Oliva
Mediterranean restaurant · Bethlehem Village ·

Oliva

Mediterranean restaurant · Bethlehem Village ·

Mediterranean specialties, fresh fig salad, pistachio gelato

Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null
Oliva by null

Information

15 Main St S, Bethlehem, CT 06751 Get directions

$30–50

See Menu
reservations required

Information

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15 Main St S, Bethlehem, CT 06751 Get directions

+1 203 266 5558
olivacafe.com
pourfettooliva

$30–50 · Menu

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reservations
reservations required

Last updated

Dec 12, 2025

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Touring the New Food Court and Fancy Tapas Bar at Columbia University | Eater NY

"Up a few steps from the food court, I ascended to Oliva and found a luxurious, mesa-like dining room with a dramatically lit bar, scattered tables and curving gray-upholstered booths; though the design feels modern, the menu is old-fashioned, concentrating on dozens of small plates and a few larger ones: oblong salt-cod-and-potato croquettes ($10) were crisply fried with garlic aioli, small plates of serrano ham, morcilla and Valdeón cheese were generously presented, and highlights included a Galician-style casserole of octopus, potatoes and onions ($26) with a skewer of thinly sliced tentacles, a quartet of shell-on shrimp with salsa verde, and a rare hanger steak served Asturian-style with blue cheese. I also sampled cocktails (15 creative options such as the espiritu santo, $15) and found the wine pours to be one of the best deals—most $9–$12 a glass—with a happy hour from 5 to 6:30 offering discounted tapas and bargain booze." - Robert Sietsema

https://ny.eater.com/2022/2/22/22939502/columbia-jerome-greene-science-center-manhattanville-market-food-hall-nyc-review
Oliva

Tom D.

Google
Five stars, all the way! Diamond in a small town! I've been waiting to try this place and it was well worth the wait. Top notch service and unbelievable food. Don't skimp on the dessert! Modest yet wonderful wine list - tried multiple wines and all were great. Can't wait to return and try more of the menu!

John B.

Google
Great meal. We started with a wonderful fresh fig salad. My sea scallops were perfect and we ended with pistachio gelato. Nice quiet. Definitely going back

Diane D.

Google
Always an amazing meal. Great taste. Fair prices nice wine selection and warm and friendly service

mike D.

Google
I had an absolutely amazing meal at this restaurant. It was a Thursday night and it was snowing a little bit, so I don't think they had a lot of people. I got there at 5:30 and by 6:30 the place was half full. The food was outstanding, it was one of the better meals I've had in a long long time and I'm a food snob. We recently moved to the area and bought a vacation house . We will definitely be back when we were up here!

Adele F.

Google
We finally dined here after living in the area for a few years. What a mistake not to have come sooner. The best food around...period. Catch is you have to know what good food is. If you want big plates of pasta go to one of the numerous restaurants in the area. This is food, served beautifully, seasoned perfectly. The atmosphere is as if you stopped in a random place in the French countryside -- that good, that real. No pretense. Just a real chef at work with real people working the front. We'll be back again and again.

SCL

Google
The Big Fish in a small town. The food and service are top notch. We had the kebab platters. The ingredients tasted fresh, delicious, and authentically Mediterranean. The meats and veggies were seasoned and well balanced. For dessert we had pistachio gelato, and panna cotta. If you want a a true culinary experience in a small town this is the place. I would've taken photos, but was too busy thoughtfully and thoroughly enjoying the meal. Thank you, chef!

Jennifer A.

Google
Delicious. We came with our two children ages 8 & 10. I highly recommend making a reservation. White tablecloths cloths so keep that in mine with attire, no one would say you’re under dressed but it feels like a night out and a more upscale experience. The winner of the night was the caramelized onion pizza. The eggplant and roasted chicken were also wonderful. A small mom and pop establishment that I will happily support in the future.

Theodore J.

Google
Superb in all respects. My wife and I had a great dinner that included appetizers, main courses, and dessert. The food was excellent, and the service was equally fine. The atmosphere is very pleasant and relaxing. We will definitely return.
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Tricia B.

