Whether you’re visiting Olive Garden for the first time or you’re a seasoned fan looking to try something new, knowing what to order can transform your meal from just another dinner out to a delicious experience. Olive Garden’s menu is extensive, featuring Italian-American classics, seasonal specials, and plenty of family-friendly options. This guide will help you confidently choose the best dishes for your tastes, dietary needs, and dining situation—whether you’re on a date, with family, or grabbing a quick solo meal.
What You’ll Need
- An appetite for Italian-American cuisine
- Knowledge of your own dietary restrictions or preferences
- A willingness to ask your server for recommendations or modifications
- Optional: Olive Garden’s online menu (on your phone or printed out) for reference
Step-by-Step
- Consider Your Dining Goals
Are you here for a quick lunch, a hearty dinner, a light snack, or a celebratory feast? Deciding this will help narrow down choices. For example, lunch portions are smaller and more budget-friendly, while dinner offers larger entrées and more indulgent options. - Decide on Course Structure
Olive Garden can be as simple or elaborate as you like. Do you want a multi-course meal (appetizer, salad, entrée, dessert), or just a main dish? If you’re dining with a group, consider sharing appetizers or desserts. - Start with Appetizers (Optional)
Popular choices include:- Calamari: Lightly breaded and fried, served with marinara.
- Lasagna Fritta: Fried lasagna noodles with creamy sauce and marinara.
- Stuffed Ziti Fritta: Crispy fried pasta filled with cheese.
- Fried Mozzarella: Classic, kid-friendly favorite.
- Bruschetta Caprese: For something lighter and vegetarian.
If you’re not very hungry or want to save room, skip appetizers. Remember, every meal includes unlimited salad and breadsticks!
- Make the Most of the Famous Salad and Breadsticks
Olive Garden’s salad is a classic: iceberg and romaine lettuce, tomatoes, olives, pepperoncini, onions, and croutons tossed in a tangy Italian dressing. Breadsticks are soft, garlicky, and highly addictive. Both are unlimited with most entrées, so pace yourself if you’re planning a multi-course meal. - Select Your Entrée
Entrées fall into several categories:- Pasta Classics: Fettuccine Alfredo, Spaghetti with Meatballs, Lasagna Classico, and Chicken Parmigiana are perennial favorites.
- Chicken Dishes: Chicken Parmigiana, Chicken Marsala, Chicken Piccata, and Chicken Alfredo.
- Seafood: Shrimp Scampi, Herb-Grilled Salmon, Seafood Alfredo.
- Beef & Pork: Braised Beef & Tortelloni, Steak Alfredo (availability varies by location).
- Vegetarian: Eggplant Parmigiana, Five Cheese Ziti al Forno, Cheese Ravioli, and Create Your Own Pasta with meatless sauces.
- Tour of Italy: Sample Lasagna Classico, Chicken Parmigiana, and Fettuccine Alfredo all on one plate.
- Gluten Sensitive: Ask for the gluten-sensitive menu, which includes options like Rotini with Marinara or Grilled Chicken.
If you’re overwhelmed, the “Tour of Italy” is a great introduction to Olive Garden’s most popular flavors. For lighter fare, look for “Lighter Italian Fare” or “Tastes of the Mediterranean” menu sections.
- Consider Soup Options
Entrées often come with a choice of salad or soup. Olive Garden’s soups include:- Zuppa Toscana: Creamy, spicy sausage, potatoes, and kale.
- Pasta e Fagioli: Hearty beans, pasta, and vegetables in a tomato broth.
- Minestrone: Classic vegetarian soup with beans and vegetables.
- Chicken & Gnocchi: Creamy soup with chicken, spinach, and potato dumplings.
If you love soup, you can order the “Soup, Salad & Breadsticks” combo for a lighter meal or lunch.
- Think About Add-ons and Sides
Add grilled chicken or shrimp to salads or pastas, or order extra meatballs. Sautéed vegetables or a side of fettuccine can round out your meal. Ask about seasonal or regional specials, as these can be unique to your location. - Save Room for Dessert (Optional)
Olive Garden desserts are indulgent. Crowd-pleasers include:- Tiramisu: Coffee-soaked cake with mascarpone cream.
