The Mark Olympia

The vibe in this place is just right. Low lights, enough…read morenoise to fill the space while still making it easy to hear your conversation, plenty of comfy seating, prompt but unobtrusive service, and fun 50s decor made Brotherhood a very enjoyable spot. We visited in December so the red and green lanterns hanging from the ceiling fit right in with the Christmas garlands strung around the bar. We loved the vibrancy and pointed out the cool retro lamps and fancy velvet paintings of matadors. We got boozy hot chocolates to close out a bar-hopping evening. They were tasty, if slightly less hot than we would've liked. Also not a fan of the place being cash-only, not least because I didn't see the bartenders wash their hands after handling the cash.

I don't know, the last few times I've come in here I feel like they water down my drink, and yes I…read moremean DRINK. I'm only ever getting one and just last night I had a long day at work and the bartender kept eyeing me, I was tired and trying to figure out what to drink. I guess I took too long and so I rushed and ordered the same thing my friend got (Vodka Cran). We both realized how watered down they were but didn't want to say anything because... how do we? lol Loved the vibe in this place sometimes, but ehhh whatever!

Cute lamps by the bar

Love the subtle retro aesthetic

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Filibuster Lounge

4.4(14 reviews)

This was such a great find on our way to the theater! It's an old bank building and you can sit in…read morethe vault! Beautiful inside! They have a very unique and creative cocktail menu plus some amazing small plates! Our bartenders were so fun and friendly!

The entrance is tucked away and then you enter a small, but tall space so you don't feel…read moreclaustrophobic. The music wasn't too loud so you weren't shouting. Almost every table was full. Cozy atmosphere. There were 3 employees that night, the woman who initially waited on us actually appeared to roll her eyes when we ordered. She seemed pretty rushed and just didn't want to work that night or something. The bartender was friendly and came for our second round and he actually seemed more welcoming and friendly. The drinks menu is a bit small (compared to other nearby bars). We got 5 drinks, one espresso one which wasn't great and the rest were alright. Nothing that made us go "Oh man, try that!" but they weren't bad either. The food, looks better than normal bar food, which I loved. We ordered "Balls of Gibralter" - North African meatballs, which were *SO GOOD*, so delicious EXCEPT the texture. The flavors were all amazing, but it was as if there was too much egg and not enough breadcrumbs because it gave the impression of being wildly undercooked, even though you could see no pink. If they were firmer, they would've been perfect. They seem to have a rotating grilled cheese special I wouldn't mind checking out next time. The ambiance-lovely. The service - meh The drinks - average The food - has a lot of potential

A L'ANCIENNE DU BOIS (cognac & maple old fashioned)

Apple cider whiskey shot

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What doing?

Valentina’s Lounge Restaurant and Tequila Bar

4.7(231 reviews)

0.2 mi

First we went to Vino downtown (also owned by Valentina) and LOVED IT! And today we are trying…read morehere :) we ordered the asada and cashew green enchilada!! Both get five star! The service here could model after vinos location a little. And the ambiance here is SO CUTE. Over all, Valentina created two of Thurston county's best restaurants in my opinion! I how she opens everywhere. Sorry, the food here was so good. We forgot to take a photo first. Haha

Good drinks, good food, and awesome decor! Came here on a quiet Friday night with a reservation for…read more3, and got seated in the bar. We ordered a few bevy's and snacked on some delicious chips and salsa while we waited for dinner. We were asked if we wanted guacamole, which we said yes, and later found out the 5oz of guac was $12. We ordered the enchiladas mexicanas, habanero enchiladas, and carne asada tacos. My enchiladas mexicanas were soft and had excellent flavor, but could've used a bit more enchilada sauce. Lastly, a man checked our IDs at the table, a lady took our order, a different lady brought our food, and a different lady cleared our plates and asked how we wanted our checks to be split. It was hard to tell who our server actually was and who I was tipping. Overall a cool and authentic place!

Cute dining room

Guacamole

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Hibiscus Mojito

Cheeky Martini Lounge

4.6(46 reviews)

This is my "go to" martini place in Olympia! The drinks are well made and balanced. I always get…read morea gin martini. The bartenders are friendly and the service is great. I'm never waiting. It also has an old school atmosphere. Perfect for a martini after dinner.

