Pleasingly simple Italian fare with flair served up in a well-appointed dining room in the downtown Sheraton Hotel.

by Contributor

The Scene
The large, handsome dining room, accented by dark wood and playful light fixtures, has not only cozy booths but also a long, communal dining table for those who like to mingle.

The Food
It's clear that careful thought and Italian expertise are behind the menu. The Caesar salad and house salad of field greens, pears and Parmesan chips are divine. Various "piccolo tuffi," or dips, for the hearty breads are tasty, especially the Gorgonzola and roasted pepper with oregano. Spicy penne puttanesca is a classic rendition. Grilled shrimp with artichoke and potato gratin is fine-tuned, with flavors in perfect harmony. On a recent visit, however, the overcooked grilled leg of lamb looked and tasted like it had a long journey from preparation to plate. Overall, Olio's menu offers truly tempting choices in all categories, including pleasingly simple wood-oven pizzas.