Olive Garden: Fun Facts About America’s Favorite Italian Chain

Olive Garden is known for its delicious Italian food, including cheese ravioli, braised beef Bolognese, and, of course, their unlimited salad and breadsticks. But there’s more to this popular chain than meets the eye!

Fast Success:
The first Olive Garden opened in 1982 in Orlando, Florida, and was instantly popular. By 1989, there were 145 locations, and today it’s the largest Italian-themed full-service chain in the U.S.

Fan-Favorite Dishes:
Chicken Alfredo is the most popular dish, with shrimp scampi as a close second. Bonus: shrimp scampi is one of the healthier options at just 500 calories.

Inspired by Italy:
Olive Garden managers get to travel to Italy to learn about Italian cuisine and culture. Even the restaurant’s stone walls are modeled after a farmhouse in Chianti!

Take Home the Dressing:
Love their signature salad dressing? You can buy it at Sam’s Club, Walmart, Amazon, or even ask your server to purchase a bottle next time you visit.

Now you know a little more about this iconic Italian chain!