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Name: Olive Cafe
Address: 127 Commercial St, Portland, ME, 04101
Telephone: (207) 772-6200
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 4.17

Olive Cafe

127 Commercial St, Portland, ME, 04101

(207) 772-6200
Store is closed

Olive Cafe Menu

Appetizers

Olive Plate

Thyme Pie

Hummus

Baba Ganoush

Cheese Pie

Olive Plate

Thyme Pie

Hummus

Baba Ganoush

Cheese Pie
Salads

Beirut Salad

Couscous Salad

Greek Salad10

Fatoush Salad

Beirut Salad

Couscous Salad

Greek Salad10

Fatoush Salad
Shawarmas

Chicken Shawarma

Beef Shawarma

Shrimp Shawarma

RICE

COUS COUS

Chicken Shawarma

Beef Shawarma

Shrimp Shawarma

RICE

COUS COUS
Veggie Shawarmas

Falafel Shawarma

Fatoush Shawarma

Ya Babba Shawarma

Brussels Shawarma

Falafel Shawarma

Fatoush Shawarma

Ya Babba Shawarma

Brussels Shawarma
Thin Crust Pizzas

3 Cheese Pizza

Pepperoni Pizza

Ya Baba Pizza

Mediterranean Veggie Pizza

Brussels Pizza

Okra Pizza

Chicken Pizza

Beef Pizza

Shrimp Pizza

3 Cheese Pizza

Pepperoni Pizza

Ya Baba Pizza

Mediterranean Veggie Pizza

Brussels Pizza

Okra Pizza

Chicken Pizza

Beef Pizza

Shrimp Pizza
Plates

Marinated Grilled Chicken Kabob Plate

Marinated Grilled Lamb Kabob Plate

Marinated Grilled Chicken Kabob Plate

Marinated Grilled Lamb Kabob Plate
Sampler Plates

Mediterranean Sampler Plate

Mediterranean Sampler Plate
Sides

Pita Chips

Cauliflower

Brussels Sprouts

Side Salad

Pita Chips

Cauliflower

Brussels Sprouts

Side Salad
Drinks

Coke Can

Diet Coke Can

Ginger Ale Can

Bottled Water

Perrier

Arizona Iced Tea

Eli's Root Beer

Coke Can

Diet Coke Can

Ginger Ale Can

Bottled Water

Perrier

Arizona Iced Tea

Eli's Root Beer

fazoli Diabetes Contents goes here

Healthy Meal suggestions for Olive Cafe

Appetizers

Olive Plate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Thyme Pie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hummus [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Baba Ganoush [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cheese Pie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Olive Plate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Thyme Pie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hummus [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Baba Ganoush [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cheese Pie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Salads

Beirut Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Couscous Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Greek Salad10 [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fatoush Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Beirut Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Couscous Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Greek Salad10 [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fatoush Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Shawarmas

Chicken Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Beef Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

RICE [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

COUS COUS [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Beef Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

RICE [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

COUS COUS [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Veggie Shawarmas

Falafel Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fatoush Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ya Babba Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Brussels Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Falafel Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fatoush Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ya Babba Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Brussels Shawarma [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Thin Crust Pizzas

3 Cheese Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pepperoni Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ya Baba Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mediterranean Veggie Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Brussels Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Okra Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Beef Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

3 Cheese Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pepperoni Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ya Baba Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mediterranean Veggie Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Brussels Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Okra Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Beef Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Pizza [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Plates

Marinated Grilled Chicken Kabob Plate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Marinated Grilled Lamb Kabob Plate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Marinated Grilled Chicken Kabob Plate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Marinated Grilled Lamb Kabob Plate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sampler Plates

Mediterranean Sampler Plate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mediterranean Sampler Plate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sides

Pita Chips [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cauliflower [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Brussels Sprouts [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Side Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pita Chips [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cauliflower [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Brussels Sprouts [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Side Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Drinks

Coke Can [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Diet Coke Can [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ginger Ale Can [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bottled Water [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Perrier [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Arizona Iced Tea [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Eli's Root Beer [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Coke Can [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Diet Coke Can [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ginger Ale Can [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bottled Water [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Perrier [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Arizona Iced Tea [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Eli's Root Beer [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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Write An Anonymous Review

Shelley H.

Slice of Lebanese heaven, fresh and authentic. Busy devoted weekday lunch, always a good sign. Very small dining room, and daily specials are gobbled up fast! Spectacular vegetarian selections, I didn't try the meats as they appeared a bit dry as I saw them go by, but they may have been amazing. They smelled nice enough. With so many truly dazzling options I had to roll myself out of there as it was with the vegetarian plate I selected for maximum variety and value. Nice falafel, note that it is Lebanese style not Syrian, an important distinction, I find the flavor profile to be lighter with an emphasis on citrus tones rather than complex savory spicing. A delight to find a restaurant of this caliber in the Old Port! I had amazing leftovers and highly recommend!
(5)
Adria R.

I had a pretty mediocre lunch experience here yesterday. This place has been on my agenda to try for a couple of years, and I was really looking forward to it. I had the fattoush salad ($9.50), and added falafel to it ($2.00). It was quite small, certainly not what I would expect for the price, and the 2 falafels that came with it were also very tiny. Traditional fattoush has a flavorful dressing with mint and parsley and sumac, but the dressing here was very flat. It also had no croutons/pita, rather about 1/2 a teaspoon of tiny oil soaked pita remnants. There was only one server working and she was overwhelmed. There were enough tables and diners to merit at least 2 servers, and because of this our service suffered (the management's fault, not the server's). My friend had a shawarma and said it was good. I'd be willing to go again to try some more of the menu, but I won't be in a hurry.
(2)
Robert B.

If you need a break from classic Maine seafood fare, I highly recommend checking out the Olive CafÃ©. We popped in here for a delightful lunch before catching the ferry. I had the chicken shawarma and my wife had the Ya Baba shawarma. The standout dish was definitely the Ya Baba with its smoky babba ganoush and other flavorful veggies. The chicken shawarma had a nicely flavored sauce, but the chicken was a tad dry and could have been more tender and flavorful. Next time, I'd try the Ya Baba pizza or perhaps the shrimp shawarma. Our server was very friendly and attentive, and the overall atmosphere inside the restaurant was nice and relaxed.
(4)
Narayanan V.

If you love real thin crust (on a Greek pita), look no further. Even cheese is optional on your pizza. This might not fit the definition of a pizza at all, but their version is my favorite in Portland. Its light, flavorful and delicious. The Ya Baba is my personal favorite. Their falafel, shawarma and soups are fresh and taste great. The only reason for 4 * is that the service is slow and they shut early or at their convenience.
(4)
Joanna F.

A group of five of us came in for lunch on a recent Saturday. The menu looks great - lots of delicious choices. I decided on the fatoush wrap. The rest of my party also got various wraps with side salads or a side of fries. The service was HORRIBLE. It took a long time to get our drinks (water and perriers which should take seconds), took forever to order and took forever to get our food. It then took a really long time to get the check. There were two other tables in there while we were, so I don't understand the hold up. I thought the food itself would be better than it was. My wrap was fine, but the hummus was pretty bland to the point of not really being able to taste it. I'm not sure if it's that they put so little of it on the wrap or if it was just totally flavorless. That being said, the food was very fresh and most people seemed to like their meals. I will probably not be back.
(3)
Westie W.

We chose this small Lebanese restaurant for dinner. Neither my wife nor I were feeling overly hungry, so we each settled on a shawarma, yaba (vegetarian) for her and chicken for her dining companion. These were wrapped in pita and served with French fries that we upgraded for $2 each to the recommended sweet potato fries. The shawarmas were just okay, but the sweet potato fries were a ripoff, small in quantity and dried out like we got the last of a batch.
(2)
Yelena S.

I'm so glad we finally tried this place! And then went back again 3 times that same week! Seriously though, what a sweet little hidden gem. I wasn't sure how much I'd like Lebanese Mediterranean food, but I definitely know now that I love it. It's a cozy restaurant, I mean reallyyy cozy. You get quite close with your fellow dining patrons as far as space goes, it's not a bother for us but it may be for some. I always order the shrimp shawarma and sub the side of pita chips for the sweet potato fires with cinnamon and honey, the squeeze usually gets the beef shawarma pizza. The shrimp shawarma is so tasty, with flavors of all variety coming from every bite. The sweet potato fries (which are extra and bump the prices up a little high) are delicious though. Nom nom nom. The beef shawarma pizza is also pretty tastey, I've had a few bites and it's a great thin crust flavorful pizza. A cute cozy environment, friendly staff, delicious food, a definite win in my book!
(5)
J F.

What a great little spot. Food was great, it had a real home cooked taste . I ordered. A vegetarian plate that came with falafel, hummus, fried cauliflower and small salad. Wonderful, falafel was crisp on the outside, moist on the inside. The fried cauliflower was a real change and tasty. I would defiantly go back, prices were very reasonable too.
(5)
Eric T.

