Oleana Restaurant

4.3 (2k reviews)

PriceyTurkish, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern

Open • 5:00 pm - 10:00 PM

Updated 3 months ago

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Oleana Restaurant - Fatteh - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Oleana Restaurant - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Oleana Restaurant - Potato & Red Lentil Kubba with Swiss Chard, Pistachios, Eggplant Jam, Fried Carrots, healthy and yummy - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Oleana Restaurant - Sultan's delight is a must order every visit ( not vegetarian) - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Oleana Restaurant Popular Dishes

110 Photos313 Reviews

9 days ago

It was also fun to have the baked Alaska w a birthday candle.. keep in mind it's easily enough for two and the ice cream in it is like a toasted coconut.. and not too sweet. Yeah it's a little bit of a challenge to cut into the base...

21 days ago

Oh, Oleana! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Tucked away in Cambridge, Oleana is a cozy Mediterranean restaurant serving small plates.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] My partner and I managed to snag a last-minute reservation on a Tuesday night, and even at 9 p.m. the restaurant was still lively. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Between the beautiful decor and warm atmosphere, it made for a great date night spot, though it was admittedly a bit dim (apologies in advance for the photo quality!)[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Between the two of us, we ended up ordering quite a few dishes: Whipped Feta (4/5): This was good, though I was hoping for a stronger roasted pepper flavor. Nothing wrong with it, but it didn't quite stand out. Interestingly, we overheard the table next to us mention the same thing, so maybe this one's a bit hit or miss. Spinach Falafel (4/5): Another solid dish. It was bright, colorful, and fresh, though a little messy to eat. Our waiter rather bluntly told us to "just wrap it and bite," which caught us a little off guard, but it was good nonetheless. Fatteh (4.5/5): Our favorite appetizer of the night. The creamy roasted cauliflower paired so well with the crispy pita, and I especially loved the sweetness the onions brought to the dish. Sultan's Delight (5/5): As everyone else says, this is the one to order. The beef was incredibly tender and rich. In hindsight, I almost wish we'd had the potatoes from the Adana Kebab to eat alongside it because they would've been the perfect accompaniment. Vermont Quail Kebab (5/5): Tied with the Sultan's Delight as our favorite entrée. The quail was juicy, well-spiced, and surprisingly easy to eat. I'd absolutely order this again. Adana Kebab (4/5): By this point, I think we were simply getting full. The kebab itself was good, but not nearly as memorable as the other meat dishes. Ironically, the potatoes and peppers that came with it might have been my favorite part--

Baked Alaska (4.5/5): Delicious. The toasted meringue paired wonderfully with the coconut ice cream, though we were a little mixed on the passionfruit caramel, which came across slightly burnt and more acidic than expected. After a...

97 Photos256 Reviews

21 days ago

Spinach Falafel (4/5): Another solid dish. It was bright, colorful, and fresh, though a little messy to eat. Our waiter rather bluntly told us to "just wrap it and bite," which caught us a little off guard, but it was good...

bite," which caught us a little off guard, but it was good nonetheless. Fatteh (4.5/5): Our favorite appetizer of the night. The creamy roasted cauliflower paired so well with the crispy pita, and I especially loved the sweetness the onions brought to the dish. Sultan's Delight (5/5): As everyone else says, this is the one to order. The beef was incredibly tender and rich. In hindsight, I almost wish we'd had the potatoes from the Adana Kebab to eat alongside it because they would've been the perfect accompaniment. Vermont Quail Kebab (5/5): Tied with the Sultan's Delight as our favorite entrée. The quail was juicy, well-spiced, and surprisingly easy to eat. I'd absolutely order this again. Adana Kebab (4/5): By this point, I think we were simply getting full. The kebab itself was good, but not nearly as memorable as the other meat dishes. Ironically, the potatoes and peppers that came with it might have been my favorite part--they would've paired perfectly with the Sultan's Delight. Baked Alaska (4.5/5): Delicious. The toasted meringue paired wonderfully with the coconut ice cream, though we were a little mixed on the passionfruit caramel, which came across slightly burnt and more acidic than expected. After a while the meringue did become quite sweet, so we ended up pairing some with the Muhallebi. Dark Chocolate Muhallebi (3.5/5): Yes...we ordered two desserts. I was mostly drawn in by the kaymak ice cream, but the Muhallebi itself was almost completely unsweetened. I'm usually all for desserts that aren't overly sweet, but this one leaned more savory than I expected. We actually ended up adding some leftover meringue from the Baked Alaska to balance it out. Looking back, given both our appetites (and our wallets), I think we would've been perfectly happy just ordering the Baked Alaska. Overall, Oleana was a lovely spot for a date night. While it didn't quite live up to the lofty expectations I'd built up from all the praise, we still had a really enjoyable meal. Our main waiter was kind, and I appreciated that the dishes came out in rounds, giving us plenty of time to eat and chat. The meat dishes were definitely the highlights for us, but overall there's a lot to like here.

28 days ago

We enjoyed the za'atar bread, spinach falafel, salmon crudo, quail, and a beef dish. Of course we saved a little room for dessert and had the baked Alaska and baklava. Everything was so fresh and perfectly seasoned. I would go back...

32 Photos134 Reviews

21 days ago

...(apologies in advance for the photo quality!) Between the two of us, we ended up ordering quite a few dishes: Whipped Feta (4/5): This was good, though I was hoping for a stronger roasted pepper flavor. Nothing wrong with it, but it...

stronger roasted pepper flavor. Nothing wrong with it, but it didn't quite stand out. Interestingly, we overheard the table next to us mention the same thing, so maybe this one's a bit hit or miss. Spinach Falafel (4/5): Another solid dish. It was bright, colorful, and fresh, though a little messy to eat. Our waiter rather bluntly told us to "just wrap it and bite," which caught us a little off guard, but it was good nonetheless. Fatteh (4.5/5): Our favorite appetizer of the night. The creamy roasted cauliflower paired so well with the crispy pita, and I especially loved the sweetness the onions brought to the dish. Sultan's Delight (5/5): As everyone else says, this is the one to order. The beef was incredibly tender and rich. In hindsight, I almost wish we'd had the potatoes from the Adana Kebab to eat alongside it because they would've been the perfect accompaniment. Vermont Quail Kebab (5/5): Tied with the Sultan's Delight as our favorite entrée. The quail was juicy, well-spiced, and surprisingly easy to eat. I'd absolutely order this again. Adana Kebab (4/5): By this point, I think we were simply getting full. The kebab itself was good, but not nearly as memorable as the other meat dishes. Ironically, the potatoes and peppers that came with it might have been my favorite part--they would've paired perfectly with the Sultan's Delight. Baked Alaska (4.5/5): Delicious. The toasted meringue paired wonderfully with the coconut ice cream, though we were a little mixed on the passionfruit caramel, which came across slightly burnt and more acidic than expected. After a while the meringue did become quite sweet, so we ended up pairing some with the Muhallebi. Dark Chocolate Muhallebi (3.5/5): Yes...we ordered two desserts. I was mostly drawn in by the kaymak ice cream, but the Muhallebi itself was almost completely unsweetened. I'm usually all for desserts that aren't overly sweet, but this one leaned more savory than I expected. We actually ended up adding some leftover meringue from the Baked Alaska to balance it out. Looking back, given both our appetites (and our wallets), I think we would've been perfectly happy just ordering the Baked Alaska. Overall, Oleana was a lovely spot for a date night. While it didn't quite live up to the lofty expectations I'd built up from all the praise, we still had a really enjoyable meal. Our main waiter was kind, and I appreciated that the dishes came out in rounds, giving us plenty of time to eat and chat. The meat dishes were definitely the highlights for us, but overall there's a lot to like here.

11 months ago

Oleana very much lived up to the hype. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Everything we tried was delicious, the ambiance was beautiful, and service was attentive and friendly.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We came right at opening and there was already a line. We had reservations and the line moved quickly as soon as they opened the door. [[HIGHLIGHT]]We opted to sit outside - the back patio is beautiful, well lit and with lots of plants.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Our waitress recommended we order 2-3 dishes per person, and we ended up ordering a total of 8 dishes between the three of us, including a dessert. The wine list is extensive and we split a bottle of white that was lovely. On to the food - we followed the waitress's recommendation to order all our dishes at once and have them spaced out by the chef. We had our 8 dishes over the course of about two hours, and the timing was perfect - whenever we

We ordered the whipped feta, za'atar bread, mushroom kofte, fatteh, corn and ricotta dumplings, quail, and halloumi, plus the cremolata for dessert. Literally everything we had was delicious, but what stood out as particularly...

Oleana Restaurant menu photos

Menu photo 1 Oleana Restaurant Cambridge, MA

Menu photo 2 Oleana Restaurant Cambridge, MA

Menu photo 3 Oleana Restaurant Cambridge, MA

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Menu photo 8 Oleana Restaurant Cambridge, MA

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OLEANA RESTAURANT ATMOSPHERE

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Outside

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Romantic

Moderate noise

Good for groups

Good for kids

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Shoshanah I.

I really don't understand the hype around this place. We were so excited to try it and actually snag a reservation for a birthday dinner! We come from LA so I think we have a good sense of Mediterranean food! Persian, Israeli, etc. is so abundant there and we were so excited to try a restaurant that focused on this cuisine with small plates. Boy was I disappointed! Every dish that came out after the next was smaller, pricier, and just didn't hit the mark at all. The bread was cold, butter was hard, flavors were interesting but not in a pleasant way. More-so in the "what is in my mouth right now.." way. For the price you're paying I'm not sure that the flavors are there! Maybe we're just spoiled with Bacari in LA. Service was okay! Not anything to write home about but it was nice! [[HIGHLIGHT]]The ambiance was also nice.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I feel bad writing this review but really! I don't get why it's such a highly recommended place.

Mar G.

Went to sit at the bar for a solo dinner. The service was very prompt, and they provided a lot of good recommendations. They were also great about letting me sample things before deciding on a drink! This has been on my list for a really long time, and I had seen Oleana frequently recognized as one of the best restaurants in Boston, so I was pretty excited to finally go. I have to say I wasn't blown away but also not disappointed. The portions were absolutely miniature for the price. The zaatar bread was very fluffy and the spread was flavorful but nothing I would order again. Similarly. The fatteh was one of the most reviewed dishes online. The flavor was unique but ultimately fell a little flat for me (basically tastes like lightly cooked cauliflower with caramelized onions, and a light creamy sauce). I will say the one thing that I felt like really did live up to the hype was the Sultan's delight (short rib)- it was truly so good. I liked the marigold and my glass of wine but the limited liquor license certainly restricts their offerings. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Ambiance was nothing too unique.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Overall, I would probably give this close to like a 3.9 but rounded up.

