Olive Garden Lunch Menu: Specials & Favorites
Exploring the Olive Garden lunch menu shows lots of specials and favorites. It’s perfect for those who love flavor but are watching their budget. Lunchtime features meals at lower prices than dinner.
The Lasagna Classico is a favorite and it’s cheaper during lunch. It goes for $11.49, not the dinner price of $18.29. This shows Olive Garden’s focus on value. And lunch portions are around 50% smaller. This lowers the calorie count from 940 to 500.
A great deal at Olive Garden lunch is the endless soup, salad, and breadsticks for $9.49. It’s usually $11.49, so you save $2.00. This deal runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays. It offers a full meal but with fewer calories. It’s both satisfying and healthy.
Overview of Olive Garden Lunch Specials
Olive Garden offers a wide range of lunch specials. These deals mix great value with a variety of choices. Customers love the classic Italian dishes for less money. The menu includes unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks. Plus, there’s a Buy One, Take One deal. Everyone can find something perfect for them.
What Makes Olive Garden Lunch Unique
The unlimited offers make Olive Garden stand out. Let’s look at what makes these meals special:
- Unlimited Soup, Salad, and Breadsticks: At only $7.99, guests get endless soups, salads, and famous breadsticks.
- Create Your Own Lunch Duo: Starting at $7.99, you choose a classic dish with soup or salad. It’s a fun, customizable lunch choice.
- Family-Style To Go: For $39.99, you get a meal for 4-6 people. It includes classic dishes, salad, and breadsticks. It’s great for families and offers convenience and savings.
Historical Popularity and Customer Favorites
Olive Garden revamped its “Lunch Experience” in 2014. The goal was to meet various tastes and dietary needs. Some top picks have endured:
- Never-Ending Pasta Bowl: A beloved option that lets customers blend their preferred pasta and sauces.
- Dinner Duos: For $8.99, guests can pair their favorite pasta and sauces. It’s a nod to classic tastes.
- $5.99 Lunch Special: Available Monday through Friday, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. It includes lunch-sized favorites at a great price.
Olive Garden’s lunch specials offer quality and variety at a good price. It’s a prime spot for excellent Italian food without spending a lot.
| Special | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Buy One, Take One | $12.99 | All day |
| Soup and Salad Lunch Combo | $7.99 | All day |
| Dinner Duos | $8.99 | All day |
| Family-Style To Go | $39.99 | All day |
| $5.99 Lunch Special | $5.99 | Monday to Friday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM |
Popular Appetizers to Start Your Meal
Starters at Olive Garden set the stage for a memorable meal. They are among the finest lunch dishes at the restaurant. Each appetizer offers unique flavors and textures, thrilling your taste buds from the start.
Lasagna Fritta
The Lasagna Fritta is a highlight at Olive Garden. It features parmesan-breaded lasagna pieces, fried until golden. They’re served with Alfredo and meat sauce, making a delicious start to your meal. This dish has 1,130 calories.
Calamari
Consider the Calamari for a lighter start. It’s lightly breaded, fried, and served with marinara and spicy ranch sauces. At 670 calories, it’s a seafood lover’s delight.
Fried Mozzarella
Fried Mozzarella is a top choice too. This appetizer has fried mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce. With 860 calories, it combines creamy cheese with a crispy coating. It stands out as a favorite lunch dish.
Signature Soups at Olive Garden
Olive Garden offers a variety of tasty soups for lunch. They’re known for their Never-Ending Soup, Salad & Breadsticks deal, all for $9.99. These soups make sure there’s something for everyone, whether you want something hearty or light.
Never-Ending Soup Options
The Never-Ending Soup, Salad & Breadsticks offer is a highlight of Olive Garden’s lunch. Guests can enjoy as many soups as they like, along with salad and breadsticks. It’s a great way to enjoy a good meal without spending a lot.
Pasta e Fagioli
Pasta e Fagioli is a favorite at Olive Garden. It mixes ground beef, beans, and pasta in a tasty broth. With about 150 calories per serving, it’s a filling yet light lunch option.