Very nice little place on a busy center strip of Portland water front. SKIP the shawarma (the beef one was like the old Wendy's commercial asking "Where's the beef?") - the beef was "hard to find". DO get the Chicken Pizza (or similar). The pizza was simply one of the best pizzas we have had. Garlicky, lots of meat, lots of veggies - loved it!
(4)
John R.

My husband and I stopped in here on a whim and we're delightfully surprised. He had the shrimp shwarma and I had the lobster shwarma. Unbelievable! I would go there again in a heartbeat. What was meant to be a quick stop for sustenance turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip.
(5)
Jenn F.

I had chicken shawarma and it was delicious! Hubby had beef and it was good as well. I thought it was a bit pricey but not bad at all for the old port area. Made me a shawarma fan! The tables were a bit odd, mismatched but you could see the poly drips on the side of the table from where they redid the tables and just poured it on and never bothered to wipe the drops off. That had no impact on the food just makes me wonder if the person who did it was a little lazy and i hoped it was not the same person who cleans the kitchen. Lol . There was only one server and it got busy and service was a little slow but very pleasant and we had already gotten our food so just slower with the check. However let me mention again, the food was truly delicious! Well worth the visit!
(4)
Laurie F.

We came here to try an alternative restaurant to fancy seafood. The waitress was great -very helpful. Food was really good. An excellent value. Cute and cozy inside. Give it a try.
(4)
Joey D.

All the seafood restaurants around here were packed to the gill. So I had to go with some Lebanese cuisine. The Kibbi was hot tonight. The falafel and hummus were very good and so was the haddock fish tacos. Different kind of food, but everything very good, very great
(5)
Judy L.

The chicken shwarma wrap was fantastic. The dressing they used was so delicious and the chicken was flavored and cooked perfectly well. The sweet potato fries are fantastic as well. Very cinnamony. However, I was not a fan of the hummus. It was very lemony. Not enough garlic or tahini for my taste. The service is great and you can get free extra pita bread for the your hummus, if you ask.
(4)
Aimee L.

Fantastic little gem! A friend and I happened upon Olive Cafe after bypassing a few other noisy places, and I am SO glad! The cozy room held patrons from families with children to couples on date night. The service was spot on. Both servers working the dining room knew their menu, and guided the intrepid diners thoughtfully towards their best choices. The shawarma was flavorful and fresh, both the chicken that I had, and the blackened haddock as reported by my dining companion. The sides are delicious as well, and I'd enthusiastically recommend subbing the standard pita chips with one of them. I had the toasted couscous salad, the flavors and textures were light and vibrant. I will definitely return, and next time, save room for dessert!
(5)
Amanda R.

Had a Groupon for this Mediterranean restaurant and I'm so glad I went! We had the stuffed grape leaves with rice and other spices which was fantastic and filling for an appetizer. I went out of the park and ordered a Blackened Fish Shawarma with a greek salad on the side. I never eat greek salads, but this one was fresh and delicious. I like olives now because of that greek salad. The Blackened Fish shawarma has lettuce, tomatoes, tahini sauce, pickles and haddock of course wrapped in a pita rollup. The portions are huge, but that isn't a bad thing since it could be breakfast, lunch, or dinner leftovers! You pick :) Next time I go, I'm getting a kabob because I love rice and arabic seasonings! Go there!
(5)
Willy S.

I was here for lunch during my visit to Portland. I would not consider this an authentic Mediterranean restaurant, but more like a Mediterranean-themed. Having said that, they have great food and fantastic salads at reasonable prices for the area. The staff is super friendly. I recommend this place to have a casual lunch and it has good choices for vegetarians and non-vegetarians.
(4)
Matthew D.

The shwarma's are awesome, the falafel delicious, the hummus fresh and zippy, and you have to try the sweet potato fries with cinnamon and honey! And the best part - reasonably priced unlike so many places in this area!
(5)
Puneet M.

This was a nice place it had a lot of average, but it still pleased me and was a good dinner. I went for dinner and it had a great ambiance. Nice tables and chairs and it was fairly empty especially for a Friday night. The wine and beer selection was very limited which was a shame. The water that I got when I sat down was warm which was also upsetting. There was one waitress but she did a great job making sure every table was given enough attention. We got the specials for our appetizer which was the Mediterranean bruschetta as well as the kibbi. They were both very flavorful and good. The menu had some interesting "fusion" items with Mediterranean style pizzas and tacos. I got the chicken shawarma pizza which was a flat bread pizza with a lot of toppings but it worked and tasted good. It's worth the try if you want a nice easy dinner with not much hassle.
(3)
Laura P.

What a lovely, charming place! I chose it because of proximity to my hotel, other good reviews, and a brief walk-by proved promising. The waitstaff was especially friendly and helpful. She suggested kibbi, tonight's special. It was heavenly! The beef was high quality, the spices delicate and tasty, the rice aromatic and salad, fresh and delicious. I had an excellent glass of wine and baklava for dessert- perfect accompaniment. I can't wait to bring my husband here. The ambiance is great for date night, but as a solo diner, I also felt right at home.
(5)
Karen R.

I bought a Groupon for Olive Cafe and finally got a chance to use it. I am accustomed to Mediterranean food from my visits to Istanbul and friends who live there - this is a bit different than traditional Turkish cuisine but similar in many ways. My fiance and I enjoy this type of food as you feel full but not like you over indulged. We like to split plates since we can never decide on just one thing. We ordered lamb kabobs, beef shwarma and a dish that had home made hummus pita bread and other items. All were really great - I will definitely be back. But wait...we also had dessert - and this is a MUST TRY - pistachio ice cream with baklava - it was amazing...and I am not even a dessert eater! I am not sure if the Groupon offer is still there, but that was a great deal, and I will be back for sure.
(4)
Benjamin C.

Came for dinner with a Groupon in hand. It has been a bit of a challenge making it in with the slightly irregular hours, but third try was a charm! We started with the Mediterranean Plate which was a great starter! Lots of food. Then we shared the Chicken Shawarma pizza and a Falafel wrap. The pizza was a real standout! We had half the pizza and the larger half of the falafel leftover for a second meal. Everything was delicious! We could easily fill up on just the pizza, as the portions are large. Definitely worth checking out if you are in the mood for some Mediterranean food!
(4)
Beth R.

Cute little place in the Old Port. They have several delicious vegan options. I enjoyed the falafel sandwich on a past visit and really liked it. However, I decided to branch out on my most recent visit and ordered the thyme pizza chef style. Delish! Thin-crust pizza topped with olive oil, toasted sesame seeds, thyme, and chopped cucumbers and tomatoes. Chef style meant they added greens on top. They must have been tossed in some type of salad vinegar. It reminded me of the salad pizza I used to get in New York. I loved this meal and look forward to getting it again soon.
(5)
Mel S.

Spectacular find! The shawarma pizza drew us in - and like the Greek salad - was delicious. But the service and ambiance were to match.
(5)
Jim S.

Enjoyed a meal here. Food was fresh and spiced correctly. Wait staff was very friendly. Nice atmosphere.
(4)
Eric S.

My wife and I ate lunch here a few weeks ago. Relaxed cafe that has same menu for lunch and dinner. Good service. We were in a hurry to get to an appointment and we were in and out in less than 1 hour. Had falafel wraps which were really good. Would recommend! For two sandwiches, a beer and a water it was about 26 bucks with tip.
(4)
rob p.

Great food at a reasonable price! My girlfriend and I stopped in here starving after our trip in from NYC. The host and owner Charlotte was very nice and gave us options to change orders to accommodate our tastes. The chef and charlottes husband wad the cook and brought the food out which was authetic Lebanese food. Meg got a delicious butternut squash soup and I got fish (haddock) tacos which were sublime.
(5)
Steff D.

