Olives

My wife and I dined at Olives tonight 2/15 thanks to a generous gift card given to us by family. This was our first time. While our waitress, Brooklyn, provided us with good service and the food was hot and enjoyable, the first 10 to 15 minutes of arriving was less than permissible. When we arrived we stood at the entrance in full view for at least 10 minutes only moving out of the way for a produce delivery. We only saw the bartender andc2 cooks through the windows. After an uncomfortable awkward wait we asked the bartender if we were supposed to sit ourselves or wait. He clearly appeared to be annoyed or frustrated. There were plenty of customers at the bar. Saying nothing he walked over to the hostess station. We approached. Finally a hostess came over and took over. She neither greeted us or apologized for the wait. She seated us with the informing that our waitress would be right out. We were very concerned. Thankfully Brooklyn did a good job with service and the food was good. In my humble opinion the experience could have avoided if the hostess would said hello or sorry to keep you waiting.

We have lived in the area less than a year and feel like we've eaten at enough burger and wings places for a lifetime. We had no idea this gem of a place was hidden inside the Hilton Garden Inn downtown! The menu has so many options that it was really difficult to decide. We shared the spinach and artichoke dip and it was delicious with big chunks of artichokes and freshly grated parmesan on top. I looked up the menu to find the names of the dishes we each ordered and it looks like the dinner menu has been updated--now we have to go back! We both stepped outside our normal comfort zone when ordering and we were NOT disappointed. Everything was beyond delicious. The service was also fantastic. We brought home our desserts and can't wait to try more the next time we visit. If you are a foodie, this is a place you must check out!

Amazing dinner. Hubby and both had the duo dinner. Delicious thai pork with rice and steak with potatoes. The thai sauce was slightly spicy and so flavorful. Pork was my fav and so perfectly cooked. Steak was great, too. Thanks for not making me decide. Great dirty martini with blue cheese stuffed olive. Hubby and I shwted the trio dessert. So awesome. Good service, as well

The lunch buffet can't be beat in Mankato. It now costs $11.95 and is worth every penny. Cold sandwiches, six salads, bread, meats, cheeses, and olives. The soup of the day is also included but you need to ask a waitress to bring it to you. Many parking options in the area. Great, quick, and friendly service. If you're looking for somewhere a little more upscale but still casual for lunch, this is it.