Ally W.

Oleana serves modern Mediterranean dishes with an innovative menu. I have been coming for years, and most dishes are excellent, but there is always one or two dishes that miss the mark. On my latest visit, I really enjoyed the Topik (stuffed potato hummus, pine nuts, currants, tahini, and radish) and the Fatteh (caramelized onions, cauliflower, crispy mushrooms, pine nuts, and yogurt). Both of those dishes made me go "Wow! How did they come up with this delicious composition!" On the other hand, the Crispy Cheese Borek (with beef sujuk, salsa verde, and creamed feta) was flavorful, but the cheese was not crispy. The major miss was the Lamb Moussaka, which I have loved in past visits. Rather than a layered moussaka, it was a medley of ground lamb, potato, zucchini, peas, Mornay sauce, and lettuce. Lettuce...? It was more like an odd salad than a moussaka (1 star off). I enjoyed my meal overall, but Oleana consistently have had a few mishaps for some reason.

Robert W.

You have to expect that this is a tapas style place . Each dish is small and shareable . I especially liked the chicken skewers .. the sauce was really good! It was also fun to have the baked Alaska w a birthday candle .. keep in mind it's easily enough for two and the ice cream in it is like a toasted coconut.. and not too sweet . Yeah it's a little bit of a challenge to cut into the base but that was tasty and it's all for fun! We indulged and had the chocolate dessert too.. yum! We sat at the bar and the bartender who served us was very pleasant to us .

Ying X.

For my own birthday this year, I chose Oleana, supposedly one of Boston's best Mediterranean restaurants, and reservations are almost a month in advance. Overall, I was satisfied. Fatteh: The presentation was beautiful, with a delightful array of layers. Between two layers of crispy chips laid the chewy texture of fried mushrooms, the sweetness of cauliflower, the nutty aroma of pine nuts, and the refreshing sweet and sour taste of yogurt--a random combination that offered a different experience with every bite. The cauliflower, in particular, was crisp yet not tough, with a naturally gentle sweetness--a first for me. However, towards the end, the crispy chips became very slightly oily. Sultan's Delight: Perfect as a main course. The beef was stewed to perfection, incredibly tender and flavorful, almost falling apart the moment it touched the knife. It required absolutely no effort, reminiscent of a master butcher skillfully carving up an ox in Zhuangzi莊子, who kept his knife like new over nineteen years. The tamarind brought a slightly fermented, tangy aroma, while the smoked eggplant puree, likely babaganoush, was smooth and creamy with a mild, pleasant smokiness. The lemon juice, however, adds a refreshing touch, creating an interesting layering of acidity. It looked small, but it was surprisingly satisfying. The only downsides were the beef was slightly over-salty and the basil leaves, which seem to serve only a decorative purpose. Baked Alaska: A signature dessert, very popular on social media. Frankly, I came specifically for this, but after eating it, all I can say is, "Who's promoting this?"... The presentation was truly stunning, and the first few bites were quite good. The meringue was was torched to create a thin, burnt crust, resulting in a delicate and light texture, while the coconut ice cream blended with the bitter aroma of coffee. However, the base, a nut tart similar to a five-nut mooncake五仁月餅 filling, was too dense and heavy; the passion fruit syrup was excessively sweet and acidic, even a small amount was cloying, making it a torture by the end. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The restaurant tables were a bit uneven and hopefully they will be repaired soon.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]]

Olga G.

I was very happy to score a reservation at Oleana, as it's one of top restaurants on Resy. (#2 to be exact). I honestly don't understand the hype. The service was fantastic! The food was good, not "amazing" or great. The wine list was underwhelming. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The ambiance is basic.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Out of l everything we tried, baked Alaska dessert was delicious.

Hussain L.

Oleana lives up to the hype and is a special 5-star experience you must try! Reservations often book our 1-month in advance. Each tapas/mezze style meal we had was delicious, artistically plated, with fresh and interesting ingredients. The Quail Kebab, Haloumi Cheese, and Asparagus were some of my favorites! The Sultan Delight is an original from day#1, tender meat, but I did not like the seasoning. For drinks, try the beet sumac soda, it is refreshing and smooth. Finally, the baked Alaska is a MUST try for desert! Filled with coconut cream, ice cream, passion fruit, easy to share and filling. Leave some space! Service was excellent, I really appreciated my water being filled constantly without my ever noticing it was low.

Gina L.

Lucked out with a Resy opening a couple days before for Thursday @ 5:30pm. Arrived a few minutes early, and there was a line of people ~8-10 ppl standing by for walk-ins (everyone was seated). Veggie Mezze - Fatteh ($16) - really enjoyed this crunchy mezze! Sounded simple on the menu - Chicory + Herb Salad ($17) - refreshing start with a sweet and savory salad, enjoyed this, flavors all paired very nicely - Halloumi Cheese ($17) - we aren't fanatics over halloumi but wanted to try this. We preferred the other mezze, but not bad Fried Mussels ($17) - this was alright, would skip next time. -Sultan's Delight ($20) - this was soooo tasty, literally fell apart when poked with a fork; not the biggest portion -Lamb Shish ($18) - was good, but on the smaller side, probably wouldn't order again We were celebrating my friend's birthday, and they brought out a couple cookies topped with meringue dipped in chocolate with a candle. Very friendly staff, good selection of food, a nice little splurge.

Dessert special - almond mousse with cocoa sherbet

Kai M.

This is my second time at Oleana! I went a few years ago and my BF and I have been wanting to come together. He was able to get a 9pm reservation on a Friday night. We are huge fans of Sarma, so we were looking forward to trying Oleana and we were not disappointed!! We ordered the za'atar bread, the spinach falafel, the fatteh, the potato and red lentil kubba, and the Sultan's Delight. All were SO delicious. They are small plates, but each was seasoned perfectly, unique, and presented beautifully. We felt that these five dishes were plenty for us to feel satiated and satisfied. We also ordered the dessert special of the night, which was an almond mousse with a white chocolate garnish and a cocoa sherbet. Our server assured us everyone loved it and we were impressed by the flavors. The service was very attentive and quick! We were seated by 9:10 (we showed up at 9:05), and we were out of there by 10:15. Several different servers came by to fill water, give us replacement plates, and serve our dishes. The team worked so well together for a seamless guest experience. We will definitely be back! We are local to Cambridge, so we're grateful to live near this truly scrumptious gem.

Natalie C.

I went as a solo diner and got seated within 20 mins (I went around 9:00 pm -- it was pretty full). The hostess was very attentive and even let me choose from a bar seat or special small table in the corner. I chose the table. The somm immediately offered me to taste between 2 wines - I chose the wine I wouldn't have chosen otherwise. I had 5 veggie dishes - the top stars were falafel and the green tomato special. The others were good and on their own would be great, just in comparison to my favorites they are a little behind. I got the artichoke and pea dish -- artichokes were firm (I prefer tender) but the spring peas were so crisp and refreshing. Asparagus was a star dish, too! That was my third favorite. Truly innovative veggies here. I'm doing some research on fiber in food, so I came here. I don't feel like I missed out on meat and fish by sticking to veggies.

Guli K.

Years later the service and quality and creativity of the food continues to be exceptional. Food is served tapas style and there is quite the variety of options to choose from and is vegetarian friendly. Highlights from this meal were the fried perch, fatteh, sultans delight, moussaka and scallops. Smallish restaurant that also offers limited seating at the bar and when weather is nice outdoor seatong. Reservations highly recommended. They do welcome walk ins but unless you are in line when doors open, expect a wait. Service at Oleana has always been friendly and attentive and we never feel rushed.

Wendi K.

4.5 Stars Elevated Mediterranean cuisine. I took my work friends here for dinner and let me tell you - almost NOTHING fails to surprise / impress. We had a reservation on a Wednesday evening. It's on the pricey side for sure, but the quality makes up for it. It's fun to split dishes and in my mind, paying under $300 for what is basically an 8 course gourmet meal with drinks for 4 isn't bad. The drinks were great too, we all got one :) We split a variety of dishes. Apps: -Za'atar Bread ($12) - The bread is so sponge-y and soft and the date butter and labneh spreads are so decadent. WIN. -Spinach Falafel ($15) - GET THIS. The presentation is SO unique, the falafel is super fresh, and the hummus is the creamiest you will try -Ricotta & Corn Dumplings ($14) - flavorful, buttery, luxurious. WIN. -Broccolini ($14) - Fine to skip. We ordered this because someone wanted a veg. Meats: -Quail Kebab ($17) - So unique, amazing! -Sultan's Delight ($20) - FORK TENDER. The eggplant puree is also heavenly. -Lemon Chicken ($28) - This was a sleeper! You think chicken, boring right? They de-bone an entire half chicken, make into a brick for easy slicing, and serve it on top of a delicious feta-filo base. How creative! -Lamb Shish ($18) - We enjoyed this but it's also fine to skip. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The inside has a nice ambience but they do PACK the tables together.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The staff are all super nice.

Phoebe H.

Oleana is perfect for sharing plates. Communal style, my personal favorite. The dumplings were pleasant but lacked the spark found in other dishes. Yet the falafel, the fatteh, and the velvety warm hummus easily stole the spotlight. We ended with a shared baked Alaska, a fun, glowing finale. If you can get a reservation I highly recommend as this is one of the better places to dine in Cambridge.

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Review Insights

Mary M.

3 years ago

Amazing mocktails (jallab is a must try) and small plates. Our favorites were the salad with pomegranate seeds and falafel. Whipped feta as well! Definitely will be back to try the scallops. They were sold out when we went. read more

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Gina A.

3 years ago

We had the pleasure of getting a Saturday night reservation. Small plates, great service, and everything was absolutely delicious! You cannot go wrong ordering anything here. Highly recommended! read more

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Whitney L.

