Service is admirable, helpful and engaging. The space is attractively designed with high-ceilinged stained-glass appointments and a copper still, but the lighting is too low to appreciate the surroundings. In a restaurant touch now as fashionable as butternut squash, diners huddle around table candles trying to make out the menu. Olea follows its own direction, mostly within the western Mediterranean basin, and goes some interesting places -- as well as some dead ends. But it's usually a trip worth making. Just follow the sign of the horizontal pizza.

Plan as far as I know (insider info!) is that they will be open this Thursday for dinner, Friday for lunch and dinner and B-L-D on Saturday. Hours will be 7am-10pm. It's not a 'full-service' joint, but rather you order at the counter and have your food deliver to your table. Menu looks a lot like Lucca's. What's with Portland and the "Rustic Italian"? Is there really *that* much of a demand for it? lol. They have a small wine list, 8-10 wines. All Italian and interesting. Pasta's, roasted meats, paninis, pizza. A little Northern, little Southern, little Island fare. Everything looks nice. Lots of cheese!