The Olives Branch Fine Lebanese Cuisine

We desperately wanted to love this place, and as far as atmosphere and service goes, it was actually great. But when eating out, food is what counts most. Even if service or atmosphere sucks, great dishes will always carry the day because in the end, you can just order takeout! Our anticipation began with the loads of ecstatic reviews (sorry to throw this outlier in there). Aside from the dessert....the food was more bland than anything I've experienced in a long time - and my two dinner mates agreed whole-heartedly, but perhaps our party was spoiled, having traveled widely and eaten at many places in the Mediterranean and elsewhere in the world, to include California. To keep this short, I'll list what we ordered and rate each: 1) Tabouleh - it was average. Very low on bulgur wheat, but o

We absolutely loved this place! The atmosphere was an upscale casual vibe. It also had a lovely and romantic covered outdoor patio. The people that served us were so friendly, helpful and offered great suggestions. The food was excellent! The hummus was creamy and delicious with warm pita bread. We had the chicken shawarma that had amazing spices and they added a little heat to it. Then the citrus salad was so good and so fresh. My daughter said it was the chicken in the salad was the best chicken she has ever had, again with special spices! I would definitely give this place a try!

Good hummus and steak frites. Beef and lamb kebabs were ok, bit dry.

Been going here for a few years now with my family. It has been a great destination for us to meet as I live in San Diego and my parents live in SJC. We have celebrated holidays and birthdays here and it has never disappointed. As we mainly go on weekends, Tony's service to us has been especially great as he has always taken a moment to explain any questions that we have had about the menu/services and he even took time to explain what a hookah was, even though we don't smoke. Highly recommend!! Looking forward to our next visit very soon.

Food was very authentic middle eastern and delicious. The server/owner was very -very nice and helpful with suggestions. They had Lots of great Vegan options and non vegan as well. The Only small complaints was they were just a little understaffed to handle the amount of people eating here and the To-go orders. Everyone was working extremely hard and at a fast pace. It took just a little bit longer than I would have liked between courses… but it was also relaxing at the same time because you weren’t rushed. The music playing was great and upbeat but a little bit on the loud side. Maybe I’m just getting old haha! The amazing food definitely stole the show. Everything was a perfect size for the price …not skimpy but not huge either. It was just right! I look forward to going back ag