Elite 22

4 years ago

Charming, romantic restaurant. The dishes here are (in our server's words) "designed for sharing," with 3 mezes recommended per person. Overall, I enjoyed dining here, but like other reviewers, agree that many of the dishes were overpriced and could use more flavor. Dishes I tried: Whipped Feta (3.5/5): A great compliment to some of the more extravagant dishes, but nothing special. Za'atar Bread & Parsnip Tershi (3.5/5): The Za'atar bread wasn't my favorite, but the parsnip tershi was delightful on its own. Topik (4/5): One of my favorite dishes, very soft and creamy. Trout Spanakopita (5/5): My favorite dish of the evening, a definite standout. Presented as the trout wrapped around the other components of the dish (and the roe was a treat!) The trout was flaky and delicious. Spinach Falafel (5/5): Another standout. The falafel is rich and flavorful. Broccoli, Kale & Kohlrabi Borek (5/5): Another great dish. Fried Mussels (2/5): Way too salty. Avoid. Sfela Cheese Saganaki (3.5/5): A thick, creamy cheese coated with sunflower seeds and topped with red pepper. Delicious, but a bit heavy. 7-Vegetable Brik (2/5): My least favorite dish of the meal. The 7-vegetable brik consists of a variety of vegetables sandwiched between thin, phyllo-dough like crust. Difficult to eat, as the components of this dish fell apart as soon as it was cut. Baked Alaska (1000/5): Easily one of the best desserts I've had in a while. This dish is presented as a tower: meringue (I believe, or something of a similar consistency) is piled on top of coconut ice cream, which sits on a coconut crust. This creation is surrounded by a spectacular passionfruit caramel. I imagine this passionfruit caramel tastes like the ambrosia enjoyed by the gods in Greek mythology. Seriously, do NOT skip this. Pistachio & Orange Blossom Semi-Freddo (2/5): Compared to the Baked Alaska, this dessert was very average. Would not order again. Critiques: Most of the mezes are around $15, so with 3 mezes per person + drinks + dessert, a meal here can be quite expensive. While I agree with pricing for more complex dishes, some of the dishes seemed pricey for what we received. Many of the dishes were also a bit salty for my liking. read more

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Arnold H.

365

6 years ago

This is Dana's favorite place, so I'll give 'em an extra star from her. Nice folks Only one thing was phenomenal A few things were totally forgettable read more

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Jason W.

5 years ago

The food was great. But we waited for a pretty long time for all of them. Desert was too sweat. read more

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Belle Y.

4 years ago

This was my second time visiting Oleana. My first time trying the quail kebab was one of the most memorable early dining experiences I had in Boston and was what brought me back this time-and it did not disappoint. The meat was tender and juicy, and the subtle taste of spices was complicated but not overpowering-not stealing the thunder from the quail itself. While the quail kebob had a relatively clean taste, Sultans delight had the totally opposite taste profile, with its heavy sauce and strong flavors-but equally (if not even more) delicious and impressive. The rest of the dishes were not as mind blowing but everything tasted great. My only complaints are that the mashed potato/fava beans layer on lamb mousakka was a bit weird to be on this dish and we didn't find much lamb in the plate, and the flavor was just mediocre. Baked Alaska was way too overhyped in my opinion. It was too sweet for my taste and each of the components was just average quality. I truly don't understand how this is the most popular dish here with all the other great options read more

Oleana Restaurant - Swordfish kebab - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Oleana Restaurant - Vermont Quail Kebob - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Oleana Restaurant - Baked Alaska - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Oleana Restaurant - Sultan 's Delight - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Oleana Restaurant - Lamb moussaka - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Eli S.

5 years ago

The food was delicious -- my favorite was the fatteh. We ordered 6 small plates for two people plus a dessert and it was plenty of food and in my opinion, reasonably priced. The waiter was super friendly and actually sent over two free drinks and comped our dessert at the end because he had an overwhelming night with other customers and felt he hadn't given our table enough attention. Sure, we were struggled to flag him down at the end to order dessert but we weren't in a rush and didn't really particularly notice or care, but I feel like it's just amazing service and makes for a great experience when the staff notices something like that and does something about it. It really shows the standards they must have for service, which is awesome! Only critiques are my bf didn't like the mushroom kibbeh (I can't speak to it since I didn't try it -- I can't eat walnuts), and I wish the lights were up a little brighter in there, I like to see my food! Overall great experience, and I will be back! read more

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Rrrr S.

5 years ago

Oleana has not lost anything from its years long of consistent quality. We sampled various small plates from the menu and found all dishes delicious and creative. Service was excellent and dining outdoors was pleasant. Strongly recommending Oleana regulars and first timers to come check out the menu. Note the house fee of 20%. Back 8 months after my above review. Awesome food and service as always. Oleana's take on profiterol gets a thumbs up (nice way of blending halva into this desert). Still after years I am yet to discover a good main plate (gyro and lemon chicken are no no for me). Restaurant now provides info on why 20% house fee is charged, which includes gratuity and considers a more equitable way to support front and back kitchen. read more

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Alex M.

Elite 21

394

152

103

8 years ago

This place is UNBELIEVABLE, probably one of the best meals I've had in a long, long time. Conde Nast had this spot on their "best in the world 2015" list and it consistently ranks highly as a top spot for vegetarians. I can see why. For starters, make a reservation. The place isn't very big and it's pretty popular, especially during the summer, because they have a pretty extensive outdoor eating area. We went on a Wednesday night around 7pm, and waited for about a half hour prior to getting seated. They kindly got us drinks and some small plates while we waited for our table. They don't serve hard alcohol, but have a very extensive list of wines and champagne, and also make fun, seasonal, wine-based drinks. I believe the menu rotates, but I think some of the popular dishes are always available. We probably ordered about 3-4 plates per person (table of 6) which came out to be a bit much, and resulted in food getting wasted at the end of the night. Everything was EXCEPTIONAL. The standouts were definitely the Whipped Feta, Fatteh, Lemon Chicken, and Lamb Lamejun. The pita was great as well. My personal favorite was either the stuffed shells or the falafel. I LOVE falafel and this might be the best I've ever had. Warm, crunchy, tasty and soft, all at once. That is a must-have. Bottom line: I haven't been to Giacomo's, in fairness, but I have been to Lolitas and Atlantic. This place takes the cake for me as best in Boston. 200% will be back. read more

Oleana Restaurant - Stuffed Shells - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Hannah R.

3 years ago

A phenomenal meal. A special occasion restaurant for sure, but 100% worth trying if you live in Cambridge or Boston. Very easy to order for dietary restrictions. Been thinking about the food for months. read more

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Omer D.

4 years ago

New take on many traditional Turkish dishes were all extremely well-done. Highly recommend the borek and sultan's delight (imam bayildi - usually made with ground beef is really kicked up with short rib) read more

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Andy D.

168

4 years ago

Oleana always delivers top notch food and experience. The vibe is very chill inside, relaxed, not too loud. It's shared plates that range in size, some can be on the smaller side so for a large group you might want to double the order, but for the two of us each dish was perfect. There's a bit more vegetarian dishes than meat dishes, which we enjoyed, nothing felt too heavy or intense so you could enjoy sampling a lot of different flavors. I highly recommend the Delicata Squash & Apple Salad (Whipped Manouri Cheese, Pepitas, Tahini Maple Dressing) and Fatteh (Caramelized Onion, Cauliflower, Crispy Mushrooms, Pine Nuts, Yogurt), those were our favorites. The Dark Leafy Greens and Broccoli, Kale & Kohlrabi Borek (Tomato Brown Butter, Yogurt, Turkish Spices) were also quite good. And of course, don't pass up the Baked Alaska for dessert, it is heavenly! Coconutty and caramel ice cream that hits all the right notes covered in a very light and fluffy browned meringue on top of a coconut cake soaked in passion fruit caramel. There's so many flavors, but they work so well together or separately, try a bite of each and then mix them together, very unique! read more

Oleana Restaurant - Baked Alaska for our Anniversary :) - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Kate C.

1087

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6 years ago

We had an absolutely amazing dining experience at Oleana tonight! We did have to wait a bit for our 7 pm reservation, but it was worth it. The menu has a mix of small and large plates, so we ended up getting one large plate (lemon chicken) and several small plates. My favorite small plates were the quail, falafel and the olives. We also got the z'atar bread on its own and it was delicious! The restaurant is taking a lot of precautions for the pandemic, including offering outdoor seating and requiring masks. Highly recommend this dinner gem! read more

Oleana Restaurant - Vermont Quail Kebob - delicious! - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Smita S.

8 years ago

Had a great experience at Oleana. My husband and I are vegetarians and there was a lot on the menu for vegetarians to enjoy. The Spinach falafels were my favourite. We got the veggie tasting menu and 2 Mezzes, which was super filling!! The downside was the seating , it's too cramped to enjoy an intimate dinner and you can hear a constant chatter!! However, the patio is beautiful!! The dessert we got as a part of our tasting menu was the Turkish profiteroles which was simply delicious. I would definitely go here again read more

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Sarah B.

5 years ago

Always a great time at Oleana. We had a variety of vegetarian dishes to celebrate graduation. The cocktails were good, but only included wine instead of spirits, so keep that in mind. 10/10 experience! read more

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Robyn Y.

101

9 years ago

It's hard to pick a favorite but if I must it is hands down Oleana. The outdoor garden is the perfect backdrop for dinner during the warmer months. And it's not just a perfect setting, the food rivals the ambiance. There are different strategies to tackling this restaurant. Lets start with the meze. You could meze out and order an assortment of meze plates. The whipped feta and housemade hummus are light, fresh and a must. The crunchy pistachio crust of the quail kebab locks in the juicy tender meat. The moussaka is full of wonderful spices and textures. Last but not least my favorite menu item, the Sultan's Delight. How should I put this? If I were to die tonight this would be my last meal. It is sweet and savory and all that is right in the world. If you have room order the lemon chicken with the za'atar and cheese pancake. You may not think chicken is special but then again you probably haven't had THIS chicken. And onto dessert. The baked Alaska and the Turkish profiteroles. If you've trusted me thus far you know I won't steer you in the wrong direction. Oleana has created a special place in the market because no other restaurant offers similar items or comparable flavor profiles. There is only one Oleana. NOTES: (1) Be sure to make a reservation. There is always a wait and the patio is impossible during the summer. (2) If you have a nut allergy this place isn't for you (3) If you are a vegetarian this place is for you. They have a vegetarian tasting menu. read more

Oleana Restaurant - FRIED MUSSELS - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Oleana Restaurant - QUAIL KEBABS - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Oleana Restaurant - MOUSSAKA - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Oleana Restaurant - TURKISH-STYLE PROFITEROLES - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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V. C.

5 years ago

I went here in mid October 2020 and it was fantastic. They had an amazing outdoor patio in the back with strung lights and a lot of heat lamps which kept the place really warm (I was able to eat with my jacket off!). Food wise: - YOU MUST GET THE FALAFEL. It's really wonderful. A table next to us literally ordered 3 falafel dishes (for 2 people) and that is all they ordered. - Za'tar bread with babaganoush was great - Fatteh: really flavor combos - Whipped feta was lovely but exactly what you'd expect it be to be. - Topik was recommended to us but I think fell a little short - sounds really special but didn't think it was too different from a regular hummus read more

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Ray R.

