Courtesy of Olive & Sea
Nestled along Fort Lauderdale’s picturesque Intracoastal Waterway, Olive & Sea is a rooftop restaurant, atop the Hilton Fort Lauderdale Marina resort, delivering a dining experience that artfully blends Mediterranean-inspired flavors, fresh and sustainable ingredients and a waterfront ambiance as captivating as its menu. Situated along the famed Intracoastal Waterway, Olive & Sea offers a memorable alfresco atmosphere where you’ll embark upon a culinary journey that celebrates simplicity, sustainability and bold, vibrant flavors.
The name “Olive & Sea” is more than a moniker; it embodies the restaurant’s ethos. Drawing from the Mediterranean’s culinary traditions, the name reflects the restaurant’s focus on fresh, sustainable ingredients and a menu that highlights the essence of the sea and the olive tree—both staples of the region’s cuisine.
The interior and exterior design of Olive & Sea further enhance the dining experience. With a stylish modern aesthetic inspired by its marina location, the restaurant features natural sandy tones paired with pops of vibrant colors. The open-concept layout and elevated second-floor vantage point provide a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. Outdoor seating incorporates marine-grade rope materials and wood-look porcelain tile, evoking the finishes of luxury yachts, while the bar is strategically positioned to connect diners with the lovely Intracoastal view.
As the restaurant moves into 2025, Olive & Sea has welcomed Wilfredo Garcia as its new Executive Chef. A Nicaraguan native with over a decade of professional culinary experience, Garcia brings his expertise to a range of new dishes.
“My culinary philosophy is about creating flavorful, simple, and authentic dishes, built around fresh, sustainable ingredients, and presented in ways that balance tradition with modern innovation,” said Chef Garcia. “This philosophy is reflected in a menu that offers bold, Mediterranean-inspired flavors while embracing seasonal, local ingredients, creating an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates both the Mediterranean and Fort Lauderdale’s unique culinary landscape.”
The authenticity of the menu at Olive & Sea shines through, featuring bold ingredients like za’atar, harissa, Aleppo pepper, Urfa pepper, and shawarma spice. These spices lend depth and warmth to standout dishes like the Moroccan Stew and house-made falafel, which is served with tangy preserved lemon aioli.
With Chef Garcia at the helm, guests can also enjoy new dishes like pan-roasted red snapper with squash purée and arak fennel broth, spice-crusted hanger steak with za’atar fries and zhug, smoked eggplant laffa pizzas with mozzarella and Urfa pepper, and beef lahmajun with Antep pepper and garlic cream. Additional highlights include sides such as sautéed spinach with pistachio, feta, and dill, as well as appetizers like fried artichokes served with preserved lemon aioli, mint, and Urfa pepper.
Other must-try menu items include the sustainable octopus, expertly grilled and bursting with Mediterranean flavor, or the smoked eggplant laffa bread pizza, which offers a unique, savory twist on traditional pizza with its combination of roasted eggplant and Mediterranean spices. Guests can opt for a gluten-free cauliflower crust or enjoy the traditional house-made dough.
“Some of my own personal favorites at Olive & Sea include the Snapper Crudo, which offers a perfect fusion of Mediterranean and Floribbean flavors,” Chef Garcia offered. “I also can’t get enough of the delicious falafel—it’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. And of course, the house-made laffa pizzas like the eggplant pizza, truly stand out with bold Mediterranean flavors. The combination of savory ingredients delivers a rich, satisfying taste that transports you straight to the heart of the Mediterranean.”
Olive & Sea places a strong emphasis on using local ingredients to enhance both the freshness and sustainability of its menu. For example, red snapper is sourced from local fisheries, providing an eco-conscious and flavorful choice. Locally grown arugula adds a peppery kick to various dishes, while microgreens from nearby farms deliver a nutrient-packed garnish that elevates presentation and taste.
The restaurant also goes above and beyond to accommodate diners with dietary preferences or restrictions. Vegetarians can savor dishes like the Moroccan Stew, while gluten-free guests have the option of substituting cauliflower crust for traditional pizza dough. The house-made falafel is another flavorful offering that caters to diverse tastes.
Sustainability is a key part of Olive & Sea’s philosophy. The restaurant prioritizes organic and ethically raised ingredients from farms that practice sustainable agriculture and animal welfare. By sourcing fresh, seasonal produce locally, Olive & Sea minimizes its environmental footprint and supports regional farmers. Additional measures, such as reducing food waste through portion control, composting organic materials, and recycling packaging, demonstrate a commitment to environmentally conscious operations.
For first-time visitors, there are a few tips to maximize the experience. Seasonal dishes are a highlight of the menu, showcasing the freshest flavors of the time. Servers are always ready to recommend pairings or chef’s specials to help guests discover hidden gems. Dessert lovers should indulge in the baklava and pistachio gelato, which provide a perfectly sweet and creamy end to the meal. Whether seated indoors or outdoors, the serene views of the marina and the sunny Florida weather make Olive & Sea a perfect setting for a leisurely meal.
Beverage pairings at Olive & Sea are equally thoughtful, featuring a curated selection of Middle Eastern wines alongside classic favorites. The cocktail menu highlights refreshing creations inspired by Florida’s lively ambiance, and a variety of zero-proof cocktails ensure that every guest can enjoy a handcrafted drink.
When asked about his own favorite aspects of the dining experience at large at Olive & Sea, Chef Garcia remarked, “One standout aspect is the combination of atmosphere and food. Whether it’s the stunning view of the marina while enjoying a sunny meal on the patio or the warmth and inviting ambiance indoors, the setting enhances the overall experience. The ability to enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes, like the sustainable octopus or the unique eggplant pizza, while being immersed in such a comfortable and beautiful environment, is truly memorable.”
“Another favorite part would be the Mediterranean flavors that Olive & Sea brings to the table,” Chef Garcia continued. “The careful use of local ingredients, bold spices like za’atar and harissa, and dishes that honor the essence of Mediterranean cuisine give diners a unique and satisfying culinary journey. Ultimately, it’s the feeling of indulgence and connection, whether through a relaxing meal with friends or enjoying a quiet, flavorful dish solo, that creates a lasting impression for our guests.”
Engagement with the local community is another hallmark of Olive & Sea. The restaurant collaborates with local nonprofits, chambers, and charitable organizations, including partnerships with Pride and breast cancer charities during June and October. Distributors also work with Olive & Sea to create unique experiences that further connect the restaurant to Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant community.
Olive & Sea has a number of other delightful attributes, including complimentary valet parking, the ability to host large gatherings with ease, a private dining room for intimate groups of up to 14 people, a lively atmosphere for enjoying sporting events, and fantastic happy hour food and drink deals.
For diners looking to discover hidden gems, Olive & Sea is more than just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of Mediterranean flavors, sustainability, and community, all set against the backdrop of Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront. For those seeking a dining experience that combines exceptional food, thoughtful service and an open-air atmosphere, Olive & Sea duly delivers.
***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.***
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