Restaurant Oliv

Nestled in the historic old town of Aarau, Restaurant Oliv brings the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine to the heart of Aargau. Since opening its doors in 2009, this charming eatery has built a loyal following by combining time-honored Italian cooking techniques with warm, heartfelt hospitality. Guests can enjoy a cozy meal in the intimate ground-floor dining room, celebrate a special occasion in the spacious first-floor hall, or soak up the sun on the inviting outdoor terrace during warmer months. With a commitment to fresh, house-made dishes and fair pricing, the team at Oliv creates a dining experience that feels both authentic and accessible.

At the core of the kitchen is a traditional gas-fired stone oven, where pizzas are baked directly over the flame to achieve a perfectly crisp, slightly charred crust. This dedication to craftsmanship extends across the entire menu, from handcrafted pasta and risotto to carefully sourced fish and tender cuts of meat. The restaurant’s reputation for quality has earned it a strong rating and nearly 500 reviews from satisfied guests, cementing its place among the popular Italian destinations in Aarau.

Signature Dishes & Culinary Highlights

The menu at Oliv celebrates the rich culinary traditions of the Italian Marche region, with a particular focus on fresh ingredients and robust flavors. The wood-fired pizzas remain a standout, praised for their light, airy dough and generous toppings. Reviewers frequently mention the Pizza Prosciutto e Funghi as a favorite, balancing savory ham with earthy mushrooms atop a perfectly baked base.

Beyond pizza, the kitchen excels at pasta and seafood. The Tagliatelle con Gamberi, featuring tender ribbons of pasta with succulent shrimp, is a dish that consistently earns high praise from guests. Another highlight is the Spaghetti Carbonara, prepared in the classic style with a rich, creamy sauce and crispy guanciale. For those seeking a heartier meal, the Rinds-Entrecôte with crispy pommes frites delivers excellent value and flavor, showcasing the kitchen’s skill with meat dishes as well.

Weekly specials and seasonal highlights keep the offering fresh and exciting, allowing the chefs to incorporate the best available ingredients from local and regional suppliers. From fangfrisch fish to zartes Fleisch, every plate reflects Oliv’s commitment to quality and tradition.

Services & Dining Options

Restaurant Oliv is designed to accommodate a wide range of dining preferences and occasions. The three distinct spaces within the historic building provide flexibility for everything from a quick solo lunch to a large family gathering or corporate dinner. Each area has its own character, but all share the warm, welcoming atmosphere that defines the Oliv experience.

• Speisen vor Ort (Dine-In): Enjoy a relaxed meal in the cozy ground-floor restaurant, the elegant first-floor hall, or the sunny terrace. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend evenings and larger groups.
• Zum Mitnehmen (Takeaway): For a taste of Italy at home, Oliv offers the full menu for takeaway. Simply call ahead or order in person and pick up your favorite pizzas, pastas, and entrees.
• Lieferdienst (Delivery): Through partner delivery platforms, Oliv brings its freshly prepared dishes directly to your doorstep in and around Aarau. Check the website or popular delivery apps for availability and coverage areas.
• Mittagsmenü (Lunch Menu): During the week, Oliv serves a popular lunch menu featuring a selection of lighter dishes and speedy service, perfect for a midday break without sacrificing quality.
• Private & Group Events: The first-floor hall is available for private bookings, making it an excellent choice for birthday parties, anniversary dinners, corporate events, and other celebrations.

Atmosphere & Guest Experience

The ambiance at Oliv is frequently described as gemütlich—a German word that perfectly captures the cozy, inviting feel of the space. The historic building on Kronengasse provides a charming backdrop, with its narrow cobblestone lane and classic Aarau architecture adding to the old-world European charm. Inside, the décor balances rustic Italian influences with modern comfort, creating an environment where guests feel immediately at ease.

Feedback from diners often highlights the attentive and friendly service. The owner and staff are known for engaging with guests, responding to reviews with genuine appreciation and a personal touch. Whether you’re settling in for a leisurely dinner or enjoying a quick aperitif on the street-side terrace, the team works hard to ensure every visit is memorable. The combination of excellent food, reasonable prices (typically 20–30 CHF per person), and a warm atmosphere makes Oliv a favorite for both locals and visitors exploring the Kanton Aargau.

Location & Directions in Aarau

Restaurant Oliv is conveniently located at Kronengasse 8, 5000 Aarau, right in the heart of the charming Altstadt (old town). This central location places it within easy walking distance of Aarau’s main train station, public parking garages, and many of the city’s shops and cultural attractions. The street itself is a quiet, picturesque lane that invites a leisurely stroll before or after your meal.

For guests arriving by public transport, the restaurant is a pleasant 10-minute walk from the Aarau train station. Head south toward the old town, cross the Aare river, and follow the narrow streets to Kronengasse. Several bus lines also stop near the Rathaus and Oberer Graben, both just a few minutes on foot from the restaurant. If driving, the closest large parking facilities are the Kasinoparking and the Metalli parking garage, both within a short walking distance.

Commitment to Quality & Fair Pricing

One of the core values at Oliv is the belief that high-quality, freshly prepared food should not come with an extravagant price tag. With per-person costs typically ranging from 20 to 30 CHF, the restaurant occupies a sweet spot in the Aarau dining scene—offering a genuinely elevated culinary experience at a price point that invites repeat visits. This commitment to value is repeatedly mentioned in customer reviews, with many diners expressing pleasant surprise at the combination of quality and affordability.

The open kitchen and visible gas-stone oven reinforce this transparency, allowing guests to see the care and skill that goes into every dish. From kneading dough to plating elegant entrees, the team takes pride in its handwerk, and that pride translates directly to the plate. Whether you’re a Pizza purist, a seafood lover, or simply in search of a satisfying Italian meal, Oliv delivers an experience built on freshness, flavor, and fair prices.

Questions Visitors Ask

Visitors to Restaurant Oliv often have questions about the dining options, menu, and how to best enjoy their experience. To help plan your visit, here are answers to some of the most common inquiries.