Elite 19

455

951

8 years ago

Delicate appetizers and ambrosial main courses. We had the lamb tarts and the beef one to start with(I can't remember the name). The beef appetizer is great. The beef itself is very soft. It is not like a "steak". You don't need knives to slice it. Just pull it apart with forks. The lamb tarta has a little spicy taste. In addition, they add some flour product inside the tarta. It tastes like small pieces of pasta which makes the lamb meat more outstanding. For the main course, scallop is definitely a good choice. Most places overlook scallops so that they become chewy and hard to swallow. However, the scallops here are like soft jellies. We had the classic dessert "Baked Alaska". The well scorched marshmallow contains a scoop of ice cream and a piece of cake inside. They use passion fruit sauce at the base to provide a sour taste in order to neutralize the sweetness. The only deficiency is that the bread and the veggie side we had are too salty and bitter. read more

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O. G. F.

4 years ago

Food was pretty good but tbh it was a bit overpriced for the sizes and what it was Also the whole thing where we now have to pay 7% on top of tips and taxes for workers insurance is absolutely obnoxious. I'm sorry but the restaurant owner should be taking care of that not the customer. read more

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Olive G.

3 years ago

Truly the best service in Boston. Wine selection is amazing, love their sparkling red wine. "Best chicken of my life" - my boyfriend

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Courtney P.

Elite 20

142

8 years ago

We dined at Oleana on a Thursday night and it was packed! Reservations always recommended here. My biggest let down is that they don't have a liquor license so they only serve beer and wine. However, our waitress was very pleasant and the food was great. We weren't overly hungry so we chose 3 mezzes to share. We had the quail kebabs which were awesome, the moussaka which was even better, and a special carrot soup with a fish cake. Those 3 were plenty to fill us both and it was all delicious. read more

Oleana Restaurant - Moussaka- YUM - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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T L.

3 years ago

It was a Flavor bomb! Every dish was so good! Delicious food and good drinks. Highly recommend

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Bruce S.

3 years ago

The best, great environment and the food, oh my, diverse and delicious. Service is professional, though make reservations early. Please go! read more

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Priyanshi S.

3 years ago

Terrible service - we were a group of 4 who had to share the smallest plate possible even thought we ordered plenty. Every dish takes 20 mins or so, in the middle of those plates you're left with nothing. Potatoes apparently take 1.5 hours here! read more

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Leo M.

4 years ago

Mike Cotter and staff are outstanding!!! Nice variety of good food. Great customer base!

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Jennifer M.

3 years ago

Wonderful food, friendly waiter, great for sharing small plates with friends. Altogether a positive experience!

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Adrienne Z.

Elite 20

232

201

9 years ago

This place is stellar. The food is inventive, delicious, and also pretty fun. Ana Sortun's restaurants are all worth going, in my opinion, and this one is no exception. It's a particularly good spot for vegetarians, as they even have a vegetarian-specific tasting menu. When I go, I'm usually so excited about the mezzes that I skip an entree altogether. That way, I can enjoy as many different flavors as possible. The Sultan's Delight and the Lamb and Grape Leaf Tart are two of my favorites. If you're there in the summer, ask to sit in the backyard! It's first-come, first-served so if you get there early, you'll be more likely to get a spot there. read more

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Sarah F.

Elite 15

104

5 years ago

One of the all time best restaurants in the Boston area. Everything is delicious and the outdoor dining area is magical.

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Ariana J.

Elite 20

143

124

104

7 years ago

We arrived right before at opening on a Sunday evening and were first in line for walk-ins. There was a line of people waiting behind us, which we expected given how much we heard people raving about Oleana. We sat outside and shared 4 plates between us including the lahmajun, beet salad, moussaka, and the night's special. For dessert, we shared Baked Alaska and Profiteroles - both we amazing. The Baked Alaska sits atop a fruity glaze, which was not my favorite but overall the dessert itself was delicious. The Profilteroles were filled with caramel, sesame, and halva pieces, which gave them a great nutty flavoring. I could have finished the dessert myself if I weren't so full! Very much looking forward to returning. read more

Oleana Restaurant - Baked Alaska & Profiteroles - Turkish Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Karen K.

Elite 7

4 years ago

I lived in Boston for 16 years...this is one of the places I miss most. The food always felt like an indulgence, and yet I never left feeling overstuffed...just perfectly satisfied. Please come open a second location in Richmond, VA!! read more

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John T.

3 years ago

Patio dining in summer is a hidden oasis in Cambridge/Somerville just a walk from nondescript hotspots in Kendall Square. Food and service is top drawer. read more

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Jessica L.

Elite 22

486

7 years ago

Oleana is a lovely restaurant. Every time I visit, I notice more nuances -- the thoughtful decor, fresh flowers throughout, phenomenal service, and so on. Some items are excellent -- Sultan's Delight, Whipped Feta, Fried Mussels (those were fantastic!), many of the desserts, and the stuffed pepper special. Other items are fine, but less impressive. $6 for one pretty average deviled egg cut in half? Other dishes were somewhat unbalanced, for example, too much aioli. The saganaki was fine but didn't blow my socks off. All this is to say, Oleana is great, but research before you go because some items are excellent and others are underwhelming. I'll also say, the portions can be very inconsistent. For example, there are times when Sultan's Delight is quite generous, and other times where it was so small it was quite difficult to share (and it's intended to be shared). I totally get that it's fine dining, but at times it comes across as skimping. Ambiance is solid, but at times I prefer the energy over at Sarma. read more

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Divya V.

4 years ago

The food, the ambience, and the service are fantastic at Oleana. I got their Fatteh, fried feta, and their bombe Alaska. The fatteh was perfection - there is absolutely nothing I can complain about it except that it was finished way too quickly. The fried feta was a lot - because of the strong flavor I wanted to stop after five or six bites. But those five bites were heavenly! The bombe Alaska is their signature dessert and rightfully so. It was perfect for sharing and the flavors were balanced just right. I still dream of that dish! read more

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Yusuf A.

7 years ago

My partner and I really wanted to love Oleana, but the food just didn't live up to the hype. TLDR: Table for 2, great ambience, excellent service, OK food if you're familiar with mediterranean cuisine. 3 stars. The setting is beautiful (patio is first come first served, we sat inside as we had reservations for two). Booth seating, relatively close quarters for Cambridge but still comfortable, beautiful Mediterranean artwork, and great global soundtrack that softens the conversations around you (we heard tracks from Mali, Egypt, and Iran while eating - kudos to whoever made the playlist - and they helped soften a rather loud conversation the couple next to us were having). Honestly, the only thing that took away from the ambience for us was the very loud conversation that the folks next to us were having - made it difficult for us to talk for part of dinner. Service was great - from when we walked in to when we left, felt like the staff were attentive without hovering. The food was good, but didn't blow either of us away. The Fatteh was our favorite - the chefs nailed the texture and flavor. The Sultan's delight was on the dry side and the flavors were a bit too subtle. The Lemon chicken had a nice zaatar crust, but was also a bit dry and felt like it was missing something (the cheese pancake was a nice touch though). We enjoyed the Turkish Profiteroles, but felt like the dish was a bit too heavy with Sesame caramel - a lighter touch with the caramel and creme might have taken the dish to another level. Two mezzes, one large plate, two non-alcoholic drinks, and dessert came out to $110 with tip. On balance - great evening, we're looking forward to trying Sarma (Oleana's sister restaurant), but don't think we'll be back at Oleana. read more

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K L.

4 years ago

Great food and service. 20% service fee is mandatory but totally worth it. Will come again.

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Lisa Z.

338

189

5 years ago

Yummy restaurant although portions are on the small end so it can get quite expensive compared. The baked Alaska is a must try! A place to go at least once to try. read more

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Azucena R.

4 years ago

Excelente place! It has a really nice atmosphere ! The food and everything coffee pastry super good! Highly recommend it! read more

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Lauren P.

4 years ago

Where do I even begin? Our server who art in heaven, Andres will be thy name, was incredible. They recommended the fatteh and it changed our lives. The chilled red was an incredible starter and the horse girl vino was big bodied and delightful. If we could choose one dish that was unforgettable, it would be the falafel. The bursting flavors of beet tzatziki paired with crisp pickle and moist hummus are unmatched to any dish here. If you want a memorable meal with your loved ones you should make a rez here. read more

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Imran N.

Elite 21

187

999

7 years ago

Restaurants like Oleana put Boston and Cambridge on the international food scene. While Boston isn't very famous for cuisine in comparison to neighbouring cities, institutions like Oleana shows that this may not hold true for much longer. With close access to farms and excellent produce, Oleana really highlights simple yet high quality ingredients. With a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern take, the menu is equally as good for vegetarians and meat eaters alike. The menu also is fairly extensive and versatile, offering both tapas style a la carte, and various formats of chef tasting menu's. This makes this place perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, business meetings and the like. Oh, and the patio is exceptional. Very ambient and romantic. read more

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Pasquale R.

Elite 26

1920

1938

320

9 years ago

Words will not do this place justice. One of the best restaurants I have ever been to. Their food was fresh and their service was stellar. I cannot put words together other than this place is phenomenal! Just go and see/eat for yourself. End of review.... read more

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Page 9 of 49

134 Hampshire St
Cambridge, MA 02139
Inman Square
Directions
(617) 661-0505
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.oleanarestaurant.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Oleana Restaurant open?

Oleana Restaurant opens at 5:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does Oleana Restaurant close?

Oleana Restaurant closes at 10:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday.Oleana Restaurant closes at 10:30 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Mon-Thu, Sun 5:00 PM - 10:00 PMFri-Sat 5:00 PM - 10:30 PM

Payment methods

Does Oleana Restaurant take credit cards?

Yes, Oleana Restaurant takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Oleana Restaurant have catering options?

No, Oleana Restaurant does not have catering options.

Does Oleana Restaurant have a happy hour?

No, Oleana Restaurant does not have a happy hour.

Does Oleana Restaurant serve alcohol?

Yes, Oleana Restaurant serves alcohol. Beer & Wine Only

Indoor Amenities

Does Oleana Restaurant allow dogs?

Yes, Oleana Restaurant allows dogs.

Does Oleana Restaurant have TVs?

No, Oleana Restaurant does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Oleana Restaurant have bike parking?

Yes, Oleana Restaurant has bike parking.

Does Oleana Restaurant have outdoor seating?

Yes, Oleana Restaurant has outdoor seating options.

Does Oleana Restaurant have parking?

Yes, Oleana Restaurant has parking options. Street Parking

Other Amenities

Does Oleana Restaurant have free WiFi?

No, Oleana Restaurant does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

an exceptional dining experience in eastern Mediterranean cuisine.

History

Established in 2001.