My sister LOVES shawarmas. Since moving to Toronto it has easily become one of her all time favorite foods. She brags about how delicious the sandwiches are all the time... until recently I couldn't really relate because I didn't think Portland had a shawarma place (then again, I wasn't really looking for one). So when I heard about Olive Cafe I was instantly intrigued. I tried to get friends to go with me, but no one was interested... because of it's distinctly grungy exterior and proximity to some of the more dive-y bars in town I think it turned them off. I finally had the chance to check them out... and now I feel badly for all my friends. They have absolutely no idea what they're missing! We came at 11:30 right when they opened, and there were already several other people waiting in line outside. By the time we were seated just a few minutes later, half of the place was already filled up. I don't know about you, but that is a VERY GOOD sign in my opinion. Yes, the inside is very, very small. But I'm a local, so I'm used to the intimate, (and sometimes) awkward feeling of sitting on top of other patrons I didn't come with. As far as the ambience goes, I thought it was perfectly appropriate. The walls and decorations were simple, yet warm and the house music couldn't have been more lovely. After having stalked their menu online I already knew what I was after: the falafel shawarma with tahini sauce, tomatoes, lettuce, and pickles. When I ordered the waitress asked if I wanted pita chips (which it came with) or (for an additional charge) sweet potato french fries. After hearing that the fried items in the restaurant were all vegetarian and there was no cross-contamination from animal in the oil, I decided on the fries because hey, life is short so, why not. My counterpart got the Mediterranean Plate which I had not considered, and eyed jealously when our food arrive. It was a large platter filled with hummus, falafel, tahini, fried cauliflower, and pita bread. My sandwich, though, was delicious. It was exactly what I was hoping it was going to taste like: moist, flavorful falafel with a rich tahini sauce and fresh chopped veggies. It was a little wet which made it difficult to eat in polite company (I also attempted to take dainty bites when all I wanted to do was just shovel it in because it was so darn tasty), but hit the spot. The french fries were also very good... sweet potato-y and dusted with cinnamon. I would have liked some kind of dipping sauce (maybe a maple or poblano cream), because they were a little dry. I also wasn't expecting so many of them! Definitely more than I could eat (and I tend to be on the piggish side of things). Though a little on the pricier side, I would love to come back here and try the falafel shawarma again, but maybe add the banana peppers or pickled turnips that are suggested. The sound of the Ya Babba (fried cauliflower, baba ganoush, banana peppers, tahini sauce, and fresh veg) also makes my mouth water! Don't let the facade turn you away... there's delicious Mediterranean eats hiding within!
(4)
David B.

This is a hidden gem in the old port! The hummus was amazing (best I've ever had), as it was made fresh that morning! Everything I had was very fresh, and tasted authentic and amazing. I was very pleased with the price as well, very inexpensive, especially for the Old Port neighborhood.
(5)
Stephanie H.

Went here for dinner last night. yum. Friendly, attentive waitress. Always had a smile on her face and she was hostess and waitress for all tables that were sat. Not that it was swamped but for the people coming and going while we were there- about 10 tables total. She was calm, cool and collected and offered suggestions. SHe was very knowlegable about the menu and specials. We started with a grape leaf app that was awesome. Hubby got the lamb kabobs and I got the chicken kabob for dinner. Both came with rice and veggies. Yummmm! I would move to Portland just to eat here more often.
(5)
Myriah B.

Olive Cafe is a quaint little Mediterranean with a warm low-lit atmosphere. A candle was lit at our table as we sat and heard a delicious array of specials for the day. I got the Med Salad, my friend the chicken kabobs - both plates beautifully, with a great portion size for the price. The waitress was very friendly, and the other diners seemed to be enjoying themselves just as much as me. I highly recommend!
(4)
HenrY L.

Great place for a Mediterranean style lunch! The shawarma selections are amazing! i love the blackened Haddock. Nice location on Commercial Street, and the atmosphere is very quaint. The staff has always been exceptional!
(5)
Frank B.

The food was well prepared and the spices were terrific. We tried and shared several of the entrees and enjoyed them all. Prices are reasonable. Staff very pleasant. This is my new favorite for a casual dinner.
(5)
Dave P.

Hands down some of the best sweet fries I have ever had. They were thin sliced and had a hint of cinnamon. Wonderful. My chicken taco's were good. Not amazing but good. They tasted fresh and overall I'll come back, if for nothing else but the fries!
(4)
Christina A.

The food is overpriced for the portion and quality.
(3)
Ella B.

The Greek salad was great - full of nice flavors, including mint. The only thing was that kind of irked me is the need to offer a Greek vinaigrette - not Balsamic - for the salad. It's a Greek - not Italian - salad. Space is nice and fresh, clean and inviting. I'd go back... just please offer a Greek dressing (vinegar, oregano, etc) :)
(4)
Michael S.

I eat here on a regular basis. The food quality is great (especially the soups) and it's some of the best service in Portland hands down. sometimes the servings can be a bit small, especially if you add something like chicken to a salad. Other than that there is no reason to miss out on this place!
(5)
Bruce D.

Where do I begin? How about here: LOVE! A friend of mine has been trying to get me to come here for a couple years now and I finally did and I gotta say, I have been missing out! I ordered the Fatoush Shawarma, a Stella Artois and for dessert: Pistachio Baklava w/ Pistachio Ice Cream..... oh sweet heaven. The Fatoush Shawarma is one of the best wraps I've had... ever, let alone just in Portland. The ingredients were fresh and flavorful and I honestly couldn't stop eating until it was entirely gone. At this point I started picking some Tabouli from my friends plate and more-or-less made a round of her plate with no complaints - everything was fresh, flavorful and the price-point was fantastic! The dessert... oh my. I was so full I really didn't want dessert but just couldn't resist. And I'm glad I didn't. A blissful pistachio overload with sweet glazed pastry and everything. It was sweet, still having a fresh flavor even for a dessert, and oh so satisfying. I've since heard nothing but amazing things about their Broccoli Soup and can't wait to go back to try it. I read another review here about the small, uncomfortable space and over-priced, sub-par food and I couldn't disagree more. For starters, the yelper isn't from Portland and may not be aware that many of our local establishments here are very small and a little awkward. We're working with very old buildings from when Portland was first settled so space is tight in many of our local places - along with our cobblestone streets and brick and stone buildings, it's our charm and what makes us, us! The price point I found to be more than fair, again maybe being a local here I'm more accustomed to the price points around town. I'm not sure what similar fare goes for in Connecticut, but here, the price is more than worth the quality and portion size. And I can't imagine what she had ordered that was so sub-par. This is one of the only places that, so far, I haven't found a single complaint about any of the food and I've been to Europe and sampled the freshest Mediterranean cuisine on the planet. In fact, for the past 12 years or so I've been searching high and low on all of my travels for something comparable and can't believe I've found this place here in my own town. Nothing compares to the real deal, but this place is the best I've found nation-wide in the past 12 years of searching so I think that says something. I'd love to give this place 5 stars but I honestly have to go a few more times to really get a more rounded out view but so far - no complaints and can't wait to go back. Also, my server Carissa was is the cutest, funniest and friendliest I've had. I really hope she's working next time I go. She made wonderful recommendations and was just so pleasant and truly just a joy to have around and talk to. I'm definitely a fan. :-)
(4)
Jason B.

Met a friend for lunch here. We arrived at 11:45 to mostly empty seating (they opened at 11:30) and it was packed by the time we left. I had the Fish Tacos and Sweet Potato fries. Excellent all around. Great friendly service and fresh tasty food. Probably the best sweet potato fries and Fish Taco I've had in the area. I'll be back!
(5)
Craig M.

The Olive Cafe serves Mediterranean food at its finest... right here in Portland! This is a great spot for a romantic and intimate night, with beautiful low-lighting. The ingredients are of excellent quality, the portions are just right (don't expect American style heapings), and the service attentive. The menu is filled with creative options that you simply won't find anywhere else (other than the typical Mediterranean Plate of Hummus, Olives, Pita, etc.). The Beef Shawarma is so good you'll want to come back for more. Their specials are always impressive, too. My wife and I used to come here for breakfast and sit outside at their tables on Commercial Street. This place was our favourite breakfast spot in Portland until they stopped early hours - bring it back! I'd give it 5 stars if breakfast was still an option because it was better than their dinner, believe it or not. Anyway, you should try this place for Lunch or Dinner. The Ambience is quaint, the beer and wine selections seem designed for perfect pairings, and the food will be the highlight of your visit. Enjoy!
(4)
Courtney W.

I took my parents here when they were in town, and we were all disappointed. Mediocre food, overpriced, weird mismatched ambiance with no place to stand while you wait for a table. The broccoli soup du jour was the only good part... but it was served in plastic bowls. Our server didn't even ask how our food was until we were finished. Never going back, which is a shame because a good casual Mediterranean place would do really well in this location. Owners take note; there is a difference between 'casual' and not trying.
(2)
crayon k.

This cozy little Mediterranean cafe is a vegan's dream. The pizza's are amazing, the staff was courteous and attentive and it was a fantastic experience! I will go back every time I am in town!
(5)
Bobby M.

Avoid the grape leaves...the rice was way too sticky. And it was lacking overall. Pizza was good. Kebabs were nice as well.
(3)
jess b.

"I just realized the funniest thing, 'Olive' is an anagram for 'I love'." And there is so much I LOVE about the Olive Cafe: I LOVE the tasty, spicy bean soup-of-the-day I had there the other night. I LOVE the generous portion of meaty mussels. I LOVE the prompt and friendly service. Everything had a lot of flavor! Highly recommend.
(4)
G S.

Great food, small shop, chicken swarma & chicken dinner plate excellent. Quick service.
(5)
Lucy G.

Twice I have ducked into This rather unassuming little cafe while running errands downtown. Both times i have been thoroughly impressed! For a wonderful light and flavorful lunch order the Greek salad and split it for two. The vino verde is perfect to pair with lunch. For your main course- don't miss the falafel. What a treat for the taste buds. The falafel is crisp, light and full of flavor. A perfect mint and herb taste and wonderfully fresh pita makes this hands down the most enchanting and brilliant falafel I have had to date! Don't miss this charming little spot.
(5)
Audrey D.