Zuppa Toscana
If you like a little spice, try the Zuppa Toscana. It has Italian sausage, kale, and potatoes in a creamy broth. At 220 calories per serving, it’s both delicious and satisfying.
| Soup | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta e Fagioli | 150 | $10.99 |
| Zuppa Toscana | 220 | $10.99 |
| Minestrone (V) | 110 | $10.99 |
| Chicken & Gnocchi | 230 | $10.99 |
Delicious Salad and Breadsticks
Olive Garden’s lunch menu shines with its house salad and homemade breadsticks. This classic duo blends crisp, fresh salad with warm, tasty bread. It’s a perfect mix to make any meal special.
House Salad Ingredients
The Olive Garden house salad kicks off lunch with freshness. It’s packed with tasty and textured ingredients, loved by all. Key ingredients are:
- Romaine lettuce
- Sliced tomatoes
- Red onions
- Black olives
- Pepperoncini
- Croutons
- Parmesan cheese
Topped with Olive Garden’s special Italian dressing, this salad is refreshing yet light, at only 290 calories. It’s an ideal start to any lunch item on their menu.
Homemade Breadsticks
Olive Garden’s homemade breadsticks complete any meal. They’re soft inside and brushed with butter and garlic for amazing flavor. Each breadstick adds 140 calories. They pair well with soup, salad, and main dishes at lunchtime, from 11 am to 3 pm, Monday to Friday.
| Item | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Olive Garden House Salad | 290 cal | $6.99 |
| Homemade Breadsticks (3 pcs) | 420 cal | $5.29 |
| Weekday Lunch Special (Soup, Salad, Breadsticks) | 400–520 cal | $9.49 |
For a quick lunch or a slow meal, Olive Garden’s salad and breadsticks are a must-try. These favorites make dining there unforgettable.
Classic Entrées on the Olive Garden Lunch Menu
The Olive Garden lunch menu is full of classic Italian dishes. Favorites include Chicken Parmigiana with its rich flavors, carrying 1,060 calories and costing $18.49. Vegetarians might prefer the Eggplant Parmigiana. It has the same calories but costs a bit less, at $16.99.
Pasta lovers have great choices too. The Fettuccine Alfredo, creamy and satisfying, offers 1,010 calories for $15.99. Then there’s the Lasagna Classico. Priced at $18.49, it gives you 940 calories of delicious layered pasta.
If you like seafood, try the Shrimp Scampi. It’s light, tasty, and has 510 calories for $20.49. For a richer flavor, the Shrimp Alfredo packs 1,450 calories and costs $20.99.
The Tour of Italy lets you taste three popular dishes in one. It combines Chicken Parmigiana, Lasagna Classico, and Fettuccine Alfredo, all for 1,550 calories at $19.99.
Enjoying an Olive Garden lunch means diving into these beloved Italian classics. Every visit promises a delicious adventure.
Exploring the Create Your Own Pasta Section
Olive Garden has a special “Create Your Own Pasta” section. It lets guests pick their pasta, sauce, and toppings. Olive Garden’s lunch deals give customers a chance to try different combinations, creating a meal they love.
Choose Your Pasta
First, choose your pasta. Options include:
- Rigatoni
- Cavatappi
- Angel Hair
- Spaghetti
- Gluten-Free Rotini
This means everyone can find something they’ll enjoy, no matter their diet.
Select a Sauce
Next, pick your sauce. Olive Garden has four homemade sauces:
- Traditional Marinara
- Five Cheese Marinara
- Meat Sauce
- Creamy Mushroom
Each sauce adds a different flavor, letting you customize your meal to your liking.
Add a Topping
Last, add a topping. Options include:
- Meatballs
- Italian Sausage
- Grilled Chicken
- Crispy Chicken Fritta
- Sautéed Shrimp
This flexibility makes dining at Olive Garden fun, with each visit offering something new.
Olive Garden Lunch Prices and Deals
Olive Garden has a variety of lunch specials that are affordable and tasty. The prices are made to fit all budgets and preferences, perfect for your lunch break. Their lunch hours run from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, so you won’t miss out.