Oleana opened in 2001 to rave reviews from the press and diners alike. It's not surprising once you've tasted Ana Sortun's outrageously inventive food, including chickpea crêpe with smoked cinnamon aioli, or lamb steak with Turkish spices & fava bean moussaka. Small producers comprise the wine list at Oleana and are carefully chosen to complement the style of spice. But a meal at Oleana isn't complete until you've tried one of pastry chef Maura Kilpatrick's desserts. She is especially known for her homemade ice creams infused with an Eastern Mediterranean sensibility, such as cocoa-rose ice cream with a date-rose truffle, or salted butter ice cream with a pumpkin-brown butter crêpe. Oleana's award-winning patio with a fountain, herb garden and fig tree is the perfect place to spend a sultry summer evening. But winter nights in the dining room are pretty warm and welcoming too, with Turkish carpets on the wall, a homey fireplace and banquette seating.

Meet the Business Owner: Ana S.

Upon her return to Boston, she wanted to fuse her newfound love of Eastern Mediterranean spices with her passion for using only the best ingredients. The result of this union was Oleana, which opened in Cambridge in 2001. A mere four years later, Sortun won a coveted and prestigious James Beard Award.

Oleana Restaurant Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Oleana Restaurant

Is the restaurant still tacking on the 6% admin fee on top of the food tax and gratuity? I'm guessing it's going to be a pretty expensive meal when all said and done.

Yes they do! Just ate there on 12/11/22 - on a bill with a subtotal of $48, there was an Admin Fee (6.00%) added with amounted to $2.88, then tax calculated after that and then you add tip. I've never begrudged them the 6%, they have some of the…

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Does Oleana have a bar and can you eat at it?

Yes they do.

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Is there a dress code? Do I need a reservation for 2 people on a Friday or possible to just walk in?

There is no specific dress code, but I would say smart casual a minimum. As to the reservations, I…

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Sarma

After seeing this place on social, we were lucky to grab a reservation on a Tues night at 5:30. We…read moregot seated right at our reservation time. All street parking and we had to circle around to find a spot so plan ahead. We got a red wine and the flawless victory cocktail. I got to try a couple wines before committing to a glass. My partner loved his cocktail. Super well balanced and really unique combo of flavors. Both drinks paired well with all our food too. Zucchini pancakes (2/5) - the only miss. The pancakes were not crispy at all and ate very mushy. The carrot curry was delish but all the flavors together with the raita didn't really do it for me. White bean hummus (4/5) - amazing flavor and the little sesame ring it comes with was yummy. The texture of the hummus could have been smoother though. Sugar snaps (5/5) - perfect sweet and salty balance and really great texture from the quinoa. Good creaminess too. Octopus souvlaki (5/5) - well charred octopus and tender. The flavors were rich in flavor. Yellow split pea was a nice creamy base. Revani snack cake (5/5) - we almost didn't get dessert but glad we did! It a citrus pound cake with a pineapple glaze and a spiced macadamia crunchy topping. Served chilled. Very yummy and not too heavy. Overall very happy we tried this place. It's pricey for what you get but nice for a special occasion.

Wow! flavors like these will make your mouth happy! Every dish was unique, creative, and packed…read morewith flavor. It's easy to see why reservations are so hard to get. The menu changes often, which makes me wish I lived closer so I could visit regularly. We ordered quite a few dishes, and the portions were perfect for sharing. The fresh bread was an amazing start to the meal, and the sugar snap peas were a standout. Since the menu is always evolving, my recommendation is to ask your server what the chef is most excited about and order it. You really can't go wrong. This was a memorable dining experience, and I hope my next visit won't be too far away.

Photos

Douggy, our bartender/waiter

Sugar Snaps

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Feta Cheese Gnocchi

Noor Mediterranean Grill

Pardon the half eaten plate pictures, we were mid bite when we decided this place deserved a great…read morereview! Just moved and picky about middle eastern food and this hit all the right spots. - chicken dinner plate came with an excellent (already eaten) salad, fresh fries, and very good baba ganoush. Salad had lots of fresh veggies including peppers and cucumber and tomato along with plenty of whole fresh mint leaves- loved it. Chicken was super fresh and crispy yet not overcooked. - wrap was HUGE! Excellent value for $14- for a normal person could def be 2 meals or a very hungry 1 meal Staff was kind and cool, music was great, and super clean. Would recommend!

My son and I had a hankering for some Chicken Shawarma, and when the Shawarma calls, you answer. We…read moresearched for some Mediterranean spots near us in Arlington, and the closest one we hadn't tried yet was Noor, which is just outside of Davis Square. I placed our order on their website, and we headed over to pick up. Parking is tricky, but not as difficult as in Davis Square. It looked like there were a few small tables inside the tiny restaurant. It seems like they do a solid take-out business based on the number of people picking up brown paper bags at the same time as us. My son fully enjoyed his chicken shawarma sandwich with tahini, and I got the combo kebab dinner plate. I subbed fattoush for the salad, and I got all three sauces. The fattoush pita was fried (nice crunch, but greasy), and it was not heavily spiced, so not the best I've ever had, but not terrible. I did not care for the garlic sauce; the tahini sauce was basic, but the babaganoush had an incredible smokiness to it. Both the chicken and beef kabobs were juicy and flavorful, but I did not love the lale kebab. The prices were great, and I was able to get two meals out of my dinner plate. I will definitely be visiting again soon!

Photos

Fattoush Salad AGAIN. Such a refreshing salad!!!

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Chicken Shawerma

Koshari Mama

Koshari (8/10): delicious and nutritious. Flavors were well balanced. I loved the fried onions!…read moreSpicy CKN sandwich (8/10): this was surprisingly delicious. The sauce was amazing!! I also loved the fake chicken meat. Bread had very good texture and aroma Kofta sandwich (7/10): bread and meat were also very good. I prefer the spicy CKN sauce over this one, but they're both solid choices. Ambiance is very chill and comfy. Service is good.

A unique find! I got the 24 oz Koshari. The fried onions stole the show flavor-wise, delicious!…read moreTexturally, it was quite dry like other reviewers have said--the spicy tomato and garlic vinegar sauces were definitely necessary. Even they weren't enough to completely counteract the dryness unfortunately. Note that the attached menus are for to-go, not dine-in

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Moona

We spent New Year's Eve at Moona and loved every minute. The host and our server were both…read morefantastic. They were welcoming, attentive, and made the night feel special. For drinks we ordered the Oh, Snap! whcih was super refreshing, while the Saved By The Bell had a nice spicy kick with strong bell pepper flavor. For food, the Hummus Tahini was the best hummus I've ever had (with incredible pita), and the Feta Fritters were AMAZING!!!! easily one of the best appetizers I've had. The Syrian Batersh was good, but would be even better with pita. Great food, great service. The restaurant was small and cute! It was slightly cold near the door/windows but we will definitely be back. And can't wait to try out the new Central Square location!

Good spot for a night out. Cocktails and food were decent, and the service was spot on…read more We came as a group and tried a few different things family style. The mushroom hummus and the lamb hummus was good, but not memorable. The zatar pull apart bread was freshly baked. And the crudo was somewhat refreshing. The baklava was alright, I preferred the olive oil cake. Overall we liked everything, but LOVED nothing.

Photos

Doorway

Date Molasses Steak Tips - pickled turnips, eggplant. Another memorable dish, tender juicy

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Tuna Tartare - preserved lemon guacamole, harissa mayo, soy ginger vinaigrette. It was ok.

Sams Falafel & Shawarma

It doesn't get better than this!! Absolutely delicious with generous portions and excellent vibes…read moreevery time. The service is impeccable and everyone is so kind. Love to get the falafel and chicken plates as well as their spicy fries A true gem

The owner is super nice, always so pleasant and cheerful. The food is so tasty and fresh. I got…read moreshawarma chicken over a house salad this time- generous portion for the price. The garlic sauce is delicious! You can really taste the garlic amidst the creaminess of it all, and it goes well with the warm crispy falafel they gave me while I waited for my order. Will keep coming back!

Photos

SHWARMA Time!

Shawerma chicken and shawarma beef and lamb.

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Babaganoush

Pita Cambridge

4.3

(127 reviews)

0.3 mi

Delicious food! I got the shawafel roll-up and I am absolutely coming back for more. The portions…read moreare generous, the prices are reasonable, and the service was quick. I'm looking forward to trying more of their menu items!

Quick, friendly service and great food. Not really a sit down spot, unless you enjoy their patio…read moreoutside. Although, we sat at the bar looking out the window and enjoyed some good Somerville people watching!

Photos

Counter seating

Shawarma

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Fava beans, rice, falafel

Mediterranean Grill

Pros: - pleasant, light-filled (full length glass on all…read moresides of dining area) ambiance - outdoor seating, albeit on rather noisy intersection - pretty good service - grape leaves were very good - grilled meats were decently prepared, tender not dry/overcooked Cons: - grilled meats were underseasoned/bland, probably in accordance with local palates - parking is a nightmare, as one would expect for Mass Avenue; non-issue if you live nearby and walk or bike instead of driving - they give you GINORMOUS piles of rice with most dishes, literally 2-3 times what most places give you. This is great if you're a famished carb-fiend; for the rest of us, expect to take most of that rice home. - all the rice made me sleepy so I ordered black coffee which turned out to be horrible: just black water with barely any coffee flavor at all...beware! I've had better instant coffee than that. - both rice and meats were sorely lacking in oil and fat, again likely another reflection of local palates It wasn't the worst "mediterranean" food I've ever had, but hardly the best. Doubt I'll be coming back, especially given the horrendous parking situation.

Corner spot with 10 or so tables. The food is fresh and seasoned perfectly. We loved all the…read moredishes we tried. Our server was kind and food was quick. The kebabs were tender and juicy.

Photos

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The Helmand Restaurant

4.5/5! Really…read moreenjoyed the chef's special platter since we got a mix of chicken, beef, and lamb. Meat was tender and flavored well. You also get the option of substituting meats which was nice. My favorite was the chicken. I usually don't eat lamb, but the kabobs did not taste gamey, and I enjoyed it! Special shoutout to the bread they serve. Was probably my favorite part of the dinner!!

I was very pleasantly surprised by the dinner we had at The Helmand! We arrived on a weeknight and…read moreit was very busy, but luckily the staff were able to still seat us right away. Our table was right next to a huge wood-fired oven where we could see the fresh table bread being made which was pretty cool. We ordered 3 items off the menu, 2 appetizers (Aushak and Mantwo) and 1 main dish (lamb kebab). I've never had Afghan food before, so the ingredients and flavors used in each dish were very unique to me, but everything worked very well. The Aushak in particular was the most surprising.. they called it "ravioli", but it was more dumpling-esque to me, which an interesting bolognese-like sauce with yogurt. You wouldn't think those flavors would work together but they really do. The Mantwo also paired very nicely with the Aushak, with more of an earthy taste to it. The lamb kebab was also very tasty, though it wasn't anything super unique. The free bread for the table was also a surprising highlight, as we got to try various different dipping sauces (which we then also used to supplement the kebab). Service was attentive, the ambiance of the restaurant was nice, and overall really enjoyed our dinner here.

