Discover the flavours of modern Mediterranean cuisine at this waterside spot in Southampton. Located in the picturesque Ocean Village overlooking Southampton’s yacht-lined marina, The Olive Tree serves a diverse range of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, from truffle arancini and braised pig cheeks to a selection of steaks and grills. For a little more context, it’s the sister site to steakhouse Carnicero on Oxford Street, which specialises in Galician cooking.
The restaurant is split over two floors and features an impressive mezzanine and beautiful bar, which showcases its extensive selection of spirits and wines. Contemporary interiors have been designed with a distinctly grown-up feel in mind, created largely by charcoal grey tones, rich wooden surfaces, copper finishes and industrial black piping on the ceiling.
Alongside its main a la carte menu is a set lunch offering, a kids’ menu and a Sunday roast option. For those dining during the evening, the menu includes a varied selection of nibbles, starters, mains, steaks, salads and sides. Start with the likes of grilled scallops with chorizo butter and a herb crust, truffle and blue cheese arancini, or steak tartar with gherkins, shallots and egg yolk. Main courses are geared towards its varied steak selection, including rib eye, sirloin, fillet and chateaubriand. All steaks come with three sides of your choice, plus peppercorn sauce. If steak isn't your thing, further options include seafood linguine, chicken supreme with puy lentils, or rack of lamb with potatoes, cabbage and a herb crust. Dessert, however, follows a mostly British theme with the likes of sticky toffee pudding and a triple chocolate brownie up for grabs.
To drink, a selection of affordable and premium wines from across the globe includes something for every palate. While a stellar spirit collection and classic cocktail list make for an excellent pre- or post-dinner tipple.