Lunch Specials $7.99 and Up
The Create Your Own Lunch Duo starts at only $7.99, offering both quality and choice. There’s also the Unlimited Soup and Salad for $7.99, letting you enjoy as much as you want. These deals provide yummy meals at good prices during lunch hours.
| Lunch Item | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Create Your Own Lunch Duo | $7.99 | 400 – 800 |
| Unlimited Soup and Salad | $7.99 | 300 – 600 |
| Soup and Salad Lunch Combo | $7.99 | 300 – 600 |
$5 Take Home Entrées
The $5 Take Home Entrées deal is a crowd-pleaser. It lets guests bring home an extra dish for only $5. This deal adds to the affordable lunch options, extending Olive Garden’s tasty meals past lunchtime. It’s easy on your budget and meal planning.
| Take Home Entrée | Price |
|---|---|
| Lasagna Classico | $5.00 |
| Fettuccine Alfredo | $5.00 |
| Spaghetti & Meatballs | $5.00 |
Dining at Olive Garden during lunch offers great meals and value. It’s not just about the food, but also the savings.
Healthy and Lighter Lunch Options
Olive Garden offers many healthy choices on its “Tastes of the Mediterranean” menu. These lighter lunch meals are carefully made. They give you both nutrition and flavor. All the dishes have fewer than 600 calories, perfect for those watching their diet.
Grilled Chicken Margherita
The Grilled Chicken Margherita is a top pick. It consists of two chicken breasts topped with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil pesto, and a lemon garlic sauce. With just 590 calories, it’s a flavorful yet guilt-free option.
Herb-Grilled Salmon
The Herb-Grilled Salmon is another great choice. It’s the menu’s lowest-calorie dish at 460 calories. Accompanied by parmesan garlic broccoli, it mixes garlic and lemon flavors for a tasty, low-calorie meal.
Olive Garden also offers various other healthy dishes. Besides the Grilled Chicken Margherita and Herb-Grilled Salmon, there’s Shrimp Scampi and Linguine di Mare. All are part of the lighter lunch meals, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
| Dish Name | Calories | Fat | Protein | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken Margherita | 590 | 39 g | 65 g | $14.99 |
| Herb-Grilled Salmon | 460 | 45 g | 45 g | $15.49 |
| Shrimp Scampi | 500 | 18 g | 22 g | $16.75 |
| Linguine di Mare | 570 | 12 g | 16 g | $14.99 |
| Chicken Piccata | 500 | 15 g | 51 g | $13.29 |
Vegetarian and Gluten-Free Options
Olive Garden makes sure every guest can find something tasty to eat, no matter their diet. They have a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options. This makes it easy for everyone to enjoy their meal.
Vegetarian-Friendly Dishes
For those looking at Olive Garden vegetarian options, there’s the Eggplant Parmigiana. It’s crispy eggplant with marinara and mozzarella on top. Another choice is the Cheese Ravioli, which has Italian cheese and comes with tomato or Alfredo sauce. There’s also the creamy Fettuccine Alfredo, a rich and tasty pasta dish.
Gluten-Free Selections
Olive Garden’s gluten-sensitive menu lets guests enjoy gluten-free meals safely. They take steps to lower the risk of cross-contamination. They offer gluten-sensitive items, aiming to limit exposure. Their gluten-free pasta is made from brown rice flour. It’s kept and cooked separately.
Here are some popular gluten-sensitive dishes:
- Zuppa Toscana
- Famous House Salad (without croutons)
- Grilled Chicken Parmigiana
- Herb-Grilled Salmon
- Gluten-free rotini with marinara or meat sauce
Olive Garden has more gluten-sensitive and dairy-free options now, making their menu more inclusive. But, guests should still check for cross-contact. They can look at the Allergen Guide for more on allergens and diets.
To ensure safety, talk to Olive Garden’s staff about your diet needs. They’re well-trained to help. This way, you can have a great and worry-free meal each time you visit.
Making Reservations for Olive Garden Lunch
Worried about waiting at Olive Garden? They make it easy to book a table and save you time. Here’s why booking your lunch spot at Olive Garden is a smart move.
