Just went for for drinks and was not impressed. Took a very long time to actually have our order taken. Since it's advertised as a martini bar I ordered a dirty martini, I could barely taste the vodka and it was overwhelming how much olive juice was in it.
Thomas T.
I've come here a few times over the years and always had a good time. They have local drinks they name after Pittsburgh things which is cool definitely pricey but it's the downtown way and worth the cost
Matt Smith
Great place to come before a show. Good service and food with excellent cocktails that are not watered down.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Mara M
We recently hosted a private event with a cash bar and unfortunately our experience was marred by a disheartening incident involving one of the bartenders and the way the restaurant worded automatic gratuity on the individual checks. This incident completely overshadowed the rest of our experience.Instead of saying “gratuity” as most places do, Olive Twist instead uses “Event Administration Charge” which is very misleading. When multiple guests questioned one of the bartenders who has been there for years, she told them it was NOT gratuity and therefore she was tipped double. For those guests who asked the other bartender, he was honest about it being automatic gratuity.When I questioned this with event coordinator, John, all he could say was it was in my contract. Yes, it was in my contract for automatic gratuity, but it was NOT in my contract for my guests to be lied to for extra tips. I believe in fair compensation for good service, but manipulating guests into double-tipping is unacceptable.I followed up the next day and the was only offered the situation was being taken to heart. No offer to refund the extra tip for those who were duped to think it was not gratuity. The bartender's actions not only compromised the integrity of the service but also tainted the overall perception of the establishment.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 1
Mara M.
We recently hosted a private event with a cash bar and unfortunately our experience was marred by a disheartening incident involving one of the bartenders and the way the restaurant worded automatic gratuity on the individual checks. This incident completely overshadowed the rest of our experience. Instead of saying "gratuity" as most places do, Olive Twist instead uses "Event Administration Charge" which is very confusing. When multiple guests questioned one of the bartenders who has been there for years, she told them it was NOT gratuity and therefore she was tipped double. For those guests who asked the other bartender, he was honest about it being automatic gratuity. When I questioned this with event coordinator, John, all he could say was it was in my contract. Yes, it was in my contract for automatic gratuity, but it was NOT in my contract for my guests to be lied to for extra tips. I believe in fair compensation for good service, but manipulating guests into double-tipping is unacceptable. I followed up the next day and the was only offered the situation was being taken to heart. No offer to refund the extra tip for those who were duped to think it was not gratuity. The bartender's actions not only compromised the integrity of the service but also tainted the overall perception of the establishment.
gina ignasiak-koss
Fun work
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
B Smith
Stopped in for a Dry Martini. One of the worst I have ever been served. Served in a warm glass by a rude disinterested bartender.
Patty T.
Dinner stop before the Benedum. I ordered the Pittsburgh salad which was very good and filling. My friend had the bruschetta chicken and she enjoyed it. The chicken was a fairly small portion, not enough to satisfy a big appetite. Had a margarita and that was tasty!
Kelly Timo Abrams
We had our wedding reception at Olive or Twist in October 2023, and our experience was extraordinary!
The vibe of the private upstairs reception space was incredible, and we've received numerous compliments from our guests about the fantastic atmosphere. We loved the room's architecture and decor, allowing us to create the memorable reception venue that we had in mind. From cozy couches to dining setups, the venue's versatility impressed everyone and allowed them to mingle comfortably.
The staff went above and beyond to ensure every detail was perfect, from attentive bar staff and servers to the exquisite catering. Our guests raved about the food, adding more enjoyment to the overall experience. A crowd favorite was the pierogi!
John Muth, the Events Manager, worked closely with us to ensure every detail was considered, and his expertise was evident in the seamless execution of the day. From our initial inquiries to the big day, the level of communication and support we received was unparalleled. He promptly addressed our questions and concerns and proactively offered valuable suggestions that enhanced the planning process. John was highly flexible, especially when I had last-minute menu changes. He even provided technical help when I struggled with my monogram light projection. We were so happy by John's genuine commitment to our happiness during the reception as he checked on us regularly to see if we needed anything. John exceeded our expectations!
We highly recommend Olive or Twist for anyone seeking a flawless and memorable celebration. We received so many compliments from our guests who said this was the best wedding reception they had been to. Thank you to the fantastic team for making our day perfect!
Great time. Great bartenders. Good food. Parking close by. Was a great Wedding reception destination!