Great menu.. Lots to choose form I definitely recommend the beef shawarma
(4)
Carl V.

Just awesome. I had the beef something or other pizza, and I did not know what sort of a treat i was in for. I was worried that by ordering a pizza I was missing out on a chance to really get a sense of what this place could do. You see I believed, and this seems so silly now, that while pizza is delicious, most of them are the same. I was so wrong. This pizza was truly a unique experience. Eye opening. Enlightening. Every bite was delicious. I was so full but I wanted more. The wrap my wife had was also amazing from what I am told. Go here.
(5)
George H.

Downhill big time!! We ate there a few months ago and it was really good. Fresh, well prepared food. We returned today and it was awful!! The lettuce was pre-composted, the felafel was burned, the hummus was salty and flavorless. This was accompanied by stale dry pita crisps. It was also interesting that in the past the restaurant was crowded. Today it was nearly empty. I guess that word gets around What a pity!!
(1)
Kyle S.

Wow, this place is great! We came in with me, my wife, and four kids around lunch hour. The owner's who work there are very accommodating. The table was comfortable and the food came quickly. It was delicious. They brought sippy cups for our youngest which was a nice touch that they were ready for kids. I highly recommend this place for your Portland day trips!
(5)
Liz H.

Went here for dinner with a friend tonight and was very impressed. The Olive Cafe clearly knows that the ingredients are the star, and their authentic, slightly-elevated Middle Eastern fare delivers. First of all, the pita chips were a slam dunk. I could have eaten a plate of those. For appetizers, we had the sampler; I was in love with the cauliflower and eggplant. Solid hummus. The felafel was decent (I make my own all the time, so I'm quite picky- I have to say mine was a bit better). More pita bread next time, please! Since I only had a salad for my main, I'll reserve judgment on the entrees. They looked and smelled wonderful, though. Friendly service, reasonable prices, lots of promos and coupons.
(4)
Will S.

*Review in Progress* Figured I'd throw this up for the time being. The review, not the food. This place has promise! I went here for lunch the other day with a friend. I had already eaten, she hadn't. We walked in, immediately greeted by a friendly outgoing waitress/hostess. I had some of the pita chips, which were totally awesome, and only a bowl of their cauliflower soup. It was good, not mind-blowing. Can cauliflower ever be mind-blowing? My friend had the chicken wrap, which she said was delicious. It came with hand cut fries, which were, of course, scrumptious. I will be returning for a proper meal soon, and will revise this placeholder of a review. Don't let three stars discourage you from trying this place!! I think it may be a gem.
(3)
Jackie G.

On a recent weekend jaunt to Portland, we ended up here not once- but twice. We stopped in for a mid afternoon app of fresh mussels and bruschetta. The lovely waitress recommended the mussels as one of their best items and she was definitely right! They were in a very light broth with fresh tomatoes and cooked perfectly. The bruschetta was always incredibly fresh. When we told her we were from out of town and staying up the street, she gave us a buy one get one free coupon for breakfast the next morning. Being as I'm not a huge breakfast fan generally, I really enjoyed their selection. They had a number of savory items that were a little less "breakfast" and a little more brunch. And again, fresh. Loved the decor, loved the spot would go back in a heartbeat!
(5)
Joe S.

Honestly, I really have no idea what Gorge is talking about. Went yesterday and had the Falafel - so good! And this is coming from someone who traveled to Israel and the Middle Eat.
(5)
Joy B.

Deeeeeelicious! The food is wonderful and fresh and the owners are so pleasant, every time I visit.
(5)
Julie T.

Stopped in for lunch on a Saturday with my husband....We started with a broccoli soup that was fabulous and I had the Chicken Shawarma wrap and my husband had the Fatoush wrap.....both were fresh and tasty....can't wait to return!
(5)
Amanda W.

Not really worth a stop. We were one of only a few parties in the restaurant and it still took a long time to get our 3 salads... They also forgot one of our salads. Super mediocre food for the price. I recommend just going to the grocery store and buying hummus---it would be cheaper and tastier.
(2)
Corissa P.

Excellent Mediterranean food, and a fun atmosphere. Nick and I went on a date here and it was an excellent, quiet setting for that. Very enjoyable.
(4)
Mr B.

All food options were palatable, the environment was a bit dark, the drink choices were tolerable at best - think bar drinks and juices. Probably a good place for lunch off the beaten path of tourism in Downtown Portland but not the sort of place I'd return to.
(3)
Evi D.

A cute, casual place. Very small and quiet. I got the pizza, and it was the best pizza I've ever had. Great local place, no tourists, which is nice. Would definitely come back. Food is excellent and it has a pleasant atmosphere.
(5)
Shakira M.

Visited Portland last week with my family and had an amazing time at Olive Cafe. We stopped in on our last day before heading back to Boston. The small restaurant with one waitress was packed, but we were greeted immediately and had a table within 5 minutes. Our waitress (as I mentioned before the only one in the restaurant) was very friendly, attentive and extremely fast. We ordered drinks and food and were in a bit of a rush to head out, but our food came out very fast and it was hot and delicious. Will definitely stop by again when in Portland.
(4)
M. M.

Best pizza ever! I love this place. Small, friendly, fresh food and great service. Nice stop during a day of window shopping!
(5)
Matt M.

Really cool little place! After looking at the Olive Cafe's website, we decided it looked pretty good even though there were no reviews to trust on Yelp (yet!). Very glad we took a risk and went. We had a special appetizer that was basically a Lebanese "meat pie" with bulgur wheat and a bed of greens. It was fantastic! I got the beef schwarma wrap with fried pita chips, and it was delicious. The pita chips are out of this world. My girlfriend got the falafel, and while it was not the best falafel we've ever eaten, it could certainly hold it's own. The prices are very reasonable for the quality of the food. It all tasted like it was made from scratch with love and care in the little kitchen in back. We were also very impressed by the waitress we had, she was extremely knowledgeable and gave great recommendations. All in all, I've been to better Mediterranean restaurants in my day, but for the price and the atmosphere, you can't go wrong here. Definitely recommended.
(4)
Rodolfo M.

Walked a mile to get to this place for lunch. Got there at 2:45PM, and they are said to open for lunch until 3:00PM. A sign on the sidewalk confirmed they were open. Once inside we were rudely denied seating, and kicked out. Their explanation was that "they had been too busy for lunch". Just a terrible first impression.
(1)
Joshua M.

From the get go the place has a great homey feel to it. I didn't have time to stay and eat, but I did sit and wait for my food at the bar. It gave me time to look everything a look, and there board showed quite a few good sounding dishes. The staff was very nice as well, and offered me some water while I waited. When I got to the food I was in love at first bite. The beef shawarma is something I highly recommend (I'm getting hungry just thinking about it). Tasted great, but I did expect a little more for the price. The fries were good as well, but next time I'll try the salad (I was more in the mood for fries that day). I'd easily go back just to try more, and it's the only place in the Portland area I know that makes shawarma.
(4)
Carolyn V.

We have been here twice now and loved it both times. The staff are great, the atmosphere very european - The fish specials are Wonderful!!!!! Presentation of the food makes me feel special. This is well worth another visit and has become our favorite choice for special ocassions.
(5)
Michael K.

Best simple food in Portland. Such flavors! We were here shortly after they opened two years ago and it was fantastic. On a return visit this month, the food was even better (if that is possible). Delicious, perfectly-seasoned fresh real food. And they are among the most helpful in welcoming children that we have seen anywhere in the country.
(5)
Westie W.

We chose this small Lebanese restaurant for dinner. Neither my wife nor I were feeling overly hungry, so we each settled on a shawarma, yaba (vegetarian) for her and chicken for her dining companion. These were wrapped in pita and served with French fries that we upgraded for $2 each to the recommended sweet potato fries. The shawarmas were just okay, but the sweet potato fries were a ripoff, small in quantity and dried out like we got the last of a batch.
(2)
Shelley H.

Slice of Lebanese heaven, fresh and authentic. Busy devoted weekday lunch, always a good sign. Very small dining room, and daily specials are gobbled up fast! Spectacular vegetarian selections, I didn't try the meats as they appeared a bit dry as I saw them go by, but they may have been amazing. They smelled nice enough. With so many truly dazzling options I had to roll myself out of there as it was with the vegetarian plate I selected for maximum variety and value. Nice falafel, note that it is Lebanese style not Syrian, an important distinction, I find the flavor profile to be lighter with an emphasis on citrus tones rather than complex savory spicing. A delight to find a restaurant of this caliber in the Old Port! I had amazing leftovers and highly recommend!
(5)
Adria R.

