Ordered one of the daily special today and also tried the aglio olio. My goodness. So amazing! Great taste, services was good, atmosphere was also good. Will come here again during dinner time :)
Overview
Located in the heart of Rotterdam at Witte de Withstraat 15A, 3012 BK, Restaurant Oliva offers a delightful dining experience that blends the charm of local Dutch flavors with international influences. This cozy yet sophisticated restaurant has earned a reputation for its exceptional menu, attentive service, and welcoming atmosphere.
One of the first things you'll notice when stepping into Restaurant Oliva is its inviting ambiance. The space feels like a blend of modern comfort and timeless elegance, with sleek furniture, soft lighting, and a subtle artistic touch. It’s the kind of place that feels perfect for both a casual meal with friends or a special celebration with loved ones.
The menu at Restaurant Oliva is a true reflection of the restaurant’s commitment to offering high-quality dishes made from the finest ingredients. The food is inspired by a range of culinary traditions, but it’s all tied together with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients that highlight the best of what Rotterdam and the surrounding regions have to offer. From hearty main courses to light starters, each dish is crafted with precision and care.
For starters, the charcuterie board is a great choice, featuring a variety of cured meats and cheeses, all served with fresh bread and tangy preserves. It’s a great way to kick off your meal while sipping on a glass of crisp white wine. If you're looking for something more adventurous, the roasted beetroot salad with goat cheese and candied walnuts is a refreshing and flavorful option that beautifully balances sweet and savory notes.
Moving on to the main courses, Restaurant Oliva offers a diverse selection that caters to all kinds of taste preferences. One standout dish is their pan-seared salmon, perfectly cooked with a crispy skin and served with a zesty lemon butter sauce. The salmon is paired with roasted vegetables, which provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the tenderness of the fish. For those who prefer something more indulgent, the slow-braised short ribs are a must-try. These tender, melt-in-your-mouth ribs are served with mashed potatoes and a rich, flavorful gravy that’s hard to resist.
Vegetarians won’t be disappointed either. The restaurant offers a variety of plant-based dishes, such as the wild mushroom risotto. This dish is creamy and rich, with the earthiness of the mushrooms perfectly complementing the comforting texture of the risotto. It’s a satisfying option that proves how versatile and delicious plant-based meals can be.
The dessert menu at Restaurant Oliva is just as impressive as the savory offerings. The flourless chocolate cake is a rich, decadent treat that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings. Paired with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, it’s the perfect end to a delicious meal. Another favorite is the panna cotta, which is creamy and smooth with a hint of vanilla, topped with a fresh berry compote that adds a burst of sweetness.
When it comes to drinks, Restaurant Oliva has an extensive wine list that perfectly complements their dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a crisp white wine or a full-bodied red, there’s something for every palate. The knowledgeable staff is always happy to offer recommendations based on your meal choice, making it easy to find the perfect pairing.
The service at Restaurant Oliva is another highlight. The staff is friendly, attentive, and always ready to answer any questions you might have about the menu. They take the time to ensure that every guest feels welcome and well taken care of, which adds to the overall dining experience.
What truly sets Restaurant Oliva apart from other restaurants in the area is its dedication to creating a memorable experience for every guest. Whether it’s the attention to detail in the food, the personalized service, or the cozy atmosphere, everything comes together to create a dining experience that feels both special and accessible.
The location on Witte de Withstraat is also ideal for exploring Rotterdam. After your meal, you can take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant street, which is known for its lively bars, galleries, and shops. It’s a great way to cap off your evening and immerse yourself in the local culture.
If you’re in Rotterdam and looking for a place that combines delicious food, exceptional service, and a welcoming atmosphere, Restaurant Oliva should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this restaurant is a gem that delivers a dining experience you won’t soon forget.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great tea selection ✓ Great wine listPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Healthy options ✓ Late-night food ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ WineDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Romantic ✓ Trendy ✓ UpmarketCrowd
✓ GroupsPlanning
✓ Reservations required ✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsParking
✓ Paid multi-storey car park ✓ Paid parking lot ✓ Paid street parking ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
I had my eyes on this restaurant for a while now, and finally, I went last night. We had the 4 course tasting meniu and a wine pairing. The staff was really kind and warm and the service they provided was smooth. The food they served was absolutely amazing, offering a variety of options. We had fish for starters, a creamy ravioli as a second dish (my favorite), and an amazing steak as the main plus desert. The portion was perfectly sized. We left feeling full, and for the price, it's definitely a steal. We will definitely be back for more soon. It sincerely meets the expectations, and I highly recommend eating here.
Fantastic food. Stuff you could not do at home. Delicious. And great service. Personable, thoughtful, not too intrusive. Good value. Highly recommended.
Delicious dishes, friendly and professional staff and a very cosy place to be. Oliva is one of the best Italian restaurants in Rotterdam. Make sure you book a table in advance. Parking nearby is easy but expensive.
I came here for dinner and opted for the 4 course vegetarian menu and a glass of Prosecco (which was fresh and rejuvenating). All of the food including the bread, olives and the olive oil was really good quality, tasted really nice and was presented beautifully. Each dish had some complexity to it and grew in flavor as the fork dug deeper. The service was friendly and pleasant and the place felt right. My only point of improvement would be to have a bigger sink in the mens toilet. The current one is not able to support anything more than a rinse. I will definitely revisit and this was probably one of my best dinners in Rotterdam.
We went to Olivia to try the 4-courses dinner, my first-ever experience. I want to highlight that the price for four courses is very fair and even low - 45,50 per person. I investigated other places in Rotterdam, and the prices usually start from 60 EUR. Firstly, I was delighted with the service - the amiable staff that helped us choose the wines to pair with our dishes and guided us throughout the courses. On the downside, the waiting time between courses was a bit longer than expected. I saw they were looking for kitchen staff, so maybe they were low on people. The quality and taste of the food were good, though. I liked the food presentation too. I believe we got an excellent experience for the price we were paying, but I’d be interested in trying their a la carte options in the future as well.
We had the 5-course meal and each one of the items was fantastic. I dont remember any dish that i didnt like. Staff was also very warm and helpful