Yelp
I've always wondered about this place - I see them at Christmas in Bethlehem but have been too busy shopping to ever go in. I'm so glad I took the opportunity though. The food is amazing! The dining room itself is smaller than I would have pictured it, but wonderfully decorated. It reminded me of a demure ren-fair. The food itself was delicious, and clearly why they have a brisk take out trade. The pizza was served a perfect temperature with the right goo factor, and the toppings worked together instead of separate flavors.

Kris S.

Yelp
Friendly staff. Excellent service. Amazing meal. No fuss. Just delicious!!! We stopped in on the way home. We loved it!!!
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Liliya B.

Yelp
Excellent experience with Oliva restaurant. Food was tasty, waitress was very friendly and nice.

Patrice H.

Yelp
Charming dinner at Oliva on Main. Started with beet salad and polenta with Gorgonzola cheese. Delicious! Entrees included mixed kebabs and cod. See photos. For dessert a pannacotte with raspberries. Excellent service in a comfortable setting.

Scott H.

Yelp
Great little place ,great waitress on a Fri with great food and very quiet so you can have a conversation .In center of town across from gazebo

Jerry D.

Yelp
First off, they put bread on the table, no butter. It was good bread, even though I ate it dry. The menu was a bit confusing. Had "daily" specials that were obliviously a permanent part of the menu. Couldn't tell if they were starters or entrees. The waiter never once checked in to answer questions, so we had pizza. It was petty good if you like it soggy.
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Gary F.

Yelp
The food is so fresh and delicious .. every time we go we look forward to returning .. Service is very friendly and attentive. Always beautiful flowers that make you think you're in France or Italy. Pizza is awesome and salads are from a local farm and the lemon dressing so good. Many Lebanese dishes and pastas that will not dissapoint .. deserts such as tiramisu is yummy!
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David H.

Yelp
Food price / quality rating 8. Atmosphere is like an early 1900's General Store. Limited beer and wine only for alcohol. I had the Lamb Chops with hummus, shredded carrots, mashed potatoes, mushrooms, and two very unique relish dips. It was supposed to be "mixed mushrooms", but it was just your regular button mushrooms. The wife had the Lamb Stew. She was assured by the waitress that it had plenty of vegetables, in reality, however, the only vegetable was some mashed potatoes and carrot. Some nice house made bread was served with oil.
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Maria F.

Yelp
This place totally blew me away. I was warned Connecticut wasn't known to have great food but Oliva is surely an exception. Everything beginning with the bread to the dessert and the friendly service throughout was fantastic. Truly. One of the best meals I've had, ever. I'm hoping we can fit in another meal there before we head back to SF. We started with the pear salad and I had an appetizer from the special's menu, tomatoes, caramelized onions, goat cheese and grilled bread. We also ordered the special's focaccia bread that was out of this world. For entrees we got the eggplant lasagna SO, SO good! The sauce, the texture... amazing. My bf got the whole wheat linguine with shrimp and salmon. The sauce alone was delicious. He loved it! For dessert we got a cookie and the baklava- also amazing. Wine selections were good and fairly priced. Definitely a restaurant we'll be visiting next time we're in the area.

Annonymous N.

Yelp
I forgot to mention on my last review that we always get a vegan pizza to go with our dinners. It is really great crispy pizza with vegetables on top but no cheese. I'm sure all the other pizzas are equally delicious. Lasts for days in the fridge and can be reheated in oven- not microwave because that makes the crust mushy! Really good place!
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Thornton J.

Yelp
Couldn't get a reservation for Saturday night but we were able to book a table for Sunday at 6:30. Walked in at 6:30 and were told to sit anywhere we pleased. Started off sharing a caramelized pear salad .... Delicious way to start a meal. My partner ordered the salmon and I ordered the wild cod. Both were exceptional. We can't wait to come back again!
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Amanda H.

Yelp
We have been going to Oliva for over 20 years, back when they started on East Shore Road in New Preston. Riad is a true craftsman when it comes to cooking. The food never, ever disappoints, the wine list is impeccable and the warm, welcoming atmosphere is palpable. I live in NYC now but whenever I go home to CT I make a point to drop in for a meal at Oliva and say hello to the wonderful kitchen and wait staff.
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Robert T.

