Olives Et Al - Poundbury, Dorset
I have eaten at various Olives Et Als pre baby and always loved it, but this was to be my first time back there with Alyssa in tow - would I still be able to enjoy this quirky eatery? Simple answer, YES! We entered through their deli shop, and though it was busy in the small dining area, a very helpful staff member quickly pointed out the only free remaining table. Though a small area, I was aware of this and so I had decided to take Alyssa in her car seat and found plenty of room and a spare chair to put her on.
Now food, from a vegetarian point of view was bloody awesome. There were equal amounts of both vegetarian and meat dishes with a handful of vegan and gluten meals thrown in too. I had mushroom and spinach pie with leaves, olives, sundried tomatoes and a side of sweet potato wedges. The flaky pastry was golden and delicious with a rich, deep, smooth flavoured filling. I have no idea what dressing was on the salad but it was fresh and zingy and the olives and tomatoes were gorgeously salty and fresh tasting. The sweet potato wedges were good but unseasoned making them pretty boring after all the other flavours.
I had a large latte to go with it which was quite strong so I had to add 2 brown sugar lumps. It was served at 85 degrees rather than the optimum 65 degrees which they have sign explaining, but this is perfect for mummys as my coffee didn't go cold despite dealing with Alyssa.
For dessert (yes I know watching the waistline but I am only doing this for you guys!) I had Chocolate brownie. The chocolate flavour was orgasmic, deep and rich. I did not see nuts advertised as I probably would have picked something else as I don't like nuts in food (weird huh?) but they were small enough to be ok. Originally, I thought they were white chocolate chunks. All in all, excellent nosh.
Staff were very friendly and helpful, and despite it being busy the service was prompt. I think the prices reflect the quality of the food making it worth it. The only negative I have about the whole experience was that they share their bathroom facilities with the garden centre they are attached to, and these were very dirty, with paper everywhere, overflowing bins and chipped paintwork. Although these aren't their toilets they are used by their patrons so let the side down a bit.
However, Olives Et Al for being a Baby Friendly eatery I give you...
**** A TuTu Rating of 4 out of 5 ****
