A Hidden Gem in Lake Forest – Olivia Restaurant Olivia is a cozy and inviting spot that offers a fantastic variety of pizzas and sandwiches, each bursting with flavor. The atmosphere is truly something special—there’s a beautiful water fountain in the middle of the restaurant that gives off a unique European-Persian fusion vibe. Whether you're looking for a laid-back café experience, a casual bar setting, or a chill lounge-style evening, Olivia seamlessly blends all three. The food is top-notch! The meat pizza was delicious, with a perfect balance of flavors, and the Koko and Kotlet sandwich was incredibly tasty—a must-try for anyone who enjoys hearty, homemade-style bites. Beyond the food, what really sets Olivia apart is its lively and engaging environment. They host different events throughout the week, including debate nights, DJ nights, and even a mafia game night on Sundays, making it a great spot for both food and entertainment. The owner and staff are exceptionally warm and welcoming, which adds to the overall charm of the place. We’ll definitely be back to explore more of their menu and soak in the great vibes again. If you’re in the area, Olivia is absolutely worth a visit!

Hubby found the cutest Mediterranean cafe in Lake Forest. When we walked in, the ambient was so cute and relaxing. The lady who was the owner (we believe) was the nicest lady and the food was great. We ordered the healthy chicken wrap, and chicken flat bread. Highly recommend this cute little gem in lake forest.

NEW RESTAURANT! Mediterranean food. Right behind Starbucks here in Lake Forest Dr, Ca. Inside and outside (at night and depending on weather) seating available. Also, it’s a hookah place at night. Nice and clean restaurant, interesting decorations and seating accommodations. Oliva means Olive in their language (Owner said that). Few choices of food, but lots of variations available (Build your own). We had pizza toppings on a pita bread (I believe). The bread was nice and thin, crispy bottom. Tasted good. Fresh ingredients all around, very flavorful plate. We also used their Oliva sauce (The yellow container), it is a mixture of mayonnaise and other “secret” ingredients lol. It was delicious. They are still working out the hours, but Mon-Fri (11 am - 11 pm, sometimes midnight) sat-Sun 11 am-midnight, I just asked one of the two owners. Parking is a bit limited so plan accordingly!

Amazing atmosphere and great vibe! The staff are so kind and always so welcoming. The cafe has a really cozy and comfortable setting. The food was also amazing. One of the best Persian pizzas I’ve had by far!! Highly recommend this place!

The vibe and the atmosphere is vibrant and positive! I have been going to this place for a while now! I am a regular and absolutely love the pastries, coffee, tea and most of all their baghlava ice-cream!! The staff are another reason to why I absolutely love going to Olivia! This coffee shop is more like a community!! It’s a great place to meet new awesome people to connect with! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Nafis

We visited Oliva for the first time with a big group of friends, driving up from San Diego to Orange County, and it was well worth the trip! The Persian-style pizza, Oliva pizza, was the highlight of our meal—authentic and bursting with flavor. If you want to experience the true taste of Persian pizza, go for the beef option, though the chicken option was also delicious. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with various seating options that made our large group feel comfortable. The owner was incredibly friendly, adding a personal touch to the experience. We all loved the food and had a fantastic time. We’ll definitely be back!

Jeanette B

Our family was staying next door at the Holiday Inn so we decided to give this place a try. So glad we did! The service, ambiance, and food were all delightful. It's a very relaxing and family friendly atmosphere. Our 4 and 6 year old kids had a great time playing with the instruments. The owners were very personable and provided exceptional customer service. We tried their highlights, which were the Pizza Oliva, Olivich Sandwich, and Oliva Salad. All unique and delicious blend of flavors. Definitely recommend!!

Mikey F

Oliva Restaurant absolutely blew me away! From the moment I walked in, the warm and cozy atmosphere made me feel right at home. The staff was incredibly friendly, attentive, and genuinely passionate about the food they serve. Every food I tried was bursting with flavor and beautifully presented. The ingredients were clearly fresh, and the menu had a perfect balance of classic and creative options. The attention to detail, the quality of the food, and the excellent service all make Oliva a standout dining experience. Highly recommend—it’s now one of my favorite restaurants!

Harris

I stopped by Oliva after work for a quick bite. It is always challenging to find halal pizza, and Oliva offered Halal items on their menu! I chose Pizza Oliva, as it was Persian Halal flatbread. I was shown how to eat it the "Persian" way. :) I laughed at first, but, oh boy, did I love every bite of it! They recently opened the café corner, which seemed to be at its soft opening phase, as hours has not yet been adjusted to the recent addition. Would be a perfect weekend morning hangout for the locals. My Muslim coworker and I always had hard time finding a halal place to eat and hang out. This would be on my top list. Amazing time with friends by the patio, especially during warmer months.