Checked this place out last night! The atmosphere was cozy. Definitely not busy for a Saturday…read morenight when they first opened. Drinks were good but would love to see more martinis on the menu.

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Cryptatropa Bar

4.1(79 reviews)

0.3 mi

This place is rad. They have drinks and music (live in the back if you time it right) and a lot of…read morecool booths to sit and hang out. Would definitely go here again! I'd be there all the time if it was in my home town. Loved it!

Don't support businesses that don't respect you…read more Could not have felt more unwelcome at the bar. Would never go back to spend a dime. The owner was so dismissive of critical but fair review. Typical entitled owner of a place that would be amazing...if they had a good owner and bartender that doesn't that people as if they have no reason to be there. This place is the worst goth/metal bar I've ever been.

Steel table and gargoyle

1st time here.... checking it out.

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What's the difference??

Swing Wine Bar & Cafe

3.9(299 reviews)

0.3 mi

Cute little restaurant overlooking Capitol Lake, great for a date night or special occasion. This…read moreis a house converted into a cozy upscale dining spot. It was cold the day went but, if you get warm weather, try for their outdoor patio. I ordered the lemon rosemary hummus (delish) with gluten free crackers and it came out with lots of sliced veggies, olives and pickled carrots and onions. A great value! My main course was king salmon and it was perfect. I ordered a lemonade and was disappointed that the tall skinny glass it was served in was full to the top with ice, so there was very little left to drink. My husband enjoyed the Cesar salad he ordered, tasted like a traditional Cesar. He tried the special beef cheeks and found them to be very fatty and gelatinous. He wouldn't recommend them. They did have a N/A beer option he was happy about. Service was attentive and friendly.

Swing Wine Bar Review: A Disappointing Anniversary Dinner My…read morewife and I were celebrating our wedding anniversary, and I chose Swing Wine Bar as a surprise because I wanted the evening to be special. Based on the restaurant's reputation and reviews, I expected a memorable dining experience and a wonderful way to celebrate together. Unfortunately, while the restaurant made a strong first impression, the experience steadily declined and ultimately left us disappointed. Upon arrival, we were seated at a great table with a beautiful view that offered a sense of privacy. At first, everything seemed promising. However, after introducing himself, our server appeared distant from the very beginning. When he asked what we would like to drink, everyone at the table requested water. From that point on, his demeanor seemed to change noticeably. He became more formal, less friendly, and responded to our questions about the menu with very brief answers. He brought our water and told us he would return to take our order. After waiting nearly twenty minutes without seeing him again, I eventually got up and looked for him myself, asking if he could come take our order. He followed me back to the table, and each of us ordered a different entrée. Throughout the interaction, he seemed detached and uninterested in creating a welcoming dining experience. When we first arrived, he had placed small plates and silverware on the table. Later, after we had ordered and he happened to be passing by, I asked whether bread or a salad was included with the meals. His response was simply, "No," before immediately turning around and walking away. It was an abrupt and somewhat dismissive interaction that further reinforced the impression that customer service was not a priority. About twenty minutes later, our food arrived. I ordered the New York steak. The steak itself was decent, and the gravy served with it was quite good. However, the broccoli was burned, and the meal consisted of little more than the steak, mashed potatoes, and two very small carrots. Overall, it felt like an expensive version of a basic roast beef dinner. To be fair, not every dish missed the mark. My son's pasta was enjoyable overall, although the shrimp was overcooked and there was very little sauce on the pasta. My wife's hamburger was well prepared, and my father-in-law's brisket was flavorful and tender. After we finished eating, our empty plates sat on the table for quite some time. Eventually, another employee noticed and came over to clear them. A short while later, our server returned, collected my plate, and said he would be back so we could order dessert. When he returned, he listed the dessert options, but none of them sounded particularly appealing to anyone at the table, so we declined. I then asked for the check. Ironically, this was the quickest service we received all evening. The check arrived almost immediately, and I paid it without delay. The final disappointment came with what should have been a thoughtful anniversary gesture. Our server dropped off a card that read, "Thank you for celebrating your anniversary with us." While the gesture itself was appreciated, the card was unsigned and presented without any personal touch. Rather than feeling like a sincere acknowledgment of our special occasion, it felt more like an obligation. What should have been a special surprise anniversary dinner for my wife ultimately became a frustrating experience. While some of the food was enjoyable, the inattentive service, lack of hospitality, and absence of any meaningful personal touch overshadowed the positive aspects of the evening. For a restaurant that presents itself as a destination for celebrations and special occasions, Swing Wine Bar fell well short of my expectations. Based on our experience, I would not recommend it.

