Welcome to Dates and Olives Mediterranean Grill, your neighborhood destination for gourmet, healthy Mediterranean meals in Natick, MA. Our passion for authentic Mediterranean flavors is evident in every dish we create. With locally sourced ingredients and recipes passed down through generations, our kitchen brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Whether you’re joining us for a family meal or a catered event—small or large—we guarantee a dining experience that celebrates community, tradition, and culinary excellence.
A Legacy of Culinary Passion
At the heart of our restaurant is Chef Renita Mendonca, whose culinary journey spans over 25 years and three continents. Renita has honed her craft alongside Michelin Star chefs and even showcased her skills on Food Network’s “Chopped” in 2011—a memorable experience intertwined with the birth of her son. This remarkable chapter in her career laid the foundation for her catering company, Seasoned and Spiced, and eventually led to the opening of Dates and Olives in 2018 on a bustling Natick block.
Our mission is simple: to provide fresh, delicious food made from scratch using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, and served with care. Our commitment shines through in every dish we serve, making our restaurant a community favorite and a beacon for Mediterranean food enthusiasts.
Explore Mediterranean Cuisine: The Top 5 Dishes You Can’t Miss
1. Gyro – The Quintessential Mediterranean Delight
No list of Mediterranean dishes is complete without the gyro. Our gyro is a savory blend of seasoned lamb or chicken, slow-cooked to perfection, then thinly sliced and wrapped in a warm, fluffy pita. Topped with crisp lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and a generous drizzle of our signature creamy tzatziki sauce, each bite is a harmonious blend of tangy, savory, and refreshing flavors. This dish not only represents the heart of Mediterranean street food but also echoes the tradition of sharing meals with loved ones.
2. Shawarma – Aromatic and Flavorful Street Food
Shawarma is renowned for its rich, aromatic spices and tender marinated meat. At Dates and Olives, our shawarma is prepared with either chicken or beef, marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, then slowly roasted on a vertical spit. The result is a succulent, flavorful meat that is served in a soft wrap or plated alongside pickles, fresh vegetables, and a drizzle of tangy tahini sauce. This dish captures the essence of Mediterranean street food and offers a burst of robust flavor that keeps our guests coming back for more.
3. Falafels – A Vegetarian Mediterranean Marvel
For those seeking a vegetarian option without compromising on taste, our falafels are a must-try. These crispy, golden-brown chickpea patties are infused with fresh herbs and traditional spices, creating a delightful crunch with every bite. Served in pita bread and accompanied by a side of rich hummus or tahini sauce, our falafels are not only healthy but also packed with flavor. They embody the Mediterranean commitment to wholesome, plant-based ingredients and are perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
4. Family Meals – Celebrating Communal Dining
At Dates and Olives, we believe that food is best enjoyed with friends and family. Our family meals bring together an array of Mediterranean classics—from grilled meats and vibrant salads to aromatic rice dishes and freshly baked breads. Designed for sharing, these meals foster a sense of community and connection that is at the core of Mediterranean dining. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a hearty meal, our family-style offerings are a delightful way to experience the diverse flavors of the Mediterranean.
5. Baklava – A Sweet Mediterranean Finale
No feast is complete without a touch of sweetness, and our baklava is the perfect dessert to round off your meal. Layers of delicate, flaky phyllo pastry are filled with a rich mixture of chopped nuts, all sweetened with a drizzle of honey or syrup. The result is a dessert that is both crunchy and buttery—a true celebration of Mediterranean indulgence. Whether you’re ending a meal with friends or treating yourself to a special dessert, baklava offers a taste of Mediterranean luxury that lingers long after the last bite.
Experience the Mediterranean at Dates and Olives
At Dates and Olives Mediterranean Grill, we are proud to serve as a community hub in Natick, MA—a place where gourmet, healthy Mediterranean cuisine meets genuine hospitality. From our signature dishes like the gyro and shawarma to our delectable family meals and baklava, every plate is a celebration of Mediterranean culinary traditions.
Whether you’re dining in, ordering catering for your next event, or simply exploring new flavors, we invite you to join us on a journey through the rich, vibrant world of Mediterranean food. Experience the passion, quality, and care that have made our restaurant a local favorite and a culinary landmark featured on Food Network.
