Pips in 'The Olive Tree'

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Eclectic in every way other than good

Standing outside The Olive Tree, you could be forgiven for wondering what it is. Set in a building which was most definitely once a pub, huge trees and bushes hang from the walls, making the outside look more overgrown than anything intentional.

The restaurant/bar is situated in the Brackenbury Village, on the corner of Perrers Road and Acklam Road, just minutes from King Street.

I couldn't help but have the feeling that something was not quite right, out of place, throughout my time at The Olive Tree. The interior was more like a leisure centre than anything else, with a variation of just about every other style imaginable.

The modern tiled bar coupled with 80's furniture didn't work neither did every light fitting being different. It was as if the nearest light shop had been having a closing down sale.

Service was speedy, there was only one other party in the restaurant, but surly.

I had a Steak and Red Onion Baguette which was tasty, but nothing special. It came with a side salad which also wasn’t particularly distinctive but at £5.95 it wasn't too pricey either although another side would have been nice to make it better value.

Although the meal was pleasant enough, there was nothing about The Olive Tree that would encourage me to return. The decor was weirdly eclectic, the food concept unfathomable and, I thought, the waitress very cold.

I left thinking about Café Rouge’s Steak Baguettes that I’ve enjoyed on numerous occasions in a more agreeable environment for not a great difference in price.

For my lunch money, I think I’ll stick to Cafe Rouge.

Jack Collins

July 9, 2009