On historic Main Street in Laurel, Maryland, Olive On Main has become a beloved staple for Mediterranean comfort food since opening its doors in 2014. 🫒
Founded by brothers Nadol and Chris Hishmeh, this brothers-owned Mediterranean restaurant blends their family’s Middle Eastern recipes with American bar classics for a menu that feels both authentic and approachable.
How Olive on Main won Laurel’s hearts
Olive On Main’s roots trace back to two earlier family ventures, a Middle Eastern restaurant established in 2001 and an Olive Lounge that opened in 2008, both run by the Hishmeh family.
Brothers Nadol and Chris eventually combined those two concepts, creating Olive On Main as a single menu that reflects their family’s long culinary history in the area. 👬
What has really won over the neighborhood is the warm hospitality paired with generous, well-seasoned Middle Eastern dishes served alongside American bar favorites.
Beyond the food, the restaurant has remained an affordable, conveniently located option within walking distance of communities throughout Old Town Laurel, keeping it accessible for regulars year-round. ❤️
That mix of family heritage and neighborhood convenience is exactly why this brothers-run spot has become such a cherished piece of the local dining scene.
Food Highlights
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French Rack of Lamb: Tender, frenched lamb chops seasoned and grilled to bring out rich, savory flavor. 🍖
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Chicken Shawarma: Sliced chicken breast seasoned with a house blend of shawarma spices, topped with red onion and served over basmati rice with pita and tzatziki. 🌯
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Stuffed Burger: An 8.5oz beef burger stuffed with a choice of two toppings like feta, bacon, or blue cheese for a juicy twist on the classic. 🍔
- Mezza Platter: A combination of homemade hummus, baba ghanoush, Mediterranean salad, grape leaves, and falafel served with warm pita. 🫓
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Beef Kebob Skewers: House-marinated beef charbroiled with green pepper and onion, served over basmati rice with pita and tzatziki. 🍢
- Baba Ghanoush: A smoky roasted eggplant dip served fresh with warm pita. 🍆
- Sweet and Spicy Shrimp: Crispy shrimp tossed in a sweet chili sauce for a spicy, crunchy appetizer. 🍤
- Bacon Wrapped Dates: Sweet dates wrapped in applewood bacon and served with a chipotle mango dipping sauce. 🥓
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Two Crab Cakes: House lump crab cakes served alongside two sides for a fresh, seafood-forward entrée. 🦀
Atmosphere
Olive On Main feels warm, lively, and welcoming, with the kind of packed dining room that speaks to its steady popularity along Main Street.
Warm pita arriving at the table right away sets a relaxed, unhurried tone for the meal ahead.
The bar area adds a social energy, especially during happy hour, while the dining room maintains a comfortable, neighborhood feel.
It is the kind of restaurant that feels like a reliable favorite rather than a special-occasion splurge.
Bottom Line
Visit for the tender French Rack of Lamb, stay for the warm pita and Mezza Platter, and fall for the juicy Stuffed Burger everyone raves about. Add a rich family history and an affordable, walkable location, and it is easy to see why Laurel keeps choosing this brother-run gem. 🫒❤️
Address:
504 Main St, Laurel, MD 20707
📞 (240) 280-8560
🕔 Open Mon-Wed, 11 AM–9 PM; Thu-Sat, 11 AM–10 PM; Sun, 11 AM–8:30 PM