Australia-based Pinoy chef Oliver “Oli” Buenviaje marks his first PH restaurant venture in the City of Firsts
A new seafood destination has made waves in Araneta City with the opening of Seafood 8 by Olio’s on August 8. The innovative bistro-style restaurant reimagines the beloved Filipino dampa experience for a new generation of diners, combining fresh seafood, contemporary culinary techniques, and an interactive dining atmosphere.
Located on the ground floor of Gateway Mall 2, Seafood 8 by Olio’s offers a fresh interpretation of premium seafood dining and modern culinary craftsmanship.
Designed to accommodate approximately 130 guests, the restaurant captures the energy and excitement of a bustling seafood market within a contemporary dining space. Live seafood aquariums, fresh seafood displays on ice, and an open kitchen create an immersive experience where diners can see, hear, and anticipate their dishes as they are prepared.
At the center of the Seafood 8 by Olio’s experience are eight signature sauces, each specially crafted to complement and enhance the flavors of every dish. The lineup includes:
- Miso Butter
- Inasal Citrus Ginger & Soy
- Oriental Chili Caramel
- Latin Chimichurri
- Pomodoro Tomato Olive Capers
- Gambas Roja
- Bagoong Béarnaise
- Sambal XO Chili
A Global Culinary Journey with Filipino Roots
The concept is the brainchild of Chef Oliver “Oli” Buenviaje, a Filipino chef whose culinary career has taken him through some of the most respected kitchens in Australia and around the world. Seafood 8 by Olio’s marks his first restaurant venture in the Philippines.
“Seafood has always been at the heart of my culinary journey,” said Chef Buenviaje. “Seafood 8 by Olio’s is my way of celebrating the incredible seafood we have in this country while presenting it through the lens of everything I’ve learned around the world.”
Born in Sorsogon, Chef Buenviaje moved to Australia as a teenager before pursuing a culinary career that brought him to renowned establishments including Alain Ducasse’s Le Meurice in Paris, Al Mahara at Dubai’s iconic Burj Al Arab, L’Normandie at Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, and Caprice at Four Seasons Hong Kong.
He later founded Olio’s Fine Food Catering in Perth, where he served premium clients and established a reputation for delivering refined dining experiences.
Despite his extensive international career, the inspiration behind Seafood 8 by Olio’s remains deeply Filipino. Chef Buenviaje credits much of his approach to hospitality to his late grandfather, Jose Aviles, who taught him the importance of generosity, community, and sharing meals with others.
“Filipinos love seafood, and we love sharing meals,” Chef Buenviaje added. “Seafood 8 by Olio’s is about giving guests the freedom to create their own dining experience while enjoying the quality, care, and excitement that comes with every dish.”
With Seafood 8 by Olio’s now officially open in Araneta City, diners can look forward to a unique experience that brings together fresh seafood, world-class culinary expertise, and the interactive spirit of Filipino dampa dining, reimagined for today’s generation of food lovers.
