic, if weather permits. And whatever magic elves make that brown bread - keep doing what you're doing!
(5)Maddie G.
I came here when my mom was visiting and my turkish friend told me that Oleana would not disappoint. He was certainly right! The hostess was incredibly friendly, and so was everyone else we interacted with (apart from our pushy waitress, but we were enjoying the back patio so much that it really didn't phase me). The cigar borek was not crispy like we were expecting, but the flavors were fantastic. The green tomatoes with corn were unbelievable - the yogurt sauce was to die for. We also had the moussaka, which was also delicious. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience, and I would definitely go back again.
(4)Brian M.
I really want to give this place a 4.5. The food was great (albeit mostly veggie). We got the tasting menu and thoroughly enjoyed everything they brought out. The bar was a little weak (no liqour) and had the stones to charge ~$12 for a very weak wine cocktail. The atmosphere was nice, although seating was pretty cramped.
(4)Barbara K.
my favorite place to eat in the city! The food is fresh and delicious and I love their vegetarian tasting menu. Service was great too :)
(5)Erick N.
Oleana features upscale Mediterrannean cuisine. The menu is heavy on the small plates (Mezes) that are perfect for sharing and also offers a nice, but significantly smaller selection of large plates (fish and meat focused). Our party of four shared seven Mezes and each ordered a large plate. At the onset of the meal one is delivered a wonderful bread basket with a variety of fresh breads and a delicious olive oil that rotates occasionally (the menu offers a description of the sourcing and flavor notes of the oil). The bread was so good it was difficult not to fill up prior to the items we ordered arriving - so definitely pace yourself if you have a small appetite. The dishes we ordered were mostly successful but there was some misses; Oleana has fancier presentations and flavor combnations than other Mediterranean venues I have frequented and at times the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, but on other occasions the star ingredient was overshadowed by the accompaniments. For me the most successful dish was the hummus; generally a tasty but boring dish Oleana's version had individual serving sizes wrapped in a cured meat (Basturma) that was the best preparation of hummus I have consumed. However with the spicy heirloom tomato dish (while enjoyable) the spices overwhelmed the flavor of the tomato (a shame as Oleana has such fresh, quality ingredients and this is peak tomato season) and for the octopus dish the plating was beautiful and the feta and olive salad imbedded in the dish was refreshing, spicy and delicious but the octopus Itself bland and rubbery. My entree also had a lot going on; King salmon with a BBQ like sauce, squah, a farm egg and challah - but fortunately tasted like a cohesive dish with excellent favors and the fish was cooked perfectly. I was too full for dessert but tasted some of a blueberry pastry with corn ice cream a table ate ordered and the ice cream was divine. Service was quite friendly but not the most competent. One person's dish was not delivered until much later than the other three with no explanation it was on the way - in fact we became concerned the dish had been forgotten and for a few minutes no staff was nearby to summon. A question I had about ingredients within a dish were dodged and surprisingly no questions about allergies/restrictions were made by the server. This could have been disastrous if we did not speak up as one member of our party had a shellfish allergy; we had ordered a dish that one would not generally associate with shellfish (felafel), but when we alerted our server to this allergy he checked with the kitchen and warned us that the felafel is cooked in a pan also used for shellfish. Definitely be assertive and vigilant about allergies when dining here. The dining room is nice, with the only negative being tables are closely spaced which decrease the intimacy and slightly the comfort. If the weather cooperates and the wait is not too long, take advantage of the beautiful outdoor patio; one of the nicest I have seen. Price wise Oleana is going to run in the vicinity of $85 a person for three courses and a couple glasses of wine (including tax/tip); I felt this was very reasonable for the quality. While the incnsistencies with the service and some of the dishes as well as the close table configuration prevent Oleana from being what I would consider a top tier venue for its price range, it certainly was a pleasant dining experience and I would not hesitate to return.
(4)Joey M.
Great food, service, environment. What else could you want? Well, one thing I guess - more availability because it can be difficult to snag a reservation!
(4)Tom G.
We ordered six items from the appetizer menu, including one special. They were brought one at a time so the two if us could share them. We had been here four years ago and remembered that we loved it, but this time we were even more impressed. The delicacy of each preparation, the composition of each, the harmony of flavors, made this one of the best dining experiences we could recall. The special was fried haloumi with pea greens, rhubarb sauce, and a few other things that elude me now. Also, Quail kebab, sultan's delight, whipped feta with roasted peppers, and buttered humus.
(5)Andrew F.
Hands down one of my favorite restaurants around. The food and ambience are fantastic. Desserts are great. And the wine list is one of our favorites. We love this place
(5)Bret W.
I went with my girlfriend on the basis of everyone raving about this place and we were not disappointed. The spinach falafel, as well as the other dishes we ordered, was amazing and we topped it off with two incredible desserts. We can't wait to go back.
(5)Emily S.
Although a reservation was made a month in advance, the only time slot we could get was 9:00, it is notoriously hard to get a table here but I thought this was extreme. So after waiting all day to eat a delcious dinner, I am sad to say that I had to knock a star off of Oleana's rating because the pace was very very slow. Our waiter also seemed new and unfamiliar with the menu which might have contributed to this. I ordered the spicy fideos - which were spicy as expected and very tasty. However, I would not order them again, the noodles were cut up so small it was actually hard to eat them all. Next, the cheese and bread dumpings and saffron soup, which was very good. The dumplings were delicious and the soup had great flavor. However, because of the shallow dish and the small amount of soup, it actually went cold quiet quickly (within about a minute of being at the table). Because it was so late by the time I got my meze, (about 45 mins after ordering) I decicded to not go ahead and order a third meze, and was especially glad I did not order the tasting menu because I would have been there all night. My boyfriend enjoyed his entree which was the lamb kabob. We also got a side of the lemon and oregano potatoes which were very flavorful and crispy. The food was reasonable and very tasty, but the pace was a bit too slow for our liking. On a weekend, come prepared to wait for your food. I would have liked to have an earlier table, the food was good enough that I think we would return on a weeknight to get a different feel for the restaurant.
(4)Marissa S.
Wow - this restaurant is a must try. Our table started with [note, I copied items from website because the names were so lavish) Whipped Feta with Sweet & Hot Peppers, the Octopus & Olive Shish with Carrot & Fennel Saganaki, Feta & Walnuts, and the Sultan's Delight; Tamarind-Glazed Beef & Smokey Eggplant Purée with Pinenuts - AMAZING. My favorite was the Sultan's delight. For my entree I had the Wild Salmon, Tunisian-Style Corn Chowder Merguez Beignets, Green Beans & Kerkennaise Sauce. I don't get to eat fish at home so I had to try it. So delicious and fresh. The service was very good and the atmosphere of the restaurant was calming and provided a great relaxing dinner. Parking is a bit sparse so leave yourself enough time to find a spot if driving.
(5)