How to Reserve a Table Online
Booking your lunch online at Olive Garden is easy. Just follow these steps:
- Visit the Olive Garden website or use their mobile app.
- Pick the Olive Garden location you like from almost 900 across the US.
- Choose the date and time for your meal.
- Hit ‘Reserve a Table’ and fill in the guest details.
- Get a confirmation email with all the reservation info.
Benefits of Making a Reservation
Booking ahead comes with lots of perks, especially during busy times. Here’s what you gain:
- Reduced Wait Times: Skip the long lines with a booked table and be seated right away.
- Assured Seating: Your seats are guaranteed, so you can enjoy your meal even when it’s crowded.
- Special Occasions: Make birthdays or anniversaries extra special with reserved seating and treats.
- Convenient Planning: Secure a table to better plan your day and stick to your schedule.
- Catering and Group Reservations: Smooth out dining for big groups or orders over $100.
Booking your lunch at Olive Garden means a relaxing and enjoyable meal every time. So, remember to reserve your table for an easy and delightful dining experience.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Reservations Available | Yes |
| Reservation Methods | Website, Mobile App |
| Confirmation | |
| Benefits | Reduced Wait Times, Assured Seating, Special Occasions, Group Reservations |
| Restaurant Count | Nearly 900 locations in the US |
Conclusion
Olive Garden’s lunch menu is diverse, catering to many tastes and needs. It includes classic Italian dishes like Chicken Alfredo and Shrimp Scampi. There are also tasty appetizers such as Fried Mozzarella and Lasagna Fritta. For diners on a budget, the Never-Ending Soup, Salad, and Breadsticks deal is perfect, priced between $7.99 and $9.99.
For those looking for healthier options, Olive Garden has you covered. They offer dishes like Grilled Chicken Margherita and Herb-Grilled Salmon, both under 510 calories. The restaurant also provides vegetarian and gluten-free choices, ensuring everyone can find something they enjoy. Olive Garden’s lunch specials are available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays, making it easy to drop by.
Family-style meals at Olive Garden can serve 4-6 people, great for group dining. The menu is complemented by Italian-inspired cocktails and desserts like Tiramisu and Black Tie Mousse Cake. They also offer various non-alcoholic drinks, including Raspberry Lemonade. With lunch items priced from $7.99 to $19.99, Olive Garden stands out as a prime dining spot. Visit them to enjoy their inviting atmosphere and tasty meals.
FAQ
What are the best Olive Garden lunch dishes?
For lunch, Olive Garden serves top dishes like Lasagna Fritta and Fried Mozzarella. Their signature soups, Pasta e Fagioli and Zuppa Toscana, are favorites. Customers also love Chicken Parmigiana and Grilled Chicken Margherita.
What makes Olive Garden lunch menu special?
The lunch menu at Olive Garden is unique. It offers unlimited soup, salad, and breadsticks. Plus, there are specials starting at .99. The menu features favorites and customizable pasta dishes, all in a great atmosphere.
Are there any healthy lunch options at Olive Garden?
Yes. Olive Garden has healthier lunch options. Choices like Grilled Chicken Margherita and Herb-Grilled Salmon are lower in calories. They also offer vegetarian and gluten-free options.
What are the prices for Olive Garden lunch specials?
Lunch specials at Olive Garden begin at .99. This makes dining affordable. Plus, there’s a Take Home Entrées deal for a second entrée at low cost.
What are the most popular appetizers at Olive Garden?
At Olive Garden, Lasagna Fritta, Calamari, and Fried Mozzarella are popular appetizers. These dishes are loved for their unique tastes, making great meal starters.
How can I make a lunch reservation at Olive Garden?
Booking lunch at Olive Garden is easy through their website or app. A reservation means less wait time and guaranteed seating during busy periods.
What are the key ingredients in Olive Garden’s house salad?
Olive Garden’s house salad includes fresh greens, tomatoes, olives, onions, and pepperoncini. It’s dressed in their signature Italian dressing. This makes the salad a fresh and tasty side dish.
What are Olive Garden’s lunch hours?
Olive Garden typically serves lunch from 11 AM to 3 PM. However, hours can vary. It’s best to check with your local branch for exact times.
