Olive Garden -- Great First Meal

[ptownrob]

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.

[dillywho]

I'm anxious to go there when they start opening for lunch, too. I'm glad to hear that you had to add salt as there are some who are on low-sodium restrictions. It can be added but not subtracted. Sounds like the prices are really reasonable, too. Thanks for sharing.

[GrayGoose]

I think we will wait until they get the kinks out........... But sounds like they are on track. I cannot believe they have 165 employees.....

[marianne237]

One of the things that really impressed me with Olive Garden, is that if you are on a restricted diet they will try and accomodate you.

We dined with friends back north about 2 years ago, shortly after he had found out he was glutton intolerant. He told the waitress, the manager and chef came out and had a special menu for our friend to order from.

With his special meal, all of us were able to dine together as old friends do and enjoy each others company without anyone feeling left out.

Thanks Olive Garden!

[maxmo]

Two friends & I go there every Monday night after bunco and now ask for Giuseppe (sp?) as our waiter. He is great and good with suggestions for all of us to share. The food we've had has been good, plentiful and the prices reasonable.

[florida]

very good food. I love It.
A clean and nice place