Min Z.
Yelp
Olio e Più's exterior is so unassuming that I didn't even notice it until I saw a crowd of people spilling inside at lunchtime. That seemed like a good sign, so I decided to give it a shot during restaurant week. We enjoyed our meal so much that we're already back for a second visit.
The restaurant is conveniently located near the White House in DC, with easy access to public transportation. While street parking is difficult to find, there are plenty of parking garages nearby.
The restaurant has a warm, inviting atmosphere, featuring earthy tones and vintage touches on the walls. As soon as you walk in, you'll spot a full bar welcoming you.
The noise level at Olio e Più varied depending on the seating area, background music, and the crowd. When the restaurant was full, with louder music and the sounds of the open kitchen, it was a bit challenging to have a conversation. However, when we dined for lunch on a quieter Monday, the atmosphere was much more peaceful.
The menu is so extensive that it will likely take several visits to sample everything.
The food stands out for its freshness, complex flavors, vibrant presentations, and authentic Italian taste.
Every dish we tried was incredible. Here are a few highlights and must-try recommendations from our experience.
INSALATA DI SPINACI
Baby spinach, crumbled Castelrosso cheese, shaved almonds, diced pears, and champagne dressing. The mix of textures and flavors was absolutely delightful, really waking up my taste buds and sparking my appetite.
INSALATA FRESCA
Tomatoes, cucumber, basil, olives, EVOO, croutons, and a balsamic glaze. This dish was as colorful as it was refreshing--healthy, appetizing, and a perfect light starter.
BURRATA MEDITERRANEO
Fresh burrata, cherry tomatoes, basil pesto, Ligurian olives, balsamic, and focaccia. The dish had a wonderfully fresh and light flavor, perfectly balanced with the creamy burrata and tangy accents.
BRUSCHETTA AL POMODORO
A crostone of bread topped with burrata cream, fresh tomatoes, and basil. It was delicious! My only suggestion would be to place the arugula on top of the tomatoes rather than underneath the bread--it would add more volume and better complement the flavors.
VITELLO TONNATO
A classic Italian dish of thinly sliced veal topped with a creamy tuna sauce. With bold, distinctive flavors, we enjoyed the lingering aftertaste that stayed with us long after the first bite.
TAGLIATA DI MANZO
Ribeye, arugula, cherry tomatoes, marble potatoes, and salsa verde. I ordered it medium, and it arrived off the grill with tantalizing flavors. It tasted as good as it looked! We loved it--almost perfect, though I'd suggest a little less salt.
SCALOPPINE DI POLLO AI FUNGHI
I don't usually order chicken dishes, but the red and yellow pepper stew made the chicken incredibly tender, juicy, and flavorful. I was surprised at how delicious chicken can be--this was hands down the best chicken I've ever had.
FUSILLI CINGHIALE E FUNGHI
Pork and wild boar ragu with mixed mushrooms and tomato sauce. The texture was unique, the flavors subtle yet satisfying, and it wasn't overly salty. Freshly cooked with an authentic, non-commercial taste.
My favorite desserts are:
PERA AL VINO
Poached pear in wine, vanilla mascarpone cream, and orange zest. It was so unique and refreshing! I went back for more on my second visit, but it wasn't on the regular menu. I was told Olio e Più often features special menus for restaurant week and holidays, so I'll be keeping an eye out for this one!
EXOTIC PANNA COTTA
Vanilla Bourbon panna cotta with pineapple brunoise and passion fruit sauce. The texture was wonderfully creamy and smooth, with bright, lemony flavors. We absolutely loved it.
TORTA CAPRESE
A flourless chocolate cake with vanilla chantilly and pistachio ice cream. The portion was generous enough to share, and it wasn't overly sweet--just perfectly balanced.
There are so many delicious dishes that we'll definitely need to return for more. No matter what we order, we know we can always count on freshness and flavor!