Stuffed and Roasted Portobello Mushrooms

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Perfectly cooked steak

O'Malley's Lounge

5.0(6 reviews)

1.2 mi

O'Malley's is the restaurant attached to the Westside Lanes bowling alley. The lounge is loud and…read morefriendly but this review is for restaurant just off the lounge and overlooking the lanes. The restaurant is quite small, in an area leading into the kitchen. At first glance it seems rather -- bleak. Four tables, a pair of pool tables, a large video golf game. A small counter that once had some seating but now doesn't. It may be necessary to get the server's attention because they are pretty busy in the lounge. Yeah, ambience-wise this place leaves a lot to be desired. But this little place has some of the best diner food in town. The portions are large. Substitutions are not a problem. The staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming. Their burgers and sandwiches are burly and always fresh, I am not exaggerating, some of the best burgers in Olympia. Hot food is served really hot, straight off the grill. Fries have to take a minute to be cool enuf to eat. Salads tend to be iceberg lettuce based but are always crisp and fresh. To be clear, this is all pub/diner fare, nothing fancy. The coffee, alas, is the same weak stuff everybody else serves. But for food that will tame the meanest hangover or Jumpstart a miserable rainy day, this is one of the best places.in town.

Seriously solid kitchen, battered fries, sandwiches are great, ton of options. Fast service…read moreconsidering they also cover the bowling alley. Two pool tables, some pinball, and set up for karaoke or music.

The Viking Lounge

3.8(71 reviews)

5.0 mi

We went on a Monday so they were very quick with our beers and my wife got to sing all her favorite…read moresongs! I even sang a couple. Everyone was very nice especially our KJ and our bartender.

I love a good bar and grill that opens early in the morning. M to F, from 8 AM to 10 AM is the…read moreEarly Bird Special or regular menu. Homemade biscuits and gravy always gets me... I've had their flap Jack's and they're good too. If the bartender is busy get your own coffee. Mugs are next to the coffee pot. Sit down and look at the menu, Early Bird orders must be to the cook by exactly 10 AM. Friendly bar regulars whom don't mind a back talking server. It's quite the place. Pool table, back patio, , take credit cards, I know at least Visa and MC. I hate to share cuz then you're gonna take my front parking spot. PS Pictures are of the regular menu, Early Bird menu, and half order of Biscuits and Gravy with one sunny side up egg. Coffee or small juice included in the Early Bird Special. Can't beat the service, food, or prices. Breakfast until noon, and then it's lunch dinner menu, which I always come in early for breakfast. I should try their karaoke and daytime menu. Great place.

Chill and relaxing Monday-Wednesdays

Early Bird Menu

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Half Order Biscuits and Gravy with a Sunnyside up egg

Cigar Daddies

5.0(36 reviews)

3.7 mi

What a kick ass place! Off a recommendation, my buddy suggested we try a new spot for cigars and a…read morelounge. We had no idea what to expect, but what a pleasant treat! The store itself has quite the selection of cigars, equipment, and the service has been impeccable every time. Once we finished shopping, we went around back to the lounge. From an outward appearance, wasn't sure what to expect other than a "garage/shop" of sorts. And maybe that's what it was in the beginning, but once we entered, I was very impressed with the layout, ventilation, seating, and all the screens. It provided comfort while we tried out some new brands and flavor profiles (please don't ever stop stocking KFC's). We stayed a couple hours, a couple of smokes... it was a great way to unwind. Now, this isn't like some of the lounges on the Reservations, where alcohol is provided, but still a great place to enjoy a few smokes and good company. Thank you to the owner (came by and chatted a bit) and despite the trek, it was well worth it for me. As always, enjoy and Happy Smoking!

Best selection in Lacey/Olympia. The staff will find you something to your tastes if you need help,…read moreand are friendly as hell. I believe you save 10% if you buy by the box. There is a lounge you can smoke in for a price, but it's out of my budget so my wife tells me. They have lots of parties and special events, and stock all the supplies you could ever need. They don't sell cigarettes or vaping cr*p, you savages, so look elsewhere for those, but if you need pipe or cigar stuff, this is your daddy.