Yelp
What a gem of a restaurant. Great food and wonderful service. This was such a great dinner we may move closer just to visit again. The portions are nice and such friendly staff.
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Brian M.

Yelp
Oliva is my favorite restaurant anywhere! I go as often as I can which is only about 2-3 times a month as I live 1,300 miles away. I often want to try a different entree but the Moroccan eggplant ragu is so good I have to order it every time. Everything is also delicious like the chicken kabobs and the braised beef rib is a favorite of my friend. The hummus and the various pizzas are the best. Oliva in Main is my favorite part of going home!

Robin R.

Yelp
We ordered pizza, salads and a tart for take out and everything was fresh and amazing. We highly recommend Oliva on Main!
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Lisa C.

Yelp
I was disappointed with my experience at the new location, which is by the way very charming - the oldest building in Bethlehem. I enjoyed the fried polenta topped with blue cheese (appetizer). I had the chicken special - Cornish hen stuffed with prunes and pignoli nuts served with mashed root vegetables. Just OK - same with my husbands meal -mushroom ravioli - nothing special. The bread was delicious - from a bakery in Deep River. I really wanted to like Oliva ;(
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Stefany B.

Yelp
Chef owned restaurant with a very loyal, longstanding following. Riad is an extremely talented chef and is consistent in the extreme. Its a lovely, welcoming place and Joanna always makes everyone feel at hime. IMO the best dining experience in the area and the food is always great quality and prepared expertly.

Katie M.

Yelp
What a fantastic find! We stopped by a little after 5, and while the place was quiet, the atmosphere was great! The restaurant is beautiful inside and there's a very nice view, even with it overlooking a street. Our server was so sweet and friendly. Food came out promptly and was absolutely delicious. Two of the members of our party are vegetarian and there were plenty of options for them. Overall, a fantastic experience. I highly recommend Oliva's On Main!

Michael M.

Yelp
It has always been a great experience at Oliva. It has home feel and the cuisine and service is basically like you are eating at home with a gourmet chef preparing the meal. You can tell everything on the menu is made with extra care. Always a great experience, but hoping to make it there more frequently.
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Jennifer H.

Yelp
Oliva's had a lovely open house today celebrating one year at their new location in Befhlehem. Such warm and welcoming people, a beautiful space and the most delicious food! There was a generous full buffet lunch with a particularly delicious polenta with Gorgonzola, focaccia, penne bolognese, lamb meatballs, hummus and macaroons and pistachio baklava for dessert. Thank you!
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Edwin H.

Yelp
Since they moved to a small location, much more manageable the food has gotten better and better. This is now one of our favorite restaurants in the area. A lovely selection of wine at fair prices. It is a Mediterranean-style restaurant with great lamb shank, chicken imposters. I highly recommend having a lovely dinner in this out-of-the-way spot.
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John R.

Yelp
First trip to Oliva on Main and they knocked it out of the park! This Mediterranean/ Lebanese inspired restaurant brings great salads, solid lamb, pasta dishes and on fire deserts! The service and atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. No liquor and limited wine and beer but don't let that hold you back. One of the best options for a healthy and tasty dinner in Litchfield county!

Ted J.

Yelp
Superb in all respects. My wife and I had appetizers, main courses, and dessert. All were excellent, and the service was equally fine. The atmosphere is pleasant and relaxing. We will definitely return.

Katie L.

Yelp
My sister and I have been wanting to try this restaurant for a while. With kids, we have had a hard time to find the time. Finally, I called and asked if they do their pizza to go....they said yes! I ordered a small cheese pizza and one of their specialties. It had pesto, roasted peppers and goat cheese.... This was the BEST pizza I have ever had!!!! The crust was perfect and the flavor was amazing!!!! Even the 6 and 8 year old kids said it was amazing!! Will be going back very soon.....hopefully for a sit down dinner!
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Debra K.

Yelp
A bit pricey, but the diver scallops were the best I've ever had. Delicious bread with dipping oil, enjoyed sitting out on the porch at dusk. Great service.

Cathy G.

Yelp
Nice setting in a vintage house, very attentive staff. Interesting menu, although a little pricey. Generous portions. The spinach tart appetizer was delicious, and the pear tart special dessert would have been if the crust wasn't burnt. A nice little hidden treasure in Bethlehem.
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PK C.

