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Old 04-09-2009, 12:21 AM
ptownrob ptownrob is offline
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Default Olive Garden -- Great First Meal

Hi Folks-

Had dinner at new Olive Garden. We had an excellent meal. I'm not a fan of chains, and haven't eaten in an Olive Garden for about 15 years. We arrived at 7:30 Wed-April 8. Partner and I seated promptly. 3 large dining areas, but lots of booths. We took one near kitchen, but noise not obtrusive.


Waiter Guiseppe (real name, parents live in Italy), was very friendly and professional. Water was kept full at all times, plates cleared quickly and professionally. There was no stacking at the table, and mnapkins were cloth. Two thumbs up!

Tuscan Soup & Minestrone were both outrageous! Gnocchi/Chicken soup- a little bland & thin. Bruschetta was excellent- and there was even enough crispy toast for the order!

Main courses were garlic tuscan chicken- could have used more garlic and some citrus or even capers to make it "PoP" a bit. Adding a little salt (which I rarely do) helped a lot. Companion had Seafood Medley- same problem, but easily fixed with a little

Portion sizes were huge considering that soup or salad is all-you-can-eat too. We didn't have room for dessert, although Guiseppe assured us that the chocolate gelato is quite close to the real thing. (If you'ver never been to Italy, you won't understand that comment)

Dinner, including appetizer,2 larger entrees, 2 glasses of merlot- $44 plus tip.
Well worth it. Will return soon.

Last edited by ptownrob; 04-09-2009 at 12:25 AM. Reason: Edited for typos