Photos

Inside Restaurant view

Pineapple cake ! 10/10

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Afghan Special yogurt drink with fresh mint

Falafel Place

I've been going to Falafel Place fairly regularly for the last decade, but I think my last time is…read morebehind me. I've found the portion size has gotten fairly inconsistent over the past couple of years, so that's one thing. But I think I'm calling it as of last night - I stopped in to put in a takeout order and there was no one up front. I saw someone in the back, but didn't want to do the loud "excuse me" thing since he was in the middle of cleanup, so I just waited for a couple of minutes until he came to the front. I wasn't in a rush. But while I waited, a mouse scampered in front of me. So I turned and left.

Hole in the wall falafel place with, hands down, the best falafel you'll find in the Boston area…read more Made fresh, quality has always been consistent. Crispy on the outside, fresh & green on the inside. I tend to get their plate, so it is offered with the eggplant sides, hummus, pita, pickled vegetables, etc. I'd say the sides are great too, but the main star is the falafel. Eat it fresh - that is when it's best. Pricing is around $12 per person. $15-ish if you add baklava for dessert. Minimal seating options, I'd recommend this for take-out. Staff is nice and will usually try to upsell you (add the drink, add the dessert, add another side! Lol).

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Entrance and menu

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Hummus side order

Turkish Lazuri Cafe

I have been to this place now a few times and I have to say that it is a wonderful business! I…read morereally enjoy the Turkish dumplings (manti), the kunefe and the baklava. However I wish you got more baklava for the money!

Ordered through uber eats on a cold Sunday night - and pleasantly surprised with the food - both…read morequality and quantity! The combo kebab platter was very good - juicy kebabs, balanced flavors, and very fresh salad to go with it. I also got a chicken soup (not pictured) that came with bread - very hearty and warming on a cold evening. The rice pudding came as a complimentary item and was delicious - not too sweet, with a puddingy jello-like flavor. The only thing I could have used was some sort of sauce for the kebabs (a chutney or something). I've had the lahmacun before and it's also very good and flavorful. I'll be ordering again the next time I'm in town!

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Interior

Doner Wrap/Pita

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Sea Bass (Levrek) comes with side salad and pita

The Hourly Oyster House

We loved this place! It feels like they're doing classic seafood dishes - crab fritters, lobster…read morerolls, fried calamari, you're not getting any surprises on the menu - but they just execute all of them really, really well. That's a nice thing to do. also, we often just order a bunch of appetizers and ask them to space it out sort of tapas-style, and restaurants never, ever manage it - it's fine, it's a lot to ask, we don't really expect it to work - but these guys actually did it, which was nice. Good cocktails too!

Trying a lobster roll in Boston for the first time and was not disappointed. It was really good and…read morelobster was fantastic. They were accommodating and let me have no butter and mayo on my roll... #lactose intolerant Overall good vibes and great eats

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Great ambiance in Restaurant

Tuna Tartare*

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Lobster Roll

The Helmand Restaurant

Inside Restaurant view

Pineapple cake ! 10/10

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Afghan Special yogurt drink with fresh mint

Sushi Kingdom

3.5

(25 reviews)

0.7 mi

Service was fast but the old lady was rude to us when we tried asking for a second menu so my…read morefriend and I could both read the menu to decide what we wanted. Special rolls were underwhelming and appetizers were mediocre. Sashimi options were good overall. I would look elsewhere given the hefty price for ayce

With the appropriate planning and mindset, I was eager to try this new AYCE sushi restaurant in…read moreCambridge. I visited in the evening on a weekday (I know, lunch time is better for AYCE to most easily afford time to fast before and digest after) and the place was busy. There was no wait for a table though. We were presented with the menu, which was fairly comprehensive, and a stern warning not to waste food...at risk of PUNISHMENT. This was not an issue as my party did not believe in food waste. We collectively ordered a number of non-sushi bar items (like hibachi) and sushi and sashimi. I thought the quality of the sushi was solid. I've been to AYCE places where they go especially heavy on the rice and light on the fish. This was not the case here, fortunately. I enjoyed all of the sushi bar items I ordered. The hibachi steak was also tasty. The venue is well-decorated, although it's not the quietest when it's busy. Value was decent if you come with an appetite: around $37 as of June 2026 for a weekday dinner. My only hesitation is with the service itself. They didn't have a huge number of people working at the sushi bar or a huge number of waiters, so some of the items took a little while to come out. I think I'd be better calibrated the second time around to order more strategically. We also sometimes had to flag down the wait staff to order more items. Don't expect them to come to you. Sushi Kingdom is a positive addition to the neighborhood. I would return.

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Dining room

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Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ

Food service and ambience was great. Very comfortable atmosphere, but it was made so by our server…read moreAna who was very warm, welcoming and quick to serve - all without making us feel rushed. I hope if my wife and I come back (we work in cambridge), that we get Ana to serve us again!

First time trying this resturant... I got the spicy addicting cucumber and the fried chicken kraage…read morerice bowl... The Cucumbers are just as the name says amazing... The fried chicken Kraage rice bowl was not my favorite... the chicken was chewy and not as crispy as I have had in the past... the Japanese chili mayo was spot on... came with soup and salad... I definitly will try again...

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Veggie Galaxy

If you have ever had a veggie burger and didn't like it, it was because you didn't eat here…read more To be honest there aren't a lot of vegetarian dishes that taste good for me, but everything they have here has been amazing. I say this because I have been here multiple times and everything I order or the people who are with me order, has always been amazing. Sometimes they have outdoor seating and we always sit outside if seating there is available, but this time they hadn't setup the outside yet, but they had plenty of seating for 2 inside. Another thing I mention on all my reviews is if a restaurant serves you water when you sit without asking. Well here they do and they were following our glasses as we were sitting. This is definitely a place to go to even if you aren't vegetarian.. actually especially if you aren't so you can find out how good some vegetarian dishes can be. The only downside for me is that I don't live in Cambridge or near by, but there are plenty of cheap parking garages near the restaurant and my favorite Korean grocery store is there.

I came to Veggie Galaxy with some friends and family while visiting Boston…read more It's a pretty cool space -- old school diner aesthetic in everything from decor to the menus. The service was good, but it did take a bit to get seated and get our food as we were a large group. There was also a miscommunication for some people in our group as the kitchen ran out of some things and only told them after they ordered and were waiting. I ordered the grilled chicken Rasta pasta (which was a special for the week). My sister ordered some soup. Both were delicious. The portions are GIGANTIC so I would maybe order something smaller next time, but man that pasta was delicious. The "chicken" was perfectly fried, and the pasta was well seasoned. I would maybe add a bit of heat by it that's a small complaint. I love this place, and will be back next time I'm in Boston!

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Seating

Shepherd's pie

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Buffalo Mac & cheese potato skins

Flour Bakery + Cafe

We were here for MIT reunion and Flour was so great we visited twice. It is a busy cafe with…read morepastries and sandwiches, perfect for breakfast or lunch. It is very comfortable although getting a table may be a challenge. First trip I had the chicken parmigiana sandwich. The chicken and sauce were nice, but i really loved the bread. My wife had the avocado toast and thought it was excellent. On second trip, I had the breakfast sandwich with sausage, the raspberry meringue cloud, and a chai latte (sweetened with whole milk). Everything was wonderful. The chai latte had a rich flavor and then the sandwich was absolutely delicious. The raspberry meringue was a pleasant surprise, it is large but the meringue was perfect. My wife has a slice of Boston cream pi and really enjoyed that. Definitely worth a visit!

I want to love this place,…read more The initial experience with the cashier is touch and go depending on who you get The vibe is solid once people start to fill in the space The pastries are redeeming, I'd recommend most items on the menu with a nitro cold nitro cold brew The follow up from the expo team is mid at best which makes coming back a tough sell. . If you want great service, look elsewhere for now, respectfully

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Sandwich counter. When your order is ready, they will call your name.

Scone

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Sticky Sticky Bun and French Toast

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142 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Philip G.

1251

10 years ago

I was super excited to take my girlfriend to Oleana for her birthday. I had planned this magical evening almost 30 days in advance. I had the reservation through Open Table. We arrive at 8:45 for our 9pm dinner reservation. We checked in (I showed the manager my open table reservation on my phone) and the manager told us you can stand by the side or you can go to the bar and get a drink. I told my girlfriend let's not get a drink let's get a nice bottle of wine for dinner. At 9:15 we were seated but as we were headed to our table which was stuck in a noisy corner I asked if we could sit at the other open table. The host told me we were lucky to squeeze you in which hard to comprehend because I made the dinner reservation on January 22 almost 30 days from my girlfriend's birthday February 20th. At the moment I did feel blessed for the opportunity to go Oleana but felt the comment was quite awkward. After posting the review I got an email from Open Table saying I had missed my reservation. The quite table was actually the table for my girlfriend and I. Instead we got the noisy table in a weird location against the wall in a hallway. When you were in college and you lived with a bunch roommates and someone had to convert the dining room into a bedroom that would be the restaurant equivalent. We were greeted by our waiter Derek who asked us what we would like to drink. I told him I needed a few minutes. Oleana organizes there wines by flavor which is interesting but yet different than the industry standard. I selected a white wine from the category SAFFRON, VANILLA & TOASTED ORANGE and ordered "Nero d'Avola/Frappato Bianco, Gurrieri 'Donna Grazia" which was the least expensive wine $48 (I am not a wine connoisseur so figured I like orange, vanilla and $48 sounds good to me). To be frank I am terrible at pronouncing long names, I am dyslexic I had 0% chance of saying it perfectly. Derek told me the wine I selected wouldn't go well with my meal; I don't understand this because I had not ordered yet. Derek two recommendations Chardonnay / Savagnin, Jean-François Ganevat 'Cuvée Oregane,' Jura, France $ 115 and Tocai Friulano, I Clivi 'Brazan,' Friuli Colli Orientali, Friuli, Italy $110 I mispronounced the names but also shocked at the price. I figured it's my girlfriends birthday and told Derek bring whatever you recommend (I just didn't want a back and forth anymore). Five minutes later the manager who was flustered came and told me "if you do not want to eat here you can leave." My girlfriend and I got really confused and said we want to eat. The manager repeated this nervously two more times. I was so confused and said to the manager can you slow down when you speak, what's happening. Derek decided not to not serve both us wine because in his opinion I had too much to drink because I couldn't pronounce the wine. It's ironic because 45 minutes before the manager offered me to go to the bar and I said no. Even though I completely disagreed with the decision I did not take it personal. I was in the restaurant industry over five years and realize how difficult a job being a waiter is. I commend Derek for making a hard decision that would negatively impact the size of the bill and ultimately his pay. But from that point forward till we left is where Derek could have done a better job. After Derek and the manager left I huddled up with my girlfriend. My girlfriend really wanted to leave but I explained to her we have limited options 9:30 On Friday night. I told my girlfriend let's just enjoy the meal and feel blessed we can be at here together. I took her frown and made it upside down into a smile we were ready to rock n roll for a great meal. I then placed our orders with Derek, we ordered three appetizers and two entrees. For the Meze we ordered Flower Sprouts, Pan Friend Kalamata Olives and Spinach Falafel. The Flower Spouts and Olives were delicious. Derek forgot to bring out the Spinach Falafel so I asked him where the Falafel is. Derek response was "we will just take it off the bill." I still wanted the Spinach Falafel but my girlfriend starting to get upset and Derek not wanting to correct the order I lost my appetite. For the entrees my Monkfish was really good A+. However my girlfriend had ordered the flank steak "medium" and it came out "rare" When you go to a restaurant the experience of how you are treated is just as important as the quality of the food. When the train gets of the track sometimes it can't go back on and disaster occurs. I would sum up my experience at Oleana as a train wreck (adding insult to injury my girlfriend gave a lifetime ban on ever ordering wines again .) read more

Tony M.

