Olive Garden Happy Hour Times, Menu & Prices

Brief Overview of Olive Garden

Olive Garden is a popular American restaurant chain known for its Italian-American cuisine. Owned by Darden Restaurants, Inc., based in Orange County Florida, Olive Garden made up $4.5 billion of Darden’s $9.63 billion revenue in 2022. Olive Garden began as a part of General Mills, with its first restaurant opening on December 13, 1982, in Orlando, Florida, thanks to co-founders Blaine Sweatt, Mark Given, Gino DeSantis, and Dave Manuchia. 

By 1989, Olive Garden has reached 145 locations. Establishing itself as the fastest-growing brand in General Mills’ restaurant division. Olive Garden quickly gained popularity, with per-store sales rivaling those of its former sister company, Red Lobster. 

It eventually became the largest Italian-themed full-service restaurant chain in the United States. Olive Garden offers a variety of Italian-American dishes, such as pasta, steaks, and salads. The chain highlights its breadsticks on the lunch menu and emphasizes its commitment to freshness by preparing soup and sauces daily at each location instead of using pre-made products.

And if you love a blend of sushi, cocktails, and happy hour bites, be sure to read Kona Grill Happy Hour guide for tasty options beyond Olive Garden.

Olive Garden Happy Hour Concept

Olive Garden Happy Hour is a favorite tradition for those looking to take a break from their routine. With special menus and great deals, it’s the perfect time to relax and enjoy tasty bites and refreshing drinks. Known for its generous portions, flavorful dishes, and welcoming ambiance, Olive Garden has been a staple in the dining scene for decades. 

Whether you are stopping by after work, meeting up with friends, or simply craving Italian favorites, Olive Garden Happy Hour has something for everyone. Their Happy Hour menu features a wide range of beverages, as well as tasty appetizers like Stuffed Mushrooms, Fried Mozzarella, and the always-favorite unlimited Breadsticks and Salads. 

Olive Garden Happy Hour Timings

While Happy Hour times can vary from one location to another, Olive Garden generally offers its Happy Hour specials during the late afternoon and early evening. Typically, you can expect Olive Garden Happy Hour to take place from 3 pm to 6 pm, Monday through Friday. These times are perfect for anyone looking to grab a bite after work or before heading out for an evening activity. 

In addition, keep in mind that Happy Hour times may differ significantly depending on the specific Olive Garden location, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead or check the restaurant’s website for the most accurate information.Some locations might expand happy hour to include weekends or offer additional late-night specials, so keep an eye out for those opportunities as well.

If you’re also a fan of Italian cuisine but want to explore other great happy hour options, check out North Italia Happy Hour for more delicious deals.

What’s on the Olive Garden Happy Hour Menu, and How Much Does it Cost?

If you are after something light and budget-friendly at Olive Garden, the Happy Hour menu is definitely worth checking out. The Happy Hour menu offers a variety of affordable alcoholic beverages, including wines by the glass, draft beers, and cocktails. To pair with drinks, you can enjoy well-known appetizers like Calamari, Mozzarella Sticks, etc.

Plus, Olive Garden frequently adds seasonal Happy Hour bites to keep the menu fresh and exciting year-round. The menu is designed to give you a taste of some of the restaurant’s most beloved items, making it the perfect opportunity to try something new or stick with your go-to favorites. 

Appetizers & Entrees

Fried Mozzarella: Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, these fried mozzarella sticks are served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. 

Calamari: Lightly breaded and fried to perfection, Olive Garden’s calamari is a crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with accompanying marinara and ranch dipping sauce. 

Spinach-Artichoke Dip: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this dip is served with a side of warm, toasted breadstick or chips.

Stuffed Mushrooms: These mushrooms are filled with a savory mixture of clams, parmesan, and breadcrumbs, and then baked until golden brown. 

Classic Shrimp Scampi Fritta: A lighter take on a classic dish, this shrimp scampi features tender shrimp sauteed in a garlic butter sauce, served over a bed of angel hair pasta. 

Lasagna Fritta: A twist on the traditional lasagna, this dish features layers of pasta, cheese, and meat sauce, breaded and fried until crispy, then topped with alfredo and marinara sauces. 

Chicken Alfredo: A staple at Olive Garden, this dish features grilled chicken breast served over fettuccine pasta tossed in creamy alfredo sauce. 

Beverages

Olive Garden enhances your Happy Hour with a tempting array of specialty drinks. Whether you are craving a refreshing cocktail, a crisp glass of wine, or a cold beer, their Happy Hour drink menu has something for everyone. Olive Garden Happy Hour includes the following beverages:

House Wine: Olive Garden offers discounted house red and white wine, perfect to enjoy with your meal. 

Beer: You can also enjoy a selection of domestic and imported beers at a reduced price during Happy Hour. 

Cocktails: Olive Garden’s Happy Hour often features significant cocktails like the Italian Margarita or Peach Bellini at a lower price, making it easy to relax with a refreshing drink. 

For those who enjoy hearty meals and great drink specials, LongHorn Steakhouse Happy Hour offers another excellent alternative worth exploring.

Tips for Making the Most of Olive Garden Happy Hour

To make the most of your visit, keep the following tips in mind:

FAQs

Concluding Thoughts

Olive Garden’s Happy Hour is a hidden gem that offers a delightful way to enjoy some of the restaurant’s most beloved dishes at a fraction of the regular price. Whether you are a long-time fan of Olive Garden or a first-time visitor, the Happy Hour provides a chance to explore the menu and savor the flavors of Italy in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Remember, Happy hour time can vary by location, so make sure to check with your local Olive Garden before heading out.