I had a pretty mediocre lunch experience here yesterday. This place has been on my agenda to try for a couple of years, and I was really looking forward to it. I had the fattoush salad ($9.50), and added falafel to it ($2.00). It was quite small, certainly not what I would expect for the price, and the 2 falafels that came with it were also very tiny. Traditional fattoush has a flavorful dressing with mint and parsley and sumac, but the dressing here was very flat. It also had no croutons/pita, rather about 1/2 a teaspoon of tiny oil soaked pita remnants. There was only one server working and she was overwhelmed. There were enough tables and diners to merit at least 2 servers, and because of this our service suffered (the management's fault, not the server's). My friend had a shawarma and said it was good. I'd be willing to go again to try some more of the menu, but I won't be in a hurry.
(2)
Robert B.

If you need a break from classic Maine seafood fare, I highly recommend checking out the Olive CafÃ©. We popped in here for a delightful lunch before catching the ferry. I had the chicken shawarma and my wife had the Ya Baba shawarma. The standout dish was definitely the Ya Baba with its smoky babba ganoush and other flavorful veggies. The chicken shawarma had a nicely flavored sauce, but the chicken was a tad dry and could have been more tender and flavorful. Next time, I'd try the Ya Baba pizza or perhaps the shrimp shawarma. Our server was very friendly and attentive, and the overall atmosphere inside the restaurant was nice and relaxed.
(4)
Joanna F.

A group of five of us came in for lunch on a recent Saturday. The menu looks great - lots of delicious choices. I decided on the fatoush wrap. The rest of my party also got various wraps with side salads or a side of fries. The service was HORRIBLE. It took a long time to get our drinks (water and perriers which should take seconds), took forever to order and took forever to get our food. It then took a really long time to get the check. There were two other tables in there while we were, so I don't understand the hold up. I thought the food itself would be better than it was. My wrap was fine, but the hummus was pretty bland to the point of not really being able to taste it. I'm not sure if it's that they put so little of it on the wrap or if it was just totally flavorless. That being said, the food was very fresh and most people seemed to like their meals. I will probably not be back.
(3)
Yelena S.

I'm so glad we finally tried this place! And then went back again 3 times that same week! Seriously though, what a sweet little hidden gem. I wasn't sure how much I'd like Lebanese Mediterranean food, but I definitely know now that I love it. It's a cozy restaurant, I mean reallyyy cozy. You get quite close with your fellow dining patrons as far as space goes, it's not a bother for us but it may be for some. I always order the shrimp shawarma and sub the side of pita chips for the sweet potato fires with cinnamon and honey, the squeeze usually gets the beef shawarma pizza. The shrimp shawarma is so tasty, with flavors of all variety coming from every bite. The sweet potato fries (which are extra and bump the prices up a little high) are delicious though. Nom nom nom. The beef shawarma pizza is also pretty tastey, I've had a few bites and it's a great thin crust flavorful pizza. A cute cozy environment, friendly staff, delicious food, a definite win in my book!
(5)
J F.

What a great little spot. Food was great, it had a real home cooked taste . I ordered. A vegetarian plate that came with falafel, hummus, fried cauliflower and small salad. Wonderful, falafel was crisp on the outside, moist on the inside. The fried cauliflower was a real change and tasty. I would defiantly go back, prices were very reasonable too.
(5)
Eric T.

Very nice little place on a busy center strip of Portland water front. SKIP the shawarma (the beef one was like the old Wendy's commercial asking "Where's the beef?") - the beef was "hard to find". DO get the Chicken Pizza (or similar). The pizza was simply one of the best pizzas we have had. Garlicky, lots of meat, lots of veggies - loved it!
(4)
Narayanan V.

If you love real thin crust (on a Greek pita), look no further. Even cheese is optional on your pizza. This might not fit the definition of a pizza at all, but their version is my favorite in Portland. Its light, flavorful and delicious. The Ya Baba is my personal favorite. Their falafel, shawarma and soups are fresh and taste great. The only reason for 4 * is that the service is slow and they shut early or at their convenience.
(4)
John R.

My husband and I stopped in here on a whim and we're delightfully surprised. He had the shrimp shwarma and I had the lobster shwarma. Unbelievable! I would go there again in a heartbeat. What was meant to be a quick stop for sustenance turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip.
(5)
Jenn F.

I had chicken shawarma and it was delicious! Hubby had beef and it was good as well. I thought it was a bit pricey but not bad at all for the old port area. Made me a shawarma fan! The tables were a bit odd, mismatched but you could see the poly drips on the side of the table from where they redid the tables and just poured it on and never bothered to wipe the drops off. That had no impact on the food just makes me wonder if the person who did it was a little lazy and i hoped it was not the same person who cleans the kitchen. Lol . There was only one server and it got busy and service was a little slow but very pleasant and we had already gotten our food so just slower with the check. However let me mention again, the food was truly delicious! Well worth the visit!
(4)
Laurie F.

We came here to try an alternative restaurant to fancy seafood. The waitress was great -very helpful. Food was really good. An excellent value. Cute and cozy inside. Give it a try.
(4)
Joey D.

All the seafood restaurants around here were packed to the gill. So I had to go with some Lebanese cuisine. The Kibbi was hot tonight. The falafel and hummus were very good and so was the haddock fish tacos. Different kind of food, but everything very good, very great
(5)
Stephanie H.

Went here for dinner last night. yum. Friendly, attentive waitress. Always had a smile on her face and she was hostess and waitress for all tables that were sat. Not that it was swamped but for the people coming and going while we were there- about 10 tables total. She was calm, cool and collected and offered suggestions. SHe was very knowlegable about the menu and specials. We started with a grape leaf app that was awesome. Hubby got the lamb kabobs and I got the chicken kabob for dinner. Both came with rice and veggies. Yummmm! I would move to Portland just to eat here more often.
(5)
Myriah B.

Olive Cafe is a quaint little Mediterranean with a warm low-lit atmosphere. A candle was lit at our table as we sat and heard a delicious array of specials for the day. I got the Med Salad, my friend the chicken kabobs - both plates beautifully, with a great portion size for the price. The waitress was very friendly, and the other diners seemed to be enjoying themselves just as much as me. I highly recommend!
(4)
Amanda R.

Had a Groupon for this Mediterranean restaurant and I'm so glad I went! We had the stuffed grape leaves with rice and other spices which was fantastic and filling for an appetizer. I went out of the park and ordered a Blackened Fish Shawarma with a greek salad on the side. I never eat greek salads, but this one was fresh and delicious. I like olives now because of that greek salad. The Blackened Fish shawarma has lettuce, tomatoes, tahini sauce, pickles and haddock of course wrapped in a pita rollup. The portions are huge, but that isn't a bad thing since it could be breakfast, lunch, or dinner leftovers! You pick :) Next time I go, I'm getting a kabob because I love rice and arabic seasonings! Go there!
(5)
Willy S.

I was here for lunch during my visit to Portland. I would not consider this an authentic Mediterranean restaurant, but more like a Mediterranean-themed. Having said that, they have great food and fantastic salads at reasonable prices for the area. The staff is super friendly. I recommend this place to have a casual lunch and it has good choices for vegetarians and non-vegetarians.
(4)
Matthew D.

The shwarma's are awesome, the falafel delicious, the hummus fresh and zippy, and you have to try the sweet potato fries with cinnamon and honey! And the best part - reasonably priced unlike so many places in this area!
(5)
Puneet M.

This was a nice place it had a lot of average, but it still pleased me and was a good dinner. I went for dinner and it had a great ambiance. Nice tables and chairs and it was fairly empty especially for a Friday night. The wine and beer selection was very limited which was a shame. The water that I got when I sat down was warm which was also upsetting. There was one waitress but she did a great job making sure every table was given enough attention. We got the specials for our appetizer which was the Mediterranean bruschetta as well as the kibbi. They were both very flavorful and good. The menu had some interesting "fusion" items with Mediterranean style pizzas and tacos. I got the chicken shawarma pizza which was a flat bread pizza with a lot of toppings but it worked and tasted good. It's worth the try if you want a nice easy dinner with not much hassle.
(3)
Jen S.

My husband and I had a very nice lunch here! I had the vegetarian plate and he had the kibbi. Both were tasty and very filling. The service is a little slow, but overall the waitress was sweet and knowledgeable.
(4)
T N.

Tasty food and cozy space. Good stuff!
(4)
Vanessa H.

FINALLY found them open. I really love their food and the atmosphere a tiny place with zero pretension. Cozy but refreshingly unhipster.
(5)
Chitra R.

I'm a bit baffled by the great reviews for this restaurant. We went there based on the yelp reviews and were completely underwhelmed. I ordered the lamb kebabs and asked for them to be cooked medium. When they came out, they were oozing blood. When I sent them back, they cooked them until they were pretty much well done. The bed of rice under the kebabs was...al dente...at best. Probably not even that. Eating hard pieces of rice along with the first-undercooked-then-overcooked kebabs was not fun. Especially when you consider that the entree cost $19. I can get better kebabs at just about any food truck for probably $12 cheaper. Blah.
(2)
andy w.

