Samantha Impaglia 
A new restaurant is opening at the Jersey Shore this December. Called Olea, the new coastal-inspired restaurant will draw inspiration from the Mediterranean coast for its dishes while still celebrating local flavors and seasonal ingredients. Read on for more about Olea’s arrival to 700 NJ-71 in Spring Lake, New Jersey.
Photo Credit: Olea
Olea: Spring Lake’s Newest Restaurant
Olea will officially open in Spring Lake on Thursday, December 4th, 2025 in the former The Sea Crest Grille location at 700 NJ-71. The new dining destination, which is attached to The Shore Club hotel and venue, is a joint venture from ECS Hospitality Group and Chef Brandon (Bud) Carter, formerly of The Butcher’s Block in Long Branch.
Photo Credit: Olea
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Chef Carter is a partner and the executive chef at Olea, and is looking to bring his years of experience and “signature energy and passion for honest, ingredient-driven cooking to a setting designed for connection,” per a press release.
Olea will be a coastal-inspired restaurant serving up dishes with a Mediterranean twist. The menu draws inspiration from the Mediterranean coast while still celebrating local flavors and seasonal ingredients from local fishermen and farmers. Diners can expect fresh seafood, hand-cut meats, house-made pastas, and artisanal small plates — all brought to life through Chef Carter’s signature wood-fired style and dedication to quality. There will also be a wine and cocktail program.
Photo Credit: Olea
The inside of the restaurant will be decked out in Mediterranean flair, featuring olive trees and lush floral decor that “evokes the natural beauty and serenity of the Mediterranean coast” in an intimate yet vibrant space that is both rustic yet modern. Olea looks to provide an immersive space to make guests feel like they are abroad. The space will also include a lounge to enjoy crafted cocktails, a wine list, and more.
The name Olea, Latin for “olive,” serves as a nod to the olive tree’s role in Mediterranean culture and heritage.
Photo Credit: Olea
“Olea is about more than food — it’s about gathering, storytelling, and creating a sense of place,” Chef Carter said via a press release. “After the journey with The Butcher’s Block, partnering with ECS Hospitality has allowed me to take that vision even further, building something truly special for Spring Lake. Olea brings together the coastal flavors I love with the hospitality values we both share.”
Stay updated on the opening on Olea’s website, Instagram, and Facebook, and make a reservation here. For private event bookings or for more information, email [email protected].
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