Business Details
27 Years
experience
Authentic Italian Dining in Ellingham
At Olive Tree, we are driven by a deep passion for Italian cuisine, hospitality, and creating lasting connections with our guests. Established in 1999, our restaurant has built a reputation for serving authentic Mediterranean dishes crafted with the finest local and Italian-sourced ingredients. Head Chef Rafes culinary journey began in his hometown of Castellammare di Stabia, where he was mentored by the Giorgio family in Capri. His expertise, rooted in Neapolitan tradition, ensures every dish reflects the heart of Italian cooking.We prioritise quality, using freedom-farmed meats, seasonal produce from our on-site allotment, and sustainably sourced fish. Our menu accommodates most dietary needs, including coeliac and dairy-free options, while our warm, inviting atmosphere makes every visit memorable. With over two decades of experience, we remain committed to delivering excellence in both food and service, ensuring our guests experience the true essence of Italian dining.
Services
Italian Cuisine
Takeaway Menu
Wine Selection
Dining Experience
Dietary Options
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in authentic Italian cuisine
- Our ingredients are locally sourced and complemented by premium Italian imports
- Head Chef Rafe brings decades of Neapolitan culinary expertise
- We accommodate coeliac and dairy-free dietary requirements
- Our wine list highlights lesser-known Southern Italian varietals
What people say
Exquisite Italian cuisine
Friendly professional service
Superb meal
Relaxing atmosphere
Fresh seasonal ingredients
Services
Italian Cuisine
Our Neapolitan-inspired menu showcases traditional Italian dishes made with locally sourced meats, seasonal produce from our on-site allotment, and imported Italian delicacies. Each dish is prepared to order, allowing flexibility for dietary preferences. With over 20 years of culinary expertise, Head Chef Rafe ensures every meal embodies the authentic flavors of Southern Italy.
Takeaway Menu
For those preferring to enjoy our cuisine at home, we offer a selection of takeaway options available Wednesday to Friday evenings. Our takeaway dishes maintain the same quality standards as our dining experience, featuring freshly prepared meals that capture the essence of Italian home cooking. Service is available during dedicated collection hours.
Wine Selection
Our curated wine list highlights Southern Italian varietals such as Falanghina and Primitivo, complementing the menu's regional flavors. We feature both well-known and lesser-known producers from Campania, Calabria, and Puglia. The selection also includes digestivos like limoncello to complete the traditional Italian dining experience.
Dietary Options
We accommodate various dietary requirements including coeliac and dairy-free preferences while maintaining culinary authenticity. Dishes are prepared fresh to order, allowing for ingredient adjustments. Our staff receives regular training to ensure proper handling and awareness of common food intolerances and allergies.
Dining Experience
Housed in a historic building with traditional features, our restaurant combines Italian ambiance with local charm. The space features artwork from Venice and surrounding regions, creating an immersive cultural setting. Regular events and live music enhance the dining experience, with special attention to detail in service delivery.
People
Rafe
Head Chef
Originating from Castellammare di Stabia near Naples, Rafe developed his culinary skills under the Giorgio family in Capri before honing his craft in prestigious Italian hotels. At Olive Tree, he applies his extensive regional knowledge to create authentic Neapolitan dishes using both imported Italian ingredients and locally sourced produce.
Questions
What makes The Olive Tree different from other Italian restaurants?
We combine Neapolitan culinary traditions with local East Anglian ingredients, offering authentic dishes prepared by a chef with decades of experience in Southern Italian cuisine.
Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?
Yes, we provide coeliac and dairy-free options, with dishes prepared fresh to order allowing for ingredient adjustments to meet specific needs.
What are your opening hours for dining?
We serve dinner Wednesday to Saturday evenings from 6pm to 8:30pm, with takeaway options available Wednesday to Friday until 7pm.
Do you offer wine pairing suggestions?
Our wine list features Southern Italian varietals carefully selected to complement our menu, with knowledgeable staff available to recommend pairings.
Is there parking available at the restaurant?
While we don't have a dedicated car park, there is roadside parking available near our Yarmouth Road location in Ellingham.
Can I book for large groups?
We welcome larger parties - please contact us directly to discuss availability and seating arrangements for groups.
Reviews (4)
Donna Millard
Sep 30, 2021
Report
Our first camper outing and first time visit to Suffolk - what a beautiful age old county with surprise after surprise round every corner and in every village. We stayed at Wardley Hill campsite which is only a few minutes walk from another hidden gem - The Olive Tree restaurant. The chef is originally from Naples and his English wife is front of house. What a lovely welcoming couple. The food was gloriously Italian simple and very tasty, just like being in Italy again. Vegetables from their garden too. Will definitely go again and look forward to it. Grazie mille, Ci vediamo presto.
Pat Youngs Patsy
Sep 14, 2021
Report
First visit to this restaurant. Was truly amazed by the fantastic food. Have never tasted Italian food like it!! Lovely atmosphere and surroundings. Staff so friendly and helpful. Have recommended to friends. Will definitely be visiting again and again.
James Perry
Sep 10, 2021
Report
Fabulous little gem of a restaurant! We had a fabulous meal, and found the staff to be incredible!! Went above and beyond to make sure we had a enjoyable evening!
Dejonnee Roder
Jun 17, 2021
Report
Discovered this place during a car trip and tried their dinner set. Opted for two starters and one main; absolutely delicious! The space is beautiful inside: I recommend coming early for dinner to enjoy a lovely walk around town afterwards. Good parking, great quality, great prices - will visit again and again!!