Really nice, relaxing lunch. Fantastic pizza!
(5)
Sarah P.

One of the best little secrets in portland! You can not get a better falafel wrap in town anywhere!
(5)
L E.

We went here twice while on vacation in Portland. The salads and pizzas were so delicious, I'm trying to replicate the recipes at home. I recommend the pesto pizza, the mexican salad, and the greek salad. All the ingredients tasted fresh and were very flavorful.
(5)
Bob R.

This should be a 3.5 star rating. Everything was really good though not much "wow" factor. I had a special cream soup that was lacking in creaminess. Grape leaves were very tasty. I had the fish taco which was tasty and my my wife enjoyed falafel wrap. Very solid food and a very good value. Only one server in the place that filled up while we were there. She doubled as the bartender. Kept her cool and managed to be attentive without being frazzled. Really nice job - she could have (and should have) been in the weeds. Nice alternative to the more gourmet (read: expensive) places in the Old Port.
(4)
Judy L.

The chicken shwarma wrap was fantastic. The dressing they used was so delicious and the chicken was flavored and cooked perfectly well. The sweet potato fries are fantastic as well. Very cinnamony. However, I was not a fan of the hummus. It was very lemony. Not enough garlic or tahini for my taste. The service is great and you can get free extra pita bread for the your hummus, if you ask.
(4)
Aimee L.

Fantastic little gem! A friend and I happened upon Olive Cafe after bypassing a few other noisy places, and I am SO glad! The cozy room held patrons from families with children to couples on date night. The service was spot on. Both servers working the dining room knew their menu, and guided the intrepid diners thoughtfully towards their best choices. The shawarma was flavorful and fresh, both the chicken that I had, and the blackened haddock as reported by my dining companion. The sides are delicious as well, and I'd enthusiastically recommend subbing the standard pita chips with one of them. I had the toasted couscous salad, the flavors and textures were light and vibrant. I will definitely return, and next time, save room for dessert!
(5)
rob p.

Great food at a reasonable price! My girlfriend and I stopped in here starving after our trip in from NYC. The host and owner Charlotte was very nice and gave us options to change orders to accommodate our tastes. The chef and charlottes husband wad the cook and brought the food out which was authetic Lebanese food. Meg got a delicious butternut squash soup and I got fish (haddock) tacos which were sublime.
(5)
Steff D.

My sister LOVES shawarmas. Since moving to Toronto it has easily become one of her all time favorite foods. She brags about how delicious the sandwiches are all the time... until recently I couldn't really relate because I didn't think Portland had a shawarma place (then again, I wasn't really looking for one). So when I heard about Olive Cafe I was instantly intrigued. I tried to get friends to go with me, but no one was interested... because of it's distinctly grungy exterior and proximity to some of the more dive-y bars in town I think it turned them off. I finally had the chance to check them out... and now I feel badly for all my friends. They have absolutely no idea what they're missing! We came at 11:30 right when they opened, and there were already several other people waiting in line outside. By the time we were seated just a few minutes later, half of the place was already filled up. I don't know about you, but that is a VERY GOOD sign in my opinion. Yes, the inside is very, very small. But I'm a local, so I'm used to the intimate, (and sometimes) awkward feeling of sitting on top of other patrons I didn't come with. As far as the ambience goes, I thought it was perfectly appropriate. The walls and decorations were simple, yet warm and the house music couldn't have been more lovely. After having stalked their menu online I already knew what I was after: the falafel shawarma with tahini sauce, tomatoes, lettuce, and pickles. When I ordered the waitress asked if I wanted pita chips (which it came with) or (for an additional charge) sweet potato french fries. After hearing that the fried items in the restaurant were all vegetarian and there was no cross-contamination from animal in the oil, I decided on the fries because hey, life is short so, why not. My counterpart got the Mediterranean Plate which I had not considered, and eyed jealously when our food arrive. It was a large platter filled with hummus, falafel, tahini, fried cauliflower, and pita bread. My sandwich, though, was delicious. It was exactly what I was hoping it was going to taste like: moist, flavorful falafel with a rich tahini sauce and fresh chopped veggies. It was a little wet which made it difficult to eat in polite company (I also attempted to take dainty bites when all I wanted to do was just shovel it in because it was so darn tasty), but hit the spot. The french fries were also very good... sweet potato-y and dusted with cinnamon. I would have liked some kind of dipping sauce (maybe a maple or poblano cream), because they were a little dry. I also wasn't expecting so many of them! Definitely more than I could eat (and I tend to be on the piggish side of things). Though a little on the pricier side, I would love to come back here and try the falafel shawarma again, but maybe add the banana peppers or pickled turnips that are suggested. The sound of the Ya Babba (fried cauliflower, baba ganoush, banana peppers, tahini sauce, and fresh veg) also makes my mouth water! Don't let the facade turn you away... there's delicious Mediterranean eats hiding within!
(4)
David B.

This is a hidden gem in the old port! The hummus was amazing (best I've ever had), as it was made fresh that morning! Everything I had was very fresh, and tasted authentic and amazing. I was very pleased with the price as well, very inexpensive, especially for the Old Port neighborhood.
(5)
Laura P.

What a lovely, charming place! I chose it because of proximity to my hotel, other good reviews, and a brief walk-by proved promising. The waitstaff was especially friendly and helpful. She suggested kibbi, tonight's special. It was heavenly! The beef was high quality, the spices delicate and tasty, the rice aromatic and salad, fresh and delicious. I had an excellent glass of wine and baklava for dessert- perfect accompaniment. I can't wait to bring my husband here. The ambiance is great for date night, but as a solo diner, I also felt right at home.
(5)
G S.

Great food, small shop, chicken swarma & chicken dinner plate excellent. Quick service.
(5)
Karen R.

I bought a Groupon for Olive Cafe and finally got a chance to use it. I am accustomed to Mediterranean food from my visits to Istanbul and friends who live there - this is a bit different than traditional Turkish cuisine but similar in many ways. My fiance and I enjoy this type of food as you feel full but not like you over indulged. We like to split plates since we can never decide on just one thing. We ordered lamb kabobs, beef shwarma and a dish that had home made hummus pita bread and other items. All were really great - I will definitely be back. But wait...we also had dessert - and this is a MUST TRY - pistachio ice cream with baklava - it was amazing...and I am not even a dessert eater! I am not sure if the Groupon offer is still there, but that was a great deal, and I will be back for sure.
(4)
Benjamin C.

Came for dinner with a Groupon in hand. It has been a bit of a challenge making it in with the slightly irregular hours, but third try was a charm! We started with the Mediterranean Plate which was a great starter! Lots of food. Then we shared the Chicken Shawarma pizza and a Falafel wrap. The pizza was a real standout! We had half the pizza and the larger half of the falafel leftover for a second meal. Everything was delicious! We could easily fill up on just the pizza, as the portions are large. Definitely worth checking out if you are in the mood for some Mediterranean food!
(4)
Beth R.

Cute little place in the Old Port. They have several delicious vegan options. I enjoyed the falafel sandwich on a past visit and really liked it. However, I decided to branch out on my most recent visit and ordered the thyme pizza chef style. Delish! Thin-crust pizza topped with olive oil, toasted sesame seeds, thyme, and chopped cucumbers and tomatoes. Chef style meant they added greens on top. They must have been tossed in some type of salad vinegar. It reminded me of the salad pizza I used to get in New York. I loved this meal and look forward to getting it again soon.
(5)
Mel S.

Spectacular find! The shawarma pizza drew us in - and like the Greek salad - was delicious. But the service and ambiance were to match.
(5)
Jim S.

Enjoyed a meal here. Food was fresh and spiced correctly. Wait staff was very friendly. Nice atmosphere.
(4)
Lucy G.

Twice I have ducked into This rather unassuming little cafe while running errands downtown. Both times i have been thoroughly impressed! For a wonderful light and flavorful lunch order the Greek salad and split it for two. The vino verde is perfect to pair with lunch. For your main course- don't miss the falafel. What a treat for the taste buds. The falafel is crisp, light and full of flavor. A perfect mint and herb taste and wonderfully fresh pita makes this hands down the most enchanting and brilliant falafel I have had to date! Don't miss this charming little spot.
(5)
Audrey D.

Great menu.. Lots to choose form I definitely recommend the beef shawarma
(4)
Ella B.

The Greek salad was great - full of nice flavors, including mint. The only thing was that kind of irked me is the need to offer a Greek vinaigrette - not Balsamic - for the salad. It's a Greek - not Italian - salad. Space is nice and fresh, clean and inviting. I'd go back... just please offer a Greek dressing (vinegar, oregano, etc) :)
(4)
HenrY L.

