As a native of culinary melting pot Malaysia and the daughter of a restaurateur, UG student Natalie Voo knows her food. Every other week, she reviews Groningen’s student-friendly dining scene. This time: Olivier La Mensa.
Okay, I swear I’m not on some personal quest to eat at every Italian restaurant in Groningen. This one just happened to be recommended by a UKrant colleague, and, well… it was within walking distance of my apartment. So, clearly, it was fate.
Generous portions
We kicked things off with bruschetta napoletana, followed by spaghetti aglio e olio and all’amatriciana. My dining buddy is vegan, and the restaurant was super accommodating. The bruschetta was easily one of the best I’ve had in Groningen. Super fragrant, garlicky, and fresh. If all bruschetta was like this, I’d be in trouble.
The pasta arrived steaming hot, and I immediately clocked how generous the portions were – especially for a place that charges less than most Italian spots in the city center. Big W. Both pastas leaned a little on the oily side but had solid flavors. No frills, just simple Italian done well.
Fast and reliable
I originally wanted dessert, but the pasta portions said, nah, you’re done. Service was good, the waiter said he enjoyed working there, so that’s always a good sign. Ambience felt more like a pub, with a simple interior.
Honestly, I love when small neighborhood restaurants pop up – it makes the area feel alive, and even better when the food’s actually good. As for this place? It’s solid for what it is: affordable, fast, and reliable Italian. Nothing life-changing, but definitely a spot I’d keep in my back pocket for a no-fuss pasta fix.
Olivier La Mensa, Mauritsdwarsstraat 29
An affordable Italian restaurant south of the city center. For two people we spent €33.50.
Ratings:
Food 7.5/10
Presentation 6/10
Service 8/10
Ambience 7/10