Sina Sadeghi

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Oliva restaurant, and it was an exceptional experience that truly deserves a 5-star rating. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Yahya and Mr. Amin for their outstanding hospitality. Their warm and welcoming demeanor made our visit truly memorable. The ambiance of the restaurant is incredibly relaxing and beautifully decorated with tasteful touches. The presence of traditional games like chess and backgammon, along with various musical instruments, adds a unique cultural touch that is both enriching and entertaining. A special highlight of our visit was Mr. Yahya’s impromptu musical performance, which was a delightful and memorable experience. We also learned that the restaurant hosts various cultural, literary, and musical events throughout the week, which is truly commendable. I highly recommend Oliva to everyone, especially the Iranian community, to visit and enjoy this wonderful place. The food is exceptional, made with high-quality ingredients, expertly cooked, and served in a professional manner. The combination of delicious food and a rich cultural atmosphere makes Oliva a must-visit. Don’t miss the chance to meet these wonderful people and experience a taste of home in such a beautiful setting.

Erika Rodriguez

Such a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere inside the cafe (and outside seating too). The employees were super sweet, warm, and helpful. The matcha was incredible (not pre sweetened yay) and my chicken wrap as well. Their house dressing was sooo yummy. I can't wait to go back :)

Ali

A Hidden Gem in Lake Forest – Olivia Restaurant Olivia is a cozy and inviting spot that offers a fantastic variety of pizzas and sandwiches, each bursting with flavor. The atmosphere is truly something special—there’s a beautiful water fountain in the middle of the restaurant that gives off a unique European-Persian fusion vibe. Whether you're looking for a laid-back café experience, a casual bar setting, or a chill lounge-style evening, Olivia seamlessly blends all three. The food is top-notch! The meat pizza was delicious, with a perfect balance of flavors, and the Koko and Kotlet sandwich was incredibly tasty—a must-try for anyone who enjoys hearty, homemade-style bites. Beyond the food, what really sets Olivia apart is its lively and engaging environment. They host different events throughout the week, including debate nights, DJ nights, and even a mafia game night on Sundays, making it a great spot for both food and entertainment. The owner and staff are exceptionally warm and welcoming, which adds to the overall charm of the place. We’ll definitely be back to explore more of their menu and soak in the great vibes again. If you’re in the area, Olivia is absolutely worth a visit!

Tyler Black

So fresh and delicious, great selection, awesome desserts and coffees too. Service was excellent. Will come back again.

Amy Malapas

Hubby found the cutest Mediterranean cafe in Lake Forest. When we walked in, the ambient was so cute and relaxing. The lady who was the owner (we believe) was the nicest lady and the food was great. We ordered the healthy chicken wrap, and chicken flat bread. Highly recommend this cute little gem in lake forest.

J G

NEW RESTAURANT! Mediterranean food. Right behind Starbucks here in Lake Forest Dr, Ca. Inside and outside (at night and depending on weather) seating available. Also, it’s a hookah place at night. Nice and clean restaurant, interesting decorations and seating accommodations. Oliva means Olive in their language (Owner said that). Few choices of food, but lots of variations available (Build your own). We had pizza toppings on a pita bread (I believe). The bread was nice and thin, crispy bottom. Tasted good. Fresh ingredients all around, very flavorful plate. We also used their Oliva sauce (The yellow container), it is a mixture of mayonnaise and other “secret” ingredients lol. It was delicious. They are still working out the hours, but Mon-Fri (11 am - 11 pm, sometimes midnight) sat-Sun 11 am-midnight, I just asked one of the two owners. Parking is a bit limited so plan accordingly!

Olena Stoianovska

Very cozy place with a beautiful and stylish interior. The atmosphere is calm and quiet, which I really appreciated. I ordered a cappuccino. It was made very well and tasted great, but it did take a bit longer to prepare than expected. Overall, the restaurant left a very pleasant impression.

Melinda Munoz

Oliva is insane in the best way possible. The moment you walk in, it’s like stepping into another world. The energy, the atmosphere nothing like I’ve ever experienced before. They’ve got lush plants everywhere, and this effortlessly cool, almost dreamlike vibe that makes you forget you’re even in SoCal. The food? Incredible. Every dish feels fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully crafted. You can tell they care about the experience just as much as the taste. If you’re looking for a place that hits all the senses, ambiance, flavor, and pure magic.. Oliva is it! 🙌🏽

Amir R

One of my friends recommended this place and specifically told us to try their Persian beef pizzas. At first, I assumed it would be just like any other Persian restaurant in Orange County or Los Angeles, but I was genuinely surprised. From my very first visit, I was hooked. Since then, I’ve referred this place to at least ten of my friends and family members, and every single one of them loved it. The Persian beef pizza here tastes almost exactly like the traditional ones you’d get in Iran. The flavors are rich, the toppings are perfectly balanced, and the crust is just right. It’s warm, comforting, and nostalgic all at once. You can tell they put a lot of care into making everything fresh, and their house-made sauce takes the experience to another level. The staff is always friendly, polite, and respectful. Every time we walk in, we’re greeted warmly, and the overall vibe of the place is welcoming. We’ve dined in a few times and always notice a diverse crowd. Some people are there in groups playing board games and hanging out, others are relaxing in the cafe area enjoying their coffee, and then there are folks like us who come just for the amazing pizza. What I love most is that it’s a local small business, and you can really feel the difference in quality and service. It’s healthier and tastes so much better than the typical chain pizza spots. Supporting businesses like this not only helps the community but also introduces you to something unique and delicious. If you haven’t tried their Persian beef pizza yet, I highly recommend stopping by. Whether you’re going for a casual dinner, grabbing coffee, or just looking for something different, this place is worth checking out. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back.