Inside the Cigar Lounge out back.

Look at them gold bricks.

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I love this whole Deadwood series!! Fat Bottom Betty!

Chicory

4.4(154 reviews)

The ambience is beautiful inside…read more The best part of the Baked Eggs dish was the cheese. The cheese was so flavorful, creamy, and delicious. Next best was the bread - it was perfectly soft inside with a crispy crust. Between how oily the dish was and my nose running from the increased spice as I continued eating, I wouldn't return for this dish. The eggs weren't noticeable in appearance or taste- I had to search for them. The "creamy grits" were creamy, but the black pepper taste was STRONG. Definitely ordered the side for the "creamy" factor, hoping when the server said harissa in the eggs would have a mild spice, that the grits would calm my mouth. The amount of pepper made this unsuccessful. But if you like black pepper a lot then you'll enjoy them. My son enjoyed the beignet's. The server was also the host and he was kind. It was easy to get his attention when needed. I didn't see anyone with a grin on their face after taking bites of their food. I looked around quite a bit out of curiosity. So for ambiance, kind and prompt service, and the possibilities of the menu I gave it 4 stars. We only tried the few things I mentioned. I did also appreciate the bottle of water ready on every table. Note that there is no kids menu and it's mostly table seating. So maybe try on your own or with other adults, and leave the kids at home?

We loved checking out Chicory. Such a cute space. All the staff were lovely from start to finish…read more The pork chop was so delicious and we were in love with the dirty fried rice. The crispy bits in the rice were soooo good. Delicious side salad, loved the vinaigrette, so flavorful. Definitely will be back! Wish they had later hours.

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Whole Blackened Rockfish

Chicory Manhattan

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Nothing left on the Rockfish Bones

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22 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

A W.

11 years ago

As most reviews may suggest, going to the Mark is unlike going to any other restaurant or bar in Olympia. Why? It is intentional and fresh. The intimate space invites you in with candlelit tables and enticing menus. Perfect for a date, drinks with friends, business dinner, birthday party, or even a good book... While reservations are highly recommended for dinner (I always make one), stopping in for a drink or a few is always in the cards and walk-ins are welcomed. The cocktail menu is creative and well priced, I have still yet to order all the ones that I want to try... If you're going for dinner, understand why reservations are so recommended: the kitchen sources locally grown, organic ingredients, produce, and meat from our co-op or direct from the farmers themselves, and cooks EVERYTHING fresh and made to order. There is one chef in the kitchen with 6 burners and a wood fired grill, concocting simple italian dishes with heart and skill, for you. Whether its one of the carefully selected pastas, a farm-featuring special, or a single-source, grass-fed steak from Colvin Ranch in Tenino, you can't go wrong. It's real food. This is a restaurant that cares about what it is feeding you and hopes that you care enough to as well. Several unsatisfied reviews suggest going to Anthony's or one of the other italian places to get a better experience "at that price." What these people fail to note, however, is that there isn't anywhere else that sources such high quality, local, organic ingredients as the Mark does. The prices on the menu reflect the prices that the owner, Lisa, pays our local farmers. Supporting local farms has to be a priority in how we choose to feed ourselves. For this reason alone I would support this restaurant. But this is surely not the only reason. The service is sweet, charming, and very competent on the farm's you're eating from. Open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, serving dinner until 10 and drinks later. read more

Felicia G.

14 years ago

My husband took me and our 3 year old and 8 month old out for dinner tonight at The Mark. We were blown away by the kind and knowledgable waitress, the owner coming over to us telling us where the dishes we were eating came from in Italy and such, and the food was so delicious and to top it all off, it was all sustainable, organic, and REAL food being prepared for us. The waitress was great with helping us to understand what each of the items on the menu were since we were just used to Italian food being the Olive Garden. What amazed us the most though, was the prices. The owner explained to us when we commented on how shocked we were at how affordable all of the food was and it was comparable to eating at a chain restaurant if not even cheaper then some, she explained that she isn't open for the money, and because her focus isn't just on making money, she is able to price things so well for the customer to be able to really enjoy without hurting their wallet. I would HIGHLY recommend everyone that likes Italian food to give this place a try! I'm so thankful we did, we will definitely be going back regularly (and with the prices we can actually afford to!!!!!) We ordered an appatizer, salad to split, a side of sauteed veggies for our little one, two pasta entrees, a small dessert to share, an alcoholic drink, and a habiscus cooler. All of which came to only $70 for everything. Considering how much we ordered, this was such an amazing deal. Again, please please give this place a try, you won't regret it! read more

Phie W.