Yelp
Great as always. We enjoy Oliva on our semi-annual trips to Litchfield Hills. Owner/chef Riad Aamar never disappoints. Great menu, nice portions, always tasty. Love the new location.

Kate U.

Yelp
Wonderful pizza - thin crust. Humus is the best. I've never had a bad meal here. Everything is delicious! Quaint setting.

Chris C.

Yelp
First time here with a group of 6. Everyone enjoyed their meals...all delicious. Nice warm atmosphere, not too noisy so perfect for conversation. Loved the beet salad, the gnocchi, the eggplant. We will go back.

Sue N.

Yelp
If you are looking for BAR food this is NOT the place for you. Everything we had was freshly prepared and delicious ! This is FINE food at a reasonable price . Where can you go for healthy, Italian Moroccan food that is wonderfully spiced? To Oliva! We made reservations, were promptly seated by the lovely owner who seems genuinely interested in making sure you are comfortable. The waitress was right there too offer water and take wine or beer orders. They have a wine list or for a corkage fee you can byob!! I noticed the individual glasses of wine were a hefty pour which was so refreshing to see . We did however order a bottle of Muscadet, very crisp and light, perfect for our summer night. The beer offerings were on the light side if you like dark microbrews. Just a note for the serious beer people out there. The Polenta was fabulous ! Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside topped with melted Gorgonzola The Moroccan lamb with chick peas was a fabulous meal for my husband . The lamb fell off the bone and the sauce was delish.On the lighter side my diver sea scallops were perfect next to a lightly dressed bed of greens. From previous experience we can attest that the pizza is marvelous and their dessert wonderful So enjoy and I will write again when it is time for pizza and desert!

Julian M.

Yelp
My plate was dirty. Bread was mediocre. Waitress was nice. Water was room temperature to cold. We brought good wine and their was a fee on corkage. That sucked. Bread was brought to us again. Yum. The waitress was courteous while taking my order. Water got warmer as the dinner went on. We needed ice. It was kinda loud for my liking. Olives were very sour. I spit It out. There was no service so that was bad. The salad was pretty good probably a 7/10. The lettuce was especially green. The beets were decent. I wish they were more firm. And crisp. But overall good. The ambience was warm and cozy. I dropped a fork. They gave me a new one. Thanks... I guess u could call me the Lebron James of yelp reviews. My plate was hot. I burned my hand. They gave me extra cheese. Thanks... To much cheese . Candle went out. It took a little to long for the food to come. Chicken was good. Penne was good. Beef tasted like chef boyardee. But overall pretty good. My water was too warm at this point in the night. Lamb was good. Fish was good. They re-lit the candle. We ordered dessert. It was good.

Gregory J.

Yelp
This chef really has a way with lamb,stewed,kabobed,or on the shank,he knows how to spice it right and cook it tender.The varied menu is one of the boldest and most interesting in Litchfield County. Waitstaff alway attentive and friendly. Only drawback is no bar service,but the wine list is above average. A special place to dine out in style.

Lani S.

Yelp
The service was excellent but the food was not. The tomatoes were mealy and over ripe in the mozzarella and tomato salad, the shrimp dish was bland as well as the bolognese pasta.

Harold P.

Yelp
Okay, so this goes in the weird file. There are four of us at the table. We order the Moroccan eggplant also with Hummus. It comes on a huge platter, like for a turkey. Its a very generous portion of both. It comes with one 6 inch pita cut in eighths. We also order some Baba ganoush. It comes on a large plate,12" plus. Again a very generous portion. It comes with no pita. I have been to a lot of Middle Eastern places, and these items always come with plenty of pita. We ask the waitress for more pita, she brings us one pita again cut in eighths, we each get 2 small pieces. We can't even make a dent in the food they gave us. Again we ask for more pita this time the waitress seems to have some sort of problem with this and it takes forever to get to us. We give up after this leaving a bunch of food wasted. I don't get it, what do pitas cost? I'll pay it whatever it is just give me some pita with out the hassle. How about you give us half the food and a normal amount of pita to eat it with instead. We also got charged for the extra pita on our bill. On the bright side the food is good, the service not so much. Don't these places want you to come back?