Olive Lamb - Minneapolis

Service: Takeaway Meal type: Lunch Price per person: $10–20 Recommendation for vegetarians: Somewhat recommend Vegetarian offerings: Vegetarian menu or section read more Service: Takeaway Meal type: Lunch Price per person: $10–20 Recommendation for vegetarians: Somewhat recommend Vegetarian offerings: Vegetarian menu or section

Our family’s recent visit to Olive Lamb in Northeast Minneapolis felt like a warm cultural embrace nestled in the heart of the city. We pulled into the modest p... read more Our family’s recent visit to Olive Lamb in Northeast Minneapolis felt like a warm cultural embrace nestled in the heart of the city. We pulled into the modest parking lot off University Avenue and were relieved to find ample street parking just a short walk away. Stepping inside, the cozy dining room made us feel right at home. Exposed brick, wood tables, and soft pendant lighting created a relaxed, inviting ambiance—with just enough bustle to feel lively without overwhelming conversation. Ordering is counter-service, which kept things efficient, especially helpful with our kids in tow. We shared a variety of small plates—hummus with warm pita, feta fries sprinkled with pepperoncini, and sambose. Each was fresh, flavorful, and generous, setting the perfect tone for our meal. For mains, we sampled the gyro platter, chicken pita, and steak kabob. The gyro was juicy and well-spiced; the steak kabob, tender and paired with bright basmati rice; and the chicken pita offered a satisfying balance of textures and fresh toppings. The lamb shank stole the show. Slow-braised and rich, the meat fell apart under the fork and left a lingering, savory broth that even the kids couldn’t resist dipping pita into. It felt both comforting and a little bit indulgent—exactly what we hoped for in a family treat. Service was friendly and attentive. Our server, a University of Minnesota student originally from Persia, took the time to explain Persian yogurt drinks and share cultural context for the saffron chicken kebob our teen tried—and loved. For dessert, the honey cake with whipped cream was lightly sweet and fragrant, a lovely end to the meal. We also tried the baklava, which struck a nice balance of buttery flakiness and honeyed filling. A few practical notes: the patio fills quickly in warm weather, so arriving before peak dinner time is wise. The dining space is modest—large parties may need to wait or consider takeout. Prices are moderate—most entrees range from $12 to $20—and every dish felt worth it for the quality and flavor delivered. We left with full bellies and happy spirits. The combination of home-style Persian flavors, warm hospitality, and a relaxed yet vibrant setting makes Olive Lamb an outstanding family-friendly gem. Highly recommend arriving with appetite and curiosity—you won’t walk away disappointed. Food: 5 Service: 5 Atmosphere: 5 Service: Dine in Meal type: Lunch Price per person: $10–20 Parking space: Somewhat difficult to find parking Parking options: Free of charge parking lot

One of the best Mediterranean place I have ever been to, great food, super fast service, super friendly and caring staff esp Mary, we loved her attitude. Kebabs... read more One of the best Mediterranean place I have ever been to, great food, super fast service, super friendly and caring staff esp Mary, we loved her attitude. Kebabs taste delicious and fresh, salad awesome, baklava homemade and fresh, so as the freshlybrewed tea.

The testing the quality of the food is good and ok, but the customer service and the handling !!! , for me it was not good , I didn?t liked at all , I waited mo... read more The testing the quality of the food is good and ok, but the customer service and the handling !!! , for me it was not good , I didn?t liked at all , I waited more than 10 minutes to ask the waiter to order a hot sauce for my meal , it seems that theyhave no experience in how to deal with customers at peak times, I will definitely come back again For the Persian taste that Iadore ???? But not for unsatisfactory service .

Service was great, with super friendly staff. It didn't take long until the food arrived. The food presentation was great with four large skewers attached to a... read more Service was great, with super friendly staff. It didn't take long until the food arrived. The food presentation was great with four large skewers attached to a wooden structure that carries a large dish of rice. So far so good. The reason for the threestars was the taste and quality of food. So much gyros (which I don't like), and so little spices. For me, taste is the primarycomponent of a restaurant experience, with all other elements (e.g., service, preparation, ambiance) complementing thatexperience.