3 months ago

I loved "The Mark Olympia." It is a hidden gem. You can choose to sit inside or on the back patio. My friends and I chose to sit on the back patio; it was gorgeous. The murals on the walls perfectly align with the plants adorning the area. The tables are spaced far enough apart so that you can enjoy a private conversation. Once we were ready, we headed to the bar up front to order pizza, beer, mocktails, and cocktails. Personally, I don't drink, so I had a fun mocktail, my friends do, and they loved the cocktails. The Roman style pizza dough is amazing, a nice crunch on the outside, fluffy on the inside. Everyone was happy with their various choices, and it was easy to share. I am interested in art, and the walls are covered in the work of amazing local and regional artists. The Mark has also been a non-commission gallery space for 25 years. The Mark was perfect for an evening out with my friends and would be an ideal space to hold my next birthday party. It is really just a beautiful, casual, chill space. My total cost was approx., $16.00, making it well within the budget of a college student. At first, I didn't love that it was cash only, but it does make sense for a small local business. Though I realize that it being so casual, it may not be for everyone, it really hit the spot for my friends and I, we will definitely be returning. read more

B. M.

10 years ago

This place just doesn't work! All the efforts are misdirected. The staff spends more time pontificating "fresh, local, sustainable, blah blah" and asking "how's everything tasting" than checking to see if the menus are soiled. I was served a rusty salad that sat there untouched and I was asked "how's it tasting". I hadn't touched it, as it was as brown as the water in Flint. If she was observant, she would have cleared it and just taken it off the bill. Instead, she asked if I wanted a box. If I wouldn't eat it there, why the hell would I take it home? Pasta pesto was next and it was as brown as the salad. Pasta was stuck together and all I could taste was raw garlic... ZERO FINESSE. I should have run out the door when I arrived and read the wine list. Barbera listed; Tuscany Tinto listed; Italy. The wine list is a one page F/B and could have been corrected in the time it took to type it. The owner was very nice and gracefully tried to make excuses. Perfect for hipsters trying to escape this crap in Seattle and now they can enjoy it for 1/3 less out of their wallets read more

Lalita C.

15 years ago

My family loves having dinner at the Mark. It's one of the only restaurants in Olympia where my husband and I can feel like grown-ups on date even when we bring our two young children. The food is wonderful--traditional italian (remniscent of my immigrant Italian grandmothers cooking) with fresh, local, seasonal and organic ingredients whenever possible. Although the atmosphere at first glance seems like an swanky, posh bar, the owner has always made our family feel welcome and comfortable even with two children under the age of 3. One time she even bounced my 5 month old daughter so that we could enjoy our meal! My toddler loves the no-fuss, butter and parmesan pasta and seasonal veggies, while my husband and I can still enjoy a beautifully cooked grass-fed steak and a spicy penne arriabiata with cocktails or wine. I commend The Mark for maintaining such a high standard of simple, sustainable, delicious organic food while providing a welcoming atmosphere for Olympia's families. P.S. Best margaritas in town. read more

Artese L.

19 years ago

Vegetarian and vegan restaurants can be a dime a dozen but finding one that serves organic food is not that easy. At the Mark, you'll find all organic produce (right down to the citrus used for the martinis), everything cooked with organic extra virgin olive oil or organic soy oil, fresh pasta, and homemade desserts. There are plenty of options for the vegetarian or vegan including: pasta with homemade organic pesto, pasta with organic roasted red pepper sauce, pasta with organic sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, and marinated tofu grilled on the apple wood grill, to name a few. The pasta is handmade with hormone-free cage-free eggs, vegan and gluten-free pasta available upon request. Whatever your diet you can be sure you will have a healthy delicious meal at The Mark - and your body will thank you. read more

Brandy G.

