OLIVE TREE CAFE AND CATERING | south charleston, wv

WineCheeseScallops
Mar 26
4 min read

Olive Tree Cafe & Catering: A Mediterranean Gem in South Charleston 🌿

Tucked along 2nd Avenue in South Charleston, Olive Tree Cafe & Catering has quietly become something truly special—a place where warm hospitality, bold Mediterranean flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere come together in perfect harmony. From the moment you arrive, it’s clear this isn’t just another local restaurant—it’s a culinary destination. Owner and head chef Michael Jarrouj has poured passion into every detail, creating a space that feels both elevated and deeply personal, bringing authentic Mediterranean cuisine to the heart of our small but vibrant community.

Man reading in a cozy bar with wooden tables and wine racks. Background shows a bar counter, TV, and Pepsi fridge. Warm, inviting atmosphere.

Address: 333 2nd Ave, South Charleston, WV 25303

Phone: (681) 265-9158

Web: https://olivetreecafeandcatering.com/

Menu: View Here

Empty restaurant with wooden tables, chairs, and wall-mounted TVs. Shelves with decor, dim lighting, and glass doors showing outside cars.

Olive Tree’s story is rooted in tradition, family, and a love for sharing food that brings people together. Drawing inspiration from Mediterranean heritage, the restaurant embraces fresh ingredients, vibrant spices, and time-honored cooking techniques. The menu reflects that philosophy—simple in concept, yet layered with flavor and intention. It’s the kind of place where every dish tells a story, and every visit feels like being welcomed into someone’s home.

Outdoor restaurant patio at night, with people dining under heaters. A neon sign and dim lights illuminate the cozy atmosphere.

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A Little History: South Charleston, West Virginia

South Charleston itself has a rich and fascinating history that makes a place like Olive Tree feel even more meaningful. Originally established in the early 1900s, the city grew rapidly due to its strategic location along the Kanawha River and its proximity to industrial development. It became a hub for manufacturing and chemical production, helping shape the economic backbone of the region.

Over time, South Charleston evolved into a close-knit community known for its small-town charm and strong local pride. Today, it balances its industrial roots with a growing appreciation for local businesses, restaurants, and culture. Spots like Olive Tree are part of that evolution—bringing fresh energy, diversity, and culinary creativity into a town that continues to grow while honoring its past.

Shelves filled with assorted wine bottles in a dimly lit wine shop. Labels feature a variety of designs, creating a cozy, inviting ambiance.

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Atmosphere & Aesthetic: Warm, Inviting, and Effortlessly Stylish

Bar area with a row of black stools and a wooden counter beneath a wall-mounted electric fireplace. Dim lighting and glass doors.

Visually, Olive Tree strikes a perfect balance between modern comfort and relaxed sophistication. The exterior welcomes you with a clean, contemporary look, while the patio space offers an inviting outdoor dining experience—complete with sturdy metal seating, open-air views, and a laid-back vibe that feels just right on a beautiful day.

Inside, the restaurant features polished floors, warm wooden tables, and thoughtfully arranged seating that creates an open yet intimate feel. Shelves lined with wine bottles add both character and charm, hinting at the carefully curated selection available. One standout feature is the cozy bar seating along a sleek wall-mounted fireplace—an ideal spot for a glass of wine and conversation. The entire space feels intentional, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish.

A person sits alone at a metal table on an outdoor patio, surrounded by empty chairs. Overcast sky and houses visible in the background.

We opted to dine outside, taking full advantage of the perfect weather—and it truly elevated the experience.

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Service That Stands Out

From the moment we arrived, we were promptly greeted by the host and made to feel right at home. Our server, Kim, was an absolute delight. Despite it being her first week on the job, she knew the menu impressively well and offered thoughtful recommendations that didn’t miss. She was friendly, attentive, and professional—the kind of service that genuinely enhances your meal.

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What We Ordered 🍷

We decided to explore the menu through a selection of appetizers, paired with a beautifully chilled glass of 13 Celsius Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. Crisp, refreshing, and perfectly balanced, it was exactly what you want on a warm afternoon—bright citrus notes that paired effortlessly with the bold Mediterranean flavors to come.

A bottle of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc labeled "13 Celsius" sits on a patio table with a glass of wine. Bokeh lights in the background.

Loaded Hummus

Close-up of a salad with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and crumbled white cheese on a creamy beige base, garnished with herbs.

This dish was a standout from the start. Creamy, velvety hummus served as the base, topped with a vibrant mix of tomato, cucumber, onion, and briny Kalamata olives. A generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of za’atar brought everything together with earthy, herbal depth. Each bite was fresh, balanced, and incredibly satisfying—a perfect harmony of texture and flavor.

Pizza slices with cheese and basil surround a plate of hummus topped with tomatoes, onions, and feta on a black wire table.

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Salad with pita chips, beef, and lettuce, topped with white tzatziki and pink sauces on a white plate. Placed on a dark mesh table.

Mediterranean Nachos

Close-up of a dish with pita chips drizzled in white and pink sauces, featuring a creamy topping on mixed greens. Vibrant and appetizing.

A creative and absolutely delicious twist on a familiar favorite. Crispy, house-made pita chips formed the foundation, piled high with tender, flavorful shawarma and all the fixings. The combination of warm spices, savory meat, and crunchy chips created a dish that was both comforting and exciting. It’s the kind of plate you keep reaching for, even when you tell yourself you’re full.

Close-up of a plate with sliced meat, lettuce, fried bread, and white sauce. Pink sauce and bread pieces are scattered. Vibrant and fresh.

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Shrimp Ceviche

Bright, refreshing, and beautifully executed. The shrimp was perfectly citrus-cured, offering a delicate, clean flavor that paired wonderfully with the crunch of celery, peppers, and onions. The seasoning was spot-on—zesty without overpowering—and served over pita chips, it added just the right amount of texture. This dish felt light, vibrant, and incredibly fresh.

Hand with pink nails holds nacho with shrimp and veggies over a plate of mixed nachos. Bright colors, inviting and appetizing scene.

Plate of shrimp nachos with colorful diced vegetables and chips on a white dish, set on a black metal mesh table background.

For the freshest ingredients to recreate dishes like these at home, we always visit our local gem, General Steak and Seafood.

Their high-quality selection never disappoints!

https://www.facebook.com/generalsteakandseafood

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Final Thoughts | Olive Tree Cafe and Catering

Experiences like this remind us how lucky we are to have places like Olive Tree Cafe & Catering right here in South Charleston. It’s more than just a restaurant—it’s a reflection of community, culture, and culinary passion. From the welcoming service to the thoughtfully crafted dishes and inviting atmosphere, everything comes together to create something truly special.

A smiling couple takes a close-up selfie. The woman wears a floral top and earrings, while the man has glasses and a patterned shirt. Bright lighting. Josh and Tara Chandler. Wine Cheese Scallops

We’re incredibly thankful to have Olive Tree as a staple in our local dining scene—and if you haven’t visited yet, trust us, it’s time to change that.