- Black Tie Mousse Cake: Layers of chocolate cake, cheesecake, and mousse.
- Lemon Cream Cake: Light and tangy, when available.
- Sicilian Cheesecake: Classic New York style with an Italian twist.
- Dolcini: Mini desserts for when you just want a taste.
If you’re too full, consider splitting a dessert or taking it to go.
- Order Drinks
Choose from Italian sodas, lemonade, coffee, or a selection of wines and cocktails. Olive Garden’s house wines pair well with most dishes. If you’re unsure, ask your server for pairing suggestions. - Ask for Modifications or Allergy Information
Olive Garden is accommodating of dietary restrictions. If you need gluten-free or vegan options, ask for the special menu. Many dishes can be customized—just ask your server.
Common Mistakes
- Over-ordering: The unlimited salad and breadsticks are filling, so it’s easy to order too much and end up with leftovers you didn’t plan for.
- Ignoring Specials: Seasonal and regional dishes can be the highlight of the menu but are often overlooked.
- Not Asking About Modifications: Many people assume the menu is fixed, but substitutions are often possible.
- Forgetting to Check for Deals: Lunch specials, early dinner pricing, and online coupons can save money.
- Not Considering Dietary Needs: Olive Garden offers gluten-sensitive and vegetarian menus, but you need to ask for them.
Tips
- Share Larger Dishes: Many entrées are large enough for two, especially if you fill up on salad and breadsticks first.
- Try the “Create Your Own Pasta” Option: Customize your meal with your favorite noodle and sauce combination, and add proteins or vegetables as you like.
- Take Advantage of Take-Home Meals: Olive Garden often offers a “Buy One, Take One” deal for certain entrées—enjoy one now and take another home for later.
- Sample Soups: If you can’t decide, ask if you can try a small taste of a soup before choosing.
- Ask for Extra Breadsticks to Go: Servers will usually pack up a few extra if you request them at the end of your meal.
- Don’t Hesitate to Ask Your Server for Recommendations: Staff are knowledgeable about best-sellers and can steer you based on your preferences.
- Look for Lighter or Healthier Options: If you’re watching calories, ask about the “Lighter Italian Fare” or “Tastes of the Mediterranean” selections.
- Allergies? Speak Up Early: Let your server know about any food allergies before you order.
Troubleshooting
- Nothing Appeals on the Menu: Ask your server for off-menu suggestions or modifications. Many dishes can be made simpler or adjusted to taste.
- Too Full for Dessert: Ask to have a dessert boxed to go. Dolcini mini desserts are also a lighter option.
- Food is Not as Expected: Politely let your server know if something is overcooked, undercooked, or not what you ordered. Olive Garden is usually happy to remake dishes or offer alternatives.
- Long Wait Times: If the restaurant is busy, consider ordering appetizers or soup first to tide you over. You can also ask about call-ahead seating or takeout options.
- Dietary Restrictions Not Met: Double-check your order with the server, and ask to see the ingredient list if needed. Olive Garden strives to accommodate, but clear communication is key.
- Leftovers: Don’t hesitate to ask for a box. Olive Garden portions are generous, and leftovers reheat well.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Olive Garden best known for?
- Olive Garden is famous for its unlimited salad and breadsticks, as well as pasta classics like Fettuccine Alfredo and Chicken Parmigiana.
- Are there good vegetarian or vegan options?
- Yes, there are several vegetarian dishes like Eggplant Parmigiana and Five Cheese Ziti al Forno. For vegans, ask for the special menu and customize salads and pastas without cheese or meat.
- What are the best dishes to try for first-timers?
- The “Tour of Italy” sampler, Chicken Parmigiana, Lasagna Classico, and Fettuccine Alfredo are top picks for newcomers wanting to sample signature flavors.
- Can I make substitutions or customize my order?
- Absolutely. Olive Garden is accommodating with substitutions for sauces, pastas, and proteins. Ask your server for available options.
- Is Olive Garden expensive?
- It’s generally mid-priced, with lunch specials and family deals making it affordable. Portion sizes are large, offering good value for the cost.
- Does Olive Garden have gluten-free options?
- Yes, a gluten-sensitive menu is available. Options include gluten-free rotini and certain meat or seafood entrées. Always confirm with your server.
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