15 years ago

The Mark is amazing. The atmosphere is quiet and sophisticated. The drink menu is swank, but affordable. The staff is soft-spoken but friendly. I'm never rushed to leave, nor do I have to wait long to be served. Perhaps most important to me is the quality of the food and drink they provide. They use local and organic produce & meat. This isn't just the standard 'we use local and organic when we can' lip service often found around Olympia; they encourage you to ask, and they'll tell which items come from where. The transparency is really helpful. I love that there's this quiet, high quality, sophisticated spot in Olympia. read more

Doriana F.

17 years ago

The dining room is nicely appointed, if a little austere. The gorgonzola-walnut-honey appetizer was delicious, as were the scallops. Though my pasta was bland and my dining companion wasn't crazy about his flat-iron steak. I understand everything is organic, but that on it's own doesn't do much for me. They had just one red wine available by the glass. Did I say glass? They serve wine in parfait flutes; I've never heard of such a thing. Service was a little slow, but reasonably friendly. I imagine we'll visit again, but it seems there are better choices for dinner downtown. read more

Michael K.

15 years ago

I have visited The Mark on several occasions and have had great service each and every time from the bar and wait staff. But what I am most impressed with about The Mark was the excellent food I have had there. My favorite dish there is their carbonara; I don't know what the chef did but this was the best carbonara I have ever had. Whomever is their chef, he/she is quite talented I highly recommend The Mark to anyone; this is by far the best dining in Olympia. Signed Kep P.S. Get the Bikini Beach read more

Dirk K.

5 months ago

I really, really love this place!! The decor is like nothing you'll find in Olympia, and if you found this place in Seattle, it would be too pretentious for words. The outdoor enclosed garden area is filled with jasmine, and the aroma of jasmine is amazing in summer. The drinks are great, the pizza is genuine, the photography is really, really cool. This is an Olympia jewel. If you're looking for a special place for a special outing, this it!! P.S. Peter Buck from REM likes this place!! read more

Marissa g.

15 years ago

As a cookbook author, focused on local, sustainable eateries, I know the real deal when I see it. The Mark sources everything locally and seasonally. Beyond the bonafides of good practices, my meal was amazing, the drinks were fabulous and the atmosphere was hauntingly cool. This is one of my favorite places to visit, even after years of traveling to visit the best farm-to-table restaurants in the country. read more

Gooe I.

191

13 years ago

Dining in the Dark. Seriously. Pitch black ... seated next to the bar with two little kids. While it was nice to see a menu with clearly identified gluten free items - the prices were ridiculous for the starch-ridden, heavy food. Honestly I was disappointed after having read other reviews that loved it here. =( Bad night? Possibly - but once was enough for us. read more

Lisa C.

11 years ago

Wonderful food, superb service, a great place to enjoy a romantic date, celebrate a birthday or anniversary. Do make reservations ahead of time if you are going for dinner, as they only have a few tables. I love that Lisa (the owner) talks with customers and is attentive to their needs and checks to make sure that the food and drinks are up to her high standards. read more

Seana K.

16 years ago

The Mark is consistently the best place to go in Olympia, delicious drinks and great organic food. Now that kids are allowed for dining even better for me! The back patio is fab with all the plants, and a place for my friends that smoke. Had my birthday party there this weekend and as always was great! read more

Indietta B.

15 years ago

My husband and I held our wedding reception at The Mark. Not only was the food fresh and delicious but the service was phenomenal. The setting was beautiful and very sophisticated. Not only would I recommend The Mark for a nice dinner but I would also recommend them for any special occasion. read more

M. M.

15 years ago

The butternut squash ravioli was amazing! I don't think I can ever eat it anywhere else ever again. Small place that has a huge choice of drinks. It looked like it might be popular with people who like fancy drinks. Can't wait to get back there. read more

Helga M.

12 years ago

Food is really so so..Nothing reminiscent of rustic italian food. This is your monday ragu ( I bet you can cook it better tho). Cocktails will be good if you are used to drink gasoline. Prices are super high. We will never go back. read more

Jessica T.

15 years ago

The food at The Mark is extremely well sourced and deliciously prepared. The owner, Lisa Owen, jack of all creative trades, is a fabulous chef and host for a wonderful culinary experience in a beautiful place. read more

Stephany W.