Elite 14

152

806

1713

3 months ago

INTRO: Went to Oleana to celebrate my mother's birthday, and from the moment we sat down, it felt like we chose the right place for something meaningful and memorable. SERVICE: The service here is thoughtful and polished. The staff made us feel welcomed, guided us through the menu, and handled the pacing of the meal perfectly. When it came time to celebrate my mother, they made it feel special without overdoing it, which I appreciated. It felt genuine. AMBIANCE: There is a calm, intimate energy here that makes it perfect for a celebration. It feels warm, slightly upscale, and very intentional. The kind of place where you can actually enjoy the people you are with, have real conversations, and settle into the experience without feeling rushed. FOOD: We tried a variety of dishes, and everything felt carefully crafted, but the standout for me was the Quail Kebob Lamb and Grape Leaf Tart. That dish was on another level. Melt-in-your-mouth tender, rich in flavor, and balanced in a way that makes you pause and really appreciate what you are eating. You can tell there is real attention to detail in the kitchen. For dessert, they made a special presentation for my mother, milk pudding, chocolate sorbet, and ice cream. It was the perfect ending to the meal, and honestly, seeing everyone at the table smiling made it hit even more. IMPRESSIONS: Oleana delivers more than just great food, it creates moments. Between the standout dishes, the thoughtful service, and the warm atmosphere, this was exactly the kind of place you want for a birthday celebration. We left full, happy, and all smiles, and that says everything. read more

kaylee i.

18 years ago

I had a great vacation in Boston and one of the reason is because of Oleana Restaurant. This was my first time eating Turkish, Greek, Medi. food. I was really excited and at the same time wondering if I would like it. I am not a person who exaggerates so when I say its great, ITS definitely great. OLEANA is GREAT. Everything on the menu looked delicious. I wish I could order everything. I didn't regret anything I ordered. I had the fried mussels & hot peppers with Turkish tartar sauce ( so delicious that I ordered 2), tamarind glazed beef and smokey eggplant puree with pinenuts (amazing), tuna roll with curried lentis with mango pickles (just wonderful), Nougat Glac, Passion Fruit Souffle, Sorbet & Jellies (one of the best dessert I ever had). The customer service was pleasant. They were very friendly. The atmosphere is wonderful, small and cozy. Oleana definitely deserves my review and 5 stars. I highly highly recommend this place to locals and visitors. When I go back to Boston I will definitely make a trip to this restaurant again. It wasn't satisfying yet since I didn't get to try everything. Next time I am bringing a few more friends so I can take a bite from each plate. I'll update the posting after I make my second trip to Boston. The restaurant is good to take out with friends, family and anyone who appreciates GREAT food. Note: Skip lunch and save your stomach for dinner at Oleana. Yes its that good. read more

Melissa L.

333

2 years ago

Oleana is a feast for the senses, and Chef Chris has truly mastered the art of bringing the colors, spices, and freshness of summer to the table. Dining here feels like a vibrant celebration of Mediterranean flavors. The Stuffed Potato Hummus was a standout, with pine nuts, currants, and radish adding a delightful mix of textures and flavors to the creamy hummus base. Every bite felt like a perfect harmony of sweet, nutty, and savory. The Spinach Falafel was equally impressive, served with a tahini sauce and beet tzatziki that provided a refreshing contrast to the crispy falafel. The tanginess of the pickles and the depth of flavor from the red pepper dumplings, topped with crispy shallots, was a match made in heaven. And the desserts--wow! The almond cremolata with vanilla tahini, Urfa fudge, and sumac blackberries was the perfect balance of rich, bittersweet chocolate and the brightness of sumac, creating an unexpected and delightful finish. The patio is absolutely stunning--romantic and intimate, surrounded by lush greenery and twinkling lights. It's the ideal setting for a memorable summer evening. Highly recommend Oleana for anyone looking to indulge in the fresh, bold, and exciting flavors of the Mediterranean. read more

Christine K.

Elite 18

1270

11 years ago

Spinach falafel came with tahini sauce, beet yogurt and cress- it's an appetizer course and came in the form of meatballs over thin pita bread Sultan`s delight was the clear winner of the day- tamarind beef with smokey eggplant puree and pine nuts Duck fatteh with crushed beets, hazelnuts, garlic yogurt, and fiddle heads Local burrata cheese- I actually didn't like as much. I liked the yogurt inside but I thought the cheese was not as creamy. Baked Alaska- not my favorite as I didn't realize there was coconut ice cream inside a marshmallow type of layer with drizzling of passion fruit caramel Peppermint tea- actual tea leaves and very soothing after a long day of traveling and jet lag The hostess was super accommodating- she stored our luggage while we ate. All the others were super nice except for our own waiter. He totally forgot our dessert and we were waiting for at least twenty minutes. When I asked about it, he told us it takes time because it's baked in a condescending tone. He was not very friendly and we didn't see much of him. read more

Joe Y.

19 years ago

NEW FAVORITE restaraunt in Boston. Took my fiancee out last night for her birthday, found Oleana on Yelp.com. Sat out back on the patio at night, which was gorgeous. We thought it would be too chilly but they had these nice little stove/lights that kept the patio nice and warm! Oh, and the food was awesome too. My fiancee is a vegetarian, and Oleana had the best selection of good tasing vegetarian dishes around. We ahd a bottle of red wine, the Spinach Falaffel Appetizer which was so good, the Swordfish which could be one of my best meals of all time (at least in Boston area), and the Vegetable Medley...a plate of assorted vegetables (chef's choice) which were excellent. We also had the Baked laska for dessert....coconut ice cream on top of a coconut cookie surrounded with maragne and baked....AWESOME. We both loved everything and with a nice tip came to about $140, which is what I expected. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! read more

Mark M.

Elite 10

168

16 years ago

This was the best meal I have had in Boston. There is nothing but praise for the entire experience top to bottom. The service was perfect, attentive but not hovering. The food was outstanding. Hell, the f$%$ing free bread was something special. We ordered the spinach falafel and sultan's delight. Do NOT pass up the sultan's delight. Perfectly braised with a smoky sauce. I loved my entrée. The lamb was perfectly cooked in a thin dough wrap. The better half had a trout that was rich and buttery yet light. We finished with a pistachio custard rich enough to put you to sleep. Finally, the french press coffee had hints of cocoa which left us memorized by the myriad of flavors we had sampled for the evening. This was out first time and we will be back. Total bill was very reasonable for the food. 140 including tip and a bottle of wine. read more

Tim G.

9 years ago

This is a very attractive restaurant located on a quiet street in Inman Square. Service was acceptable albeit a bit casual for the atmosphere, granted they were at the end of their evening. Their bread is covered in an explosively delicious herb I couldn't place. We shared Sultan's Delight which was very tasty, and the falafel was a perfect bite. The quail was good, but involved an odd play on sushi which didn't work all together, and the octopus dish was confused and boring. Decent pacing, we never felt unattended to and never rushed at the end. It is quite congested as they are very popular and small but unlike some restaurants with similar seating, we never felt closed in or like we had to keep our voices down. Lack of 5 stars is because it's not a complete home run, but few things are. This is a great restaurant! read more

Jamie J.

5 years ago

I have eaten here a dozen times and had previously rated it as 5 stars, but last night I realized things have gone downhill here a bit. The staff is still good, but the food was the least impressive I have had. Dry, pre-prepped hummus wrap was the bottom of the list and changes like charging for bread, 20% mandatory gratuity, claims that the only way to pay livable wages to kitchen staff, claims of laws that prevent tip sharing, etc. are the basis of printing additional indicators that patrons tip above 20%-- this really rubbed us the wrong way. I always tip 25% but the above statements about livable wages only being possible if I chose to increase my tip is a sympathetic strategy, but should be reconsidered. Instead I would suggest increasing food pricing and taking ownership of your obligations as a restraunteur. read more

Shelly P.

16 years ago

This restaurant is definitely a hidden gem or at least was before chef Ana Sortun started getting so much press, now the secret is out which is a good thing. I used to live in the neighborhood and would regularly go to Oleana. It is a terrific place to take friends or a date. The menu has a large amount of variety and options depending on your tastes. The unique spice combinations are incredible. I have never had a bad dish there. I love the moussaka in particular and any lamb dish is usually a winner. Everyone talks about the Baked Alaska, but it really is up to the hype. It is not something that you see at many other Boston area restaurants, and the reason is it would be a complete disappointment after having Oleana's. It is a bit expensive but worth every penny. read more

Robert C.

13 years ago

This was an exceptional restaurant. I called to let them know we were running late as we'd gotten lost. They were kind enough to persevere with me on the phone and stayed on until i got there, and this is on a busy Friday night! Once we got there we decided to sit at the bar and the bartender was great- very knowledgeable and efficient. The food was extremely fresh and carefully prepared. We've been to many restaurants and this at the top of our list. My husband had plenty to chose for vegetarian options with literally a couple of dozen mezes. I had the lamb entree and finished it all. It was hard to pick a dessert they all sounded amazing. The caramel souffle won out and deservingly so. When we come to the boston area again, we'll be sure to come back! read more

Oleana B.