Angel Williamson-Wheat
I'm giving everything one star simply because service matters. We were the to grab a small bite before seeing The Wiz and the food, service, and drinks were all great. Until we received the spinach dip and found it was more sour cream than spinach. We sent it back and while the sever asked did we want anything at that point were fine with what we had and didn't want anything else since that was a disappointment. May I also mention our server was excellent it was her manager Brad who was not excellent. In fact far from it.When we received the bill we noticed the spinach dip which we had all dip a corner of our pita into to try it but hadn't touched after that was still on the bill. When we asked our server she told us her manager would not allow her to remove it from the bill. This is when Brad the manager enters the picture with a condensing and rude attitude. We asked why it wasn't removed and he said it was their policy not to remove things that were not liked from the bill. When asked where said policies are posted he said and I quote:"I don't need to have it in writing."He also said very rudely "well I'm telling you in this conversation so that's the policy."And also said "it was cooked properly and just because you didn't like it doesn't mean it gets removed from the bill."(Side note apparently the charge an extra 3 dollars for pita if you ask for more to go with your buffalo chicken dip. Yet another policy that went unmentioned and unwritten.)We asked how it was a policy but is not posted anywhere on the menus, website, windows, or even the table. And he claimed yet again this did not need to be in writing and walked off with the same condescending attitude.We asked to speak to him again and when I pointed out that if this is a policy it should be posted so patrons know before hand what the service entails and that even fast food and chain food restaurants have policies somewhere in their establishments he sneered and walked off.Now I don't know if Richard the owner believes in being rude or condescending to patrons but if your manger is any indication of you and how you believe customer service should be presented you all must be new to this industry. I get that when people eat a whole meal then try to get the meal taken off or reduced that, that is in fact an issue. But the customer expressing that they were displeased with something and not wanting anything else after that disappointment is an everyday occurrence in the industry.I have eaten and many fine dining and what we'll say regular dining a like and I don't think I ever had a manager as rude as Brad approach me or my family. If this is what Olive Or Twist thinks customer service is I hate to see where you'll be in a few years.Also if you're going to claim you have policies again the should be posted so people can discern whether they want to patronize an establishment or not. Not rudely claim something exist when there is no such wording written anywhere.I know we will not be attending this restaurant ever again. And will be posting this exact review everywhere since I'm sure they will try to delete it at some point to save face.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Jim McCort
The early dusk was amazing. First cocktail I've really experienced besides homemade ones. Definitely already started recommending people to come with me and try it out
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
Anthony
It's more of a drink place than a restaurant and probably caters to the quick bite to eat crowd. Very limited food menu with mostly small bites and sandwiches. I ordered the vodka pasta entre and was disappointed. Looked like it was sitting around for a while and then microwaved. Had the creme Brule and instead of the hard sugar coating it was all liquid on the top.Disappointed.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 2
Service: 4
Angel Williamson-Wheat
I'm giving everything one star simply because service matters. We were the to grab a small bite before seeing The Wiz and the food, service, and drinks were all great. Until we received the spinach dip and found it was more sour cream than spinach. We sent it back and while the sever asked did we want anything at that point were fine with what we had and didn't want anything else since that was a disappointment. May I also mention our server was excellent it was her manager Brad who was not excellent. In fact far from it.
When we received the bill we noticed the spinach dip which we had all dip a corner of our pita into to try it but hadn't touched after that was still on the bill. When we asked our server she told us her manager would not allow her to remove it from the bill. This is when Brad the manager enters the picture with a condensing and rude attitude. We asked why it wasn't removed and he said it was their policy not to remove things that were not liked from the bill. When asked where said policies are posted he said and I quote:
"I don't need to have it in writing."
He also said very rudely "well I'm telling you in this conversation so that's the policy."
And also said "it was cooked properly and just because you didn't like it doesn't mean it gets removed from the bill."
(Side note apparently the charge an extra 3 dollars for pita if you ask for more to go with your buffalo chicken dip. Yet another policy that went unmentioned and unwritten.)
We asked how it was a policy but is not posted anywhere on the menus, website, windows, or even the table. And he claimed yet again this did not need to be in writing and walked off with the same condescending attitude.
We asked to speak to him again and when I pointed out that if this is a policy it should be posted so patrons know before hand what the service entails and that even fast food and chain food restaurants have policies somewhere in their establishments he sneered and walked off.
Now I don't know if Richard the owner believes in being rude or condescending to patrons but if your manger is any indication of you and how you believe customer service should be presented you all must be new to this industry. I get that when people eat a whole meal then try to get the meal taken off or reduced that, that is in fact an issue. But the customer expressing that they were displeased with something and not wanting anything else after that disappointment is an everyday occurrence in the industry.
I have eaten and many fine dining and what we'll say regular dining a like and I don't think I ever had a manager as rude as Brad approach me or my family. If this is what Olive Or Twist thinks customer service is I hate to see where you'll be in a few years.
Also if you're going to claim you have policies again the should be posted so people can discern whether they want to patronize an establishment or not. Not rudely claim something exist when there is no such wording written anywhere.
