OLIVIA

OLIVIA is a modern Italian restaurant founded by acclaimed chef Chris Ponte, renowned for his innovative approach to traditional Italian cuisine.

The original location opened in South Tampa in 2019. In January 2025, OLIVIA expanded to downtown St. Petersburg, Florida, at 225 1st Avenue North, situated on the ground floor of the Ascent apartment and hotel tower.

Location

The St. Petersburg location offers a spacious dining area accommodating approximately 180 guests. It features an expanded bar and outdoor patio seating.

The restaurant's design exudes urban chic aesthetics, with warm lighting and elegant paneled columns, creating an inviting atmosphere for diners.

Menu Highlights

OLIVIA's menu showcases a blend of traditional and contemporary Italian dishes, including appetizers, salads, pizzas, pasta, and protein-rich entrées.

Notable offerings include the "24-hour bolognese" sauce made with pancetta, guanciale, beef, pork, and chicken livers. The cacio e pepe features house-made spaghetti noodles with black pepper and aerated Parmesan foam.

The restaurant caters to dietary preferences with a comprehensive vegan and gluten-free menu.

Dining Options

In addition to dinner service, OLIVIA introduced a weekend brunch menu offering items like breakfast pizzas, orange blossom pancakes, and a bacon-wrapped steak topped with a duck egg.

A "mid-lunch" menu is also available on Saturdays and Sundays, providing options between brunch and dinner.

Interior Features

The interior includes a dough-making room with large windows, allowing guests to observe the preparation of fresh bread, pasta, and pastries.

A wine vault houses over 200 bottles, and a full bar offers an extensive selection of wines and cocktails.

Reservations can be made through the restaurant's website, with the main dining room available for booking up to 60 days in advance.

Reception and Reviews

OLIVIA has received positive reviews for exceptional food, ambiance, and service. Diners praise the wine selection, delicious desserts, and standout dishes like chicken Milanese and goat cheese-stuffed peppers.

The atmosphere is described as exquisite, reminiscent of a fine dining experience in New York City.

Contact and Additional Locations

OLIVIA is located at:

• 225 1st Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Contact the restaurant directly at (727) 746-9240 for reservations or visit their website for booking.

Locations:

• St Petersburg, FL, USA