07/26/08

Olive?

by jjlasne

I am not sure what this place is supposed to be. A bar? A lounge? A restaurant? But it sure is the only gringo place in a decidedly South East Asian neighborhood (aka Little Saigon). Whatever I ate was really good. Good place for a date or to meet mates. I will have to try it again for a better opinion.

• Pros: Food
• Cons: No parking but hey! This is what taxis are for.

04/30/08

Great vibe, fun music and excellent mojitos!

by smithy11

My friend and I went here after work and it's a perfect Happy Hour place with great music and a good looking crowd. The bartenders are knowledgable, friendly and they pour a great mojito! I would definitly go again. Didn't try the food but it looked pretty tasty so I will the next Thursday night out!

• Pros: Great Mojitos and Fun atmosphere!

03/06/07

Oishii pizza

by mochikof

Oh, I love the thin-crust pizza here! Try the mushroom and truffle oil pizza. And of course the Martini's with stuffed goat-cheese olives. Chill music in the background, nice booths. I had a crush on one of the bartenders for a while while i was single. I'm over that! But I still go there.

• Pros: happy hour, near great american musichall
• Cons: it's still the tenderloin

Hip haven dishes polished comfort food and cocktails.

by Contributor

The Scene
From the outside, this hideaway looks like a wood cabin. Inside, there are no windows, but considering the less-than-scenic surroundings, it's a good thing. The overall vibe is fun, artsy lounge. Sultry music pours out of seakers, while candles and dim lamps illuminate the small, high-ceilinged space. Paintings of mostly olives dot the walls--including a simple, Warholian-like print over the bar.

The Draw
Drinks are expertly prepared, like the chocolate martini, which is served with tasty shavings lining the rim. Rotating vodka infusions, like wheat grass-kiwi or mango-plum, are served with a wedge of fruit (which alone packs enough punch to get a lightweight loaded). Light fare includes tuna with wonton chips and a wild mushroom and truffle oil pizza.

11/23/06

Good drinks

by rockngal

The perfect place for every occasion: private parties, out with friends, entertaining visitors, or when you don't feel like cooking. Good happy-hour, dinner, and if you drink enough you can hang with the locals in the TL.

09/19/05

good drinks, average food

by ashleecb

Olive is a nice little joint for a drink, and it's near the Great American Music Hall if you need to grab a bite before a show.

But, the food is only so so, and in my opinion not worth the price. The calamari was breaded with something that was slightly sweet, and the squid itself was more mushy than firm. The tuna was overcooked. The creme brulee tasted fine, but the glaze was too thick.

I'd try it again before not recommending it for dinner, but I'd definitely recommend it for a drink. It's a place where you can actually sit and chat with friends while having some yummy drinks and enjoying a nice vibe.

• Pros: drink menu, atmosphere
• Cons: so so food

07/14/05

Perfect Drink Spot

by lolasmommy

Used to live in Nob Hill and was at Olive several times a week after long days at the office. Olive has been the gem of the tenderloin bar scene since they opened. The bartenders are friendly, funny, and wonderful at what they do. The drinks are mixed to perfection, and the bar snacks are a huge step up from many other bard menus in this town. The stylish interior and great music make the place all-around great. Perfect place for a get-together or party. Get there early and take over one of the two front-corner booths.

• Pros: Great Mojitos, Great Bartenders, Ambience
• Cons: Parking

01/29/05

The Best Martini in town

by rroseselavy

Gil makes a mean martini and here's the secret: A little sprayer adds just a touch of vermouth and then to top it off, an olive stuffed with goat cheese. Yes, you heard me, goat cheese. You gotta try it.

Also, the appetizers are scrumptious, especially the one with Brie and fruit.

Atmosphere is really comfortable and there is no hipper than thou attitude goin' on down here. Don't be afraid of the Tenderloin, there are many jems there and this is one of 'em.

01/20/05

Great all around

by michelle.castillo

C'mon now...the neigbhorhood is not pretty, but it's not unbearable. Apparently Mr. Marina doesn't get out that often. Ever been to the Mission? About the same scene. (and who walks to Olive from cow hollow?!?!)

I've been to Olive several times, and it never disappoints. GREAT martini's. Love their pizza. Friendly service. It's the perfect spot to chill with a drink and have a light bite.

• Pros: martinis, pizza, people

07/14/04

MARTINA & GILL ROCK!

by skiwert

Hands down...one of my favorite bars in SF! I just threw my birthday at Olive, and Martina and Gill were the best hosts ever! The food was awesome, the drinks were amazing, the atmosphere was electrifying, and the whole vibe was all good! I could not have picked a better spot to have it. Everybody had such a great time! I will definitely be back soon, and cannot wait to plan another party there again in the future. Thanks to Martina, Gill, and Sue for an incredible night!