I find few things more satisfying than dining out at an upscale restaurant. Most of us can't afford to indulge in such luxuries on a daily basis, but that's what makes it so special. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just feel like treating yourself, enjoying the opulence and exquisite dishes at Connecticut's best fine dining restaurants is a wonderful experience to treasure every once in a while. If you're visiting the lovely city of New Haven, there's certainly no shortage of places to dine: it is the home of Connecticut-style apizza, after all! But if you're looking for something a little more upscale, you won't want to miss a visit to olea, one of the state's top restaurants. Here, you'll find a menu full of Mediterranean and Spanish delights that are absolutely delectable. Check it out:

Before you even walk in the door, you'll be struck by how incredibly pretty this place is. The simple, but elegant, exterior belies the explosive flavor of the food inside.

Inside, you'll find modern, tasteful decorations that lend a romantic atmosphere that makes olea the perfect spot for a date

The menu is full of innovative Spanish cuisine, made with both locally-sourced ingredients and some components that are imported from the Mediterranean region.

The chef's tasting menu is available on weekdays and features six prix-fixe courses specially selected by Chef Manuel Romero. If you prefer to "choose your own adventure," there's also a traditional dinner menu where you can select your own dishes.

And boy, oh boy, are these dishes beautiful! They're almost too pretty to eat. This place is known for its immaculate presentation. While the menu changes seasonally to reflect ingredient availability, the one thing that stays constant is you can expect a good-looking and good-tasting plate of food.

The drink menu is similarly full of creative options, and whether you're looking for a pre-dinner cocktail or want to pair a wine with your meal, there's something for everyone at olea.

Have you ever enjoyed a meal at this delicious fine dining restaurant in New Haven? Learn more or check out a current menu from the olea website or olea Facebook page. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made via the website.

Looking for the perfect place to stay in New Haven? Check out The Historic Mansion, conveniently located right in the heart of the city.