13 years ago

I can't say enough good things. Perfectly prepared food, beautiful, funky yet serene environment, excellent service. Lisa loves locally-sourced foods and organic booze. Excellent price point. Please go. read more

Jackie M.

15 years ago

Butternut Squash Ravioli to die for!!! Best stuff EVER and don't skip dessert!

The Mark Olympia - lounges - Updated September 2026

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I was going to go eat at the restaurant but had to cancel my reservation…read more I ordered a takeout instead and it was Delicious! I had the meat platter and the burata caprese. Awesome! Perfect meal for two, while watching a movie. I plan on dining in person in the not too distant future.

Had been looking forward to trying this restaurant as it seems to get decent reviews…read more Pickup order on a weekday, later PM. Terrible parking - had to circle a couple times for street parking. Place had maybe 8 total people so not busy. Went up to Server/Cashier near front to let her know I was there for pickup and was immediately told "The servers like it when you stand by the table" in a mildly pretentious tone. No "Hi" or "How can I help you?" This is downtown Olympia so typical establishment behavior. Not surprised. Place was clean and very nicely decorated.Took about 5 minutes to get my pizza which was surprisingly quick. The Pizza I generally like my pizzas crisp and this was not even close. Very soggy, and not much flavor (Pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, olives). This was thin crust so that potentially had something to do with taste and texture. I would compare this Pizza to what you get at MOD. It's not too bad, but not too good. Average at best and I expected a lot better. Cost was about normal (14" pizza and bread appetizer for $50 plus tax). Marinara sauce for bread was delicious. All in all, it wasn't a terrible experience. It's by no means gourmet or fancy pizza. Perhaps the rest of their menu is better. Server needs to chill out and brush up on her customer service skills. 3 stars at best.

Basilico Ristorante

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The food is amazing and the atmosphere is wonderful! The jazz band is wonderfully talented!read more

Probably the best RISOTTO that I've ever had. And I've ate that dish all over the world, even the…read moremicrowavable version. Olympia- what are you doing?!! Why aren't you here EVERY night?! Best. Risotto. Ever.

Octapas Cafe

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(277 reviews)

Octapas Café was an outstanding dining experience and one of those places where every dish seemed…read moreto hit the mark. We started with the patatas bravas, gambas pil pil (butter garlic shrimp), oysters (both raw and cooked), and a hummus platter, and everything was excellent. The true standout, however, was the smoked salmon Alfredo--an absolutely incredible dish and one of the best pastas I've had in a long time. We added some chopped jalapeños for extra heat, but honestly, it was fantastic even on its own. The dessert was equally impressive, with a cake that was incredibly moist and the perfect way to end the meal. The wine selection deserves special mention as well. They offer a great variety of Spanish wines that pair beautifully with the menu. Service was fast, friendly, and attentive throughout our visit. The atmosphere is one of Octapas Café's biggest strengths. The restaurant features a beautiful, spacious dining room, plenty of outdoor seating, and even a private event space for larger gatherings and celebrations. Whether you're stopping by for tapas, seafood, pasta, or wine, Octapas Café delivers a memorable experience from start to finish.

Sat 11:30 am - no reservations. Restaurant not too busy. The…read moreolder female hostess was not welcoming to us or the party of 2 that walked in behind us. I've encountered her before -- she isn't rude, just not at all welcoming. She asked us to wait for a moment for'something' which turned out to be stocking water bottles and napkins. We felt like an intrusion to tasks she could've worked on after seating us. We asked to sit on the patio in the sun - she seemed annoyed by this but acquiesced. The patio was quaint and the weather helped make it enjoyable. We were greeted by our server (wish I had her name - older lady in tie-dye shirt) she was welcoming, helpful with the menu, and very friendly! We ordered cocktails and brunch and enjoyed both! Dishes (Smoked Salmon Lox & Goats do Roam Tart) & Drinks were all good - see photos for more info. So go -- get past the hostess and you'll enjoy the rest!!! PS - I do remember from a past visit, the Beignets were good!

Iron Rabbit Restaurant & Bar

4.0

(703 reviews)

Great food and service. We had the pasta and burgers, they were so tasty…read more Gabby was excellent! Would definitely come back.