Great place for a Mediterranean style lunch! The shawarma selections are amazing! i love the blackened Haddock. Nice location on Commercial Street, and the atmosphere is very quaint. The staff has always been exceptional!
(5)
Frank B.

The food was well prepared and the spices were terrific. We tried and shared several of the entrees and enjoyed them all. Prices are reasonable. Staff very pleasant. This is my new favorite for a casual dinner.
(5)
Dave P.

Hands down some of the best sweet fries I have ever had. They were thin sliced and had a hint of cinnamon. Wonderful. My chicken taco's were good. Not amazing but good. They tasted fresh and overall I'll come back, if for nothing else but the fries!
(4)
Christina A.

The food is overpriced for the portion and quality.
(3)
Eric S.

My wife and I ate lunch here a few weeks ago. Relaxed cafe that has same menu for lunch and dinner. Good service. We were in a hurry to get to an appointment and we were in and out in less than 1 hour. Had falafel wraps which were really good. Would recommend! For two sandwiches, a beer and a water it was about 26 bucks with tip.
(4)
Jen S.

My husband and I had a very nice lunch here! I had the vegetarian plate and he had the kibbi. Both were tasty and very filling. The service is a little slow, but overall the waitress was sweet and knowledgeable.
(4)
T N.

Tasty food and cozy space. Good stuff!
(4)
Vanessa H.

FINALLY found them open. I really love their food and the atmosphere a tiny place with zero pretension. Cozy but refreshingly unhipster.
(5)
Craig M.

The Olive Cafe serves Mediterranean food at its finest... right here in Portland! This is a great spot for a romantic and intimate night, with beautiful low-lighting. The ingredients are of excellent quality, the portions are just right (don't expect American style heapings), and the service attentive. The menu is filled with creative options that you simply won't find anywhere else (other than the typical Mediterranean Plate of Hummus, Olives, Pita, etc.). The Beef Shawarma is so good you'll want to come back for more. Their specials are always impressive, too. My wife and I used to come here for breakfast and sit outside at their tables on Commercial Street. This place was our favourite breakfast spot in Portland until they stopped early hours - bring it back! I'd give it 5 stars if breakfast was still an option because it was better than their dinner, believe it or not. Anyway, you should try this place for Lunch or Dinner. The Ambience is quaint, the beer and wine selections seem designed for perfect pairings, and the food will be the highlight of your visit. Enjoy!
(4)
Courtney W.

I took my parents here when they were in town, and we were all disappointed. Mediocre food, overpriced, weird mismatched ambiance with no place to stand while you wait for a table. The broccoli soup du jour was the only good part... but it was served in plastic bowls. Our server didn't even ask how our food was until we were finished. Never going back, which is a shame because a good casual Mediterranean place would do really well in this location. Owners take note; there is a difference between 'casual' and not trying.
(2)
crayon k.

This cozy little Mediterranean cafe is a vegan's dream. The pizza's are amazing, the staff was courteous and attentive and it was a fantastic experience! I will go back every time I am in town!
(5)
Bobby M.

Avoid the grape leaves...the rice was way too sticky. And it was lacking overall. Pizza was good. Kebabs were nice as well.
(3)
jess b.

"I just realized the funniest thing, 'Olive' is an anagram for 'I love'." And there is so much I LOVE about the Olive Cafe: I LOVE the tasty, spicy bean soup-of-the-day I had there the other night. I LOVE the generous portion of meaty mussels. I LOVE the prompt and friendly service. Everything had a lot of flavor! Highly recommend.
(4)
Bruce D.

Where do I begin? How about here: LOVE! A friend of mine has been trying to get me to come here for a couple years now and I finally did and I gotta say, I have been missing out! I ordered the Fatoush Shawarma, a Stella Artois and for dessert: Pistachio Baklava w/ Pistachio Ice Cream..... oh sweet heaven. The Fatoush Shawarma is one of the best wraps I've had... ever, let alone just in Portland. The ingredients were fresh and flavorful and I honestly couldn't stop eating until it was entirely gone. At this point I started picking some Tabouli from my friends plate and more-or-less made a round of her plate with no complaints - everything was fresh, flavorful and the price-point was fantastic! The dessert... oh my. I was so full I really didn't want dessert but just couldn't resist. And I'm glad I didn't. A blissful pistachio overload with sweet glazed pastry and everything. It was sweet, still having a fresh flavor even for a dessert, and oh so satisfying. I've since heard nothing but amazing things about their Broccoli Soup and can't wait to go back to try it. I read another review here about the small, uncomfortable space and over-priced, sub-par food and I couldn't disagree more. For starters, the yelper isn't from Portland and may not be aware that many of our local establishments here are very small and a little awkward. We're working with very old buildings from when Portland was first settled so space is tight in many of our local places - along with our cobblestone streets and brick and stone buildings, it's our charm and what makes us, us! The price point I found to be more than fair, again maybe being a local here I'm more accustomed to the price points around town. I'm not sure what similar fare goes for in Connecticut, but here, the price is more than worth the quality and portion size. And I can't imagine what she had ordered that was so sub-par. This is one of the only places that, so far, I haven't found a single complaint about any of the food and I've been to Europe and sampled the freshest Mediterranean cuisine on the planet. In fact, for the past 12 years or so I've been searching high and low on all of my travels for something comparable and can't believe I've found this place here in my own town. Nothing compares to the real deal, but this place is the best I've found nation-wide in the past 12 years of searching so I think that says something. I'd love to give this place 5 stars but I honestly have to go a few more times to really get a more rounded out view but so far - no complaints and can't wait to go back. Also, my server Carissa was is the cutest, funniest and friendliest I've had. I really hope she's working next time I go. She made wonderful recommendations and was just so pleasant and truly just a joy to have around and talk to. I'm definitely a fan. :-)
(4)
Jason B.

Met a friend for lunch here. We arrived at 11:45 to mostly empty seating (they opened at 11:30) and it was packed by the time we left. I had the Fish Tacos and Sweet Potato fries. Excellent all around. Great friendly service and fresh tasty food. Probably the best sweet potato fries and Fish Taco I've had in the area. I'll be back!
(5)
Michael S.

I eat here on a regular basis. The food quality is great (especially the soups) and it's some of the best service in Portland hands down. sometimes the servings can be a bit small, especially if you add something like chicken to a salad. Other than that there is no reason to miss out on this place!
(5)
Carl V.

Just awesome. I had the beef something or other pizza, and I did not know what sort of a treat i was in for. I was worried that by ordering a pizza I was missing out on a chance to really get a sense of what this place could do. You see I believed, and this seems so silly now, that while pizza is delicious, most of them are the same. I was so wrong. This pizza was truly a unique experience. Eye opening. Enlightening. Every bite was delicious. I was so full but I wanted more. The wrap my wife had was also amazing from what I am told. Go here.
(5)
George H.

Downhill big time!! We ate there a few months ago and it was really good. Fresh, well prepared food. We returned today and it was awful!! The lettuce was pre-composted, the felafel was burned, the hummus was salty and flavorless. This was accompanied by stale dry pita crisps. It was also interesting that in the past the restaurant was crowded. Today it was nearly empty. I guess that word gets around What a pity!!
(1)
Kyle S.

Wow, this place is great! We came in with me, my wife, and four kids around lunch hour. The owner's who work there are very accommodating. The table was comfortable and the food came quickly. It was delicious. They brought sippy cups for our youngest which was a nice touch that they were ready for kids. I highly recommend this place for your Portland day trips!
(5)
Liz H.

Went here for dinner with a friend tonight and was very impressed. The Olive Cafe clearly knows that the ingredients are the star, and their authentic, slightly-elevated Middle Eastern fare delivers. First of all, the pita chips were a slam dunk. I could have eaten a plate of those. For appetizers, we had the sampler; I was in love with the cauliflower and eggplant. Solid hummus. The felafel was decent (I make my own all the time, so I'm quite picky- I have to say mine was a bit better). More pita bread next time, please! Since I only had a salad for my main, I'll reserve judgment on the entrees. They looked and smelled wonderful, though. Friendly service, reasonable prices, lots of promos and coupons.
(4)
Will S.

*Review in Progress* Figured I'd throw this up for the time being. The review, not the food. This place has promise! I went here for lunch the other day with a friend. I had already eaten, she hadn't. We walked in, immediately greeted by a friendly outgoing waitress/hostess. I had some of the pita chips, which were totally awesome, and only a bowl of their cauliflower soup. It was good, not mind-blowing. Can cauliflower ever be mind-blowing? My friend had the chicken wrap, which she said was delicious. It came with hand cut fries, which were, of course, scrumptious. I will be returning for a proper meal soon, and will revise this placeholder of a review. Don't let three stars discourage you from trying this place!! I think it may be a gem.
(3)
Jackie G.