I know we will not be attending this restaurant ever again. And will be posting this exact review everywhere since I'm sure they will try to delete it at some point to save face.
Martinis to die for
Just went for for drinks and was not impressed. Took a very long time to actually have our order taken. Since it's advertised as a martini bar I ordered a dirty martini, I could barely taste the vodka and it was overwhelming how much olive juice was in it.
I've come here a few times over the years and always had a good time. They have local drinks they name after Pittsburgh things which is cool definitely pricey but it's the downtown way and worth the cost
Great place to come before a show. Good service and food with excellent cocktails that are not watered down.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
We recently hosted a private event with a cash bar and unfortunately our experience was marred by a disheartening incident involving one of the bartenders and the way the restaurant worded automatic gratuity on the individual checks. This incident completely overshadowed the rest of our experience.Instead of saying “gratuity” as most places do, Olive Twist instead uses “Event Administration Charge” which is very misleading. When multiple guests questioned one of the bartenders who has been there for years, she told them it was NOT gratuity and therefore she was tipped double. For those guests who asked the other bartender, he was honest about it being automatic gratuity.When I questioned this with event coordinator, John, all he could say was it was in my contract. Yes, it was in my contract for automatic gratuity, but it was NOT in my contract for my guests to be lied to for extra tips. I believe in fair compensation for good service, but manipulating guests into double-tipping is unacceptable.I followed up the next day and the was only offered the situation was being taken to heart. No offer to refund the extra tip for those who were duped to think it was not gratuity. The bartender's actions not only compromised the integrity of the service but also tainted the overall perception of the establishment.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 1
We recently hosted a private event with a cash bar and unfortunately our experience was marred by a disheartening incident involving one of the bartenders and the way the restaurant worded automatic gratuity on the individual checks. This incident completely overshadowed the rest of our experience. Instead of saying "gratuity" as most places do, Olive Twist instead uses "Event Administration Charge" which is very confusing. When multiple guests questioned one of the bartenders who has been there for years, she told them it was NOT gratuity and therefore she was tipped double. For those guests who asked the other bartender, he was honest about it being automatic gratuity. When I questioned this with event coordinator, John, all he could say was it was in my contract. Yes, it was in my contract for automatic gratuity, but it was NOT in my contract for my guests to be lied to for extra tips. I believe in fair compensation for good service, but manipulating guests into double-tipping is unacceptable. I followed up the next day and the was only offered the situation was being taken to heart. No offer to refund the extra tip for those who were duped to think it was not gratuity. The bartender's actions not only compromised the integrity of the service but also tainted the overall perception of the establishment.
Fun work
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Stopped in for a Dry Martini. One of the worst I have ever been served. Served in a warm glass by a rude disinterested bartender.
Dinner stop before the Benedum. I ordered the Pittsburgh salad which was very good and filling. My friend had the bruschetta chicken and she enjoyed it. The chicken was a fairly small portion, not enough to satisfy a big appetite. Had a margarita and that was tasty!
We had our wedding reception at Olive or Twist in October 2023, and our experience was extraordinary! The vibe of the private upstairs reception space was incredible, and we've received numerous compliments from our guests about the fantastic atmosphere. We loved the room's architecture and decor, allowing us to create the memorable reception venue that we had in mind. From cozy couches to dining setups, the venue's versatility impressed everyone and allowed them to mingle comfortably. The staff went above and beyond to ensure every detail was perfect, from attentive bar staff and servers to the exquisite catering. Our guests raved about the food, adding more enjoyment to the overall experience. A crowd favorite was the pierogi! John Muth, the Events Manager, worked closely with us to ensure every detail was considered, and his expertise was evident in the seamless execution of the day. From our initial inquiries to the big day, the level of communication and support we received was unparalleled. He promptly addressed our questions and concerns and proactively offered valuable suggestions that enhanced the planning process. John was highly flexible, especially when I had last-minute menu changes. He even provided technical help when I struggled with my monogram light projection. We were so happy by John's genuine commitment to our happiness during the reception as he checked on us regularly to see if we needed anything. John exceeded our expectations! We highly recommend Olive or Twist for anyone seeking a flawless and memorable celebration. We received so many compliments from our guests who said this was the best wedding reception they had been to. Thank you to the fantastic team for making our day perfect!
Restaurantji Recommends
Great time. Great bartenders. Good food. Parking close by. Was a great Wedding reception destination!