The service was OK. Our server was attentive and quick and pleasant but just no enthusiasm. She…read morecomped the food my husband ordered because she saw he barely touched it which was very nice of her so we tipped well. The food was just alright, but I was disappointed with what I got and was expecting more quality for the price. I ordered the Chicken Cordon Who and I was given a plate with a small handful of still-crunchy sliced bell peppers and zucchini that seemed that they had been in contact with heat for all of 30 seconds next to a pile of potatoes that were cold from sitting. The chicken breast was just meh, not very thick, not very moist, not very seasoned, not very much of it. Small amount of sliced prosciutto on top. I just think for $30 this was a ripoff by at least 1/3 of the price; I would expect an actual chicken cordon bleu at that price instead of this quick-service deconstruction. The blackberry mojito I ordered for I think $15 tasted pretty good but was missing the presence and flavor of any alcohol so there was no complexity, just ended up being a $15 refreshing fruit drink. My husband ordered an appetizer (Sirloin Diablo) for $27 and got a small bowl of steak tips submerged in a barely spicy (Diablo?) cajun cream sauce like a soup surrounded by some painfully plain, thin, unseasoned, boring grilled bread. It's not bad or very good by any means and just wasn't his thing, but charging almost $30 for that? At their prices and the way they are presented I was expecting a really satisfying dinner but walked away feeling like I would've been just as happy eating some standard fare at a local diner for half the cost.

Mercato Ristorante

3.6

(346 reviews)

Well, walked by when visiting the Farmers Market a few days ago. Smelled wonderful ! We decided to…read morehave lunch today since my friend who just moved to the area had eaten the Salmon Salad before and stated how much she enjoyed it. Showed me a pic she'd snapped of the salad. Looked yummy! Dang!! I was hopeful...Had to wait a bit for the hostess, no biggy. Seated outdoors since it was a lovely day. Ordered a cocktail, asparagus appetizer and our meal. asked for bread, the salmon was definitely overdone, easy fix...asparagus sounded tasty, need some work with this one folks. Asked for bread when placing our order, had to get up to ask the server mid lunch for the forgotten bread. Service, nice young lady, teachable... sealed the 2 star rating when I had to go inside to the hostess stand to retrieve our check., Need to step up the game here. Has great potential, just not there yet.

Amazing service, consistent food quality, just a good meal for what you need…read more I don't know why more people don't come here, the food is spectacular. The service was great because the servers were attentive. The food came out hot when it was ready and the atmosphere was very mellow, not pushy.

Filibuster Lounge

4.4

(14 reviews)

Cedar Inn Tavern

3.8

(43 reviews)

All the Meh you could ask for. Standard low rent bar with average beer selection and mixed drinks…read moreas long as they have 2 or less ingredients. We ordered a burger and the taco special. It was OK but nothing that would mage you want to go back unless it's just the nearest beer tap to your house.

Pretty much your standard local tavern with a clear emphasis on pool tables and those who like…read morethem. Comfy in a threadbare sort of way, we enjoyed a couple of fairly average burgers with fries as well as two tasty pints of beer, served by a friendly bartender who was kept very busy by an active clientele, at least half of whom were clearly regulars. Overall, nothing special or outstanding but, if you're thirsty and happen to stop by, you'll likely appreciate hanging with the locals for an hour or two. And, in a world of corporate-owned bars, it's nice to support a place that's still independent and has been around for decades.

Old Hwy 99 Company Bar & Grill

3.6

(57 reviews)

Came here with a group, the waitress was great and accommodating. We came here just to eat but…read morewould be fun to come here and have a few drinks and play some of the arcade games! I didn't see the back patio but I've seen pictures and there's plenty of room here combined to enjoy a night out.

Sigh. I really wanted to like this place…read more I ordered a ribeye and they served me a sirloin instead. But they charged me for a ribeye anyway (it costs more than a sirloin). I KNOW what a ribeye tastes like. So disappointing. There was one server managing all the tables. My sister and I waited FOREVER for take out boxes and even longer for the bill. Then once given the bill, I noticed there were extra items that I didn't order. Turns out the server gave me someone else's bill. So I had to wait some more for her to figure out what happened and give me the correct bill. Food tasted ok. If you want to visit this place, come in the daytime before it gets really busy around happy hour.

O'Malley's Lounge

5.0

(6 reviews)