The Flaming Cheese Wheel Secret: 5 Reasons Zesty Olives Laguna Niguel Is The Hottest Mediterranean Destination Right Now

As of December 2025, Zesty Olives in Laguna Niguel, California, has solidified its reputation as a must-visit dining destination, blending the fresh, healthy flavors of a Mediterranean grill with a spectacular, must-see culinary show. This Orange County gem, located on Crown Valley Parkway, is currently buzzing not just for its vibrant bowls and wraps, but for a unique, theatrical dish that has taken social media by storm: the "Build-Your-Own Cheese Wheel Pasta." It’s an experience that perfectly captures the restaurant's mission of offering authentic, freshly made food with a touch of Mediterranean hospitality. The restaurant’s success is built on providing a fresh, zesty alternative to typical fast-casual fare, offering an extensive menu that caters to every palate, from hearty breakfast options to customizable dinner combos. With recent menu expansions and rave reviews highlighting its commitment to quality and unique offerings like the flaming pasta, Zesty Olives is proving why it won an "Up-and-Coming" category award, making it a true culinary highlight in Southern California.

The Zesty Olives Laguna Niguel Culinary Profile

Zesty Olives Mediterranean Grill is more than just a place to eat; it's a culinary philosophy that centers on fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere. The Laguna Niguel location serves as a flagship for this mission, offering a diverse menu that spans breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant's focus on Mediterranean-inspired cuisine ensures a wide array of healthy and flavorful choices, including many vegan-friendly options.

Location and Contact Information:

• Name: Zesty Olives Mediterranean Grill
• Address: 30242 Crown Valley Pkwy Ste B4A 4B, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
• Cuisine: Mediterranean, Grill, Italian (Pasta Focus)
• Current Status: Open for dine-in, delivery, and pickup.

The menu is strategically designed to appeal to those seeking both quick, healthy meals and unique, indulgent experiences. The restaurant has successfully married the traditional elements of a Mediterranean diet—think olives, fresh vegetables, and lean proteins—with contemporary culinary trends like customizable bowls and signature pasta dishes.

The Viral Sensation: Build-Your-Own Cheese Wheel Pasta

The undisputed star of the Zesty Olives menu is the "Build-Your-Own Cheese Wheel Pasta," a dish that provides a massive draw based on curiosity and theatrical presentation. This is the ultimate example of the restaurant’s commitment to unforgettable dining.

What Makes the Cheese Wheel Pasta a Phenomenon:

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• The Flaming Wheel: The dish is prepared tableside (or in a way that’s visible to diners) by tossing house-made fettuccine or spaghetti in a creamy Alfredo sauce.
• The 24-Inch Spectacle: The pasta is finished inside a massive, flaming 24-inch wheel of aged Parmesan cheese. The heat melts the inner layer, allowing the pasta to be coated in a rich, nutty, and fresh Parmesan flavor directly from the wheel.
• Customization: Diners can choose their pasta type (fettuccine or spaghetti) and add-ons, making it a truly personalized experience.
• Affordability: Despite the high-end, theatrical presentation, Zesty Olives is praised for offering this authentic, freshly made pasta at a reasonable price point, proving you don't need a fancy restaurant to enjoy gourmet pasta.

This signature offering, often referred to as the "Pasta Viva" section of the menu, also includes other unique creations like the Twilight Pasta (Limited Edition), the Basil Babe (Pesto+Chicken) Pasta, and the Game Changer (Chicken & Mushroom) Pasta, demonstrating a deep commitment to fresh, high-quality Italian-style dishes alongside their Mediterranean roots.

Beyond the Pasta: 5 Must-Try Zesty Olives Signature Dishes & Menu Entities

While the Cheese Wheel Pasta is the main attraction, Zesty Olives has a deep bench of menu items that establish its topical authority in fresh, healthy, and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant’s menu has seen an expansion, introducing new options that further diversify its offerings.

1. The Zesty Mediterranean Bowl and Earth Bowl

The "Zesty Mediterranean Bowl" is a staple, embodying the restaurant's core identity. It's a fresh, customizable option packed with lean proteins, grains, and vibrant vegetables. For those seeking a hearty, plant-based meal, the "Mental Lentil Bowl" is another highly-rated choice. The "Earth Bowl" is a popular option, designed for a wholesome and filling experience.

2. Crispy Cauliflower & Brussel Sprouts

These shareable appetizers have garnered excellent reviews, often highlighted for their preparation. The Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower with Pomegranate Balsamic Glaze is a particular favorite, praised for its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, making it a great alternative to traditional sides.

3. Freshly Baked Focaccia Sandwiches and Wraps

Zesty Olives takes the simple sandwich to a new level with its "Freshly Baked Focaccia Sandwiches." Using house-made bread as the base, these sandwiches and the various Mediterranean wraps offer a quick, satisfying, and flavor-packed lunch option. The menu includes a variety of fillings, catering to both meat-eaters and vegetarians.

4. The Breakfast Lineup (Avocado Toast & Signature Omelette)

The restaurant is a serious contender for the best breakfast in Laguna Niguel. The morning menu is extensive, featuring classics with a Mediterranean twist. The Avocado Toast is a fresh start, while the Signature Omelette and the various Breakfast Burrito options (including a dedicated Breakfast Vegan Burrito) provide a substantial meal to start the day.

5. Sharables and Dips (Trio Dips & Falafels)

To truly embrace the Mediterranean dining style, the "Sharables" section is essential. The Trio Dips—often featuring hummus, baba ghanoush, or tzatziki—served with warm pita or focaccia, are perfect for communal dining. The Falafels, available in various counts, are consistently reviewed as crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a delicious and authentic appetizer.

Zesty Olives Mediterranean Grill continues to impress Orange County diners by offering a dynamic menu that delivers both comfort and excitement. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick, healthy lunch or a theatrical dinner featuring the famous flaming cheese wheel, this Laguna Niguel spot provides a fresh, unforgettable dining experience that justifies its buzz and "Up-and-Coming" status.