Today we’d like to introduce you to Tal Baum.
Hi Tal, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Israel, and food has always been a central part of my life, not just for nourishment, but as a way of bringing people together. After studying architecture and design in Florence, Italy, I fell in love with the Italian way of life – the beauty of simplicity, seasonality, and the art of slowing down around the table. Those years shaped my understanding of hospitality as both a powerful and emotional experience.
When I moved to Atlanta, I wanted to create spaces that reflected that philosophy, where food, design, and community coexist seamlessly. That vision became Oliva Restaurant Group, which now includes Bellina Alimentari, Atrium, Rina, and Carmel. Each concept tells its own story, but they all share the same foundation: thoughtful food, warm hospitality, and design that inspires connection.
It’s been a journey of passion, growth, and resilience, building a team, navigating challenges, and staying true to a vision rooted in authenticity. I feel incredibly proud of what we’ve created and the communities that have formed around our restaurants.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It is never a smooth road, and honestly, I don’t think it’s supposed to be. Building a business is a journey that requires a lot of resilience, especially in the hospitality industry that can be unpredictable and very demanding. Over the years, I’ve faced everything from financial pressures and staffing challenges to the enormous impact of the pandemic. Each stage has tested my resilience in different ways.
There were moments when the future felt uncertain, when projects took unexpected turns, or when I had to make difficult decisions to protect the team and the integrity of the brand. As a mother of three, balancing family life with the constant demands of entrepreneurship has also been one of the hardest yet most rewarding challenges.
But I’ve learned that the obstacles are often where the real growth happens. Every setback has taught me something, about leadership, creativity, and the importance of surrounding myself with people who share the same passion and values. The road hasn’t been easy, but it’s made me stronger, more grounded, and more intentional about why I do what I do.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Oliva Restaurant Group?
Oliva Restaurant Group is, at its heart, a reflection of my journey and my love for creating spaces where food, design, and culture come together. Each restaurant is meant to feel personal, layered, and connected, a place where every detail, from the menu to the lighting, has been carefully considered to spark emotion and invite people in.
Our collection includes Bellina Alimentari, Rina, Atrium, and Carmel. Each has its own soul. Bellina Alimentari captures the spirit of Italy and the beauty of simplicity . Rina, named after my grandmother celebrates the vibrant flavors and joy of Middle Eastern street food. Atrium represents my current chapter abd serves modern American cuisine in a whimsical, colorful setting. Carmel, our newest evolution, pays homage to coastal living through woodfire cooking and fresh, elegant seafood.
What defines us is a deep commitment to authenticity and intention. We see hospitality as a privilege, an experience that goes beyond the plate and touches every sense. We want our guests to feel as if they are dinning at someone’s home when they visit our restaurants.
I am most proud that each concept stands on its own yet feels part of a greater story. Together they express one belief: that dining should be about connection, beauty, and providing a reprieve from the day to day.
What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is creating meaningful connections and leading with purpose. Whether it is through food, design, or the way we treat one another, I care deeply about building experiences and environments that make people feel valued and inspired.
Within Oliva Restaurant Group, my greatest source of pride is our team. The restaurant industry can be demanding, and I have always wanted to build a different kind of company, one that values balance, respect, and humanity as much as excellence. We work hard to create a healthy and supportive workplace that offers meaningful benefits, opportunities for growth, and the flexibility people need to thrive both professionally and personally.
Hospitality, to me, is not only about how we serve our guests but also about how we care for the people who make everything possible. When our team feels supported, they bring that same energy to our guests, and that is where the true magic happens.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.olivarestaurants.com/
- Instagram: @talpostelnikbaum
- Other: https://mercatodibellina.com/