14 years ago

The food here is wonderful and creative. I woke up the next morning and felt like I wanted to go back for dinner again. We only got 4 appetizers when we came but I wanted to try all the appetizers on the menu because they all looked really good. In addition to the menu the specials sounded equally amazing. We ordered sultan's delight, fattoush, something with quail and the scallops which were a special. Everything was delicious. My favorite appetizer was sultan's delight. The meat just melted in your mouth literally. I do not think I have ever tasted anything like this in my life. The atmosphere is dark and romantic. The service was great. For desert we got the baked alaska which looked and tasted fabulous. read more

Alvan H.

17 years ago

first thing i wannna say is yummmmmmmmm........i took my best friend to oleana as a surprise, the day he got his job! and man, was he surprised! He loved the oleana experience! As vegeterians , both of us were extremely happy with oleanas veggie offerings!we had whipped feta with sweet and hot peppers, French bread, zucchini pancakes and many flavvours of ice creams. every spoonful in the mouth was a delight! Also the staff was very attentive and knowledgable! the ambience was also great to enjoy the food! But the hitch in this deal is the cost.It piches the purse a litlle. apart from that, its a great restraunt to go to. My friend and i decided to go to oleana whenever we have to celebrate something new! read more

Roopshree G.

1 year ago

Here's a 100-word version of the review: Oleana was a culinary revelation. I went in expecting a good meal and left blown away. The ambiance is cozy and charming, but it's the food that steals the show. The appetizers were outstanding--vibrant flavors, thoughtful presentation, and perfectly balanced spices. The absolute star was the quail: tender, flavorful, and unforgettable. If you try just one thing, make it that. The menu blends Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences beautifully, and everything feels crafted with care. Service was friendly and knowledgeable without being pushy. Oleana is a must-visit for anyone who loves bold, elegant food done right. read more

Nicole D.

21 years ago

Oleana is my all-time favorite restaurant! I first went there a few years ago for my birthday. I chose it based on a review which gave the restaurant top honors for al fresco dining. It was one of the best birthday dinners ever, and my family and I have been going ever since. The cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean dishes from Turkey, North Africa, and the Arab world. Chef and owner Ana Sortun fuses old world recipes with modern flair. Everything is delicious and the service is great. The garden is beautiful and serene, making you forget you're in Massachusetts. read more

Stephanie M.

15 years ago

Visited on a Monday night. First impression wasn't a great one - we were crammed into a corner of the patio on little elephant stools waiting for our table. The bar was *very* slow - I waited while they placed every dirty glass in the dishwasher, completely ignoring me. Once seated though, timing improved. Our waiter was very good and the menu was one of the most interesting I have seen in a long time. Appetizers, baby sole, parmesan crusted pork chop, desserts were all delicious. I don't think there's an item on the menu that would disappoint. read more

Pauline R.

13 years ago

Small, cozy, and delicious. Went here on a date after a very stressful work month. I am a total foodie that is usually frustrated with Cambridge. This was a nice change. I ordered 3 mezes (small plates) and my date ordered an entree. WOW! Those plates can pack a punch! They were absolutely delicious and we were both stuffed by the end of the meal. I had the quail, saganaki, and bread and cheese dumplings (in order of how much I liked them). I felt the bread and cheese dumplings could have more flavor, but my date loved them read more

David H.

Elite 10

214

19 years ago

I've eaten at Oleana over twenty times and the food is always great. The food has Turkish accent and is very unique to other restaurants. The atmosphere is subdued artsy; small tables; small bar with about six stools; nice garden in the summer. If you are a vegetarian you'll find ample to chose from. The service is friendly and casual and its good for casual dining. The wine list includes organic and biodynamic wines which are very good. You need to make a reservation if plan to go pretty much any day of the week. read more

SAMI S.

6 years ago

I understand a pandemic but it doesn't give your right to be rude, hostess literally talks back to everyone and very sensitive, if you just want to ask a question ! she will kick you out, We've been coming in there for many years and we were treated like we came to ask for money , we are not beggars!!!! we come there to spend our money not asking for money Don't work in the hospitality business if you are rude that's the wrong job for you !! read more

Vivian T.

14 years ago

This is my favorite restaurant hands down!!! We always opt for the small plates, rather then full entrees, this way we get to try more of a variety of food and we have never been disappointed! The staff is amazing and the wine list is superb...make sure you make a rezy they are always busy...although if you can get a seat at the bar it is perfect because they have an open kitchen and it is fun to watch the staff hard at work they are amazing! read more

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Oleana Restaurant - turkish - Updated July 2026

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(168 reviews)

•$

This amazing place, rated 4.9 on Google Maps and 4.8 on Yelp, is hidden in a small stall in Boston…read morePublic Market, specializing in Moroccan inspired bowl. It was absolutely delicious!!! Sultan: The lamb was stewed for a long time until incredibly tender and melted in your mouth, with absolutely no gamey taste. Although it's called "sweet lamb", it didn't have a strong sweetness; instead, it had a typical mild, complex flavor of onions, cumin, coriander seeds, and other spices. The Yellow Rice was likely seasoned with turmeric and saffron, making it very flavorful. The basmati rice grains were distinct but not too dry, perfect for mixing with the sauce. The White Garlic Sauce wasn't overpowering; it mainly added a touch of acidity, which, along with the cool, sweet corn, helped to cut through the greasiness. Actually, it was completely different from any other Moroccan lamb stew I've had. It was more like Yemeni Mandi, but with more layers of flavor and a more universally appealing taste. As a fusion dish, how can it not be considered a success? This restaurant offered self-build options, but I was rushing to the World Cup Fan Festival and didn't even have time to look at the menu carefully. The staff quickly recommended dishes and adjusted the ingredients based on my preferences. Excellent service.

Solid spot in the Boston Common. We had the King combo (beef tagine with yellow rice and pineapple…read moreBBQ/white garlicky sauce). The beef was very soft, the mixed beans side was served cool but also quite good, generous sauces. Quick & friendly service and I think a reasonable price for the portion (1 order ~$15.50 fed two people for lunch). They also had a build-your-own bowl option where you could pick the protein (eg. chicken, tofu, beef, lamb, falafel), sauce (eg. white garlic, spicy harissa, etc), base (eg. couscous, yellow rice, cauliflower), and side (eg. mixed greens, corn, chickpeas).

Desfina Restaurant

3.9

(311 reviews)

•$$

Great spot near my new apartment. Big portion, good ingredients and perfectly cooked…read more Had: Chicken kebab plate

Service was excellent, food was not. We came here for dinner, but I was disappointed to see that…read morethere wasn't a very limited non-meat selection on the menu. Given that Mediterranean cuisine is generally pretty accommodating to that, not having even a falafel option for protein certainly came as a surprise! My first time here, we ended up with the fish and chips and baklava - both were edible but not great, and the best item on the table ended up being the complimentary bread (lots of end pieces, which I'm personally a fan of, but others may feel differently). The fish was uninspired and didn't taste like much, and the chips were steak fries, which lived up to the reputation of being less crunchy and seasoned. I was really excited for the baklava, but it also ended up disappointing. The texture was hardened, like it wasn't fresh, and it was so overpoweringly sweet that we couldn't finish it. On my second visit, the bread was just as good, and we ordered a nice spread: fried zucchini, spanakopita, beef dolmades, rice pilaf, and gyro (without meat). The gyro was sad without falafel or any protein option, but the veggies inside were pretty good. On the other hand, I wasn't a huge fan of any of the appetizers/sides. The fried zucchini was incredibly oily and wet, without much flavor; the rice pilaf did have some sauce on top but wasn't particularly tasty. The spanakopita was decent but I wouldn't go out of my way to order it again. I will note, however, that the staff was excellent, attentive and accommodating. The outdoor patio was also quite nice and a beautiful spot to sit on the street and people-watch.

Ali Baba

3.9

(274 reviews)

•$$

Food was really authentic and fantastic. They knew real hospitality and took good care of us…read more I will go to Ali Baba whenever I visit Boston. Highly recommended! Great!

Ordered this at work, and ... I wasn't really feeling it. My review is purely based off my UberEats…read moreorder, so maybe dining in would be a different story. That being said ... I can't really review ambiance. Not only were the portions kind of "meh" for the price, they just didn't look at all like the menu photos. That alone turned me off, as I chose a lot of the items based off the photos. The taste was also very mediocre for me. I know this place has some really good reviews, so I'm not opposed to re-trying it. However, to be completely honest, it was very lackluster.

Pagu

3.6

(599 reviews)

•$$$

Good night out, but probably won't go back. I think I had higher expectations since it received a…read morenod from Michelin. The restaurant had an industrial look, not my style. We were seated at the kitchen bar which was perfect for us, but we really only saw a few dishes being prepped and our server was not behind the counter. Our server, I believe named Ana, was excellent! Drinks were surprisingly delicious for a restaurant, probably the highlight for me. For the most part food was good but not great in my opinion. We had the pork belly bao, green beans, patatas bravas and duck paella. My bf loved the duck. The other items were just ok.

PAGU had their limited offering of its Black Squid Ink Softshell Crab Bao and I was there not once,…read morebut twice! This unique and creative offering had a crunchy softshell crab, topped off with a nori-yuzu Kosho alioli and pickled cabbage, all warmly hugged in the black squid ink bao! Absolutely delish! My favorite dishes that will tantalize your taste buds were: - Japanese Hamchi Crudo was a chilled delight with fresh fish and a good hint of lime (not pictured) - Patatas Bravas had a good potato bite that was dolloped with a Thai chili alioli and mojo verde - Shio Koji-roasted Corn was kernels of fun to eat - Miso Roasted Black Cod was succulent and sweet to the bite - Duck Paella was so tender that the meat fell off the bone! - Ube Panna Cotta was a sweet way to end dinner with the custardy ube There is definitely a modern artisanal feel to all the food that blended Japanese and Spanish influences. The vibe of the restaurant was also very open with its high ceilings and tall windows. The wait staff were very friendly and ready to answer any menu questions. The open kitchen is also fun for those who love watching food being created! With it's unique tastes, it's no wonder PAGO was a Michelin Bib Gourmand!

Turkish Lazuri Cafe

4.6

(162 reviews)

•$$

Sufra Mediterranean Food

4.1

(100 reviews)

I had catering from here once back in college and I remember these dolmades being life changing.read more

Today was my husband and I's first time here, found it actually on our way to a different…read moreMediterranean spot, as they say it was meant to be lol. The food was absolutely delicious and it's super cute inside for a take out. Just a couple of tables but we lucked out and got 1 of them. Although it's a bit pricey, hubby & I both agreed it was worth it. We found our portions were generous, fresh & hot. The 2 employees there were very nice. Definitely recommend checking Sufra out!

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