The Grand Reopening of Olives

Long-awaited, highly anticipated, and well-attended, the reopening of Todd English’s Charlestown Olives location made for a fabulous Tuesday night out with friends. Never having had a chance to visit the restaurant before a fire closed it in 2010, I was more than a little curious to check it out, and I really loved what I saw.

Olives is laid out in a bright, airy, and open space with high ceilings and an open kitchen. It is beautiful, chic yet comfortable and a great place for a party.

We were fortunate to be able to attend the media portion of the event which was complete with an olive oil tasting from Chile Olive Oil. Olive oil was the theme of the night, and it was even in the signature cocktail.

Have you ever had an extra virgin olive oil martini? These were delicious and strong!

I brought the recipe home; I think this would make for a delicious boat drink.

Passed bites like ceviche and steak tartare circulated throughout the room all night long.

I enjoyed these delicious little jars of carrot soup.

But I passed on the raw quail eggs and olive oil.

This tres leche cake, made with Chilean olive oil, stole the show for me. It was light, buttery with a gentle sweetness, simply delicious.

Olives’ owner Todd English also circulated throughout the room all night. Despite his reputation, which has not been so great in Boston, I found him to be very gracious, stopping to take photos with everyone including our group. Now I just need to track the photos down!  He was also very sweet with his kids; it was definitely a family affair, and it was really nice to see.

I love wandering Charlestown, and I look forward to visiting Olives for dinner soon. I wish Todd English and Olives the very best as they get reacquainted with their old neighborhood.