Restaurants

Hidden in a leafy street off Warwick Avenue, Green Olive looks every bit as polished as the patrician Victorian mansions that surround it. A serene interior with pale wood and cream walls, adequate – if not overwhelming – modern Italian food, and reasonable prices attract an affluent local clientele. Service, however, can be stand-offish and awkward at first. Although the restaurant was initially empty, staff disappeared without proffering the menu or drinks. Nonetheless, they managed to turn on the Italian charm as the evening got busier. Daily specials liven up the rather short menu, which includes tried-and-tested crowd-pleasers like buffalo mozzarella salad and risotto. A main course of pork cheeks on potato and leek purée was pleasant and well-executed, but failed to excite. An earthy dish of lasagnette with mushrooms provided a flavoursome alternative for vegetarians. The dessert menu sticks to old favourites such as tiramisu and panna cotta, while the small all-Italian wine list is pretty good value.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2008