General Manager Kevin Taylor describes the food at Olives as "innovative Italian". Taking a quick glance at the menu, it's hard to see what is so innovative about it. While Italian fare lends itself quite easily to gourmet cooking, it generally follows a stringent formula – some antipastos, followed by pastas and then a few mains, usually cuts of meat and fresh fish. Olives does not stray from this formula, but yet it can still easily be described as 'innovative'.

There is one reason for this (or three): location, location, location. Olives is only a quick two block stroll away from the Pengrowth Saddledome and right across the street from Stampede Casino. On top of that, it opened during the Stampede. At first this seems like a recipe for disaster. Why would hundreds of rodeo fans in cowboy hats and plaid shirts want to dine on Grilled Squid or Potato Herb Gnocchi? But the question has been deemed moot. In the 22 days since the restaurant has been open, Taylor says, the response has been great. Even since the Stampede ended, the demand has not diminished.

It's an interesting concept. Olives takes advantage of its close proximity to the Saddledome by serving upscale Italian food in a casual atmosphere. He knows that people want a good meal, but they're also in a hurry to see their concert or to see the Flames. Rather than cheeseburgers, Olives allows fans to dine on some real food.

The space itself is divided into three interlocking parts. Diners can eat and relax in the lounge, which acts as an extension of the large main dining room. The dining room looks directly into the kitchen, where hungry diners can watch Executive Chef Johnathan Canning whip up that night's dinner. Sit and drool as he prepares a Beets and Fennel Salad served with Shaved Pecorino, Italian Parsley, and Citrus Mint Vinaigrette ($12). Or if pasta is more your thing, try the fresh Truffle Parsnip and Mascarpone Ravioli ($21), an early favourite for best dish. If you want a good cut of meat, you can't go wrong with the Sous Vide Veal Breast ($29).

If there's no time to sit, there's also a small deli area called Olives To Go. The food may be significantly quicker here, but there's no drop off in quality. There's a variety of paninis, flatbreads and cappuccinos for you to take on your way.