This week we’re putting our vendor spotlight on Olive and Squash (o+s) and Co-Founder & CEO, Sofia Bombieri. Based near Holborn, o+s are a dedicated team that works with local partners, farmers, and chefs to serve up some of the freshest and most delicious food in London. But it’s more than just about serving up fresh and tasty food for busy Londoners, o+s pledge that every part of their experience leaves partners, customers, and the community better off. Cooking everything from scratch, tailoring to the seasons and putting sustainability at the heart of every decision.
Meet Olive + Squash
Q: What’s the inspiration behind your business?
A: When I was living in the USA, Sweetgreen was my go-to lunch spot. They made delicious salad bowls that tasted WAY BETTER than any others because everything was made from scratch from the best local ingredients. When I got back to London I couldn’t find a “Sweetgreen style” bowl anywhere, so we fixed that problem by opening Olive + Squash!
Q: Where are you from and how has that shaped your business?
A: My mother is from Peru, and my father is Italian. Both are countries with strong food cultures, so cooking (and eating!) were a central part of my childhood. Our menu includes spices and cooking styles from all over the world, so we always offer a huge variety of flavours as well as ingredients.
Q: How would you describe your food in 5 words?
A: Insanely delicious, wholesome, homemade, sustainable and seasonal (Ok that was 7 words… sorry!)
Q: What’s your favourite meal on your menu?
A: Since we only just reopened after a long covid closure, I am currently eating one of our all-time best sellers every single day – the Chicken Pinata (I missed it so much!). Our “some like it hot” dressing, made from jalapenos, lime, and olive oil, is very addictive, and I can’t stop.
Q: What should we order from you when…
…. we feel Indulgent?
A: Just add one of our burrata and pesto sides to any salad. We make the pesto ourselves (my grandmother’s recipe), and our Burratas are delivered straight from Puglia every week.
…. we crave something healthy?
A: If your health ethos is (like mine) more about the quality of ingredients than about calorie counting, you really can’t go wrong. If you are looking for a lighter lunch, then the Chicken Tahini is your best bet!
… we want to celebrate?
A: Chicken Pinata or Taco bowl. Both are Mexican inspired, and the Mexican really know how to have fun.
Q: What is your top tip for eating better when at work?
A: Come to work at olive and squash 🙂 It seems to be the best fitness camp, and you can eat whatever you want!! Our team has collectively put on about 30kg during lockdown – thank god we are back running around our kitchen and salad bar because I need to get back into my jeans.
Q: What’s the ingredient you always find yourself reaching for when you’re cooking at home?
A: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and lots of it. Otherwise, I am a huge fan of fresh herbs – any and all of them.
Q: What’s your favourite thing to do in your area?
A: Bouldering is one of my newfound favourite activities. We do a weekly “climb and dine” on Sundays with a couple of friends, which is the best way to end the week.
Q: When you’re not in the kitchen…
A: I’m probably travelling to see my husband in NYC. Long-distance marriage… very modern haha (and non-covid-travel-ban-friendly).
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