Ali Mallaki

Absolutely loved my visit to Oliva! The cozy atmosphere is perfect for relaxing or catching up with friends. Their coffee is rich and flavorful, and the sweets are simply delightful – you can tell they’re made with love and care. The staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable. I highly recommend this spot for anyone looking to enjoy great coffee and delicious treats. Can’t wait to come back!

Rodin A.

The atmosphere is beyond amazing. The water fountain inside and outside adds relaxing and calming touch to the place. You should live the experience and visit Oliva restaurant.

Oliva was a nice surprise! The location and online photos intrigued me to come visit only to realize that they were a newly (almost a year) opened Persian Cafe and Pizzaria! The place has beautiful indoor/outdoor atmosphere with lots of seating which is lovely for cozy and quiet get togethers. The hosts went over and beyond while taking our order (a half veggie and half sausage pizza) which they even plated separately. The food was delicious and service so generous. One of the hosts consistently tended to us while we were enjoying our meal. We completed our evening with their house brewed black rose tea. Thank you for keeping memories of Iranian city nights alive🌹

Niloofar

Oliva was a nice surprise! The location and online photos intrigued me to come visit only to realize that they were a newly (almost a year) opened Persian Cafe and Pizzaria! The place has beautiful indoor/outdoor atmosphere with lots of seating which is lovely for cozy and quiet get togethers. The hosts went over and beyond while taking our order (a half veggie and half sausage pizza) which they even plated separately. The food was delicious and service so generous. One of the hosts consistently tended to us while we were enjoying our meal. We completed our evening with their house brewed black rose tea. Thank you for keeping memories of Iranian city nights alive🌹

Kaelei Atarahti (Atarahti Group, Inc.)

Excellent food---from the Pizza to the Baklava. The staff are as warm as the tea + coffee. The service is 5-star. The delivery is beautiful and thoughtfully designed. There's even a calming water fountain. You won't get an experience like it anywhere else & you'll crave the experience again and again. Nooshe joon!!

Relatively expensive place with terrible and slow service: they took more than 25 mins to get a chicken wrap and fries. They treat each customer differently- people came in 10 mins after us and were served promptly, while they made us wait

The pizza crust was very dry, and the pizza itself was overcooked. What I received looked quite different from the picture on the menu. It had too many olives, and the cheese wasn’t the typical white color you’d expect from mozzarella. Overall, it felt like a waste of time, ingredients and money. I just had one slice and trashed the rest. On a positive note, the location is nice, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. Maybe other menu items are better, but I haven’t had the chance to try them.

Y G

The pizza crust was very dry, and the pizza itself was overcooked. What I received looked quite different from the picture on the menu. It had too many olives, and the cheese wasn’t the typical white color you’d expect from mozzarella. Overall, it felt like a waste of time, ingredients and money. I just had one slice and trashed the rest. On a positive note, the location is nice, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. Maybe other menu items are better, but I haven’t had the chance to try them.

Subhadip Majumder

Relatively expensive place with terrible and slow service: they took more than 25 mins to get a chicken wrap and fries. They treat each customer differently- people came in 10 mins after us and were served promptly, while they made us wait

Okay, this place is relatively new. It’s really relaxing inside. The atmosphere lets you wind down. They have so many great things going for them. Except the food. Had a Cesar's salad. Chicken was great. They used iceberg lettuce. It needed some serious help. Ordered a pizza. Just pepperoni. They put yellow cheese on it. The dough was raw in the center. The only great tasting part of it was the pepperoni. I ordered 2 glasses of wine. The wine was very good. The service was great. Just the food quality has a lot to be desired for.

I decided to try this place based on a friend's recommendation. They had visited before and even sent me a photo of their persian pizza, which looked great. But the persian pizza l got looked nothing like theirs :( no oregano, no black olives, the crust was hard on the edges but raw in the middle, and overall it just wasn't acceptable. Very disappointing experience and completely different from what my friends had described.

Shabi Vaali

I decided to try this place based on a friend's recommendation. They had visited before and even sent me a photo of their persian pizza, which looked great. But the persian pizza l got looked nothing like theirs :( no oregano, no black olives, the crust was hard on the edges but raw in the middle, and overall it just wasn't acceptable. Very disappointing experience and completely different from what my friends had described.