On a recent weekend jaunt to Portland, we ended up here not once- but twice. We stopped in for a mid afternoon app of fresh mussels and bruschetta. The lovely waitress recommended the mussels as one of their best items and she was definitely right! They were in a very light broth with fresh tomatoes and cooked perfectly. The bruschetta was always incredibly fresh. When we told her we were from out of town and staying up the street, she gave us a buy one get one free coupon for breakfast the next morning. Being as I'm not a huge breakfast fan generally, I really enjoyed their selection. They had a number of savory items that were a little less "breakfast" and a little more brunch. And again, fresh. Loved the decor, loved the spot would go back in a heartbeat!
(5)
Joe S.

Honestly, I really have no idea what Gorge is talking about. Went yesterday and had the Falafel - so good! And this is coming from someone who traveled to Israel and the Middle Eat.
(5)
Joy B.

Deeeeeelicious! The food is wonderful and fresh and the owners are so pleasant, every time I visit.
(5)
Julie T.

Stopped in for lunch on a Saturday with my husband....We started with a broccoli soup that was fabulous and I had the Chicken Shawarma wrap and my husband had the Fatoush wrap.....both were fresh and tasty....can't wait to return!
(5)
Amanda W.

Not really worth a stop. We were one of only a few parties in the restaurant and it still took a long time to get our 3 salads... They also forgot one of our salads. Super mediocre food for the price. I recommend just going to the grocery store and buying hummus---it would be cheaper and tastier.
(2)
Corissa P.

Excellent Mediterranean food, and a fun atmosphere. Nick and I went on a date here and it was an excellent, quiet setting for that. Very enjoyable.
(4)
Mr B.

All food options were palatable, the environment was a bit dark, the drink choices were tolerable at best - think bar drinks and juices. Probably a good place for lunch off the beaten path of tourism in Downtown Portland but not the sort of place I'd return to.
(3)
Evi D.

A cute, casual place. Very small and quiet. I got the pizza, and it was the best pizza I've ever had. Great local place, no tourists, which is nice. Would definitely come back. Food is excellent and it has a pleasant atmosphere.
(5)
Shakira M.

Visited Portland last week with my family and had an amazing time at Olive Cafe. We stopped in on our last day before heading back to Boston. The small restaurant with one waitress was packed, but we were greeted immediately and had a table within 5 minutes. Our waitress (as I mentioned before the only one in the restaurant) was very friendly, attentive and extremely fast. We ordered drinks and food and were in a bit of a rush to head out, but our food came out very fast and it was hot and delicious. Will definitely stop by again when in Portland.
(4)
M. M.

Best pizza ever! I love this place. Small, friendly, fresh food and great service. Nice stop during a day of window shopping!
(5)
Matt M.

Really cool little place! After looking at the Olive Cafe's website, we decided it looked pretty good even though there were no reviews to trust on Yelp (yet!). Very glad we took a risk and went. We had a special appetizer that was basically a Lebanese "meat pie" with bulgur wheat and a bed of greens. It was fantastic! I got the beef schwarma wrap with fried pita chips, and it was delicious. The pita chips are out of this world. My girlfriend got the falafel, and while it was not the best falafel we've ever eaten, it could certainly hold it's own. The prices are very reasonable for the quality of the food. It all tasted like it was made from scratch with love and care in the little kitchen in back. We were also very impressed by the waitress we had, she was extremely knowledgeable and gave great recommendations. All in all, I've been to better Mediterranean restaurants in my day, but for the price and the atmosphere, you can't go wrong here. Definitely recommended.
(4)
Rodolfo M.

Walked a mile to get to this place for lunch. Got there at 2:45PM, and they are said to open for lunch until 3:00PM. A sign on the sidewalk confirmed they were open. Once inside we were rudely denied seating, and kicked out. Their explanation was that "they had been too busy for lunch". Just a terrible first impression.
(1)
Joshua M.

From the get go the place has a great homey feel to it. I didn't have time to stay and eat, but I did sit and wait for my food at the bar. It gave me time to look everything a look, and there board showed quite a few good sounding dishes. The staff was very nice as well, and offered me some water while I waited. When I got to the food I was in love at first bite. The beef shawarma is something I highly recommend (I'm getting hungry just thinking about it). Tasted great, but I did expect a little more for the price. The fries were good as well, but next time I'll try the salad (I was more in the mood for fries that day). I'd easily go back just to try more, and it's the only place in the Portland area I know that makes shawarma.
(4)
Carolyn V.

We have been here twice now and loved it both times. The staff are great, the atmosphere very european - The fish specials are Wonderful!!!!! Presentation of the food makes me feel special. This is well worth another visit and has become our favorite choice for special ocassions.
(5)
Michael K.

Best simple food in Portland. Such flavors! We were here shortly after they opened two years ago and it was fantastic. On a return visit this month, the food was even better (if that is possible). Delicious, perfectly-seasoned fresh real food. And they are among the most helpful in welcoming children that we have seen anywhere in the country.
(5)
Chitra R.

I'm a bit baffled by the great reviews for this restaurant. We went there based on the yelp reviews and were completely underwhelmed. I ordered the lamb kebabs and asked for them to be cooked medium. When they came out, they were oozing blood. When I sent them back, they cooked them until they were pretty much well done. The bed of rice under the kebabs was...al dente...at best. Probably not even that. Eating hard pieces of rice along with the first-undercooked-then-overcooked kebabs was not fun. Especially when you consider that the entree cost $19. I can get better kebabs at just about any food truck for probably $12 cheaper. Blah.
(2)
andy w.

Really nice, relaxing lunch. Fantastic pizza!
(5)
Sarah P.

One of the best little secrets in portland! You can not get a better falafel wrap in town anywhere!
(5)
L E.

We went here twice while on vacation in Portland. The salads and pizzas were so delicious, I'm trying to replicate the recipes at home. I recommend the pesto pizza, the mexican salad, and the greek salad. All the ingredients tasted fresh and were very flavorful.
(5)
Bob R.

This should be a 3.5 star rating. Everything was really good though not much "wow" factor. I had a special cream soup that was lacking in creaminess. Grape leaves were very tasty. I had the fish taco which was tasty and my my wife enjoyed falafel wrap. Very solid food and a very good value. Only one server in the place that filled up while we were there. She doubled as the bartender. Kept her cool and managed to be attentive without being frazzled. Really nice job - she could have (and should have) been in the weeds. Nice alternative to the more gourmet (read: expensive) places in the Old Port.
(4)

Fazoli's is an Italian-American fast casual restaurant chain headquartered in Lexington, Kentucky. It was founded in 1988and is now owned by Sentinel Capital Partners. As of 2015, there are 213 Fazoli's located nationwide. The restaurant chain specializes in Italian cuisine and dishes. Carl Howard is the company's president and CEO.
Fazoli's offers a menu of traditional Italian favorites — highlighted by our famous, mouthwatering, garlic bread sticks — combined with a service experience not typically found in the QSR industry and served in a newly re-imagined restaurant environment. And it's all available to our guests at a great price and value. With over 200 restaurants, explosive growth and a booming sales trajectory, Fazoli's has established itself as a leader in the Quick-Service Restaurant segment.

Today, Fazoli's menu consists of classic Italian dishes, baked pastas, their signature Submarinos sandwiches, and other foods, such as:

Twice Baked Lasagna
Chicken Parmigiano
Italian Deli Trio
seasonal salads
Turkey Mozzarella Fresco
Meatball da Vinci
The Primo Italiano
Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza
New York Style Cheesecake
Baked Spaghetti
Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo

Address : 127 Commercial St
Portland, ME, 04101
Phone (207) 772-6200
Website https://www.olivecafeportland.com
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :11:30 am - 2:00pm

Specialities

Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : No
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes

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Olive Cafe

127 Commercial St, Portland, ME, 04101

Olive Cafe Menu

Appetizers

Salads

Shawarmas

Veggie Shawarmas

Thin Crust Pizzas

Plates

Sampler Plates

Sides

Drinks

Healthy Meal suggestions for Olive Cafe

Appetizers

Salads

Shawarmas

Veggie Shawarmas

Thin Crust Pizzas

Plates

Sampler Plates

Sides

Drinks

Shelley H.

Adria R.

Robert B.

Narayanan V.

Joanna F.

Westie W.

Yelena S.

J F.

Eric T.

John R.

Jenn F.

Laurie F.

Joey D.

Judy L.

Aimee L.

Amanda R.

Willy S.

Matthew D.

Puneet M.

Laura P.

Karen R.

Benjamin C.

Beth R.

Mel S.

Jim S.

Eric S.

rob p.

Steff D.

David B.

Stephanie H.

Myriah B.

HenrY L.

Frank B.

Dave P.

Christina A.

Ella B.

Michael S.

Bruce D.

Jason B.

Craig M.

Courtney W.

crayon k.

Bobby M.

jess b.

G S.

Lucy G.

Audrey D.

Carl V.

George H.

Kyle S.

Liz H.

Will S.

Jackie G.

Joe S.

Joy B.

Julie T.

Amanda W.