A new Greek concept is opening in the former home of The Local Bar and Grill in early 2026. Olea Taverna (Website) is currently being built out at 3231 Edgewater Drive [GMap] in College Park, with permits filed with the City of Orlando for some extensive interior renovations.
The concept is led by Nazih Sebaali, owner of Meza Mediterranean Grill (Website) in Baldwin Park, and former owner of Cafe Annie, which operated out of downtown Orlando for almost 30 years. Sebaali shared with Shine that the Olea renovations were a bit behind as the restaurant required quite a bit more work than they had expected, and that he was currently working with the landlord to update the air conditioning system.
The Olea website shares that it will focus on Mediterranean dishes, stating, “At Olea Taverna, we celebrate the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean. Our dishes are crafted using authentic recipes and the freshest ingredients, ensuring a genuine taste of this vibrant region.” Sample menus posted on the site include items like eggplant caponata, kibbeh, falafel, kabobs, gyros, and more.
It’s not affiliated with Olea Mediterranean Grill, which closed locations in Maitland and The Milk District about two years ago.
Olea Taverna is expected to open by February 2026. Operating hours on the website shared that it would be open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday.
The Local Bar and Grill closed on Friday, July 26, 2024.