I'm giving everything one star simply because service matters. We were the to grab a small bite before seeing The Wiz and the food, service, and drinks were all great. Until we received the spinach dip and found it was more sour cream than spinach. We sent it back and while the sever asked did we want anything at that point were fine with what we had and didn't want anything else since that was a disappointment. May I also mention our server was excellent it was her manager Brad who was not excellent. In fact far from it.When we received the bill we noticed the spinach dip which we had all dip a corner of our pita into to try it but hadn't touched after that was still on the bill. When we asked our server she told us her manager would not allow her to remove it from the bill. This is when Brad the manager enters the picture with a condensing and rude attitude. We asked why it wasn't removed and he said it was their policy not to remove things that were not liked from the bill. When asked where said policies are posted he said and I quote:"I don't need to have it in writing."He also said very rudely "well I'm telling you in this conversation so that's the policy."And also said "it was cooked properly and just because you didn't like it doesn't mean it gets removed from the bill."(Side note apparently the charge an extra 3 dollars for pita if you ask for more to go with your buffalo chicken dip. Yet another policy that went unmentioned and unwritten.)We asked how it was a policy but is not posted anywhere on the menus, website, windows, or even the table. And he claimed yet again this did not need to be in writing and walked off with the same condescending attitude.We asked to speak to him again and when I pointed out that if this is a policy it should be posted so patrons know before hand what the service entails and that even fast food and chain food restaurants have policies somewhere in their establishments he sneered and walked off.Now I don't know if Richard the owner believes in being rude or condescending to patrons but if your manger is any indication of you and how you believe customer service should be presented you all must be new to this industry. I get that when people eat a whole meal then try to get the meal taken off or reduced that, that is in fact an issue. But the customer expressing that they were displeased with something and not wanting anything else after that disappointment is an everyday occurrence in the industry.I have eaten and many fine dining and what we'll say regular dining a like and I don't think I ever had a manager as rude as Brad approach me or my family. If this is what Olive Or Twist thinks customer service is I hate to see where you'll be in a few years.Also if you're going to claim you have policies again the should be posted so people can discern whether they want to patronize an establishment or not. Not rudely claim something exist when there is no such wording written anywhere.I know we will not be attending this restaurant ever again. And will be posting this exact review everywhere since I'm sure they will try to delete it at some point to save face.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
The early dusk was amazing. First cocktail I've really experienced besides homemade ones. Definitely already started recommending people to come with me and try it out
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
It's more of a drink place than a restaurant and probably caters to the quick bite to eat crowd. Very limited food menu with mostly small bites and sandwiches. I ordered the vodka pasta entre and was disappointed. Looked like it was sitting around for a while and then microwaved. Had the creme Brule and instead of the hard sugar coating it was all liquid on the top.Disappointed.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 2
Service: 4
I'm giving everything one star simply because service matters. We were the to grab a small bite before seeing The Wiz and the food, service, and drinks were all great. Until we received the spinach dip and found it was more sour cream than spinach. We sent it back and while the sever asked did we want anything at that point were fine with what we had and didn't want anything else since that was a disappointment. May I also mention our server was excellent it was her manager Brad who was not excellent. In fact far from it. When we received the bill we noticed the spinach dip which we had all dip a corner of our pita into to try it but hadn't touched after that was still on the bill. When we asked our server she told us her manager would not allow her to remove it from the bill. This is when Brad the manager enters the picture with a condensing and rude attitude. We asked why it wasn't removed and he said it was their policy not to remove things that were not liked from the bill. When asked where said policies are posted he said and I quote: "I don't need to have it in writing." He also said very rudely "well I'm telling you in this conversation so that's the policy." And also said "it was cooked properly and just because you didn't like it doesn't mean it gets removed from the bill." (Side note apparently the charge an extra 3 dollars for pita if you ask for more to go with your buffalo chicken dip. Yet another policy that went unmentioned and unwritten.) We asked how it was a policy but is not posted anywhere on the menus, website, windows, or even the table. And he claimed yet again this did not need to be in writing and walked off with the same condescending attitude. We asked to speak to him again and when I pointed out that if this is a policy it should be posted so patrons know before hand what the service entails and that even fast food and chain food restaurants have policies somewhere in their establishments he sneered and walked off. Now I don't know if Richard the owner believes in being rude or condescending to patrons but if your manger is any indication of you and how you believe customer service should be presented you all must be new to this industry. I get that when people eat a whole meal then try to get the meal taken off or reduced that, that is in fact an issue. But the customer expressing that they were displeased with something and not wanting anything else after that disappointment is an everyday occurrence in the industry. I have eaten and many fine dining and what we'll say regular dining a like and I don't think I ever had a manager as rude as Brad approach me or my family. If this is what Olive Or Twist thinks customer service is I hate to see where you'll be in a few years. Also if you're going to claim you have policies again the should be posted so people can discern whether they want to patronize an establishment or not. Not rudely claim something exist when there is no such wording written anywhere. I know we will not be attending this restaurant ever again. And will be posting this exact review everywhere since I'm sure they will try to delete it at some point to save face.